bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Molecular Phenotypes from Histopathology Images: A Transcriptome-Wide Expression–Morphology Analysis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Yinxi , Kartasalo Kimmo , Weitz Philippe , Ács Balázs , Valkonen Masi , Larsson Christer , Ruusuvuori Pekka , Hartman Johan , Rantalainen Mattias
Published: August 2021

Molecular profiling is central in cancer precision medicine but remains costly and is based on tumor average profiles. Morphologic patterns observable in histopathology sections from tumors are determined by the underlying molecular phenotype and therefore have the potential to be exploited for prediction of molecular phenotypes. We report here the first transcriptome-wide expression–morphology (EMO) analysis in breast cancer, where individual deep convolutional neural networks were optimized and validated for prediction of mRNA expression in 17,695 genes from hematoxylin and eosin–stained whole slide images. Predicted expressions in 9,334 (52.75%) genes were significantly associated with RNA sequencing estimates. We also demonstrated successful prediction of an mRNA-based proliferation score with established clinical value. The results were validated in independent internal and external test datasets. Predicted spatial intratumor variabilities in expression were validated through spatial transcriptomics profiling. These results suggest that EMO provides a cost-efficient and scalable approach to predict both tumor average and intratumor spatial expression from histopathology images.

Significance:

Transcriptome-wide expression morphology deep learning analysis enables prediction of mRNA expression and proliferation markers from routine histopathology whole slide images in breast cancer.
Evidence of the Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of Oncology Financial Navigation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Doherty Meredith J. , Thom Bridgette , Gany Francesca
Published: August 2021

One in three cancer patients reports financial hardship. Cancer-related financial hardship is associated with diminished quality of life, treatment nonadherence, and early mortality. Over 80% of NCI-designated cancer centers provide some form of oncology financial navigation (OFN). Although interest in OFN has grown, there is little scientific evidence to guide care delivery. We conducted a scoping review to assess the evidence of OFN's feasibility and preliminary efficacy and determine its core components/functions. Papers were included that (i) evaluated a clinical intervention to reduce financial hardship in patients with cancer or caregivers by facilitating access to resources, (ii) were conducted in the United States, and (iii) were published since 2000. Of 681 titles, 66 met criteria for full-text review, and six met full inclusion/exclusion criteria. The FN literature consists of descriptive studies and pilot trials focused on feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy. The studies showed that OFN implementation and evaluation are feasible; however, efficacy was difficult to evaluate because the studies were limited by small sample sizes (attributed to low patient participation). Most studies were conducted in urban, academic medical centers—which are less likely to be used by the poor and patients of color, who have the highest risk of financial hardship. The studies did not attempt to address the issue of underlying poverty at the individual and community level and whether OFN could be effectively adapted for these care environments. Future OFN programs must be tested with underserved and racially diverse patient populations, and evaluation efforts should aim to understand patient-reported barriers to participation.
Proton Pump Inhibitor Omeprazole Suppresses Carcinogen-induced Colonic Adenoma Progression to Adenocarcinoma in F344 Rat
Authors: Madka Venkateshwar , Kumar Gaurav , Pathuri Gopal , Panneerselvam Janani , Zhang Yuting , Ganta Vishal , Lightfoot Stanley , Lubet Ronald , Suen Chen S. , Steele Vernon E. , Janakiram Naveena B. , Mohammed Altaf , Rao Chinthalapally V.
Published: August 2021

Colorectal cancer causes over 53,000 deaths annually in the United States. Its rising incidences worldwide and particularly in young adults is a major concern. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of omeprazole that is clinically approved for treating acid reflux, to enable its repurposing for colorectal cancer prevention. In the azoxymethane-induced rat colorectal cancer model, dietary omeprazole (250 and 500 ppm) was administered at early adenoma stage (8 weeks after azoxymethane) to assess the progression of early lesions to adenocarcinoma. Administration of omeprazole at 250 or 500 ppm doses led to suppression of total colon adenocarcinoma incidence by 15.7% and 32% (P < 0.01), respectively. Importantly, invasive carcinoma incidence was reduced by 59% (P < 0.0005) and 90% (P < 0.0001) in omeprazole-administered rats in a dose-dependent manner. There was also a strong and dose-dependent inhibition in the adenocarcinoma multiplicity in rats exposed to omeprazole. Administration of 250 and 500 ppm omeprazole inhibited total colon adenocarcinoma multiplicity by approximately 49% and approximately 65% (P < 0.0001), respectively. While noninvasive adenocarcinomas multiplicity was suppressed by approximately 34% to approximately 48% (P < 0.02), the invasive carcinomas multiplicity was reduced by approximately 74% to approximately 94% (P < 0.0001) in omeprazole-exposed rats in comparison with the untreated rats. Biomarker analysis results showed a decrease in cell proliferation and anti-apoptotic/pro-survival proteins with an increase in apoptosis. Transcriptome analysis of treated tumors revealed a significant increase in adenocarcinoma inhibitory genes (Olmf4; Spink4) expression and downregulation of progression promoting genes (SerpinA1, MMP21, IL6). In summary, omeprazole showed significant protection against the progression of adenoma to adenocarcinoma.

Prevention Relevance:

Preventing colon cancer is urgently needed because of its high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Toward this end, preventive efficacy of omeprazole, a common medication, was evaluated in animal model of colorectal cancer and was found to suppress colonic adenoma progression to carcinoma. These findings warrant its further evaluation in humans.
EUS-based Pancreatic Cancer Surveillance in BRCA1/BRCA2/PALB2/ATM Carriers Without a Family History of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Katona Bryson W. , Long Jessica M. , Ahmad Nuzhat A. , Attalla Sara , Bradbury Angela R. , Carpenter Erica L. , Clark Dana F. , Constantino Gillain , Das Koushik K. , Domchek Susan M. , Dudzik Christina , Ebrahimzadeh Jessica , Ginsberg Gregory G. , Heiman Jordan , Kochman Michael L. , Maxwell Kara N. , McKenna Danielle B. , Powers Jacquelyn , Shah Payal D. , Wangensteen Kirk J. , Rustgi Anil K.
Published: August 2021

Carriers of a pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 variant are at increased risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), yet current guidelines recommend surveillance only for those with a family history of PDAC. We aimed to investigate outcomes of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)–based PDAC surveillance in BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 carriers without a family history of PDAC. We performed a retrospective analysis of all P/LP BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 carriers who underwent EUS at a tertiary care center. Of 194 P/LP BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 carriers who underwent EUS, 64 (33%) had no family history of PDAC and had at least 1 EUS for PDAC surveillance. These individuals underwent 143 total EUSs, were predominantly female (72%), and BRCA2 carriers (73%), with the majority having a personal history of cancer other than PDAC (67%). The median age at time of first EUS was 62 years [interquartile range (IQR), 53–67 years] and a median of 2 EUSs (IQR 1–3) were performed per patient, with a median of 3 years (IQR 2–4.5 years) between the first and last EUS for those with more than 1 EUS. Pancreatic abnormalities were detected in 44%, including cysts in 27%, and incidental luminal abnormalities in 41%. Eight percent developed a new pancreatic mass or cyst during surveillance, 2 individuals developed PDAC, and no serious complications resulted from surveillance. After discussion of the risks, limitations, and potential benefits, PDAC surveillance can be considered in BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 carriers without a family history of PDAC; however, the effectiveness of PDAC surveillance in this population requires further study.

Prevention Relevance:

BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 carriers have increased pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) risk, yet are typically not eligible for PDAC surveillance in the absence of PDAC family history. Herein we describe outcomes of PDAC surveillance in BRCA1/BRCA2/ATM/PALB2 carriers without a family history of PDAC, showing that PDAC surveillance can be considered in this high-risk group.
Sinergia e incremento de complejidad
Authors: Recober Montilla Adolfo
Published: August 2021

En este trabajo intentaré mostrar en qué medida la complejidad puede suponer una ventaja para la funcionalidad de las estructuras orgánicas y, por tanto, podría ser favorecida por la selección natural. Creo que los argumentos que expondré podrían explicar una tendencia evolutiva general, hacia el progresivo incremento de dicha magnitud. Tales argumentos podrían resumirse en que, en primer lugar, mientras mayor sea el número de elementos que constituyen un sistema, mayor será el número de formas en que estos podrán interactuar; en segundo lugar, mientras mayor sea el número de interacciones posibles, más probabilidades habrá de que se den interacciones sinérgicas(,) que favorezcan la eficiencia funcional del conjunto; y en tercer lugar y dado que la eficiencia funcional es un factor favorecido por la selección natural, la complejidad se incrementará, privilegiada indirectamente por dicha presión selectiva. Antes de profundizar en estos argumentos relativamente simples, me esforzaré en exponer, también del modo más elemental posible y ajustándolas al marco de esta cuestión, las nociones de cada uno de los conceptos fundamentales implicados: complejidad, emergencia, funcionalidad y sinergia, cuya interpretación imprecisa o adecuada a otros contextos, me parece la mayor amenaza a la comprensión de esta propuesta.
Wallace, Sclater e os modelos de distribuição biogeográfica
Authors: Carmo Viviane Arruda do
Published: August 2021

Desde o início da carreira de Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) como naturalista, além de se interessar pela origem das espécies, ele se preocupou com a distribuição geográfica dos animais e plantas. Contudo, Wallace não foi o único autor de sua época a se interessar por esse assunto. Philip Lutley Sclater (1829-1913) zoólogo inglês, propôs em 1858 um modelo de para explicar a distribuição geográfica das aves. O objetivo deste artigo é discutir sobre a proposta de Sclater no contexto da biogeografia da época, procurando apontar em que evidências ele se baseou. Adicionalmente, esclarecer quais aspectos da proposta de Sclater foram aceitos por Wallace, bem como o que Sclater acrescentou de novo em relação ao assunto. Este estudo levou à conclusão de que embora Wallace tenha defendido e se baseado no modelo de distribuição biogeográfica de Sclater para explicar a distribuição geográfica de outras classes de animais, ele não negou os problemas a ela inerentes. Apontou a existência de casos da distribuição geográfica de alguns grupos que não se enquadravam na proposta de Sclater.
Editorial
Authors: Martins Lilian Al-Chueyr Pereira , Prestes Maria Elice de Brzezinski
Published: August 2021

Editorial da revista
Geologia, geoquímica e afinidades tectonomagmáticas dos granitoides de Bannach do Domínio Rio Maria, Província Carajás, Brasil
Authors: Machado Jean Ricardo Mesquita , Oliveira Davis Carvalho de , Almeida José de Arimateia Costa de
Published: August 2021

A área a norte de Bannach, Pará, é formada por trondhjemitos, leucogranodioritos, biotita granodioritos, tonalitos com anfibólio (± quartzo dioritos), biotita tonalitos (enclaves) e granitoides finos. O grupo de rochas com alta sílica (> 70% SiO2), representado pelos trondhjemitos, leucogranodioritos e granitoides finos, apresenta altos teores de Al2O3, CaO e Na2O em detrimento ao Fe2O3, MgO, Ni e Cr. Esse grupo exibe elevadas razões La/Y e padrão elementos terras raras (ETR) fortemente fracionado, caracterizado pela ausência de anomalias negativas de Eu. Os leucogranodioritos apresentam enriquecimentoem Na2O, Ba e Sr. Os granitoides de baixa sílica, representados pelos biotita granodiorito, tonalito com anfibólio e enclaves tonalíticos apresentam alto conteúdo de Fe2O3, MgO, Ni e Y. Os biotita granodioritos apresentam altos teores de Ba-Sr-K e moderadas a altas razões La/Yb, enquanto os demais apresentam baixas razões La/Yb. A origem dos trondhjemitos é atribuída à fusão parcial de granada anfibolitos em ambiente de subducção e os leucogranodioritos têm seu controle composicional associado a diferentes graus de fusão de basaltos enriquecidos da base da crosta. O caráter geoquímico ambíguo dos biotita granodioritos (altos conteúdos de Rb e Ba, Sr, Y e razões La/Y e Sr/Y elevadas) os aproxima dos granitos tipo Closepet. Por sua vez, o caráter menos evoluído dos tonalitos com anfibólio, bem como as baixas razões La/Yb e Sr/Y, indicam que estas possuem afinidade mantélica e que foram formadas em baixas profundidades. Admite-se que a origem dessas rochas esteja relacionada ao manto metassomatizado por fluidos da slab em ambiente de subducção.
Da crítica à superquadra ao quarteirão murado: o caso de Águas Claras em Brasília
Authors: Pereira Lucas Brasil , Cruz Luciana Saboia Fonseca
Published: August 2021

Este artigo discute processos envolvidos na transformação da materialidade de Águas Claras, bairro planejado em Brasília, Distrito Federal, cujo projeto aspirava mimetizar as ruas e as avenidas com largas calçadas típicas das ditas “cidades tradicionais” em contraposição ao modelo urbanístico de matriz modernista – amplos espaços verdes, vias separadas dos fluxos de pedestres e edifícios isolados – que caracteriza o Plano Piloto de Brasília, localizado apenas a 19 quilômetros do sítio analisado. Para além da crítica estabelecida acerca de Brasília enquanto tema urbanístico, Águas Claras caracteriza-se como ruptura na paisagem metropolitana da região, antes marcada pela horizontalidade de suas cidades satélites e pela ocupação dispersa no território. A intensa verticalização, muito superior aos 12 pavimentos previstos inicialmente no projeto de Paulo Zimbres contratado em 1991, configura quadras muradas como pequenos condomínios fechados, apesar das premissas de profusos espaços públicos em seu projeto. Este estudo discute as ambiguidades do projeto enquanto narrativa de disputa e conflito que (re)configura o território e a paisagem ao longo do tempo. Surgem como conclusões principais a maneira pela qual a questão do projeto atravessa modelos urbanísticos substancialmente distintos...
Analítica da colonialidade e da decolonialidade: algumas dimensões espaciais básicas e em arquitetura
Authors: Name Leonardo
Published: August 2021

Parto de um artigo de Nelson Maldonado-Torres, no qual ele apresenta dez teses com vistas a uma analítica da colonialidade e da decolonialidade, mas ressalvo sua pouca atenção concedida à análise espacial, como faz boa parte da literatura decolonial. Assim, proponho um esboço de uma outra analítica, com base no giro decolonial, mas voltada ao espaço e, em especial, à arquitetura. Em um primeiro movimento, apresento questões fundamentais do giro decolonial, delas destacando algumas dimensões espaciais básicas poucas vezes esmiuçadas. Em seguida, delineio quatro novas “teses” alicerçadas no giro decolonial voltadas à arquitetura.
Geografía material y simbólica en los concursos de arquitectura en las décadas del 60 y 70 en Argentina: entre la euforia utópica y las prácticas del lugar. Mapeo de casos.
Authors: Meinardy Gervasio Andrés
Published: August 2021

El presente artículo analiza la relación entre el desarrollismo-como ideario socio-económico-político- y ciertas obras y proyectos emblemáticos de la arquitectura argentina del período desarrollados mediante el instrumento del concurso. Es en este período temporal donde el sistema de concurso abierto y plural se multiplica, constituyén-dose en una herramienta central en la organización, producción y transformación de la arquitectura. Para demostrar esta propuesta, realizaremos un mapeo de casos, lo que presupone indagar acerca de ciertas prácticas materiales y simbólicas, exponiendo la producción de la cultura arquitectónica local, investigando sus articulaciones más internas; de este modo revelando códigos, fuerzas y procesos que actúan en la construcción de dichas formas culturales. En contraposición al método de contratación directa de proyectos y obras, el sistema de concursos ha potenciado la implementación de ensayos, teorías, nuevas lógicas y experimentación proyectual, abriendo nuevos espacios de discusión, reflexión y articulación de manera simultánea en el seno del campo disciplinar
Estratégias para os elementos culturais na tradução
Authors: Li Li
Published: July 2021

Tradução é um processo de reescrita, manipulação, comunicação e mediação intercultural. Os elementos culturais trazem grandes desafios para um tradutor, e as estratégias para lidar com estes elementos são dependentes dos contextos envolvidos. São escolhidos neste artigo alguns exemplos de quatro perspectivas na tradução de inglês para chinês do livro intitulado The Poetry of Edwin Morgan, escrito por James McGonigal, com o objetivo de demonstrar as estratégias adotadas no processo da tradução como tradutora/mediadora. O artigo ilustra as mudanças funcionais que ocorrem quando um guia para uma figura literária escocesa de importância nacional num contexto específico é traduzido para um público menos familiarizado com a sua obra.
Renal, Cardiac, and Autonomic Effects of Catheter-Based Renal Denervation in Ovine Heart Failure
Authors: Booth Lindsea C. , de Silva R. Anethra U. , Pontes Roberto B. , Yao Song T. , Hood Sally G. , Lankadeva Yugeesh R. , Kosaka Junko , Eikelis Nina , Lambert Gavin W. , Schlaich Markus P. , May Clive N.
Published: August 2021

A growing number of clinical studies suggest that in heart failure renal denervation (RDN) has beneficial effects on the autonomic control of the heart. There is also experimental evidence that surgical RDN improves sodium handling and clearance in heart failure. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of catheter-based RDN on the sympathetic and parasympathetic control of the heart, and salt and water handling capacity of the kidneys, in sheep with established heart failure. A randomized, controlled study was conducted in 10 sheep with heart failure (ejection fraction<40%) induced by rapid ventricular pacing. Sheep underwent either bilateral RDN using the Symplicity denervation system or sham denervation and were studied 1 and 6 weeks after RDN. In established ovine heart failure, at 6 weeks after catheter-based RDN, heart rate significantly decreased, estimates of resting and maximal parasympathetic control of heart rate increased, and cardiac sympathetic nerve activity decreased. Compared with sham denervation, there was an increase in the resting sodium and water excretion 6 weeks after catheter-RDN and an improved ability of the kidneys to excrete a nonhypertensive saline load. After catheter-based RDN, renal norepinephrine levels were reduced by 70% compared with sham denervation. In established heart failure, RDN induced a beneficial shift in both arms of the autonomic nervous control of the heart and improved the ability of the kidneys to excrete sodium and water. Thus, effective catheter-based RDN may be beneficial to both the heart and kidneys in heart failure.
Islamic Legal Reform or Re-formation? The Transmutations of Critique in Rumee Ahmed’s Sharia Compliant: A User’s Guide to Hacking Islamic Law
Authors: Koujah Rami
Published: August 2021

To say that the issue of Islamic legal reform is on the minds of most scholars and students (Muslim or otherwise) of Islamic law is hardly an exaggeration. But what does reform look like? Rumee Ahmed engages the issue in his recent book, Sharia Compliant: A User’s Guide to Hacking Islamic Law. Intended for a broad audience and aimed at catalyzing legal change from the bottom up, Sharia Compliant attempts to demystify Islamic jurisprudence and provide a blueprint for lawmaking, or “hacking” Islamic law, through reverse-engineering. In the process of his critique of Islamic law, Ahmed revises its history and method. This review argues that in lieu of reform, Ahmed argues for re-forming Islamic law. The hyphen is meant to indicate that Ahmed’s proposal amounts to a transmutation of fiqh and uṣūl al-fiqh: Islamic law is not interpreted, but arbitrarily willed; its sources (the Qur’an and Sunna), ornaments of this will, are instrumentalized to serve any desired end. In the end, Ahmed’s re-formed system undermines his hope for a democratic process of lawmaking.
Perspectives of Nurses About Factors Affecting Quality of Care at the Solomon Islands National Referral Hospital During the 2016-2017 Dengue Outbreak: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Goulolo Norma Denty , Bugoro Hugo , Whittaker Maxine , Larkins Sarah , Harrington Humpress , Carlisle Karen , MacLaren David , Evans Rebecca
Published: August 2021

During the 2016-2017 Solomon Islands dengue outbreak, the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara was the epicenter for the national response. High-quality nursing care is critical for successful management and this study investigated the factors affecting the quality of nursing care for patients admitted to NRH with dengue. Data were collected using two methods: ( a) Focus group discussions with nurses who cared for dengue patients and ( b) a self-administered questionnaire completed by a senior manager. Analysis of qualitative data using a thematic technique found two key factors affected care: ( a) training on protocols and guidelines for clinical management and ( b) planning and preparedness of NRH. Quality of care was influenced by lack of basic equipment, transport provided for nursing staff to attend shifts, and confusion between allowances for regular salaried staff and extra staff assisting with the outbreak. Specific attention is needed in future outbreaks to ensure staff understand protocols, follow guidelines, and that adequate equipment is provided.
Impact of rituximab biosimilars on overall survival in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a Dutch population-based study
Authors: Brink Mirian , Kahle Xaver U. , Vermaat Joost S. P. , Zijlstra Josee M. , Chamuleau Martine , Kersten Marie José , Durmaz Müjde , Plattel Wouter J. , Lugtenburg Pieternella J. , Stevens Wendy , Mous Rogier , de Vries Elisabeth G. E. , van der Poel Marjolein W. M. , Panday Prashant V. Nannan , Huls Gerwin , van Meerten Tom , Nijland Marcel
Published: August 2021

In 2017, the European Medicines Agency approved rituximab biosimilars (R-biosimilars) for treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Thereafter, the Netherlands was one of the first countries to implement R-biosimilars, given lower costs compared with rituximab originator (R-originator). This study’s objective was to investigate whether overall survival (OS) of patients with DLBCL receiving R-biosimilars is similar to patients treated with R-originator. DLBCL patients ≥18 years, diagnosed between 2014 and 2018, who received at least 1 cycle of rituximab combined with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (R-CHOP) were identified in the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Patients were categorized into R-originator or R-biosimilars groups based on data from a central repository of the Dutch medicinal drug market. The primary end point was 3-year OS, defined as the time between diagnosis and all-cause death. By the end of 2018, 91% of purchased rituximab were biosimilars. In total, 4429 patients were identified with 876 in the R-biosimilars group and 3553 in the R-originator group. Patients in the R-biosimilars group less frequently received >6 cycles of R-CHOP compared with patients treated with R-originator (24% vs 30%, P = .003). The 3-year OS did not differ between patients treated with R-originator or R-biosimilars (73% vs 73%, P = .855). This was confirmed with a multivariable Cox regression analysis accounting for sex, age, International Prognostic Index score, and number of R-CHOP cycles. In conclusion, the 3-year OS is similar for patients treated with CHOP in combination with R-originator or R-biosimilars and, therefore, favors the use of R-biosimilars in DLBCL treatment management.
Stage-specific transcriptomic changes in pancreatic α-cells after massive β-cell loss
Authors: Oropeza Daniel , Cigliola Valentina , Romero Agustín , Chera Simona , Rodríguez-Seguí Santiago A. , Herrera Pedro L.
Published: August 2021

Background

Loss of pancreatic insulin-secreting β-cells due to metabolic or autoimmune damage leads to the development of diabetes. The discovery that α-cells can be efficiently reprogrammed into insulin-secreting cells in mice and humans has opened promising avenues for innovative diabetes therapies. β-cell loss triggers spontaneous reprogramming of only 1–2% of α-cells, limiting the extent of regeneration. Most α-cells are refractory to conversion and their global transcriptomic response to severe β-cell loss as well as the mechanisms opposing their reprogramming into insulin producers are largely unknown. Here, we performed RNA-seq on FAC-sorted α-cells to characterize their global transcriptional responses at different time points after massive β-cell ablation.

Results

Our results show that α-cells undergo stage-specific transcriptional changes 5- and 15-days post-diphtheria toxin (DT)-mediated β-cell ablation. At 5 days, α-cells transiently upregulate various genes associated with interferon signaling and proliferation, including Interferon Induced Protein with Tetratricopeptide Repeats 3 (Ifit3). Subsequently, at 15 days post β-cell ablation, α-cells undergo a transient downregulation of genes from several pathways including Insulin receptor, mTOR and MET signaling.

Conclusions

The results presented here pinpoint novel markers discriminating α-cells at different stages after acute β-cell loss, and highlight additional signaling pathways that are modulated in α-cells in this context.
Risk stratification and mortality prediction in octo- and nonagenarians with peripheral artery disease: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Rammos Christos , Kontogiannis Aristotelis , Mahabadi Amir A. , Steinmetz Martin , Messiha Daniel , Lortz Julia , Rassaf Tienush
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Among changes in demographics, aging is the most relevant cardiovascular risk factor. The prevalence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) is high in elderly patients and is associated with a worse prognosis. Despite optimal treatments, mortality in the high-risk population of octo- and nonagenarians with PAD remains excessive, and predictive factors need to be identified. The objective of this study was to investigate predictors of mortality in octo- and nonagenarians with PAD.

Methods

Cases of treated octo- and nonagenarians, including the clinical characteristics and markers of myocardial injury and heart failure, were studied retrospectively with respect to all-cause mortality. Hazard ratios [HR] were calculated and survival was analyzed by Kaplan-Meyer curves and receiver operating characteristic curved were assessed for troponin-ultra and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI).

Results

A total of 123 octo- and nonagenarians admitted for PAD were eligible. The troponin level was the major predictor of all-cause mortality (HR: 4.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4–15.3), followed by the NT-proBNP level (HR: 3.9, 95% CI 1.8–8.8) and CLTI (HR: 3.1, 95% CI 1.6–5.9). Multivariate regression revealed that each increment of 1 standard deviation in log troponin and log NT-proBNP was associated with a 2.7-fold (95% CI 1.8–4.1) and a 1.9-fold (95% CI 1.2–2.9) increased risk of all-cause death. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis using a combination of all predictors yielded an improved area under the curve of 0.888. In a control group of an equal number of younger individuals, only NT-proBNP (HR: 4.2, 95% CI 1.2–14.1) and CLTI (HR: 6.1, 95% CI 1.6–23.4) were predictive of mortality.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that cardiovascular biomarkers and CLTI are the primary predictors of increased mortality in elderly PAD patients. Further risk stratification through biomarkers in this high-risk population of octo- and nonagenarians with PAD is necessary.
The direct and indirect effects of clinical empathy on well-being among pre-medical students: a structural equation model approach
Authors: MacArthur Kelly Rhea , Stacey Clare L. , Harvey Sarah , Markle Jonathan
Published: August 2021

Background

Empathy is a well-established facet of clinical competency that research suggests is associated with enhanced medical student well-being. Since little is known about empathy and well-being before students enter medical school—during pre-medical education—the main goal of this study is to test a conceptual model of how clinical empathy is related to two indicators of well-being, depression, and burnout among pre-medical students. The theoretical model hypothesizes that three dimensions of clinical empathy—Perspective-Taking, Compassionate Care, and Standing in Patients’ Shoes— will be directly and negatively related to depression, as well as indirectly through its inverse relationship with three facets of burnout, Emotional Exhaustion, Poor Academic Efficacy, and Cynicism.

Methods

Using survey data from a sample of 132 pre-medical students at an American Midwestern university, this study employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the theoretical model of the relationships between empathy, burnout, and depression among pre-medical students. We identify the direct effects of the three dimensions of the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy (JSE-S) on depression (CES-D), as well as the indirect effects of clinical empathy on depression through the three dimensions of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI-S).

Results

SEM analyses show that while none of the three dimensions of the JSE-S are directly related to depression, clinical empathy does significantly affect depression indirectly through burnout. Specifically, as predicted, we find that Perspective-Taking decreases Emotional Exhaustion, but, contrary to expectations, Compassionate Care increases it. And, the positive relationship between Compassionate Care and Emotional Exhaustion is particularly strong. In turn, Perspective-Taking and Compassionate Care are associated with depression in opposite directions and to different degrees.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that clinical empathy as measured by the JSE-S produces both positive and negative effects on personal well-being. We conclude that further conceptual clarity of clinical empathy is needed to better discern how the different dimensions impact different indicators of well-being. Given that pre-medical education is a crucial time for emotional socialization, the challenge for medical education will be fostering the positive, cognitive aspects of clinical empathy while simultaneously mitigating the adverse effects of affective empathy on medical student well-being.
Evaluating the success of the tele-pathology system in governmental hospitals in Kuwait: an explanatory sequential mixed methods design
Authors: Buabbas Ali Jasem , Mohammad Tareq , Ayed Adel K. , Mallah Hawraa , Al-Shawaf Hamza , Khalfan Abdulwahed Mohammed
Published: August 2021

Background

Telepathology is the practice of reviewing and exchanging pathological images through telecommunication systems to obtain diagnoses remotely. Studying the factors that make such a system successful and favourable is important to ensure the merits of its implementation in clinical practice.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the success of a telepathology system from the users’ perspectives, using specific evaluation criteria, namely: system quality, information quality, technical service quality, user satisfaction, and benefits.

Methods

A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was adopted in this study, which consists of two phases. Initially, a questionnaire was distributed via WhatsApp to all of the pathologists (total: 45) working at governmental hospitals in Kuwait. Followed by, semi-structured interviews with ten senior pathologists.

Results

Forty pathologists responded to the questionnaire, giving an 89% response rate. There were 42.5% of the respondents aged between 35–44 years old, and 52.5% were male. The quantitative results reveal that most of the respondents were satisfied with the quality of the telepathology system with a mean of 2.6025 (Standard Deviation (SD) = 0.47176), whereas they were dissatisfied with the quality of the information with a mean of 2.4100 (SD = 1.580) and the technical support services with a mean of 2.2750 (SD = 0.99535). In addition, there was disagreement on the benefits of telepathology in clinical practice among the pathologists with a mean of 2.4667 (SD = 0.77552). The qualitative results indicate that the lack of interest in and little experience with using the system were behind the general dissatisfaction of most of the respondents. All of the interviewees were satisfied with the performance of the telepathology system and considered it successful; however, the quality of the technical support services, including training workshops, was deemed deficient.

Conclusion

This study concluded that telepathology system in Kuwait is functioning well and has been successful in its implementation; however, pathologists are dissatisfied with it, mainly due to the deficient quality of the technical support services provided. In addition, the successful implementation of such advanced technologies requires careful steps to be taken on multiple levels: technical, organisational, and managerial. Recommendations were suggested.
Clinical effect of application of nursing concept of rehabilitation surgery for improvement of quality of postoperative recovery in orthopedics
Authors: Lv Hong , Yang Ning
Published: July 2021

Objective

To analyze the application of concept nursing of accelerated rehabilitation surgery in orthopedic postoperative recovery.

Methods

A total of 120 patients who received orthopedic surgery were divided into the control group undergoing routine orthopedic nursing and the observation group undergoing the concept of accelerated rehabilitation surgery nursing.

Results

Patients in the observation group had shorter in-bed activity time and out-of-bed activity time, average time of hospital stay, and lower total treatment costs. The incidence of incision infection, respiratory system infection, digestive tract infection, urinary tract infection, deep vein thrombosis, and other complications in the observation group was much lower. The recovery scores of joint function in the observation group at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the operation were all better, and the recovery rate of joint function within 1 year after the operation was higher.

Conclusion

Following the concept of accelerated rehabilitation surgery nursing during the perioperative period can improve the quality of postoperative orthopedic recovery.
Acute effects of Square Stepping Exercise on cognitive and social functions in sedentary young adults: a home-based online trial
Authors: Kawabata Masato , Gan Su Ren , Goh Gint , Omar Siti Aisha Binte , Oh Ivan T. F. , Wee Wan Qi , Okura Tomohiro
Published: August 2021

Background

The Square Stepping Exercise (SSE) is an exercise training program incorporating cognitive and physical exercise components, which was originally developed for older adults to reduce falling risks. SSE’s potential in delaying cognitive decline in older adults seems to be promising. However, there is scarce research on the SSE program with young adults. Furthermore, the outbreak of coronavirus disease has imposed people to change their lifestyle and behaviors, including exercise behaviors. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of a home-based online SSE trial on cognitive and social functions in sedentary young adults.

Methods

A total of 18 young adults (6 males, 12 females) participated in the present study. They completed two exercise conditions (SSE and active control exercise), consisting of 3 sessions per week, over 2 weeks. A 2 times (pre vs. post) × 2 conditions (SSE vs. active control) repeated-measures ANCOVA was conducted on the score of the Modified Card Sorting Task with age and education year as covariates. A one-way repeated-measures MANOVA was performed on the subscale scores of the Physical Activity Group Environment Questionnaire to examine the effects of the exercise conditions (SSE vs. active control) on group cohesion.

Results

SSE was found effective to improve executive function such as abstract reasoning, mental flexibility, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, participants’ perceptions of social interaction with their group, and closeness and bonding existing in their group were significantly higher in the SSE condition than the active control condition.

Conclusions

In the present study, SSE was conducted online and found to be effective to enhance executive function and group cohesion in sedentary young adults. These novel approach and findings are the strengths of the present study. People aged 60 years and over are more vulnerable to the coronavirus and at higher risk of developing serious illness. Given the coronavirus pandemic circumstances, it is worthwhile to explore the possibility of the online SSE approach to older adults in future research.
Loss with ageing but preservation of frontal cortical capillary pericytes in post-stroke dementia, vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ding Ren , Hase Yoshiki , Burke Matthew , Foster Vincent , Stevenson William , Polvikoski Tuomo , Kalaria Raj N.
Published: August 2021

Cerebral pericytes are an integral component of the neurovascular unit, which governs the blood–brain barrier. There is paucity of knowledge on cortical pericytes across different dementias. We quantified cortical pericytes in capillaries in 124 post-mortem brains from subjects with post-stroke dementia (PSD), vascular dementia (VaD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and AD-VaD (Mixed) and, post-stroke non-demented (PSND) stroke survivors as well as normal ageing controls. Collagen 4 (COL4)-positive nucleated pericyte soma were identified as protrusions on capillaries of the frontal cortex. The COL4-positive somata or nodule-like cell bodies were also verified by platelet derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β) immunohistochemistry. The mean (± SEM) pericyte somata in frontal cortical capillaries in normal young controls (46–65 years of age) was estimated as 5.2 ± 0.2 per mm capillary length. This number was reduced by 45% in older controls (> 78 years) to 2.9 ± 0.1 per mm capillary length (P < 0.001). We further found that the numbers of pericyte cell bodies per COL4 mm2 area or per mm capillary length were not decreased but rather preserved or increased in PSD, AD and Mixed dementia groups compared to similar age older controls (P < 0.01). Consistent with this, we noted that capillary length densities identified by the endothelial marker glucose transporter 1 or COL4 were not different across the dementias compared to older controls. There was a negative correlation with age (P < 0.001) suggesting fewer pericyte somata in older age, although the % COL4 immunoreactive capillary area was increased in older controls compared to young controls. Using a proven reliable method to quantify COL4-positive nucleated pericytes, our observations demonstrate ageing related loss but mostly preserved pericytes in the frontal cortex of vascular and AD dementias. We suggest there is differential regulation of capillary pericytes in the frontal lobe between the cortex and white matter in ageing-related dementias.
Robotic-assisted proximal gastrectomy using the double-flap technique for early gastric cancer with situs inversus totalis: a case report
Authors: Takeno Atsushi , Masuzawa Toru , Katsuyama Shinsuke , Murakami Kohei , Kawai Kenji , Katsura Yoshiteru , Ohmura Yoshiaki , Kagawa Yoshinori , Takeda Yutaka , Hata Taishi , Murata Kohei
Published: August 2021

Background

The robotic system has been applied in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC), and the procedure has been found to be safe and feasible. Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a relatively rare autosomal recessive congenital anomaly. We successfully performed robot-assisted proximal gastrectomy (RAPG) and handsewn double-flap esophagogastrostomy for GC in a patient with SIT.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old woman was referred to us with an asymptomatic ulcerative lesion in the upper body of the stomach. Computed tomography revealed that she had SIT. She was diagnosed with cT1bN0M0, cStageIA gastric cancer. RAPG with lymph node dissection and handsewn double-flap esophagogastrostomy was performed. Robotic surgery enabled the surgeon to perform the surgery without changing his position and experiencing any confusion resulting from the patient’s reversed anatomy. It took 448 min, and no intraoperative complications occurred. Her postoperative course was uneventful; she was discharged on postoperative day 10. The final pathologic report showed pT1b1N0M0, pStage IA.

Conclusions

This is the first case describing RAPG with handsewn double-flap esophagogastrostomy for a SIT patient with early GC.
miR221 regulates cell migration by targeting annexin a1 expression in human mesothelial MeT-5A cells neoplastic-like transformed by multi-walled carbon nanotube
Authors: Ju Li , Zhu Lijin , Wu Hao , Yu Min , Yin Xianhong , Jia Zhenyu , Feng Lingfang , Ying Shibo , Xia Hailing , Zhang Shuzhi , Lou Jianlin , Yang Jun
Published: August 2021

Background

Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) is one of the most widely used manufactured nanomaterials, however, its potential harmful effect on human health is of great concern. Previously we have shown the acute and chronic exposure to MWCNT induced different responses in human mesothelial MeT-5A cells. In the current study, MeT-5A cells were continuously subjected to MWCNT exposure at 10 μg/cm2 for 48 h per passage, up to a whole year, to further clarify the carcinogesis and its potential mechanisms of MWCNT.

Results

After one-year MWCNT treatment, MeT-5A cells exhibited neoplastic-like properties, including morphological changes, anchorage-independent growth, increased cell proliferation and cell migration. Further examination revealed the expression of microRNA 221 (miR221) was gradually decreased, while the annexin a1 expression was increased at both the mRNA and protein level during the exposure. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that annexin a1 is a target for miR221 regulation, and it was confirmed by transfecting cells with miR221 mimics, which resulted in the downregulation of annexin a1. Detailed analyses demonstrated miR221 was involved in the regulation of cell migration, e.g., downregulation of miR221 or overexpression of ANNEXIN A1, contributed to the increased cell migration. In contrast, overexpression of miR221 or downregulation of ANNEXIN A1 slowed cell migration.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results point to a neoplastic-transforming property of MWCNT, and the miR221-annexin a1 axis is involved in the regulation of cell migration in the transformed cells.
Phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of Lactobacillus species isolated from traditional Lighvan cheese
Authors: Forouhandeh Haleh , Vahed Sepideh Zununi , Ahangari Hossein , Tarhriz Vahideh , Hejazi Mohammad Saeid
Published: August 2021

Lighvan cheese (Lighvan panir) is among the most famous traditional cheese in Iran for its desired aroma and flavor. Undoubtedly, the lactic acid bacteria especially the genusLactobacillusare the critical factors in developing the aroma, flavor, and texture in Lighvan cheese. In this study, the Lactobacillus population of the main Lighvan cheese was investigated. The Lactobacillus of the main Lighvan cheese was isolated using specific culture methods according to previously published Guidelines. Then, the phylogenetic features were investigated and the phenotypic characteristics were examined using specific culture methods. Twenty-eight Gram-positive bacterial species were identified belonged to the genus Lactobacillus. According to the same sequences as each other, three groups (A, B, and C) of isolates were categorized with a high degree of similarity toL. fermentum(100%) and L. casei group (L. casei,L. paracasei, andL. rhamnosus) (99.0 to 100%). Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) fingerprint analysis manifested the presence of three clusters that were dominant in traditional Lighvan cheese. Cluster І was divided into 4 sub-clusters. By the result of carbohydrate fermentation pattern and 16S rRNA sequencing, isolates were identified asL. rhamnosus. The isolates in clusters II and III representedL. paracaseiandL. fermentum, respectively as they were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing and fermented carbohydrate patterns. Our result indicated that the specific aroma and flavor of traditional Lighvan cheese can be related to itsLactobacilluspopulation includingL. fermentum,L. casei, L. paracasei, andL. rhamnosus.

Graphical abstract
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Authors: Taylor Kelsy
Published: August 2021

A little over a month from now, geoscientists from all over the world will come together for a brand-new event that aims to bridge the disciplines of geology and geophysics while offering a variety of educational opportunities, networking events, and field experiences. The International Meeting for Applied Geoscience and Energy (IMAGE '21) will take place 26 September through 1 October at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado.
Multiwave inversion: A key step for depth model building — Examples from the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Donno Daniela , Farooqui Mohammad Sheryar , Khalil Mostafa , McCarthy David , Solyga Didier , Courbin Jillian , Prescott Anthony , Delmas Laurie , Le Meur David
Published: August 2021

The near surface in the Middle East, particularly in the Sultanate of Oman, is characterized by very shallow high-velocity carbonates and anhydrites interleaved by slow-velocity clastic layers, resulting in sharp velocity inversions in the first few hundred meters below the surface. In addition, the surface is characterized by features such as unconsolidated materials within dry riverbeds (known as “wadis”), small jebels, and sand dunes, which cause distortions in the underlying shallow and deeper seismic images. This work presents the building of a near-surface model by using multiwave inversion that jointly inverts information from P-wave first breaks and surface-wave dispersion curves. The use of surface waves in combination with first breaks captures the lateral and vertical velocity variations, especially in the shallowest parts of the near surface. This paper focuses on the analysis of two drawbacks of this technology: the picking of the input data information, which can be cumbersome and time consuming, and the limited penetration depth of surface waves at the typical frequencies of active data. To overcome these issues, an innovative workflow is proposed that combines the use of an unsupervised machine learning technique to guide the pick extraction phase and the reconstruction of ultra-low-frequency surface waves (0.5 to 1.5 Hz) through an interferometry process using information from natural and ambient noise. Deeper near-surface P- and S-wave velocity models can be obtained with multiwave inversion using these ultra-low frequencies. The integration of a near-surface model into the velocity model building workflow brings a major improvement in depth imaging from shallow to deep structures, as demonstrated on two data sets from the Sultanate of Oman.
Memorial
Authors:   The friends of Peeter Akerberg
Published: August 2021

• Peeter Akerberg, 1968–2021
Memorial
Authors: Treitel Sven
Published: August 2021

• Irshad Mufti, 1932–2021