bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED ARTICLE: microRNA-195 attenuates neuronal apoptosis in rats with ischemic stroke through inhibiting KLF5-mediated activation of the JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Chang Lisha , Zhang Wan , Shi Songxin , Peng Yanbo , Wang Dali , Zhang Li , Zhang Jiang
Published: April 2020

Background

Accumulating evidence has implicated the regulation of microRNAs (miRs) in ischemia stroke. The current study aimed to elucidate the role of microRNA-195 (miR-195) in neuronal apoptosis and brain plasticity in rats with ischemic stroke via the JNK signaling pathway/KLF5 axis.

Methods

Ischemic stroke rat models were established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and oxygen deprivation (OGD) models were constructed in rat neuronal cells, followed by gain- or loss-of-function of miR-195 and/or KLF5 in rats and cells. Infarct volume, neuronal loss and ultrastructure, the expression of GAP-43, SYP and KLF5 protein as well as cell apoptosis were determined in the rats. Caspase-3 activity as well as the expression of miR-195, KLF5, GAP-43, SYP, JNK, phosphorylated JNK, Bax and Bcl-2 was measured in the cells.

Results

The infarct size, expression of GAP-43 and SYP protein and apoptotic cells were increased in the miR-195−/−MCAO rats, while reductions were detected in the miR-195 mimic MCAO and KLF5−/−MCAO rats. Bcl-2 expression was increased, Bax and Caspase-3 expression as well as the ratio of phosphorylated JNK/JNK was decreased in response to miR-195 overexpression or KLF5 knockdown. Interestingly, the silencing of KLF5 reversed the effects exerted by the miR-195 inhibitor on the expression of Bcl-2, phosphorylated JNK/JNK, Bax and Caspase-3.

Conclusions

Collectively, our study unraveled that miR-195 could down-regulate KLF5 and block the JNK signaling pathway, ultimately inhibiting neuronal apoptosis in rats with ischemic stroke.
Identification of key genes and pathways associated with feed efficiency of native chickens based on transcriptome data via bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yang Lei , He Tingting , Xiong Fengliang , Chen Xianzhen , Fan Xinfeng , Jin Sihua , Geng Zhaoyu
Published: April 2020

Background

Improving feed efficiency is one of the important breeding targets for poultry industry. The aim of current study was to investigate the breast muscle transcriptome data of native chickens divergent for feed efficiency. Residual feed intake (RFI) value was calculated for 1008 closely related chickens. The 5 most efficient (LRFI) and 5 least efficient (HRFI) birds were selected for further analysis. Transcriptomic data were generated from breast muscle collected post-slaughter.

Results

The differently expressed genes (DEGs) analysis showed that 24 and 325 known genes were significantly up- and down-regulated in LRFI birds. An enrichment analysis of DEGs showed that the genes and pathways related to inflammatory response and immune response were up-regulated in HRFI chickens. Moreover, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was also employed, which indicated that LRFI chickens increased expression of genes related to mitochondrial function. Furthermore, protein network interaction and function analyses revealed ND2, ND4, CYTB, RAC2, VCAM1, CTSS and TLR4 were key genes for feed efficiency. And the ‘phagosome’, ‘cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)’, ‘citrate cycle (TCA cycle)’ and ‘oxidative phosphorylation’ were key pathways contributing to the difference in feed efficiency.

Conclusions

In summary, a series of key genes and pathways were identified via bioinformatics analysis. These key genes may influence feed efficiency through deep involvement in ROS production and inflammatory response. Our results suggested that LRFI chickens may synthesize ATP more efficiently and control reactive oxygen species (ROS) production more strictly by enhancing the mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle compared with HRFI chickens. These findings provide some clues for understanding the molecular mechanism of feed efficiency in birds and will be a useful reference data for native chicken breeding.
Age effect on in vitro fertilization pregnancy mediated by anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and modified by follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
Authors: Hsieh Han-Chih , Su Jia-Ying , Wang Shunping , Huang Yen-Tsung
Published: April 2020

Background

Both follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) are widely used to assess the ovarian reserve in women for in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, studies also showed that both AMH and FSH are significantly associated with age: as age increases, AMH decreases and FSH increases. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of age effect on IVF live birth rate, particularly through mediation and interaction by AMH and FSH.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 13970 IVF cycles collected by eIVF from 2010 to 2016. A series of logistic mixed models were used to estimate the association of live birth and AMH (or FSH). The mediation effects and proportion mediated, were quantified by our previously proposed mediation analyses. We further investigated the FSH-modified mediation effects on live birth rate through AMH, accounting for the nonlinear age effect.

Results

Our analyses showed that age effect on live birth was mediated more by AMH than by FSH (18 vs. 6%). The mediation effect through AMH can be further modified by FSH level regardless of women’s age.

Conclusions

In summary, mediation model provides a new perspective elucidating the mechanism of IVF successful rate by age. The majority of the age effect on live birth rate remained unexplained by AMH and FSH, suggesting its importance and independent role in IVF.
Triangulating data sources for further learning from and about the MDSR in Ethiopia: a cross-sectional review of facility based maternal death data from EmONC assessment and MDSR system
Authors: Hadush Azmach , Dagnaw Ftalew , Getachew Theodros , Bailey Patricia E. , Lawley Ruth , Ruano Ana Lorena
Published: April 2020

Background

Triangulating findings from MDSR with other sources can better inform maternal health programs. A national Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) assessment and the Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR) system provided data to determine the coverage of MDSR implementation in health facilities, the leading causes and contributing factors to death, and the extent to which life-saving interventions were provided to deceased women.

Methods

This paper is based on triangulation of findings from a descriptive analysis of secondary data extracted from the 2016 EmONC assessment and the MDSR system databases. EmONC assessment was conducted in 3804 health facilities. Data from interview of each facility leader on MDSR implementation, review of 1305 registered maternal deaths and 679 chart reviews of maternal deaths that happened form May 16, 2015 to December 15, 2016 were included from the EmONC assessment. Case summary reports of 601 reviewed maternal deaths were included from the MDSR system.

Results

A maternal death review committee was established in 64% of health facilities. 5.5% of facilities had submitted at least one maternal death summary report to the national MDSR database. Postpartum hemorrhage (10–27%) and severe preeclampsia/eclampsia (10–24.1%) were the leading primary causes of maternal death. In MDSR, delay-1 factors contributed to 7–33% of maternal deaths. Delay-2, related to reaching a facility, contributed to 32% & 40% of maternal deaths in the EmONC assessment and MDSR, respectively. Similarly, delay-3 factor due to delayed transfer of mothers to appropriate level of care contributed for 29 and 22% of maternal deaths. From the EmONC data, 72% of the women who died due to severe pre-eclampsia or eclampsia were given anticonvulsants while 48% of those dying of postpartum haemorrhage received uterotonics.

Conclusion

The facility level implementation coverage of MDSR was sub-optimal. Obstetric hemorrhage and severe preeclampsia or eclampsia were the leading causes of maternal death. Delayed arrival to facility (Delay 2) was the predominant contributing factor to facility-based maternal deaths. The limited EmONC provision should be the focus of quality improvement in health facilities.
Lung volume dependence of respiratory function in rodent models of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Südy Roberta , Schranc Álmos , Fodor Gergely H. , Tolnai József , Babik Barna , Peták Ferenc
Published: April 2020

Background

Diabetes mellitus causes the deterioration of smooth muscle cells and interstitial matrix proteins, including collagen. Collagen and smooth muscle cells are abundant in the lungs, but the effect of diabetes on airway function and viscoelastic respiratory tissue mechanics has not been characterized. This study investigated the impact of diabetes on respiratory function, bronchial responsiveness, and gas exchange parameters.

Methods

Rats were allocated randomly to three groups: a model of type 1 diabetes that received a high dose of streptozotocin (DM1, n = 13); a model of type 2 diabetes that received a low dose of streptozotocin with a high-fat diet (DM2, n = 14); and a control group with no treatment (C, n = 14). Forced oscillations were applied to assess airway resistance (Raw), respiratory tissue damping (G), and elastance (H). The arterial partial pressure of oxygen to the inspired oxygen fraction (PaO2/FiO2) and intrapulmonary shunt fraction (Qs/Qt) were determined from blood gas samples at positive end-expiratory pressures (PEEPs) of 0, 3, and 6 cmH2O. Lung responsiveness to methacholine was also assessed. Collagen fibers in lung tissue were quantified by histology.

Results

The rats in groups DM1 and DM2 exhibited elevated Raw, G, H, and Qs/Qt, compromised PaO2/FiO2, and diminished airway responsiveness. The severity of adverse tissue mechanical change correlated with excessive lung collagen expression. Increased PEEP normalized the respiratory mechanics, but the gas exchange abnormalities remained.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that diabetes reduces airway and lung tissue viscoelasticity, resulting in alveolar collapsibility that can be compensated by increasing PEEP. Diabetes also induces persistent alveolo-capillary dysfunction and abnormal adaptation ability of the airways to exogenous constrictor stimuli.
Long non-coding RNA GAS5 accelerates oxidative stress in melanoma cells by rescuing EZH2-mediated CDKN1C downregulation
Authors: Xu Wei , Yan Zeqiang , Hu Fen , Wei Wei , Yang Chao , Sun Zhihua
Published: April 2020

Background

The significance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in mediating oxidative stress of cancers has been implicated recently. This study proposed a potential therapeutic target lncRNA growth arrest-specific transcript 5 (GAS5) for melanoma, due to its crucial role in oxidative stress and apoptosis of melanoma cells by regulating the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)-mediated CDKN1C expression.

Methods

The lncRNA GAS5 expression pattern was examined in melanoma tissues and cells. The correlation of lncRNA GAS5, EZH2, and CDKN1C with survival rate of melanoma patients was analyzed. In melanoma cell lines, lncRNA GAS5 expression was overexpressed or knocked down to clarify its effects on cell viability, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. The interaction between lncRNA GAS5 and EZH2 was examined by RIP and RNA pull-down assays followed by verification of the target relationship between EZH2 and CDKN1C.

Results

High expression of EZH2 and poor expression of lncRNA GAS5 and CDKN1C was observed in melanoma tissues and found to be correlated with the reduction in survival expectancy of melanoma patients. Overexpression of lncRNA GAS5 or CDKN1C or EZH2 knockdown could inhibit cell viability but enhance melanoma cell apoptosis and oxidative stress. Importantly, lncRNA GAS5 attenuated EZH2 expression by recruiting E2F4 to the EZH2 promoter region and knockdown of EZH2 upregulated CDKN1C expression by inhibiting the H3K27me3.

Conclusion

The evidence provided by our study highlighted the involvement of lncRNA GAS5 in the translational suppression of EZH2 as well as the upregulation of CDKN1C, resulting in the promotion of melanoma cell apoptosis and oxidative stress.
COVID-19 the showdown for mass casualty preparedness and management: the Cassandra Syndrome
Authors: Coccolini Federico , Sartelli Massimo , Kluger Yoram , Pikoulis Emmanouil , Karamagioli Evika , Moore Ernest E. , Biffl Walter L. , Peitzman Andrew , Hecker Andreas , Chirica Mircea , Damaskos Dimitrios , Ordonez Carlos , Vega Felipe , Fraga Gustavo P. , Chiarugi Massimo , Di Saverio Salomone , Kirkpatrick Andrew W. , Abu-Zidan Fikri , Mefire Alain Chicom , Leppaniemi Ari , Khokha Vladimir , Sakakushev Boris , Catena Rodolfo , Coimbra Raul , Ansaloni Luca , Corbella Davide , Catena Fausto
Published: April 2020

Since December 2019, the world is potentially facing one of the most difficult infectious situations of the last decades. COVID-19 epidemic warrants consideration as a mass casualty incident (MCI) of the highest nature. An optimal MCI/disaster management should consider all four phases of the so-called disaster cycle: mitigation, planning, response, and recovery. COVID-19 outbreak has demonstrated the worldwide unpreparedness to face a global MCI.

This present paper thus represents a call for action to solicitate governments and the Global Community to actively start effective plans to promote and improve MCI management preparedness in general, and with an obvious current focus on COVID-19.
Contact-Force-Sensing-Based Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation in Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardias (COBRA-PATH): a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Geczy Tamas , Ramdat Misier Nawin L. , Szili-Torok Tamas
Published: April 2020

Background

Multiple studies have demonstrated the importance of adequate catheter–tissue contact in the creation of effective lesions during radiofrequency catheter ablation. The development of contact force (CF)-sensing catheters has contributed significantly to improve clinical outcomes in atrial fibrillation. However, CF-sensing technology is not used in the ablation of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). The possible reason for this is that PSVT ablation with the conventional approach (i.e. nonirrigated, non-CF-sensing catheters) is considered a relatively low-risk procedure with fairly high success rates (short and long term). The aim of this study is to determine whether CF sensing can further improve the outcomes of PSVT ablation.

Methods/design

The COBRA-PATH study is a single-center, two-armed, randomized controlled trial. Patients without structural heart disease being referred for electrophysiology study, because of PSVT and potential treatment with radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation, will be randomly assigned to either manual ablation with standard nonirrigated ablation catheters or manual ablation with an open-irrigated ablation catheter equipped with CF sensing (used in a virtual nonirrigated modus). The primary study endpoint is the difference in the number of RF applications during the ablation of atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia, and that of Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome and atrioventricular re-entrant tachycardia. Secondary outcome parameters include acute and long-term procedural success rates, overall duration of RF applications, procedure/fluoroscopy durations and safety parameters.

Discussion

We expect to see a reduced number/duration of RF applications required to achieve effective lesion creation, and consequently a decrease in total procedure/fluoroscopy times. Although a significant improvement in procedural success rates (acute/long term) might not be feasible to demonstrate (given the relatively high success rate of the standard ablation method), the possible decrease in procedure duration and the consequential reduction of radiation exposure has important clinical implications for both operators and patients undergoing the procedure.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials, NCT04078685. Retrospectively registered on 2 September 2019.
MHC associations of ankylosing spondylitis in East Asians are complex and involve non-HLA-B27 HLA contributions
Authors: Wang Geng , Kim Tae-Hwan , Li Zhixiu , Cortes Adrian , Kim Kwangwoo , Bang So-Young , Leo Paul , Brown Matthew A. , Xu Huji
Published: April 2020

Background

The association of HLA-B*27 with AS is amongst the strongest of any known association of a common variant with any human disease. Nonetheless, there is strong evidence indicating that other HLA-B alleles are involved in the disease. European ethnicity studies have demonstrated risk associations with HLA-B*40 and multiple other HLA-B, HLA-A, and HLA class II alleles, and demonstrated that in that ethnic group, the amino acid sequence at position 97 in HLA-B is the key determinant of HLA associations with AS. A recent study in Korean AS cases and controls additionally identified association at HLA-C*15:02. In the current study, we examined the MHC associations of AS in an expanded East Asian cohort.

Methods

A total of 1637 Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean AS cases meeting the modified New York Criteria for AS, and 1589 ethnically matched controls, were genotyped with the Illumina Immunochip, including a dense coverage of the MHC region. HLA genotypes and amino acid composition were imputed using the SNP2HLA programme using the Han-MHC reference panel based on the data of Han Chinese subjects (n = 9689), and association tested using logistic regression controlling for population stratification effects.

Results

A strong association was seen with HLA-B*27 (odds ratio (OR) = 205.3, P = 5.76 × 10−244). Controlling for this association, the strongest risk association is seen with HLA-C*15 at genome-wide significant level (OR = 7.62, P = 9.30 × 10−19), and confirmed association is also seen with HLA-B*40 at suggestive level (OR = 1.65, P = 2.54 × 10−4). At amino acid level, the strongest association seen in uncontrolled analysis was with histidine at position 114 in HLA-B (P = 7.24 × 10−241), but conditional analyses suggest that the primary amino acid associations are with lysine at position 70 and asparagine at position 97. Restriction of the ERAP1 association with HLA-B27-positive AS, previously reported in European subjects, was confirmed in East Asians.

Conclusions

This study confirms in East Asians that the HLA associations of AS are multiple, including previously reported associations at HLA-B*27, HLA-B*40, and HLA-C*15, as well as novel association with HLA-DQB1*04. The HLA-B associations are driven by the amino acids at positions 70 and 97, in the B pocket of HLA-B.
MicroRNA-761 suppresses remodeling of nasal mucosa and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in mice with chronic rhinosinusitis through LCN2
Authors: Cheng Jinzhang , Chen Junjun , Zhao Yin , Yang Jingpu , Xue Kai , Wang Zonggui
Published: April 2020

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is characterized by persistent symptomatic inflammation of the nasal passage and sinus mucosa. Various microRNAs (miRs) have been implicated in CRS. Hence, the current study was conducted to explore the effect of microRNA-761 (miR-761) on remodeling of nasal mucosa and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis was initially performed to predict the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with CRS. Gene targeting relationship between miR-761 and lipocalin 2 (LCN2) was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis and verified using dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Histopathological analyses of the nasal mucosa tissues were conducted via hematoxylin–eosin (HE) and alcian blue (AB)-periodic acid Schiff (PAS) staining. ELISA was employed to determine the IL-8 and MMP-9 levels. To define downstream pathway of miR-761, levels of proteins related to LCN2/Twist1 signaling pathway were assessed. Additionally, the effects of miR-761 on EMT, proliferation, and apoptosis were determined.

Results

LCN2 was highly expressed in CRS. LCN2 was a target of miR-761. miR-761 overexpression or LCN2 silencing decreased IL-8 and MMP-9 levels and morphological changes in nasal epithelial tissue from CRS mice. Overexpressed miR-761 or silenced LCN2 decreased the expression of LCN2 and Twist1, indicating LCN2/Twist1 signaling pathway was inactivated. Moreover, miR-761 overexpression or LCN2 silencing reduced the expression of N-cadherin and vimentin, while increased that of E-cadherin, suggesting inhibition of EMT. Furthermore, miR-761 overexpression or LCN2 silencing promoted cell proliferation and inhibited cell apoptosis in CRS.

Conclusion

Taken together, miR-761 suppressed the remodeling of nasal mucosa through inhibition of LCN2 and the LCN2/Twist1 signaling pathway.
Invasive sphenoid sinus aspergillosis mimicking sellar tumor: a report of 4 cases and systematic literature review
Authors: Zhang Hanwen , Jiang Nian , Lin Xuelei , Wanggou Siyi , Olson Jeffrey J. , Li Xuejun
Published: April 2020

Background

Invasive sphenoid sinus aspergillosis is a rare but life-threatening condition usually found in immunocompromised patients. When involving cavernous sinus and surrounding structures, patients are frequently misdiagnosed with a neoplasm or sellar abscess. Timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial to patients’ outcomes. The objective of this study is to review cases of invasive sphenoid sinus aspergillosis to describe disease manifestations, imaging features, treatment, and outcome.

Case presentation

We describe four patients with invasive sphenoid sinus aspergillosis misdiagnosed as sellar tumors preoperatively. The mass was completely removed in three patients and partially removed in one patient microscopically. Pathological examinations confirmedAspergillusin all cases. All four patients received anti-fungal agents postoperatively. There was no recurrence at the time of each patient’s follow-up date. One patient with complete resection was lost to follow-up while the other three patients’ neurologic function improved. Additionally, we performed a systematic review regarding invasive sphenoid sinus aspergillosis of existing English literature.

Conclusion

With regard to clinical symptoms, headache, vision impairment, and ophthalmoplegia were observed in over half of the patients in the literature. A sellar mass with bone destruction on CT and involvement of cavernous sinus is highly suggestive of invasive fungal sphenoid sinusitis. Immediate surgical removal of the lesion is recommended for invasive sphenoid sinus aspergillosis to preserve nerve function and increase the likelihood of survival.
Why does peer instruction benefit student learning?
Authors: Tullis Jonathan G. , Goldstone Robert L.
Published: April 2020

In peer instruction, instructors pose a challenging question to students, students answer the question individually, students work with a partner in the class to discuss their answers, and finally students answer the question again. A large body of evidence shows that peer instruction benefits student learning. To determine the mechanism for these benefits, we collected semester-long data from six classes, involving a total of 208 undergraduate students being asked a total of 86 different questions related to their course content. For each question, students chose their answer individually, reported their confidence, discussed their answers with their partner, and then indicated their possibly revised answer and confidence again. Overall, students were more accurate and confident after discussion than before. Initially correct students were more likely to keep their answers than initially incorrect students, and this tendency was partially but not completely attributable to differences in confidence. We discuss the benefits of peer instruction in terms of differences in the coherence of explanations, social learning, and the contextual factors that influence confidence and accuracy.
Spatial localization of hotspots in Fano-resonant plasmonic oligomers for surface-enhanced coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering
Authors: Dutta Arpan , Vartiainen Erik M.
Published: April 2020

Realization of Fano resonance in plasmonic oligomers is often exploited to design efficient plasmonic substrates for surface-enhanced coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering. Disk-type Fano-resonant plasmonic oligomers are widely used to enhance the Raman signal of the probe material. Generally, hot spots are generated in those oligomers at different spatial locations at different wavelengths and only a few spatially overlapping hot spots at multiple wavelengths can be achieved with oblique incidence of excitation light. In this work, we proposed hexagonal gold nanoparticle based Fano-resonant plasmonic oligomers that can yield higher number of spatially overlapped hot spots compared to the disk type oligomers even with the normal incidence of excitation light. The oligomers were numerically modelled and optimized for surface-enhanced coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering with 780 nm pumping and 500–1800 cm− 1 Raman signature region. The Fano lineshape was engineered to ensure near-field energy coupling at pump while enhancing the coherent anti-Stokes Raman signal at the far field. Our computational studies explored the purely electric origin of Fano resonance in those oligomers and provided maximum Raman enhancements of 1012–1013 from them to enable single-molecular level applications. Our findings provide a way to realize fabrication-friendly nanostructures with higher number of spatially localized hotspots for improving the Raman detection sensitivity.
Introduction to this special section: Offshore technology
Authors: Zimmer Ulrich
Published: April 2020

In this TLE special section on offshore technology, four papers outline advances in marine seismic acquisition and processing. The first paper, by Manin et al., describes the concept, tank trials, and sea trials of the “FreeCable” system, which relies on a fleet of small autonomous vessels to provide stability and flexibility in the positioning of seismic cables. The trials and pilot surveys show promising results with respect to signal improvement, acquisition efficiency, and cost effectiveness.
Designing an exploration-scale OBN: Acquisition design for subsalt imaging and velocity determination
Authors: Blanch Joakim , Jarvis Jon , Hurren Chris , Kostin Alex , Liu Yan , Hu Lingli
Published: April 2020

Direct wave arrivals are the most robust signals to determine velocity. They have been used for almost a century in hydrocarbon exploration. This is because the arrival time is explicitly available and provides a direct measurement of the average velocity of the subsurface raypath. To acquire these direct arrivals in a seismic experimental setting, it is necessary that the waves turn back to the surface after they start traveling into the earth. As is well known, it is possible to turn waves back up if they encounter faster propagation velocities than previously experienced. Using these simple concepts, we show how it is possible to design a seismic acquisition to measure subsalt velocities when the salt cover is very thick and potentially not homogeneous. Until now in marine seismic surveying, the physical limitations of the earth meant that the use of direct wave arrivals was restricted to relatively shallow depths of investigation. By combining the application of node technology with a well-established physical phenomena (i.e., refraction in the basement), it is possible to retrieve subsalt velocities from seismic surveys.
Geophysics Bright Spots
Authors: Behura Jyoti
Published: April 2020

Welcome to a new collection of Geophysics Bright Spots. Below is a list of research that the editors found interesting in the latest issue of Geophysics. Although there are only two recommendations, there are more articles in the issue that present wonderful ideas and analysis. For example, one article that I found to be a great read is “Imaging of a fluid injection process using geophysical data — A didactic example” by Commer et al. in which the authors present an approach to image hydrologic properties that determine subsurface changes resulting from fluid injection. If that topic, or either of the topics presented in the following, pique your interest, please read the full Geophysics article.
Treatment concerns for psychiatric symptoms in patients with COVID-19 with or without psychiatric disorders
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhou Xiaoqin , Liu Huanzhong , Hashimoto Kenji
Published: April 2020

Many psychiatric patients have been infected with COVID-19, and patients with COVID-19 may develop psychiatric symptoms after treatment with antiviral drugs. Given the tolerability and minimal P450 interactions, antidepressants (i.e., citalopram, escitalopram etc.), antipsychotics (i.e., olanzapine) and valproate can be considered to be safe in combination with antiviral drugs.
Modeling Variation in the Reproductive Lifespan of Female Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors Using AMH
Authors: Su H Irene , Kwan Brian , Whitcomb Brian W , Shliakhsitsava Ksenya , Dietz Andrew C , Stark Shaylyn S , Martinez Elena , Sluss Patrick M , Sammel Mary D , Natarajan Loki
Published: April 2020

Context

Many female survivors of adolescent and young adult cancers (AYA survivors) have shortened reproductive lifespans. However, the timing and duration of ovarian function after cancer treatment are largely unknown.

Objective

To model the trajectory of ovarian function over two decades following cancer treatment and evaluate how trajectories vary by treatment gonadotoxicity and age.

Design

In a prospective cohort, AYA survivors aged 18-39 at variable times since cancer treatment completion provided dried blood spots (DBS) every 6 months for up to 18 months. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels were measured using the Ansh DBS AMH enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mean AMH trajectory was modeled for the entire cohort and separately by treatment gonadotoxicity and age using functional principal components analysis.

Results

763 participants, mean (standard deviation) enrollment age 33.3 (4.7) and age at cancer diagnosis 25.9 (5.7) years, contributed 1905 DBS samples. The most common cancers were breast (26.9%), lymphoma (24.8%), and thyroid (18.0%). AMH trajectories differed among survivors by treatment gonadotoxicity (low, moderate, or high) (P < 0.001). Following low or moderately gonadotoxic treatments, AMH levels increased over 2-3 years and plateaued over 10-15 years before declining. In contrast, following highly gonadotoxic treatment, AMH levels were lower overall and declined shortly after peak at 2-3 years. Younger age at treatment was associated with higher trajectories, but a protective effect of younger age was not observed in survivors exposed to highly gonadotoxic treatments (Pinteraction < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this large AYA survivor cohort, timing and duration of ovarian function strongly depended on treatment gonadotoxicity and age at treatment. The findings provide novel, more precise information to guide reproductive decision-making.
Plasma Metabolomics Identifies Markers of Impaired Renal Function: A Meta-analysis of 3089 Persons with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tofte Nete , Vogelzangs Nicole , Mook-Kanamori Dennis , Brahimaj Adela , Nano Jana , Ahmadizar Fariba , van Dijk Ko Willems , Frimodt-Møller Marie , Arts Ilja , Beulens Joline W J , Rutters Femke , van der Heijden Amber A , Kavousi Maryam , Stehouwer Coen D A , Nijpels Giel , van Greevenbroek Marleen M J , van der Kallen Carla J H , Rossing Peter , Ahluwalia Tarunveer S , ’t Hart Leen M
Published: April 2020

Context

There is a need for novel biomarkers and better understanding of the pathophysiology of diabetic kidney disease.

Objective

To investigate associations between plasma metabolites and kidney function in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Design

3089 samples from individuals with T2D, collected between 1999 and 2015, from 5 independent Dutch cohort studies were included. Up to 7 years follow-up was available in 1100 individuals from 2 of the cohorts.

Main outcome measures

Plasma metabolites (n = 149) were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Associations between metabolites and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), and eGFR slopes were investigated in each study followed by random effect meta-analysis. Adjustments included traditional cardiovascular risk factors and correction for multiple testing.

Results

In total, 125 metabolites were significantly associated (PFDR = 1.5×10–32 − 0.046; β = −11.98-2.17) with eGFR. Inverse associations with eGFR were demonstrated for branched-chain and aromatic amino acids (AAAs), glycoprotein acetyls, triglycerides (TGs), lipids in very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) subclasses, and fatty acids (PFDR < 0.03). We observed positive associations with cholesterol and phospholipids in high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and apolipoprotein A1 (PFDR < 0.05). Albeit some metabolites were associated with UACR levels (P < 0.05), significance was lost after correction for multiple testing. Tyrosine and HDL-related metabolites were positively associated with eGFR slopes before adjustment for multiple testing (PTyr = 0.003; PHDLrelated < 0.05), but not after.

Conclusions

This study identified metabolites associated with impaired kidney function in T2D, implying involvement of lipid and amino acid metabolism in the pathogenesis. Whether these processes precede or are consequences of renal impairment needs further investigation.
Murine FSH Production Depends on the Activin Type II Receptors ACVR2A and ACVR2B
Authors: Schang Gauthier , Ongaro Luisina , Schultz Hailey , Wang Ying , Zhou Xiang , Brûlé Emilie , Boehm Ulrich , Lee Se-Jin , Bernard Daniel J
Published: April 2020

Activins are selective regulators of FSH production by pituitary gonadotrope cells. In a gonadotrope-like cell line, LβT2, activins stimulate FSH via the activin type IIA receptor (ACVR2A) and/or bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR2). Consistent with these observations, FSH is greatly reduced, though still present, in global Acvr2a knockout mice. In contrast, FSH production is unaltered in gonadotrope-specific Bmpr2 knockout mice. In light of these results, we questioned whether an additional type II receptor might mediate the actions of activins or related TGF-β ligands in gonadotropes. We focused on the activin type IIB receptor (ACVR2B), even though it does not mediate activin actions in LβT2 cells. Using a Cre-lox strategy, we ablated Acvr2a and/or Acvr2b in murine gonadotropes. The resulting conditional knockout (cKO) animals were compared with littermate controls. Acvr2a cKO (cKO-A) females were subfertile (~70% reduced litter size), cKO-A males were hypogonadal, and both sexes showed marked decreases in serum FSH levels compared with controls. Acvr2b cKO (cKO-B) females were subfertile (~20% reduced litter size), cKO-B males had a moderate decrease in testicular weight, but only males showed a significant decrease in serum FSH levels relative to controls. Simultaneous deletion of both Acvr2a and Acvr2b in gonadotropes led to profound hypogonadism and FSH deficiency in both sexes; females were acyclic and sterile. Collectively, these data demonstrate that ACVR2A and ACVR2B are the critical type II receptors through which activins or related TGF-β ligands induce FSH production in mice in vivo.
Biomechanics of Breast Support for Active Women
Authors: McGhee Deirdre E. , Steele Julie R.
Published: April 2020

More systematic breast biomechanics research and better translation of the research outcomes are necessary to provide information upon which to design better sports bras and to develop effective evidence-based strategies to alleviate exercise-induced breast pain for women who want to participate in physical activity in comfort.
The role of multiparametric ultrasound in the diagnosis of paediatric scrotal pathology
Authors: Huang Dean Y. , Pesapane Filippo , Rafailidis Vasileios , Deganello Annamaria , Sellars Maria E. , Sidhu Paul S
Published: April 2020

Multiparametric ultrasound (MPUS), combining conventional techniques (greyscale and colour Doppler ultrasound), ultrasound strain elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), has been successfully used in the assessment of adult scrotal pathology. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound can confidently establish testicular tissue vascularity even in the small-volume paediatric testis. Elastography provides further assessment of tissue stiffness, potentially adding useful diagnostic information. In children, ultrasonography is particularly advantageous, being safe, radiation-free and negating the need for sedation or general anaesthesia during the imaging evaluation. In this review article, we aim to familiarise readers with the MPUS scanning protocol used for paediatric scrotal examination and provide an overview of scrotal MPUS features, with particular focus to clinical indications where MPUS may be advantageous over conventional ultrasonography.
O TEATRO DE TEMÁTICA CIENTÍFICA NO ENSINO: PERCEPÇÕES DE PROFESSORES ESPECTADORES DA PEÇA O MÁGICO DE O2
Authors: Valério Jéssica Santos , Machado Gisele Ferreira , Batista Karine De Cássia Prado , Oliveira Jane Raquel Silva de
Published: April 2020

O teatro de temática científica tem demonstrado significativo potencial para contribuir com o processo de alfabetização científica tanto daqueles que produzem e/ou encenam o teatro quanto de seus espectadores. Nessa perspectiva, o grupo de teatro Quitrupe produziu e encenou a peça O Mágico de O2, a qual articula experimentos de química e um enredo inspirado em obra literária. A peça foi apresentada a estudantes e professores de escolas da educação básica. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar as percepções de professores espectadores dessa peça quanto às possibilidades de uso e contribuições do teatro de temática científica no ensino de ciências. Para tal, foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com sete professores espectadores, as quais foram analisadas por meio da Análise Textual Discursiva. A partir dos resultados foi possível observar que os professores espectadores compreendem o teatro de temática científica como uma forma de despertar a curiosidade e interesse dos alunos e como ferramenta para auxiliar na construção de conhecimentos científicos e na contextualização dos conceitos.
A condição das mulheres em Mary Wollstonecraft e Simone de Beauvoir
Authors: Siqueira Ana Carla de Abreu
Published: April 2020

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar alguns elementos fundamentais nos pensamentos de Mary Wollstonecraft e Simone de Beauvoir. Em um primeiro momento, apresentamos as ideias de Wollstonecraft sobre a educação. O sistema de instrução não seguia os princípios iluministas que deveriam mostrar homens e mulheres como seres igualmente racionais e, portanto, detentores dos mesmos direitos. Em seguida, mostramos algumas considerações de Beauvoir acerca do sexismo biológico. A pensadora existencialista defendia que a situação é mais determinante da existência do que qualquer suposta essência feminina. Neste sentido, falamos sobre algumas propostas que nos podem ajudar a construir um pensar filosófico em torno da condição das mulheres.
Feminismo, Capitalismo e Ecologia
Authors: Oksala Johanna
Published: April 2020

Este artigo avalia criticamente os diferentes modos de conectar teoricamente feminismo, capitalismo e ecologia. Tomo a tradição existente do ecofeminismo socialista como ponto de partida e esboço dois diferentes modos pelos quais as conexões entre o capitalismo, a subordinação das mulheres e a destruição do meio ambiente têm sido produzidas nesta literatura: ecofeminismo materialista e ecofeminismo marxista. Demonstrarei as vantagens políticas e teóricas dessas posições em comparação com algumas das formas anteriores de teorizar a relação entre mulheres e natureza, mas também as submeterei à crítica filosófica. Mostrarei como a posição ecofeminista marxista precisa ser atualizada e revisada, a fim de explicar os diferentes, às vezes contraditórios, mecanismos para a capitalização da natureza que se tornaram proeminentes hoje. Destacarei dois desenvolvimentos em particular: o domínio do neoliberalismo e o desenvolvimento da biotecnologia.Concluirei resumindo as bases teóricas sobre as quais uma aliança política contemporânea entre lutas feministas e ecológicas contra o capitalismo pode ser construída.Tradução de Juliana Lira Sampaio
Djamila Ribeiro: Uma voz para nosso tempo. Entrevista com Djamila Ribeiro
Authors: Ribeiro Djamila , Guimarães Deborah Moreira , Sampaio Juliana Lira , Fernandes Christiane Costa de Matos , De Melo Rebeca Furtado
Published: April 2020

Entrevista com a filósofa Djamila Ribeiro elaborada por Christiane Costa de Matos Fernandes, Deborah Moreira Guimarães, Juliana Lira Sampaio e Rebeca Furtado de Melo. As perguntas foram enviadas por e-mail à filósofa Djamila Ribeiro, que as respondeu por escrito (abril de 2020).
Women in dire need: the far-reaching impact of lipoedema on women's lives
Authors: Fetzer Amy
Published: April 2020

Lipoedema, an adipose tissue disorder, is a poorly visible, often unrecognised condition. To foster a greater understanding of the significant and debilitating impacts faced by women living with lipoedema, the charity Lipoedema UK conducted four focus group interviews, the findings of which were published in a series of reports under the umbrella title ‘Women in dire need’. The reports identified the substantial and numerous negative effects of lipoedema on the women's everyday lives, including the patients' experiences with compression garments, the effects of liposuction surgery (many of which were not positive), the everyday impacts ranging from pain and reduced mobility to poor self-esteem and working prospects, and the considerable challenges faced by women with late-stage lipoedema which can render them immobile.
Identification, tracking, and sizing of nano-sized particles using dual-view polarization-resolved digital holography and T-matrix modeling
Authors: Öhman Johan , Sjödahl Mikael
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we demonstrate how polarization-resolved holography can be used to determine if a particle is spherical or not and to estimate the size information of nanoparticles. The T-matrix method is used to model the scattered light from both spheres and spheroids. A dual-view polarization-resolved imaging system is used in order to obtain polarization ratio angles

(

β
1

,

β
2

)

. From the obtained

β
1

and

β
2

, it is possible to estimate whether or not a particle is spherical. It is found that nonsphericity only has a minor effect up to around sizes of 120 nm, and for that range, a spherical approximation is valid. For larger particles, the orientation influences the polarization response greatly. The size of a nonspherical particle can be estimated from the polarization ratio angles. The upper limit we can estimate unambiguously is around 200 nm. Finally, the model is applied to experimental measurements of naturally occurring particles in purified water. From the measurements, it is possible to separate spherical from nonspherical particles and also give a rough estimate of the size.
Broadly tunable Tm/Ho-codoped fiber lasers based on temperature-sensitive single-mode–multimode–single-mode fiber structures
Authors: Sakata Hajime , Kosaka Fuma , Hayakawa Kohei
Published: April 2020

We present all-fiber tunable lasers using single-mode–multimode–single-mode (SMS) structures involving a liquid cladding in the multimode section. We make use of large thermooptic coefficients of the refractive-index liquids to tune the laser oscillation wavelength. The oscillation wavelength is changed over a range of 100 nm from 1858 nm to 1958 nm by controlling the temperature of the SMS structures in the Tm/Ho-codoped fiber ring resonators.
The Correlation of Neuronal Signals with Behavior at Different Levels of Visual Cortex and Their Relative Reliability for Behavioral Decisions
Authors: Kang Incheol , Maunsell John H.R.
Published: April 2020

Behavior can be guided by neuronal activity in visual, auditory, or somatosensory cerebral cortex, depending on task requirements. In contrast to this flexible access of cortical signals, several observations suggest that behaviors depend more on neurons in later areas of visual cortex than those in earlier areas, although neurons in earlier areas would provide more reliable signals for many tasks. We recorded from neurons in different levels of visual cortex of 2 male rhesus monkeys while the animals did a visual discrimination task and examined trial-to-trial correlations between neuronal and behavioral responses. These correlations became stronger in primary visual cortex as neuronal signals in that area became more reliable relative to the other areas. The results suggest that the mechanisms that read signals from cortex might access any cortical area depending on the relative value of those signals for the task at hand.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTInformation is encoded by the action potentials of neurons in various cortical areas in a hierarchical manner such that increasingly complex stimulus features are encoded in successive stages. The brain must extract information from the response of appropriate neurons to drive optimal behavior. A widely held view of this decoding process is that the brain relies on the output of later cortical areas to make decisions, although neurons in earlier areas can provide more reliable signals. We examined correlations between perceptual decisions and the responses of neurons in different levels of monkey visual cortex. The results suggest that the brain may access signals in any cortical area depending on the relative value of those signals for the task at hand.
Authoritarian Welfare State, Regime Stability, and the 2018 Pension Reform in Russia
Authors: Logvinenko Igor
Published: April 2020

This article evaluates the role of the authoritarian welfare state (AWS) in upholding regime stability in Vladimir Putin's Russia. The AWS has contributed to sociopolitical stability over the past 20 years by (1) maintaining frequent interactions between the state and the population, (2) providing a way for the regime to uphold a reputation for not cheating the population out of the proceeds of growth, and (3) generating significant benefits for the rulers and the ruled. The pension reform enacted in 2018 undermined the three pillars of the AWS and, therefore, increased the chances of future political instability.
What Does It Take to Fight Fake News? Testing the Influence of Political Knowledge, Media Literacy, and General Trust on Motivated Reasoning
Authors: Kudrnáč Aleš
Published: April 2020

This study explores youth accuracy judgments of disinformative and nondisinformative claims. Analyses are based on a nationally representative youth (16–20 years old) survey experiment conducted in the Czech Republic in 2017. When they were exposed to posts regarding refugee crisis, young people were asked to judge the accuracy of the statements accompanying the posts. Motivated reasoning of youth depended primarily on the alignment with the posts and the ideology of participants. Results of this research suggest that motivated reasoning works differently for liberals and conservatives. Perceived amount of media literacy training does not seem to affect directional motivation. General trust works as moderator of motivated reasoning and, in combination with ideology, appears to be important for understanding directional motivation when exposed to disinformation.