bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D as a Potential Preventive Agent For Young Women's Breast Cancer
Authors: Bernhardt Sarah M. , Borges Virginia F. , Schedin Pepper
Published: July 2021

Clinical studies backed by research in animal models suggest that vitamin D may protect against the development of breast cancer, implicating vitamin D as a promising candidate for breast cancer prevention. However, despite clear preclinical evidence showing protective roles for vitamin D, broadly targeted clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation have yielded conflicting findings, highlighting the complexity of translating preclinical data to efficacy in humans. While vitamin D supplementation targeted to high-risk populations is a strategy anticipated to increase prevention efficacy, a complimentary approach is to target transient, developmental windows of elevated breast cancer risk. Postpartum mammary gland involution represents a developmental window of increased breast cancer promotion that may be poised for vitamin D supplementation. Targeting the window of involution with short-term vitamin D intervention may offer a simple, cost-effective approach for the prevention of breast cancers that develop postpartum. In this review, we highlight epidemiologic and preclinical studies linking vitamin D deficiency with breast cancer development. We discuss the underlying mechanisms through which vitamin D deficiency contributes to cancer development, with an emphasis on the anti-inflammatory activity of vitamin D. We also discuss current evidence for vitamin D as an immunotherapeutic agent and the potential for vitamin D as a preventative strategy for young woman's breast cancer.
Statin Exposure and Pancreatic Cancer Incidence: A Japanese Regional Population-Based Cohort Study, the Shizuoka Study
Authors: Saito Kohei , Sato Yoko , Nakatani Eiji , Kaneda Hideaki , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Miyachi Yoshiki , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

Preclinical studies suggest that statins contribute to the prevention of pancreatic cancer; however, the results of epidemiologic studies are inconsistent. Furthermore, sufficient data are unavailable for the general population of Asia. Here, we conducted an observational study using a comprehensive patient-linked, longitudinal health insurance database comprising the records of 2,230,848 individuals residing in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, from April 2012 to September 2018. We included individuals older than 40 years with data for medical examinations and statin exposure (≥365 statin prescription days). To balance baseline characteristics between the statin exposure and statin nonexposure groups, we used inverse probability of treatment propensity score weighting method. We estimated hazard ratios for associations with pancreatic cancer using the Cox proportional hazards regression model. Among 2,230,848 individuals, we included 100,537 in the statin exposure group (24%) and 326,033 in the statin nonexposure group (76%). Among the statin exposure group (352,485 person-years) and the statin nonexposure group (1,098,463 person-years), 394 (1.12 per 1,000 person-years) and 1176 (1.07 per 1,000 person-years) developed pancreatic cancer, respectively (P = 0.464). After adjustments using inverse probability of treatment weighting, the statin exposure group was associated with a decreased incidence of pancreatic cancer (hazard ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence intervals, 0.72–0.99; P = 0.036). In conclusion, the current Japanese regional population-based cohort study shows that statin exposure was associated with a lower incidence of pancreatic cancer.

Prevention Relevance:

This study may support the possible role of statins in preventing pancreatic cancer in the general population in Japan.
A Fusion Protein Complex that Combines IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 Signaling to Induce Memory-Like NK Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Becker-Hapak Michelle K. , Shrestha Niraj , McClain Ethan , Dee Michael J. , Chaturvedi Pallavi , Leclerc Gilles M. , Marsala Lynne I. , Foster Mark , Schappe Timothy , Tran Jennifer , Desai Sweta , Neal Carly C. , Pence Patrick , Wong Pamela , Wagner Julia A. , Russler-Germain David A. , Zhu Xiaoyun , Spanoudis Catherine M. , Gallo Victor L. , Echeverri Christian A. , Ramirez Laritza L. , You Lijing , Egan Jack O. , Rhode Peter R. , Jiao Jin-an , Muniz Gabriela J. , Jeng Emily K. , Prendes Caitlin A. , Sullivan Ryan P. , Berrien-Elliott Melissa M. , Wong Hing C. , Fehniger Todd A.
Published: July 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells are a promising cellular therapy for cancer, with challenges in the field including persistence, functional activity, and tumor recognition. Briefly, priming blood NK cells with recombinant human (rh)IL-12, rhIL-15, and rhIL-18 (12/15/18) results in memory-like NK cell differentiation and enhanced responses against cancer. However, the lack of available, scalable Good Manufacturing Process (GMP)–grade reagents required to advance this approach beyond early-phase clinical trials is limiting. To address this challenge, we developed a novel platform centered upon an inert tissue factor scaffold for production of heteromeric fusion protein complexes (HFPC). The first use of this platform combined IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 receptor engagement (HCW9201), and the second adds CD16 engagement (HCW9207). This unique HFPC expression platform was scalable with equivalent protein quality characteristics in small- and GMP-scale production. HCW9201 and HCW9207 stimulated activation and proliferation signals in NK cells, but HCW9207 had decreased IL-18 receptor signaling. RNA sequencing and multidimensional mass cytometry revealed parallels between HCW9201 and 12/15/18. HCW9201 stimulation improved NK cell metabolic fitness and resulted in the DNA methylation remodeling characteristic of memory-like differentiation. HCW9201 and 12/15/18 primed similar increases in short-term and memory-like NK cell cytotoxicity and IFNγ production against leukemia targets, as well as equivalent control of leukemia in NSG mice. Thus, HFPCs represent a protein engineering approach that solves many problems associated with multisignal receptor engagement on immune cells, and HCW9201-primed NK cells can be advanced as an ideal approach for clinical GMP-grade memory-like NK cell production for cancer therapy.
Perigastric Hyaline-Vascular Variant Castleman’s Disease
Authors: Jin Yu Ming , Jing Gui Ying
Published: July 2021

Castleman disease (CD) is a rare chronic lymphoproliferative disease with unknown etiology and pathogenesis disease. When the lesion is located in the mediastinum, the diagnosis of CD is easy. However, if the lesion presents as a perigastric mass mimicking other subserosal gastric mesenchymal tumors, the diagnosis can be challenging. As few sonographic manifestations of hyaline-vascular variant CD, especially contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging, as well as computed tomography (CT) and histopathological imaging, have been reported in literature, this case may provide a vivid example of a comprehensive CEUS and CT usage in the diagnosis and surgery with regard to CD. This report presents a case of a 50-year-old female diagnosed with hyaline-vascular variant CD in a random physical examination, the ultrasound examination first revealed a 24.3 mm × 15.4 mm hypoechogenic lesion abutting the stomach, esophagus, and liver, which was under the suspicion of gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Following a series of medical examinations, including CEUS, CT, postoperative histopathological examination, and immunohistochemical analysis, the patient was diagnosed with hyaline-vascular variant unicentric CD. After the mass was completely excised through laparoscopic surgery, the woman recovered very well without recurrence during a follow-up period of 15 months. Thus, mastering ultrasound and CT-imaging characteristics of CD and applying ultrasound and CT examination together would do help to preoperative diagnosis.
Clinical Course of Migraine during Strict Quarantine due to SARS-CoV-2: Effect of Psychiatric Comorbidities in a Clinical Cohort
Authors: Munoz-Cerón Joe , Gallo Loren , Suarez Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Objective: During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression. This study sought to establish the probability of migraine progression by comparing data from week 0 with week 12 of quarantine. Methods: A retrospective cohort study. Three hundred ten patients were included, 238 with episodic migraine and 33 with chronic migraine; they all completed a self-administered questionnaire with demographic, clinical, and psychiatric symptom information. A multivariate statistical analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with the progression of migraine. Results: This study demonstrated a 22.5% progression probability from episodic migraine to chronic migraine with an RR 2.7 and CI (1.92–3.95, p < 0.001). The increase in depression scores (p < 0.005), anxiety (p < 0.001), and alteration in sleep quality (p < 0.003) were associated with the worsening of migraine. Conclusion: During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, depression, anxiety, and the deterioration of sleep quality influenced the probability of progression from episodic migraine to chronic migraine.
Association of Variants in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A Gene and VEGFA Serum Levels with the Risk of Primary Ovarian Insufficiency: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Li Ya , Liu Fei , Li Shangwei , Tan Shiqiao
Published: July 2021

Objective: The study aimed at investigating the association between the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) genetic variants, the VEGFA serum level, and the primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) risk in Chinese Han women. Design: An age-matched case-control study was implemented in the West China Second Hospital of Sichuan University. Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: Blood samples and clinical information were collected from 240 patients with POI and 261 healthy controls between December 2012 and December 2018 at the West China Second Hospital of Sichuan University. Mutations of VEGFA gene −2578C/A, −1154G/A, 936C/T, and −634C/G were identified by PCR-RFLP. Moreover, VEGFA serum levels in the 2 groups were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The −1154G>A and 936C>T variants of the VEGFA gene were significantly associated with POI (the adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.17 and 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07–4.43 for the former; the adjusted OR = 2.74 and 95% CI = 1.18–6.34 for the latter), whereas no significant difference was found in the genotype distribution of −2578C>A and −634C>G variants between patients and controls (p > 0.05). Moreover, the combined −1154G>A and 936C>T genotype was associated with a significantly increased risk of POI (the adjusted OR = 21.98, 95% CI = 2.78–173.78 among subjects carrying 3 or more variants), particularly when patients aged ≥35 years (the adjusted OR = 20.58, and 95% CI = 2.58–164.25). The POI group exhibited an obviously lower VEGFA serum level (45.15 ± 1.25 pg/mL) than the control group. Compared with the control, the expression of VEGFA was significantly decreased in the POI group (279.90 ± 5.71 pg/mL; p < 0.05). Moreover, the serum VEGFA levels are lower in the −1154AA genotype than those of AG/GG genotypes. Limitations: The main limitation is that all participants enrolled in this study were Chinese. As genotype and allelotype frequencies tend to differ between ethnic populations, extrapolation of the results to other ethnic groups should be cautiously considered. Conclusions: Our study indicates an association between the VEGFA −1154G/A, 936C/T variants, and susceptibility to POI in Chinese Han women. Reduced levels of VEGFA may be a potential mechanism for the de­velopment of POI.
Delayed Stroke Treatment during COVID-19 Pandemic in China
Authors: Gu Shiyuan , Dai Zhengze , Shen Huachao , Bai Yongjie , Zhang Xiaohao , Liu Xinfeng , Xu Gelin
Published: July 2021

Background: Social distance, quarantine, pathogen testing, and other preventive strategies implemented during CO­VID-19 pandemic may negatively influence the management of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Objective: The current study aimed to evaluate the impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on treatment delay of AIS in China. Methods: This study included patients with AIS admitted in 2 hospitals in Jiangsu, China. Patients admitted before and after the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak (January 31, 2020, as officially announced by the Chinese government) were screened to collect sociodemographic data, medical history information, and symptom onset status from clinical medical records and compared for pre- (measured as onset-to-door time [ODT]) and posthospital delay (measured as door-to-needle time [DNT]). The influencing factors for delayed treatment (indicated as onset-to-needle time >4.5 h) were analyzed with multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: A total of 252 patients were included, of which 153 (60.7%) were enrolled before and 99 (39.3%) after the COVID-19 pandemic. ODT increased from 202 min (interquartile range [IQR] 65–492) before to 317 min (IQR 75–790) after the COVID-19 pandemic (p = 0.001). DNT increased from 50 min (IQR 40–75) before to 65 min (IQR 48–84) after the COVID-19 pandemic (p = 0.048). The proportion of patients with intravenous thrombolysis in those with AIS was decreased significantly after the pandemic (15.4% vs. 20.1%; p = 0.030). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that patients after COVID-19 pandemic, lower educational level, rural residency, mild symptoms, small artery occlusion, and transported by other means than ambulance were associated with delayed treatment. Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic has remarkable impacts on the management of AIS. Both pre- and posthospital delays were prolonged significantly, and proportion of patients arrived within the 4.5-h time window for intravenous thrombolysis treatment was decreased. Given that anti-COVID-19 measures are becoming medical routines, efforts are warranted to shorten the delay so that the outcomes of stroke could be improved.
A Subungual Exostosis Mimicking a Periungual Granuloma in a 9-Year-Old Boy: An Unexpected Dermoscopic Pattern
Authors: Capasso Gianmarco , Fabbrocini Gabriella , Marasca Claudio
Published: July 2021

Subungual exostosis (SE) is an uncommon osteocartilaginous tumor. Classic dermoscopic features of SE include vascular ectasia, hyperkeratosis, onycholysis, and ulceration. In this case, a 9-year-old boy presented SE showing a dermoscopic mesh dilated blood vessel pattern surrounded by a scar-like peripheral ring, which represents a novel finding in the medical literature.
Is Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery as Safe for Children as It Is for Adults?
Authors: Ozkent Mehmet Serkan , Piskin Mehmet Mesut , Balasar Mehmet , Goger Yunus Emre , Sonmez Mehmet Giray
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The primary aim of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) among the children and adults with similar stone burdens and locations. Also, the secondary aim of this study is to identify the factors affecting the stone-free rates (SFRs) of RIRS. Methods: We retrospectively compared perioperative results, SFRs, and complication rates (CRs) between pediatric (group 1, n: 55) and adult (group 2, n: 220) age groups diagnosed with kidney stones and treated by flexible ureterorenoscopy using the same instruments. Furthermore, multivariate analysis was performed to determine the factors affecting the SFR. Results: A total of 275 patients (pediatric group: 55; adult group: 220) were included in this study. The mean age of pediatric and adult groups was 7.2 ± 5.3 and 43.9 ± 15.1, respectively. The mean stone size was 13.9 ± 6.6 mm in the pediatric group compared to 14.8 ± 6.7 mm in the adult group (p = 0.35). Stone localizations and number were similar. JJ stenting for passive dilatation and use of UAS were higher in the pediatric group (p = 0.002; p = 0.017). However, postoperative double pigtail stenting rate was higher in the adult group (p < 0.001). Total CR was 13.8% and mostly Clavien I–II, and no difference was observed between the 2 groups (p = 0.541). The SFRs between the groups were similar (pediatric group: 81.8%; adult group: 78.2%; p = 0.554). On multivariate analysis, stone size (p < 0.001) and lower calyx stone (p < 0.001) were the negative predictive factors for SFR. Conclusion: There are small technical differences between pediatric patients and adult patients in our study, but RIRS in children is as safe and efficient as it is in adults.
Sixteen Fractures in a Seven-Month-Old Child Caused by Nonaccidental Trauma
Authors: Eren Mehmet Burtaç , Bilgiç Erkal , Çetin Selçuk , Deresoy Faik Alev , Öztürk Tahir , Balta Orhan
Published: July 2021

Definition of physical child abuse is used to refer to a casualty injured by the caregiver. Health-care professionals providing medical care are responsible for detecting and reporting child abuse. A 7-month-old pediatric patient was referred to us from an outer center with the diagnosis of multiple fractures (14 different bones in 16 different anatomical regions). Skeletal pathologies were evaluated after exclusion of head and abdomen injuries in the emergency department. This child with fractures in 16 different anatomical regions of 14 different bones in her body is alive and does not have an intracranial injury. The number of fractures was too high to be explained even by major trauma. If child abuse is suspected, relevant authorities should be notified immediately. Medical records must be meticulously done as they can contribute to the possible court process. Our case, which contains almost all of the history and physical examination and risk factors of typical child abuse, is instructive enough to guide any health-care professional who may encounter this issue. The threshold in deciding on reporting of child abuse should be low. Every suspicious case should be reported in order to prevent repetitive abuse.
Extending the Spectrum of Nonmotor Symptoms with Olfaction in Premotor Huntington’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Heim Beatrice , Valent Dora , Carbone Federico , Spielberger Sabine , Krismer Florian , Djamshidian-Tehrani Atbin , Seppi Klaus
Published: July 2021

Objective: The aim of this pilot study was to investigate change of olfactory functions in Huntington’s disease (HD). Background: HD is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor, cognitive, and behavioral abnormalities. There are several studies reporting olfactory dysfunction in manifest and some studies in premanifest HD carriers, and a recent neuropathological study demonstrated HD-specific protein aggregation in the anterior olfactory nucleus in HD patients. In this study, we wanted to assess olfactory functions as a possible early nonmotor symptom of HD mutation carriers without disease-specific motor symptoms and HD patients. Methods: All participants had genetic confirmed HD and were prospectively recruited during their routine control in a specialized outpatient clinic of the Medical University of Innsbruck, Department of Neurology, Austria. Healthy controls (HCs) were caregivers from patients. They were only included if they were younger than 70 years, scored more than 24/30 points on the Mini Mental State Examination, and had no other disease compromising olfactory function. Furthermore, all participants were tested on the Sniffin’ sticks 16-items identification test. Results: We included 23 patients with manifest HD, 13 HD mutation carriers, and 19 HCs. Mutation carriers showed significant impaired odor identification compared to HCs (p < 0.001), as well as Huntington’s patients compared with both mutation carriers (p = 0.003) and HCs (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results of this pilot study suggest that olfactory dysfunction may be an early nonmotor symptom of HD and could be a potential marker to assess disease progression.
ISOLATION OF THERMOPHILIC LIPASE PRODUCING BACTERIUM FROM HOT SPRINGS AT THE EAST COAST OF PENINSULAR MALAYSIA
Authors:   Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Tengku Haziyamin Tengku Abdul Hamid, Department of Biotechnology, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus, Jalan Istana, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200, Kuantan, Pahang, MALAYSIA, Hamid Tengku , Abidin Nur ,   Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Tengku Haziyamin Tengku Abdul Hamid, Department of Biotechnology, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus, Jalan Istana, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200, Kuantan, Pahang, MALAYSIA, Hasan Nurmusfirah ,   Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Tengku Haziyamin Tengku Abdul Hamid, Department of Biotechnology, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus, Jalan Istana, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200, Kuantan, Pahang, MALAYSIA
Published: July 2021

Hot spring is a natural habitat for thermophilic bacteria and the primary source of thermostable enzymes useful in industrial applications. In Malaysia, the search for thermophilic organisms has been focused on hot springs, especially on the peninsular West coast. In this work, lipase or esterase producing thermophilic microorganisms were isolated from East coast hot springs in Pahang and Terengganu's states. Morphological and biochemical analysis were carried out on Isolates LH1, LH2, LH3, LH4, LH5, B2B2 and S1B4, which showed that they are gram positive, aerobic, spore forming, and motile organisms. All of the seven isolates showed the ability to grow at 45°C and formed hydrolysis zones on tributyrin agar plates. However, only isolate B2B2 and S1B4 were able to thrive at higher temperatures of up to 65°C. The genotypic characterisation was carried out using 16S rRNA sequencing. Bacillus and Geobacillus species were found to be the dominant bacteria isolated from these hot springs. From La hot spring, isolate LH1 (MT 645486), Isolates LH2 (MT645483), LH3 (MT645484), LH4 (MT 645485) and LH5 (MT 645487) were all closely related to Bacillus sp. (at 97.3-97.9%). Meanwhile, from Bentong and Sungai Lembing hot springs, isolates B2B2 (MT668631) and S1B4 (MT668632) were near related to either Geobacillus kaustophilus or Geobacillus thermoleovorans; each at 98.5% and 97.9% similarity, respectively. These strains from Geobacillus sp. were able to thrive at higher temperature and their thermostable esterases or lipases have properties useful for biotechnological applications.
Isolation and Characterization of Fungi strains associated with Mycotoxin Production from Bambara (Vigna subterranea (L) verdc) nuts Recovered in Nigeria
Authors:   Babcock University, Odetunde Simeon , Fapohunda Stephen ,   Babcock University, Ogun, Nigeria, Jonathan Segun ,   University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Published: July 2021

Fungal contamination of food commodities is a global food security challenge that impacts negatively on the health of consumers. Mycotoxins are produced as secondary metabolites by some pathogenic fungi and may contaminate agricultural products while on the field or during harvesting and storage. A field survey was conducted in order to isolate and identify the mycotoxin-producing fungal strains in Bambara nut collected from major markets in eight States in Nigeria including Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Abuja, and Nasarawa. Samples per site were pooled, processed and screened for the presence of mycotoxin-producing fungi by culture technique and intergenic spacer sequencing (ITS). Mycotoxin production was determined using thin layer chromatography (TLC) with scanning densitometer. Twenty-four mycotoxin-producing fungal species were isolated from Bambara samples, which were identified as Talaromyces pinophilus, Macrophomina phaseolina (6), Fusarium oxysporum (2), Aspergillus foetidus, Aspergillus flavipes, Rhizopus oryzae (2), Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Aspergillus flavus (2), Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus awamori, Aspergillus welwitschiae, Rhizopus microsporus, Ceriporia lacerate and Fusarium verticillioides (accession numbers of MN42329- MN4233323) from Bambara nuts. The genera Macrophomina were the most dominant. Some of the identified fungi are noted for the production of mycotoxins and mycotoxins exert toxic effects on animals and humans. The fungi associated with Bambara nut diseases were identified and can be taken as targets in varietal improvement of Bambara nut for resistance to fungal diseases in Nigeria.
Conservation strategy of Anaphalis spp. in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java
Authors:   Biology Education Study Programme, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education University of Pasir Pengaraian, Ade Filza , Hakim Luchman ,   Departement of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences Brawijaya University Jl. Veteran, Malang, East Java, Indonesia, Arumingtyas Estri ,   Departement of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences Brawijaya University Jl. Veteran, Malang, East Java, Indonesia, Azrianingsih Rodiyati ,   Departement of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences Brawijaya University Jl. Veteran, Malang, East Java, Indonesia
Published: July 2021

The wild population of Anaphalis spp. in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (BTNSP) has been reported decreased significantly. A combination of natural disturbance and anthropogenic factors contributes to the recent wild population decrease. A formulation of conservation strategy to ensure the sustainability of Anaphalis spp. require data and information related to external and internal factors determines the recent population in wild habitat. The objective of the paper was to identify factors related to conservation strategy of Anaphalis in BTSNP. This study found internal factor related to strength includes the existence of species and value of Anaphalisspp., while the weaknesses include increase of habitat degradation and disturbance caused by tourism activities. The opportunities for conservation include support of policy in biodiversity conservation and increase of ecotourism movement, while the threats aspect include less control of land uses changes and increase of mass tourism. The SWOT analyses recommends some significant strategy which are derived from combination of enhancing strength to optimizing opportunities, reducing weaknesses and optimizing opportunities, enhancing strength to reduce threats and managing weaknesses to manage risk.
High Potential of Liquid Smoke from Coconut Shell (Cocos nucifera) for Biological Control of Rice Bug (Leptocorisa oratorius Fabricius)
Authors:   Biology Department, Mathematic and Natural Sciences, Brawijaya University, Gama Zulfaidah , Purnama Rizky ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145,, Melani Dewi ,   Laboratory Installation and Plant Protection, Balai Besar Pelatihan Pertanian, Malang, Indonesia
Published: July 2021

Rice bug (Leptocorisa oracorius F) is one of the most dangerous pests for paddy commodities (Oryza sativa) in the world. The use of liquid smoke was popular among local farmers to control rice bug. A coconut shell is the main source for making liquid smoke. This research aims to analyse rice bugs' mortality and antifeedant activity when dipped with coconut shell liquid smoke. The liquid smoke's effectiveness was measured by dipping paddy (5 grams in weight) that is previously soaked with coconut shell liquid for 20 seconds. The liquid smoke was prepared in various concentrations, ranging from 0% as a control; 0.50%; 0.75%; 1%; 1.25% and 1,50%. Observations were made at 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144 and 168 hours. Data analysis was performed by one-way ANOVA test, using SPSS program followed by a 0.05 Tukey test to determine the significance of the rice bug pest mortality. The study resulted that the mortality values from low concentrations to high concentrations were 40%, 46.67%, 60%, 70%, and 80% over seven days. The antifeedant percentage of liquid smoke increased from low concentrations to high concentrations respectively were 10.14%, 15.15%, 31.03%, 46.15%, and 68.88% during seven days. The concentration of liquid smoke that has the highest mortality was 1.50%. In conclusion, 1.50% of liquid smoke showed the highest percentage of mortality and antifeedant activity with 80% and 68.88%, respectively. In the future, it is hoped to develop this model for commercial consumption and reduce reliance on chemicals to control rice bugs. The use of pesticides can do more harm than good, especially to the environmental system
COVID-19 to Curb Positive Climate and Negative Recession
Authors:   School of Life Sciences School of Science Sandip University Nashik, Maharashtra, INDIA, Zambare Vasudeo
Published: July 2021

A novel coronavirus originated COVID-19 a pandemic disease that is rapidly progressing and spreading the infection and death cases thorough out the globe [1-2]. It's an alarming situation for an individual's survival. As a remedial action, many countries opted for curfews or lockdown and serious actions were taken by the government to stop the spreading of novel coronavirus by shutting down private industries, schools, offices, and many more nonessential businesses. The outcome of lockdown resulted in almost negligible use of polluting vehicles, and industries which has direct setbacks on the global economy. The lockdown option showed a positive impact on health by minimizing the risk of COVID-19 infectivity as well as environmental rejuvenate in terms of tremendous improvement in air quality, sound pollution reduction, and ultimately the ozone layer healing. Thus, a precautionary measure taken against pandemic disease COVID-19 would have a positive impact on climate change at the global level. The financial activity has caught up and stock markets have to plummet alongside the declining environmental pollution including carbon emissions, sound, and natural water resources. It's the precise opposite of the drive towards a sustainable economy that many have been a campaigner for the future. But, a negative setback of COVID-19 toll of early deaths of family belongings, food scarcity, loss of jobs, struggle to earn the daily bread, family security, homesick and mental sickness. The widespread job losses would be in danger the income source of millions as businesses are struggling to cope with the limitations being put in place to control the deadly coronavirus during the lockdown period. Thus, I urge every national, public-private organization, research institutes to take early remedial strategies for the negatively affected community surveillance, health encouragement, education, food security, and job opportunities to control the 21st century’s biggest recession [3]. COVID-19 impacted improvement in the environmental air and water quality is a natural healing process and all nationals must maintain it in the future by adopting good hygiene and behavioral practices.
Management of Congenital Long-QT Syndrome: Commentary From the Experts
Authors: Kaufman Elizabeth S. , Eckhardt Lee L. , Ackerman Michael J. , Aziz Peter F. , Behr Elijah R. , Cerrone Marina , Chung Mina K. , Cutler Michael J. , Etheridge Susan P. , Krahn Andrew D. , Lubitz Steven A. , Perez Marco V. , Priori Silvia G. , Roberts Jason D. , Roden Dan M. , Schulze-Bahr Eric , Schwartz Peter J. , Shimizu Wataru , Shoemaker M. Benjamin , Sy Raymond W. , Towbin Jeffrey A. , Viskin Sami , A.M. Wilde Arthur , Zareba Wojciech
Published: July 2021

While published guidelines are useful in the care of patients with long-QT syndrome, it can be difficult to decide how to apply the guidelines to individual patients, particularly those with intermediate risk. We explored the diversity of opinion among 24 clinicians with expertise in long-QT syndrome. Experts from various regions and institutions were presented with 4 challenging clinical scenarios and asked to provide commentary emphasizing why they would make their treatment recommendations. All 24 authors were asked to vote on case-specific questions so as to demonstrate the degree of consensus or divergence of opinion. Of 24 authors, 23 voted and 1 abstained. Details of voting results with commentary are presented. There was consensus on several key points, particularly on the importance of the diagnostic evaluation and of β-blocker use. There was diversity of opinion about the appropriate use of other therapeutic measures in intermediate-risk individuals. Significant gaps in knowledge were identified.
Multiethnic Genome-Wide Association Study of Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lu Yingchang , Dimitrov Latchezar , Chen Shyh-Huei , Bielak Lawrence F. , Bis Joshua C. , Feitosa Mary F. , Lu Lingyi , Kavousi Maryam , Raffield Laura M. , Smith Albert V. , Wang Lihua , Weiss Stefan , Yao Jie , Zhu Jiaxi , Gudmundsson Elias F. , Gudmundsdottir Valborg , Bos Daniel , Ghanbari Mohsen , Ikram M. Arfan , Hwang Shih-Jen , Taylor Kent D. , Budoff Matthew J. , Gíslason Gauti K. , O’Donnell Christopher J. , An Ping , Franceschini Nora , Freedman Barry I. , Fu Yi-Ping , Guo Xiuqing , Heiss Gerardo , Kardia Sharon L.R. , Wilson James G. , Langefeld Carl D. , Schminke Ulf , Uitterlinden André G. , Lange Leslie A. , Peyser Patricia A. , Gudnason Vilmundur G. , Psaty Bruce M. , Rotter Jerome I. , Bowden Donald W. , Ng Maggie C.Y.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) and carotid artery intima-media thickness (cIMT) are measures of subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic individuals and strong risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is an independent cardiovascular disease risk factor that accelerates atherosclerosis.

Methods:

We performed meta-analyses of genome-wide association studies in up to 2500 T2D individuals of European ancestry (EA) and 1590 T2D individuals of African ancestry with or without exclusion of prevalent cardiovascular disease, for CAC measured by cardiac computed tomography, and 3608 individuals of EA and 838 individuals of African ancestry with T2D for cIMT measured by ultrasonography within the CHARGE (Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology) Consortium.

Results:

We replicated 2 loci (rs9369640 and rs9349379 near
PHACTR1
and rs10757278 near
CDKN2B
) for CAC and one locus for cIMT (rs7412 and rs445925 near
APOE-APOC1
) that were previously reported in the general EA populations. We identified one novel CAC locus (rs8000449 near
CSNK1A1L/LINC00547/POSTN
at 13q13.3) at
P
=2.0×10
-8
in EA. No additional loci were identified with the meta-analyses of EA and African ancestry. The expression quantitative trait loci analysis with nearby expressed genes derived from arterial wall and metabolic tissues from the Genotype-Tissue Expression project pinpoints
POSTN
, encoding a matricellular protein involved in bone formation and bone matrix organization, as the potential candidate gene at this locus. In addition, we found significant associations (
P
<3.1×10
-4
) for 3 previously reported coronary artery disease loci for these subclinical atherosclerotic phenotypes (rs2891168 near
CDKN2B-AS1
and rs11170820 near
FLJ12825
for CAC, and rs7412 near
APOE
for cIMT).

Conclusions:

Our results provide potential biological mechanisms that could link CAC and cIMT to increased cardiovascular disease risk in individuals with T2D.
Cost‐Utility of Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Heart Failure: An Economic Evaluation
Authors: Lau Darren , Sandhu Roopinder K. , Andrade Jason G. , Ezekowitz Justin , So Helen , Klarenbach Scott
Published: July 2021

Background

Recent trials comparing catheter ablation to medical therapy in patients with heart failure (HF) with symptomatic atrial fibrillation despite first‐line management have demonstrated a reduction in adverse outcomes. We performed an economic evaluation to estimate the cost‐utility of catheter ablation as second line therapy in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction.

Methods and Results

A Markov model with health states of alive, dead, and alive with amiodarone toxicity was constructed, using the perspective of the Canadian healthcare payer. Patients in the alive states were at risk of HF and non‐HF hospitalizations. Parameters were obtained from randomized trials and Alberta health system data for costs and outcomes. A lifetime time horizon was adopted, with discounting at 3.0% annually. Probabilistic and 1‐way sensitivity analyses were performed. Costs are reported in 2018 Canadian dollars. A patient treated with catheter ablation experienced lifetime costs of $64 960 and 5.63 quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALY), compared with $49 865 and 5.18 QALYs for medical treatment. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was $35 360/QALY (95% CI, $21 518–77 419), with a 90% chance of being cost‐effective at a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $50 000/QALY. A minimum mortality reduction of 28%, or a minimum duration of benefit of >1 to 2 years was required for catheter ablation to be attractive at this threshold.

Conclusions

Catheter ablation is likely to be cost‐effective as a second line intervention for patients with HF with symptomatic atrial fibrillation, with incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio $35 360/QALY, as long as over half of the relative mortality benefit observed in extant trials is borne out in future studies.
Ten‐year Outcomes After Drug‐Eluting Stents or Bypass Surgery for Left Main Coronary Disease in Patients With and Without Diabetes Mellitus: The PRECOMBAT Extended Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Jeong Yeong Jin , Ahn Jung‐Min , Hyun Junho , Lee Junghoon , Kim Ju Hyeon , Yang Yujin , Choe Kyungjin , Park Hanbit , Kang Do‐Yoon , Lee Pil Hyung , Kang Soo‐Jin , Lee Seung‐Whan , Kim Young‐Hak , Lee Cheol Whan , Park Seong‐Wook , Park Seung‐Jung , Park Duk‐Woo
Published: July 2021

Background

Several trials reported differential outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐eluting stents (DES) and coronary‐artery bypass grafting (CABG) for multivessel coronary disease according to the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM). However, it is not well recognized how DM status affects very‐long‐term (10‐year) outcomes after DES and CABG for left main coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results

In the PRECOMBAT (Premier of Randomized Comparison of Bypass Surgery versus Angioplasty using Sirolimus‐Eluting Stent in Patients with Left Main Coronary Artery Disease) trial, patients with LMCA were randomly assigned to undergo PCI with sirolimus‐eluting stents (n=300) or CABG (n=300). The primary outcome was the incidence of major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (MACCE; a composite of death from any cause, myocardial infarction, stroke, or ischemia‐driven target‐vessel revascularization). Outcomes were examined in patients with (n=192) and without (n=408) medically treated diabetes. The follow‐up was extended to at least 10 years for all patients (median, 11.3 years). The 10‐year rates of MACCE were not significantly different between DES and CABG in patients with DM (36.3% versus 26.7%, respectively; hazard ratio [HR], 1.35; 95% CI, 0.83–2.19;
P
=0.23) and without DM (25.3% versus 22.9%, respectively; HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.79–1.67;
P
=0.48) (
P
‐for‐interaction=0.48). There were no significant between‐group differences in composite of death, MI, or stroke, and all‐cause mortality, regardless of DM status. TVR rates were consistently higher after DES than CABG.

Conclusions

In this 10‐year extended follow‐up of PRECOMBAT, we found no significant difference between DES and CABG with respect to the incidences of MACCE, serious composite outcome, and all‐cause mortality in patients with and without DM with LMCA disease. However, owing to the limited number of patients and no adjustment for multiple testing, overall findings should be considered hypothesis‐generating, highlighting the need for further research.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03871127 and NCT00422968.
Root Dilatation Is More Malignant Than Ascending Aortic Dilation
Authors: Kalogerakos Paris D. , Zafar Mohammad A. , Li Yupeng , Mukherjee Sandip K. , Ziganshin Bulat A. , Rizzo John A. , Elefteriades John A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Data from the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection indicate that the guideline criterion of 5.5 cm for ascending aortic intervention misses many dissections occurring at smaller dimensions. Furthermore, studies of natural behavior have generally treated the aortic root and the ascending aorta as 1 unit despite embryological, anatomical, and functional differences. This study aims to disentangle the natural histories of the aforementioned aortic segments, allowing natural behavior to define specific intervention criteria for root and ascending segments of the aorta.

Methods and Results

Diameters of the aortic root and mid‐ascending segment were measured separately. Long‐term complications (dissection, rupture, and death) were analyzed retrospectively for 1162 patients with ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm. Cox regression analysis suggested that aortic root dilatation (
P
=0.017) is more significant in predicting adverse events than mid‐ascending aortic dilatation (
P
=0.087). Short stature posed as a serious risk factor. The dedicated risk curves for the aortic root and the mid‐ascending aorta revealed hinge points at 5.0 and 5.25 cm, respectively.

Conclusions

The natural histories of the aortic root and mid‐ascending aorta are uniquely different. Dilation of the aortic root imparts a significant higher risk of adverse events. A diameter shift for intervention to 5.0 cm for the aortic root and to 5.25 cm for the mid‐ascending aorta should be considered at expert centers.
Factors Associated With Health‐Related Quality of Life 2 Years After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation: Insights From INTERMACS
Authors: Grady Kathleen L. , Fazeli Pariya L. , Kirklin James K. , Pamboukian Salpy V. , White‐Williams Connie
Published: July 2021

Background

Factors related to health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) 2 years after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation are unknown. We sought to determine whether preimplant intended goal of LVAD therapy (heart transplant candidate [short‐term group], uncertain heart transplant candidate [uncertain group], and heart transplant ineligible [long‐term group]) and other variables were related to HRQOL 2 years after LVAD implantation.

Methods and Results

Our LVAD sample (n=1620) was from INTERMACS (Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support). Using the EuroQol‐5 Dimension Questionnaire (EQ‐5D‐3L), a generic HRQOL measure, and the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ‐12), a heart failure–specific HRQOL measure, multivariable linear regression modeling was conducted with the EQ‐5D‐3L Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score and KCCQ‐12 overall summary score (OSS) as separate dependent variables. Two years after LVAD implant, the short‐term group had a significantly higher mean VAS score versus the uncertain and long‐term groups (short‐term: 75.18 [SD, 20.62]; uncertain: 72.27 [SD, 20.33]; long‐term: 70.87 [SD, 22.09],
P
=0.01); differences were not clinically meaningful. Two‐year mean scores did not differ by group for the KCCQ‐12 OSS (short‐term, 67.85 [SD, 20.61]; uncertain, 67.79 [SD, 19.31]; long‐term, 67.08 [SD, 21.49],
P
=0.80). Factors associated with a worse VAS score 2 years postoperatively (n=1205) included not working; not having a short‐term LVAD; and postoperative neurological dysfunction, greater health‐related stress, coping poorly, less VAD self‐care confidence, and less satisfaction with VAD surgery, explaining 28% of variance (
P
<0.001). Factors associated with a worse KCCQ‐12 OSS 2 years postoperatively (n=1250) included not working; history of high body mass index and diabetes mellitus; and postoperative renal dysfunction, greater health‐related stress, coping poorly, less VAD self‐care confidence, less satisfaction with VAD surgery, and regret regarding VAD implantation, accounting for 36% of variance (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Factors related to HRQOL 2 years after LVAD implantation include demographic, clinical, and psychological variables.
Endothelial Spns2 and ApoM Regulation of Vascular Tone and Hypertension Via Sphingosine‐1‐Phosphate
Authors: Del Gaudio Ilaria , Rubinelli Luisa , Sasset Linda , Wadsack Christian , Hla Timothy , Di Lorenzo Annarita
Published: July 2021

Background

Most of the circulating sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is bound to ApoM (apolipoprotein M) of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) and mediates many beneficial effects of HDL on the vasculature via G protein–coupled S1P receptors. HDL‐bound S1P is decreased in atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and diabetes mellitus. In addition to being the target, the endothelium is a source of S1P, which is transported outside of the cells by Spinster‐2, contributing to circulating S1P as well as to local signaling. Mice lacking endothelial S1P receptor 1 are hypertensive, suggesting a vasculoprotective role of S1P signaling. This study investigates the role of endothelial‐derived S1P and ApoM‐bound S1P in regulating vascular tone and blood pressure.

Methods and Results

ApoM knockout (ApoM KO) mice and mice lacking endothelial Spinster‐2 (ECKO‐Spns2) were infused with angiotensin II for 28 days. Blood pressure, measured by telemetry and tail‐cuff, was significantly increased in both ECKO‐Spns2 and ApoM KO versus control mice, at baseline and following angiotensin II. Notably, ECKO‐Spns2 presented an impaired vasodilation to flow and blood pressure dipping, which is clinically associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events. In hypertension, both groups presented reduced flow‐mediated vasodilation and some degree of impairment in endothelial NO production, which was more evident in ECKO‐Spns2. Increased hypertension in ECKO‐Spns2 and ApoM KO mice correlated with worsened cardiac hypertrophy versus controls.

Conclusions

Our study identifies an important role for Spinster‐2 and ApoM‐HDL in blood pressure homeostasis via S1P‐NO signaling and dissects the pathophysiological impact of endothelial‐derived S1P and ApoM of HDL‐bound S1P in hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy.
_rt movements
Authors: Moreschi Bruno , Bratton Christopher , Benfield Dalida Maria , Pereira Gabriel , Falcão Guilherme
Published: July 2021

_rt Movement(s) is an artist research project intended as a text object that materially represents the complex, relational articulation of art and history with particular emphases on the contingent relationships made by movements of different kinds: geographical migration of artists, displacement of art objects, performances, institutions/festivals, and theories/theorists. _rt Movement(s) challenges the linear developmental approach of normative art history, and its nationalist, racialized, and ethnocentric assumptions. Instead, the project argues through diverse sources, including texts, images, graphs and other visualizations for the essentially translocal and transhistorical character of works of art.
Introduction to Jalal AL-E Ahmad's “To Mohassess, For
the Wall”
Authors: Mirzaei Mohammadreza
Published: July 2021

“To Mohassess, For the Wall” is an article written in 1964 by Jalal Al-e Ahmad, one of the most influential and charismatic Iranian intellectuals of the time. Three years before writing this article, Al-e Ahmad had published Weststruckness, discussing the Iranians’ cultural alienation caused by the dependence on the west. In “To Mohassess, For the Wall”, Al-e Ahmad shifts his analysis to Iranian painting, arguing that Iranian painters during the 1960s merely repeat Western cultural processes and strategies instead of constructing Iranian ones. The context for Al-e Ahmad's argument is the Pahlavi regime's radical program of rapid modernization, which in the area of the arts was systematically expanded. Critical, provocative or problematic, the article offers a crucial window into the adoption of Western-style modernism by Iranian painters during the 1960s and into how an “insider” intellectual such as Al-e Ahmad evaluated the modernization of Iranian art before the background of what he perceived as the critical neglect of Iranian traditions. The text is addressed to Bahman Mohassess, a painter whom Al-e Ahmad considered to be one of the few who had not been coopted by the cultural policies of the Shah's regime.