bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inguinal hernia repair in preterm neonates: is there evidence that spinal or general anaesthesia is the better option regarding intraoperative and postoperative complications? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dohms Katharina , Hein Marc , Rossaint Rolf , Coburn Mark , Stoppe Christian , Ehret Constanze Barbara , Berger Tanja , Schälte Gereon
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Whether spinal anaesthesia (SA) reduces intraoperative and postoperative complications compared with general anaesthesia (GA) was investigated.

Design

The meta-analysis was structured based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. Databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Web of Science) were searched, and four randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and two retrospective cohort studies were included. A random-effects model with pooled risk ratios and mean differences with 95% CIs were used. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2statistic. Quality assessment of the studies was performed by assessing the risk of bias according to the Cochrane and GRADE methodology.

Setting

Publications from January 1990 to November 2018 were included.

Participants and interventions

Our study selection captured information from studies focusing on neonates born before the 37th gestational week who were scheduled for an inguinal hernia repair operation under either SA or GA.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome measures were apnoea, postoperative ventilation and method failure rates according to predefined eligibility criteria. The duration of surgery, desaturation events <80%, hospital stay duration and postoperative bradycardia were secondary outcomes.

Results

We found significantly fewer events for the outcomes ‘any episode of apnoea’ and ‘mechanical ventilation postoperatively’ in the SA group. Bradycardias were significantly less common in the SA group. In total, 7.5% of the SA group were converted to GA. The duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the SA group. No significant differences were found in the outcome measures ‘postoperative oxygen supplementation’, ‘prolonged apnoea’, ‘postoperative oxygen desaturation <80%’ and ‘hospital stay’.

Conclusions

We consider SA a convenient alternative for hernia repair in preterm infants, providing more safety regarding postoperative apnoea. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis to include studies exclusively comparing SA versus GA. More high-quality RCTs are needed.

Trial registration number

CRD42016048683
Attachment-based compassion therapy and adapted mindfulness-based stress reduction for the treatment of depressive, anxious and adjustment disorders in mental health settings: a randomised controlled clinical trial protocol
Authors: Montero-Marin Jesus , Collado-Navarro Carlos , Navarro-Gil Mayte , Lopez-Montoyo Alba , Demarzo Marcelo , Herrera-Mercadal Paola , Barcelo-Soler Alberto , Garcia-Campayo Javier
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Depressive, anxiety and adjustment disorders are highly prevalent among mental health outpatients. The lack of funding for mental health problems produces inefficient results and a high burden of disease. New cost-effective group interventions aimed at treating these symptoms might be an appropriate solution to reduce the healthcare burden in mental health units. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown significant reductions in anxious, depressive and adjustment symptomatology. Recent research highlights the influence of compassion as a key mechanism of change. However, MBIs only address compassion implicitly, whereas compassion-based protocols consider it a core aspect of psychotherapy. In this randomised controlled trial, we hypothesise that the provision of attachment-based compassion therapy (ABCT), which is a compassion-based protocol, will be more effective than mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), which is a conventional MBI programme, for the treatment of depressive, anxious and adaptive symptoms in patients in mental health settings.

Methods and analysis

Approximately 90 patients suffering from depressive, anxious or adjustment disorders recruited from Spanish mental health settings will be randomised to receive 8 weekly 2 hours group sessions of ABCT, 8 weekly 2.5 hours group sessions of adapted MBSR (with no full-day silent retreat) or treatment as usual (TAU), with a 1:1:1 allocation rate. Patients in the ABCT and adapted MBSR groups will also receive TAU. The main outcome will be general affective distress measured by means of the ‘Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21’ at post-test as primary endpoint. Other outcomes will be quality of life, mindfulness, self-compassion and the use of healthcare services. There will be a 6-month follow-up assessment. Intention-to-treat analysis will be conducted using linear mixed models. Per-protocol and secondary outcome analyses will be performed. A data monitoring committee comprising the trial manager, the ABCT and MBSR teachers and an independent clinical psychologist will monitor for possible negative side effects.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the General University Hospital of Castellón, Spain. The results will be submitted to peer-reviewed specialised journals, and brief reports will be sent to participants on request.

Trial registration number

NCT03425487
Risk of neurodegenerative dementia in asthma patients: a nested case–control study using a national sample cohort
Authors: Kim So Young , Min Chanyang , Oh Dong Jun , Choi Hyo Geun
Published: October 2019

Objectives

This study investigated the risk of neurodegenerative dementia following asthma.

Design

A nested case–control study

Setting

The ≥60-year-old population was selected from the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service – National Sample Cohort from 2002 to 2013.

Participants and interventions

The 11 442 dementia cases were matched with 45 768 control cases for age, sex, income, region of residence, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia. Asthma was classified using International Classification of Disease-10 (ICD-10) codes (J45 and J46) and medication history. Dementia was identified based on ICD-10 codes (G30 and F00).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The ORs of a previous history of asthma in patients with dementia were analysed using conditional logistic regression analysis stratified for age, sex, income, region of residence, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia. Subgroup analysis was performed according to age and sex.

Results

Overall, 22.6% (2587/11 442) and 22.3% (10 229/45 768) of the cases in the dementia and control groups, respectively, had a previous history of asthma. The OR for asthma in the dementia group was not higher than that in the control group (adjusted OR=0.97, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.02, p=0.207). All age and sex subgroups demonstrated consistent results.

Conclusions

Asthma was not related to an increased risk of dementia.
Nighttime visual recognition performance of light emitting diode traffic signs
Authors: Wei Zhonghua , Xu Jichao , Wang Shaofan , Liu Sheng , Qiu Shi
Published: October 2019

Light emitting diode (LED) traffic signs have been deployed on many urban roadways recently. However, a lack of uniform engineering criteria for the luminance level of LED traffic signs in China brought up consequences such as inaccurate recognition of signs for drivers as well as potential traffic accidents. This paper explores the possible luminance range of LED traffic signs through full-scale field static experiments. Visual recognition distance, character height, character stroke, sign background color, sign dimension, and sign complexity degree are taken into account. The visual recognition luminance value required for drivers are recorded. Experiment results reveal that: for character symbol, the background color of the board and character strokes have no significant effect on driver’s visual recognition performance; for graphic symbol, the higher of graphic complex degree, the higher luminance value required for driver to recognize. This study summarizes the luminance thresholds of different kinds of LED signs for different roadway classes. The findings of this study would provide reference for future design of LED traffic signs.
Novel “omega muscle units” in superficial body-wall myotomes during metamorphosis in the northern brook lamprey (Ichthyomyzonfossor)
Authors: Anderson J.E. , Cunha A. , Docker M.F.
Published: October 2019

Lampreys transform from sedentary filter feeders to more mobile adults through a dramatic metamorphosis that includes remodeling of head muscle and skeletal systems. Metamorphic modifications of body-wall myotomes that could support changes in swimming behavior from larvae to adults have not been previously reported. Thus, transverse sections of northern brook lamprey (Ichthyomyzon fossor Reighard and Cummins, 1916) in larval (n = 4), metamorphosing (n = 3), and adult (n = 2) stages were used to investigate the architecture of body-wall muscle and to detect whether Pax7 and MyoD, proteins important in myogenesis, were co-localized in any muscle nuclei. In addition to myotomal complexity of muscle units composed of parietal and central fibers, there was a novel pattern of omega-shaped muscle units with curves of muscle fibers in the superficial mid-body myotome in metamorphosing lamprey. Small satellite-like cells were identified on central fibers in metamorphosing and adult lamprey muscle using routine histology and immunolocalization of Pax7 and MyoD with antibodies that specifically detect mammalian and teleost proteins. Transient “omega muscle units” may be a marker for impending myotomal growth and increasing swimming efficiency during maturation, possibly restricted to metamorphosis. Finding satellite-like cells suggests that Pax7 and MyoD may have distinctive roles in lamprey myogenesis.
Discussion on 'Cretaceous to Eocene volcanic arc activity in the Andes of northern Ecuador'
Authors: Bristow R.
Published: October 2019

Dr. R. Bristow writes: Mr. Henderson is to be congratulated on the presentation of this stimulating paper. In it much new information is presented and it allows one of the first quantitative studies of are activity in Ecuador to be made.

However, I have to disagree with the interpretation placed onsome of the facts contained in this paper. These are stratigraphical queries which should not detract from the author's main conclusions, but nevertheless they may have important implications concerning the timing and duration of arc activity in Ecuador.

Basically, Mr. Henderson believes that there are three diachronous units-Macuchi Formation, Yunguilla Formation, and Cayo Rumi Member, which rangein age from Cretaceous to Eocene. I maintain that there is no evidence of diachronism, only that there are Eocene deposits, both marine and volcanic, which have a common lithology with Cretaceous deposits, but separated from them by a time gap of some 20 m.y. To take the Andean Yunguilla Formation, because it is the best documented, as an example: at a number of points (Loja, Cuenca, near Riobamba, and at the Yunguilla type locality in the N) the black flysch sediments of the formation are of Maastrichtian age; at one point only, near Pilaló, lithologically similar rockshave been dated as Middle Eocene in age (Bristow & Hoffstetter 1977, p. 350). Nowhere are there flysch sediments of Palaeocene or Lower Eocene age, and it is thus impossible to demonstrate that the Yunguilla Formation is diachronous from Maastrichtian to Middle Eocene.
Chikungunya Virus: Role of Vectors in Emergence from Enzootic Cycles
Authors: Weaver Scott C. , Chen Rubing , Diallo Mawlouth
Published: October 2019

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), a re-emerging mosquito-borne arbovirus, has caused millions of cases of severe, often chronic arthralgia during recent outbreaks. In Africa, circulation in sylvatic, enzootic cycles involves several species of arboreal mosquito vectors that transmit among diverse nonhuman primates and possibly other amplifying hosts. Most disease occurs when CHIKV emerges into a human-amplified cycle involving Aedes aegypti and sometimes Aedes albopictus transmission and extensive spread via travelers. Epidemiologic studies suggest that the transition from enzootic to epidemic cycles begins when people are infected via spillover in forests. However, efficient human amplification likely only ensues far from enzootic habitats where peridomestic vector and human densities are adequate. Recent outbreaks have been enhanced by mutations that adapt CHIKV for more efficient infection of Ae. albopictus, allowing for geographic expansion. However, epistatic interactions, sometimes resulting from founder effects following point-source human introductions, have profound effects on transmission efficiency, making CHIKV emergence somewhat unpredictable.
Differences in Emission Properties for Triboluminescent EuD4TEA Synthesized Using Europium Nitrate or Europium Acetate
Authors: Hollerman William , Fontenot Ross S. , Miller John
Published: October 2019

Europium tetrakis dibenzoylmethide triethylammonium (EuD4TEA) is one of the most intense triboluminescent (TL) materials currently known. It was recently reported that the triboluminescent yield was increased by 82% by changing the starting europium salt from europium chloride to europium nitrate. Unfortunately, europium nitrate has been classified as a hazardous material that cannot be shipped by air, which limits the availability of manufacturers and increases the cost. In an effort to further reduce the synthesis cost of EuD4TEA, we explore the effects of europium acetate on the triboluminescent properties of EuD4TEA by comparing the triboluminescent yield. The photoluminescent spectra as well as crystal structure using an optical microscope will also be explored.
Bisphenol AF promotes inflammation in human white adipocytes
Authors: Chernis Natasha , Masschelin Peter , Cox Aaron R. , Hartig Sean M.
Published: October 2019

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals interact with transcription factors essential for adipocyte differentiation. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals corresponds with elevated risks of obesity, but the effects of these compounds on human cells remain largely undefined. Widespread use of bisphenol AF (BPAF) as a bisphenol A (BPA) alternative in the plastics industry presents unknown health risks. To this end, we discovered that BPAF interferes with the metabolic function of mature human adipocytes. Although 4-day exposures to BPAF accelerated adipocyte differentiation, we observed no effect on mature fat cell marker genes. Additional gene and protein expression analysis showed that BPAF treatment during human adipocyte differentiation failed to suppress the proinflammatory transcription factor STAT1. Microscopy and respirometry experiments demonstrated that BPAF impaired mitochondrial function and structure. To test the hypothesis that BPAF fosters vulnerabilities to STAT1 activation, we treated mature adipocytes previously exposed to BPAF with interferon-γ (IFNγ). BPAF increased IFNγ activation of STAT1 and exposed mitochondrial vulnerabilities that disrupt adipocyte lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Collectively, our data establish that BPAF activates inflammatory signaling pathways that degrade metabolic activity in human adipocytes. These findings suggest how the BPA alternative BPAF contributes to metabolic changes that correspond with obesity.
Type 2 secretory cells are primary source of ATP release in mechanically stretched lung alveolar cells
Authors: Tan Ju Jing , Boudreault Francis , Adam Damien , Brochiero Emmanuelle , Grygorczyk Ryszard
Published: October 2019

Extracellular ATP and its metabolites are potent paracrine modulators of lung alveolar cell function, including surfactant secretion and fluid transport, but the sources and mechanism of intra-alveolar ATP release remain unclear. To determine the contribution of gas-exchanging alveolar type 1 (AT1) and surfactant-secreting type 2 (AT2) cells to stretch-induced ATP release, we used quantitative real-time luminescence ATP imaging and rat primary alveolar cells cultured on silicon substrate for 2–7 days. When cultured on solid support, primary AT2 cells progressively transdifferentiated into AT1-like cells with ~20% of cells showing AT1 phenotype by day 2–3 (AT2:AT1 ≈ 4:1), while on day 7, the AT2:AT1 cell ratio was reversed with up to 80% of the cells displaying characteristics of AT1 cells. Stretch (1 s, 5–35%) induced ATP release from AT2/AT1 cell cultures, and it was highest on days 2 and 3 but declined in older cultures. ATP release tightly correlated with the number of remaining AT2 cells in culture, consistent with ~10-fold lower ATP release by AT1 than AT2 cells. ATP release was unaffected by inhibitors of putative ATP channels carbenoxolone and probenecid but was significantly diminished in cells loaded with calcium chelator BAPTA. These pharmacological modulators had similar effects on stretch-induced intracellular Ca2+ responses measured by Fura2 fluorescence. The study revealed that AT2 cells are the primary source of stretch-induced ATP release in heterocellular AT2/AT1 cell cultures, suggesting similar contribution in intact alveoli. Our results support a role for calcium-regulated mechanism but not ATP-conducting channels in ATP release by alveolar epithelial cells.
Investigating short latency subcortical vestibular projections in humans: what have we learned?
Authors: Colebatch James G. , Rosengren Sally M.
Published: October 2019

Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) are now widely used for the noninvasive assessment of vestibular function and diagnosis in humans. This review focuses on the origin, properties, and mechanisms of cervical VEMPs and ocular VEMPs; how these reflexes relate to reports of vestibular projections to brain stem and cervical targets; and the physiological role of (otolithic) cervical and ocular reflexes. The evidence suggests that both VEMPs are likely to represent the effects of excitation of irregularly firing otolith afferents. While the air-conducted cervical VEMP appears to mainly arise from excitation of saccular receptors, the ocular VEMP evoked by bone-conducted stimulation, including impulsive bone-conducted stimuli, mainly arises from utricular afferents. The surface responses are generated by brief changes in motor unit firing. The effects that have been demonstrated are likely to represent otolith-dependent vestibulocollic and vestibulo-ocular reflexes, both linear and torsional. These observations add to previous reports of short latency otolith projections to the target muscles in the neck (sternocleidomastoid and splenius) and extraocular muscles (the inferior oblique). New insights have been provided by the investigation and application of these techniques.
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor-dependent persistent activity of layer 5 intrinsic-bursting and regular-spiking neurons in primary auditory cortex
Authors: Fu Xin , Ye Huan , Jia Huijuan , Wang Xin , Chomiak Taylor , Luo Feng
Published: October 2019

Cholinergic signaling coupled to sensory-driven neuronal depolarization is essential for modulating lasting changes in deep-layer neural excitability and experience-dependent plasticity in the primary auditory cortex. However, the underlying cellular mechanism(s) associated with coincident cholinergic receptor activation and neuronal depolarization of deep-layer cortical neurons remains unknown. Using in vitro whole cell patch-clamp recordings targeted to neurons ( n = 151) in isolated brain slices containing the primary auditory cortex (AI), we investigated the effects of cholinergic receptor activation and neuronal depolarization on the electrophysiological properties of AI layer 5 intrinsic-bursting and regular-spiking neurons. Bath application of carbachol (5 µM; cholinergic receptor agonist) paired with suprathreshold intracellular depolarization led to persistent activity in these neurons. Persistent activity may involve similar cellular mechanisms and be generated intrinsically in both intrinsic-bursting and regular-spiking neurons given that it 1) persisted under the blockade of ionotropic glutamatergic (kynurenic acid, 2 mM) and GABAergic receptors (picrotoxin, 100 µM), 2) was fully blocked by both atropine (10 µM; nonselective muscarinic antagonist) and flufenamic acid [100 µM; nonspecific Ca2+-sensitive cationic channel (CAN) blocker], and 3) was sensitive to the voltage-gated Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine (50 µM) and Ca2+-free artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Together, our results support a model through which coincident activation of AI layer 5 neuron muscarinic receptors and suprathreshold activation can lead to sustained changes in layer 5 excitability, providing new insight into the possible role of a calcium-CAN-dependent cholinergic mechanism of AI cortical plasticity. These findings also indicate that distinct streams of auditory processing in layer 5 intrinsic-bursting and regular-spiking neurons may run in parallel during learning-induced auditory plasticity.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cholinergic signaling coupled to sensory-driven neuronal depolarization is essential for modulating lasting changes in experience-dependent plasticity in the primary auditory cortex. Cholinergic activation together with cellular depolarization can lead to persistent activity in both intrinsic-bursting and regular-spiking layer 5 pyramidal neurons. A similar mechanism involving muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, voltage-gated Ca2+ channel, and possible Ca2+-sensitive nonspecific cationic channel activation provides new insight into our understanding of the cellular mechanisms that govern learning-induced auditory cortical and subcortical plasticity.
Missed targets, reaction times, and arousal are related to trait anxiety and attention to pain during an experimental vigilance task with a painful target
Authors: Emerson Nichole M. , Meeker Timothy J. , Greenspan Joel D. , Saffer Mark I. , Campbell Claudia M. , Korzeniewska Anna , Lenz Fred A.
Published: October 2019

Although hypervigilance may play a role in some clinical pain syndromes, experimental vigilance toward painful stimuli has been studied infrequently. We evaluated vigilance toward pain by using a continuous performance task (CPT), in which subjects responded to moderately intense painful target stimuli, occurring in a train of mildly painful nontargets. We assessed nondetected targets (misses), reaction times (RTs), and psychological activation (tense arousal). During time on task in CPTs of other sensory modalities, there is an increase in misses and RTs (vigilance decrement). We hypothesized that our CPT would influence vigilance performance related to pain, anxiety, and limitation of attentional resources. The results showed a decrement in vigilance over time as misses increased, although RTs were unchanged. While mind-wandering did not influence vigilance performance, intrinsic attention to pain drove both hit RTs and number of misses. This resulted in pain-focused subjects performing worse on the CPT pain task with slower RTs and more misses per block. During the CPT, the change in stimulus salience was related to the change in pain intensity, while pain unpleasantness correlated with tense arousal. CPT performance during experimental vigilance to pain and psychological activation were related to trait anxiety, as measured by the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and neuroticism, as measured by the NEO five factor inventory. Trait anxiety and neuroticism may play important roles in an individual’s predisposition to dwell on pain and interpret pain as threatening.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Subjects detected moderately painful target stimuli in a train of mildly painful nontarget stimuli, which resulted in vigilance performance metrics including missed targets, reaction times, and psychological activation. These performance metrics were related to intrinsic attention to pain and trait anxiety. Subjects with high trait anxiety and neuroticism scores, with a predisposition to attend to pain, had greater tense arousal and poorer vigilance performance, which may be important psychological aspects of vigilance to pain.
Management of Pulmonary Artery Aneurysms in Pulmonary Hypertension: A Single-Center Review of 3 Cases
Authors: Ahmed Talha , Ramani Gautam V. , Ghoreishi Mehrdad , Safdar Ayesha , Griffith Bartley P.
Published: October 2019

Pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAAs) are defined as having pulmonary artery diameter of greater than 40 mm. PAAs are rare and can occur in various pulmonary diseases. There are no clear-cut guidelines regarding the management of PAAs, and recommendations for management are made based on expert consensus opinion, case reports, and institutional experience. This series highlights three patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) and PAA. The clinical course and diagnostic findings and the decision-making involved in the treatment are reviewed. An overview of three distinct management strategies including medical management, heart/lung transplant, and surgical aneurysm repair is presented.
Multiple Myeloma Breast Involvement: A Case Report
Authors: Ali Heba O. E. , Nasir Zafar , Marzouk Ahmed M. S. M.
Published: October 2019

Multiple Myeloma involving the breast is very rare and the diagnosis is challenging because the clinical and radiological features of breast multiple myeloma are indistinguishable to other forms of breast disease whether primary or metastatic. In this article the authors report a case presented with breast masses, which were found to be extra osseous Multiple Myeloma. The patient was managed for multiple spinal lesions that were primarily thought to be metastasis from primary breast cancer.
Resolving a Multi-Generational Neuromuscular Mystery in a Family Presenting with a Variable Scapuloperoneal Syndrome in a c.464G>A, p.Arg155His VCP Mutation
Authors: Jerath Nivedita U.
Published: October 2019

Valosin containing protein (VCP) mutations have been reported to present with a high degree of variability and can be present in patients even if they may have an initial normal work up. A 55-year-old woman was labeled as “normal” and “pain medication seeking” after an unrevealing work up of clinical, laboratory, electrodiagnostic, radiographic, pathologic, and genetic testing. She continued to present with chronic neck pain, and had variable features of scapuloperoneal atrophy, which was also seen in her family. The patient and her family were found to have a known pathogenic c.464G>A, p.Arg155His (R155H) mutation in the VCP gene. Despite traditional thinking of attempting to localize neurological syndromes, VCP mutations are difficult to localize as they can present with significant clinical heterogeneity including a scapuloperoneal syndrome with variable neuropathic and myopathic features.
Effect ofRhus vernicifluaExtract on IgE-Antigen-Mediated Allergic Reaction in Rat Basophilic Leukemic RBL-2H3 Mast Cells and Passive Cutaneous Anaphylaxis in Mice
Authors: Do Hyun Ju , Hwang Yeo Jin , Yang Hye Jin , Park Kwang Il
Published: October 2019

Rhus vernicifluais widely known for its antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, and antiaging efficacy andα-glucosidase inhibition. This study was designed whetherRhus vernicifluaextracts inhibit the IgE-antigen-mediated allergic reaction in RBL-2H3 mast cells, and it further investigated the FcεRI- and arachidonate-signaling by whichRhus vernicifluaextracts exert its antiallergic effects. IgE-antigen-sensitized RBL-2H3 mast cells were investigated for the cytotoxicity ofRhus vernicifluaextracts andβ-hexosaminidase release, and inflammatory mediators (e.g., TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, histamine, and PGD2) were then assessed. Additionally, we examined expressions of genes involved in arachidonate- and FcεRI-signaling pathway in RBL-2H3.Rhus vernicifluaextracts inhibitedβ-hexosaminidase release and production of the inflammatory mediators in RBL-2H3.Rhus vernicifluaextracts reduced amounts of histamine and expressions of FcεRI signaling-related genes such as Lyn and Syk and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase in mast cells. Finally, in late allergic responses,Rhus vernicifluaextracts reduced PGD2release and COX-2 and cPLA2 phosphorylation expressions from IgE-antigen-mediated mast cells. Lastly, 250–500 mg/kg RVE significantly attenuated the Ag/IgE-induced passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction in mice. These findings provide novel information on the molecular mechanisms underlying the antiallergy properties ofRhus vernicifluaextracts in FcɛRI-mediated allergic reaction.
Apheresis Therapy for Steroid-Resistant Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome: Report on a Case Series
Authors: Naciri Bennani Hamza , Jouve Thomas , Noble Johan , Rostaing Lionel , Malvezzi Paolo , Tetaz Rachel
Published: October 2019

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) represents 15%–30% of adulthood glomerulopathies. Corticosteroids have been the main treatment for decades and are effective in 70% of minimal-change disease patients and ~30% of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis patients. Multidrug-resistant (steroids, calcineurin-inhibitors, cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate-mofetil, rituximab) idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is a major therapeutic challenge in nephrology. Apheresis (double-filtration plasmapheresis or semi specific immunoadsorption) could act by eliminating the circulating factor (apolipoproteinA1b, solubleCD40L, suPAR) increasing glomerular permeability seen in INS. The aim of the study was to report the outcome of three patients with multidrug-resistant INS treated successfully with apheresis.
Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Orange Peel Extract Prepared by Plasmochemical Extraction Method and Degradation of Methylene Blue under Solar Irradiation
Authors: Skiba Margarita I. , Vorobyova Victoria I.
Published: October 2019

In pursuit of greener nanoscale research, the utilization of the reductive potency of a common byproduct of food-processing industry, i.e., orange peel, has been researched to prepare “green” silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy. The results confirmed that silver nanoparticles were formed at the investigated concentrations of Ag+ (0.25–6.0 mmol/L) during 5–10 minutes, at ratio AgNO3 : extract (mL) = 1 : 1, and at 75°C. From the SEM images, the silver nanoparticles are found to be almost spherical. Powder XRD results reveal that Ag nanoparticles had a face-centered cubic crystal structure. The zeta potential value for AgNPs obtained was −21.7 mV, indicating the moderate stability of synthesized nanoparticles. The effect of pH on nanoparticle synthesis has been determined by adjusting the pH of the reaction mixtures. The catalytic effectiveness of the prepared green catalyst, AgNPs, has also been investigated in catalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye. The catalytic degradation reaction under solar irradiation was completed (99%) within 35 min, signifying excellent catalytic properties of silver nanoparticles in the reduction of MB.
Effects of AKD Sizing on the Morphology and Pore Distribution Properties of OCC Fibers
Authors: Chen Hua , Yang Jing , Hu Zhijun , Zheng Bingbing , Sun Jun , Wo Qizhong , Zeng Xiangzhi , Qiu Xufeng , Song Chenying , Zhu Ruifeng
Published: October 2019

Changes of the morphology and pore structure of old corrugated container (OCC) fibers during an alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) sizing process were studied. The resulting samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle, and BET surface area analysis. The length of fibers had obvious influence on the AKD sizing effect, and the length of fibers ranged from 100 to 200 meshes showed the best sizing performance. The surface roughness of 0.3% AKD sizing OCC fibers decreased from 27.949 nm to 12.811 nm. Compared with the control sample, the pore volume of fibers sized with 0.1% AKD decreased 4.3% when the average pore diameter was fixed at 2.4~3.0 nm. And when the usage of AKD increased to 0.3% and 0.5%, the pore volume decreased 1.4% and 6.3% accordingly. The decrease in the pore volume of AKD-sized fiber indicated the penetration and deposition of dispersed particles of AKD in the fiber lumens.
High Ambient Solar UV Correlates with Greater Beta HPV Seropositivity in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Kricker Anne , Weber Marianne F. , Brenner Nicole , Banks Emily , Pawlita Michael , Sitas Freddy , Hodgkinson Verity S. , Rahman Bayzid , van Kemenade Cathelijne H. , Armstrong Bruce K. , Waterboer Tim
Published: October 2019

Background:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is highly prevalent worldwide and may have a role, with sun exposure, in causing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Little is known about the relationship of UV exposure and seroprevalence of cutaneous HPVs in the general population.

Methods:

Using multiplex serology, we estimated the seroprevalence of 23 beta and 7 gamma HPVs and 7 other antigens (mu HPV1, HPV63, nu HPV41, alpha HPV16; polyomaviruses HPyV7 and MCV; p53) in a population-based sample of 1,161 Australian 45 and Up Study participants with valid data from blood specimens collected from 2010 to 2012. We calculated prevalence ratios (PR) for the association of each antigen with residential ambient solar UV and other UV-related variables.

Results:

Seropositivity for at least one beta or gamma HPV was high at 88% (beta HPVs 74%, gamma HPVs 70%), and less in women than men [e.g., PR beta-2 HPV38 = 0.70; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.56–0.87; any gamma = 0.90; 95% CI, 0.84–0.97]. A high ambient UV level in the 10 years before study enrollment was associated with elevated seroprevalence for genus beta (PRtertile3vs1 any beta = 1.17; 95% CI, 1.07–1.28), and beta-1 to beta-3 species, but not for gamma HPVs. Other UV-related measures had less or no evidence of an association.

Conclusions:

Seroprevalence of cutaneous beta HPVs is higher with higher ambient UV exposure in the past 10 years.

Impact:

The observed association between ambient UV in the past 10 years and cutaneous HPVs supports further study of the possible joint role of solar UV and HPV in causing skin cancer.
Synergism between ATM and PARP1 Inhibition Involves DNA Damage and Abrogating the G2 DNA Damage Checkpoint
Authors: Mak Joyce P.Y. , Ma Hoi Tang , Poon Randy Y.C.
Published: October 2019

PARP inhibitors have emerged as effective chemotherapeutic agents for BRCA1/BRCA2-deficient cancers. Another DNA damage response protein, ATM, is also increasingly being recognized as a target for synthetic lethality with PARP inhibitors. As ATM functions in both cell cycle arrest and DNA repair after DNA damage, how cells respond to inhibition of ATM and PARP1 is yet to be defined precisely. We found that loss of ATM function, either in an ATM-deficient background or after treatment with ATM inhibitors (KU-60019 or AZD0156), results in spontaneous DNA damage and an increase in PARylation. When PARP1 is also deleted or inhibited with inhibitors (olaparib or veliparib), the massive increase in DNA damage activates the G2 DNA damage checkpoint kinase cascade involving ATR, CHK1/2, and WEE1. Our data indicated that the role of ATM in DNA repair is critical for the synergism with PARP inhibitors. Bypass of the G2 DNA damage checkpoint in the absence of ATM functions occurs only after a delay. The relative insensitivity of PARP1-deficient cells to PARP inhibitors suggested that other PARP isoforms played a relatively minor role in comparison with PARP1 in synergism with ATMi. As deletion of PARP1 also increased sensitivity to ATM inhibitors, trapping of PARP1 on DNA may not be the only mechanism involved in the synergism between PARP1 and ATM inhibition. Collectively, these studies provide a mechanistic foundation for therapies targeting ATM and PARP1.
Role of Dimerized C16orf74 in Aggressive Pancreatic Cancer: A Novel Therapeutic Target
Authors: Kushibiki Toshihiro , Nakamura Toru , Tsuda Masumi , Tsuchikawa Takahiro , Hontani Koji , Inoko Kazuho , Takahashi Mizuna , Asano Toshimichi , Okamura Keisuke , Murakami Soichi , Kurashima Yo , Ebihara Yuma , Noji Takehiro , Nakanishi Yoshitsugu , Tanaka Kimitaka , Maishi Nako , Sasaki Katsunori , Park Woong-Ryeon , Shichinohe Toshiaki , Hida Kyoko , Tanaka Shinya , Hirano Satoshi
Published: October 2019

Over the past 30 years, the therapeutic outcome for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has remained stagnant due to the lack of effective treatments. We performed a genome-wide analysis to identify novel therapeutic targets for PDAC. Our analysis showed that Homo sapiens chromosome 16 open reading frame 74 (C16orf74) was upregulated in most patients with PDAC and associated with poor prognosis. Previously, we demonstrated that C16orf74 interacts with the catalytic subunit alpha of protein phosphatase 3 and plays an important role in PDAC invasion. However, the pathophysiologic function of C16orf74 is still unclear. In this study, through the analysis of C16orf74 interaction, we demonstrate a new strategy to inhibit the growth and invasion of PDAC. C16orf74 exists in the homodimer form under the cell membrane and binds integrin αVβ3 and is also involved in invasion by activating Rho family (Rac1) and MMP2. Considering that this dimeric form was found to be involved in the function of C16orf74, we designed an 11R-DB (dimer block) cell-permeable dominant-negative peptide that inhibits the dimer form of C16orf74. 11R-DB suppressed invasion and proliferation of PDAC cell lines by inhibiting phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR and also by inactivation of MMP2. 11R-DB also showed antitumor effects in an orthotopic xenograft model and peritoneal metastasis model. Thus, this study demonstrates that dimerized C16orf74, present in the cell membrane, is involved in pancreatic cancer invasion and proliferation. In addition, the C16orf74 dimer block cell-permeable peptide (11R-DB) has a potent therapeutic effect on PDAC in vitro and in vivo.
Multi-Organ Failure as the Initial Presentation of Lymphocyte-Depleted Hodgkin Lymphoma in Two Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Ding Jennifer , Kumar Avnee J. , Wilding Emily , Lee Seung Tae , Law Jennie Y.
Published: October 2019

Patients with HIV-associated lymphocyte-depleted Hodgkin lymphoma (HIV-HL) often present with advanced, extranodal disease and aggressive clinical features, limiting definitive therapeutic intervention. Here we report two patients with HIV-HL who presented with multi-organ dysfunction as an initial manifestation of their malignancy. Both were initially treated with brentuximab vedotin (BV), which led only to a temporary partial response, highlighting the challenges of treatment. One patient was eventually started on nivolumab and responded very well to the immune checkpoint inhibitor. To our knowledge, this is the first case to describe successful use of nivolumab in a patient with relapsed lymphocyte-depleted HIV-HL. Prompt recognition of multi-organ dysfunction as an initial presentation of lymphocyte-depleted HIV-HL is essential to ensure rapid provision of therapy. While use of BV remains a reasonable option, earlier introduction of immunotherapy in the treatment of HL may provide an additional option in critically ill patients with lymphocyte-depleted HIV-HL.
Aerobic Exercise Training and Nontraditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Hemodialysis Patients: Results from a Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Oliveira e Silva Viviana Rugolo , Stringuetta Belik Fernanda , Hueb João Carlos , de Souza Gonçalves Renato , Costa Teixeira Caramori Jacqueline , Perez Vogt Bárbara , Barretti Pasqual , Zanati Bazan Silméia Garcia , De Stefano Greicy Mara Mengue Feniman , Martin Luis Cuadrado , da Silva Franco Roberto Jorge
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have a high incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) which increases their morbidity and mortality. A sedentary lifestyle in CKD is directly linked to the onset of CVD. Physical activity can bring beneficial effects to CKD patients. Aims: The aim of this study was assess the impact of aerobic training on nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors in CKD patients on hemodialysis. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective, controlled, and randomized clinical trial with analysis of intention to treat. Thirty patients underwent an exercise treadmill test, an arterial stiffness evaluation, echocardiography and analysis of endothelial reactivity, and carotid ultrasound and laboratorial tests, including analysis of serum aldosterone. The intervention group (IG) (n =15) underwent aerobic exercise during hemodialysis 3 times a week for 4 months. The control group (CG) (n =15) had no intervention. All of the patients were reassessed after 4 months. Results: In the IG, there was a statistically significant improvement in flow-mediated vasodilation (FMV; p = 0.002) and a reduction in left ventricular hypertrophy (p = 0.006) and serum aldosterone (p = 0.016). There was an increase in C-reactive protein in the CG (p = 0.002). Conclusion: This aerobic training protocol was able to improve endothelial function with enhanced FMV and reduce left ventricular hypertrophy and serum aldosterone, which could have a positive impact on the reduction of nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors in CKD patients on hemodialysis.
Outcomes of Baked Milk and Egg Challenge in Cow’s Milk and Hen’s Egg Allergy: Can Tolerance Be Predicted with Allergen-Specific IgE and Prick-to-Prick Test?
Authors: Sirin Kose Seda , Asilsoy Suna , Uzuner Nevin , Karaman Ozkan , Anal Ozden
Published: October 2019

Background: Adding baked food into the diets of patients with cow’s milk allergy (MA) and hen’s egg allergy (EA) has several benefits. Objective: We aimed to determine baked and unbaked food tolerance and evaluate the effectiveness of laboratory findings on the prediction of baked and unbaked food tolerance in patients with MA and EA. Methods: Clinical outcomes of the patients with MA and EA who had been exposed to oral food challenge with baked food were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Ninety-one patients were evaluated. The median age of the study group was 22 months. Forty-nine and 42 patients had IgE-mediated MA and EA, respectively. While all patients with EA tolerated baked egg, 24.5% patients with MA could not tolerate baked cow’s milk (BM). In patients with MA, BM tolerance showed negative association with milk-specific IgE, skin prick test (SPT), and prick-to-prick test (PTP), and the PTP was the most significant parameter (sensitivity 83.8%, specificity 91.7% for PTP ≤7 mm). Negative association was seen between milk-specific IgE, SPT, PTP, and unbaked milk (UBM) tolerance, and PTP was the most significant parameter (sensitivity 100%, specificity 55% for PTP ≤4 mm). In patients with EA, at the end of 6 months of baked hen’s egg (BE) consumption, scrambled egg tolerance showed negative association with egg white-specific IgE level, egg white SPT and PTP. Egg white PTP was the most significant parameter (sensitivity 82.4%, specificity 96.0% for PTP ≤5 mm). Conclusion: Specific-IgE, SPT, and PTP should be kept in mind as parameters that can be used to predict tolerance to BM and BE for patients with MA and EA.
De novo Gastrinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Barbosa Arsénio , Gomes Filipa , Fonseca Luísa , Maia Tiago , Almeida Jorge
Published: October 2019

Gastrinomas are neuroendocrine tumors characterized by gastrin overexpression – 80% are sporadic and 20% are associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1. A 75-year-old male patient, surgically treated at the age of 50 years for gastrinoma, followed on an outpatient basis because of chronic non-bloody diarrhea, was admitted to our hospital because of abdominal pain, watery diarrhea, and nonbiliary vomits. He was hypotensive and showed no response to fluids. Blood cultures were positive for Salmonella, and a diagnosis of septic shock due to Salmonella infection was made. The patient’s condition improved, but the history of chronic diarrhea was still not explained. To investigate chronic diarrhea, gastrinoma recurrence was considered. Serum gastrin measurement was five times higher than the upper limit of the normal range (536 pg/mL). A positive somatostatin receptor scintigraphy was diagnostic for neuroendocrine tumor. Metastases were excluded. The patient was proposed to curative surgery, and a diagnosis of a well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor was made.
A Rare Cause of Acute Liver Failure: Diffuse Liver Metastization of Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Santos Ana Luísa , Magno Pereira Vítor , Coelho Rosa , Gaspar Rui , Cardoso Hélder , Lopes Joanne , Macedo Guilherme
Published: October 2019

The authors describe a case of a 76-year-old male with a medical history of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) of the right lower eyelid. He was admitted to the emergency department due to abdominal pain in the right hypochondrium, nauseas, asthenia, and choluria with 3 days of evolution. Biochemical liver workup revealed a cytocholestase pattern as well as a prolonged prothrombin time. After admission, the patient developed hepatic encephalopathy, and a clinical and analytical worsening was observed. Abdominal ultrasound showed a reduction in the caliber of the hepatic veins, in apparent relation to a parenchymal compression. Liver biopsy was performed and showed an extensive infiltration of the hepatic parenchyma by a solid neoplasm, which, upon immunohistochemical study, was compatible with a diffuse metastization of a MCC. We report this clinical case due to its rarity of presentation and to show the important role of liver biopsy in cases of acute hepatitis.
Effects of the Storage Solution Type and Prolonged Storage on the Immunoreactivity of Cells
Authors: Ikeda Katsuhide , Sato Shouichi , Chigira Hiroshi , Shibuki Yasuo , Hiraoka Nobuyoshi
Published: October 2019

Introduction: In effusion cytology, immunocytochemistry is a useful staining approach to provide important information for diagnosis. Effusion cytology is performed not only for pleural effusions and ascites but also for peritoneal and needle washing from fine needle aspirations or instruments. Although various solutions are used for washing cytology, the effect of the solution type on immunocytochemical reactivity is not fully understood. In this study, we examined the immunocytochemical reactivity of cytological samples after storage in various solutions. Methods: Cell block specimens were obtained from ascites of patients with peritoneal cancer and pleural effusions of patients with diffuse malignant mesothelioma. Various solutions, including physiological saline (PS), Ringer solution, a low-molecular-weight dextran L injection, Voluven 6% solution, Mixid L injection, RPMI-1640 medium, and horse serum were added to the sediment layers of aliquots. All samples were kept at 4°C, and aliquots were subsequently processed at specific time points (0, 1, 2, 4, 7, and 14 days). Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, cell block samples were prepared for immunocytochemical staining. Immunocytochemical results were analyzed for differences in the percentages of positive cells, using the effusion sample stored for 1 h as standard (100%). Results: For all solutions other than PS, the median and central 50% of values were <100% (with respect to the effusion sample as a standard) after 1 h of storage. Immunoreactivity decreased for most solutions as time progressed. Conclusion: Of note, immunocytochemistry results obtained using a washing solution are different from those using an effusion sample. For cytology, when a washing solution was used or when a sample was stored for a long time, the accuracy of the immunocytochemical results was low.