bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the menstrual cycle on peripheral vascular function in premenopausal women: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Williams Jennifer S. , Dunford Emily C. , MacDonald Maureen J.
Published: October 2020

Fluctuations in endogenous hormones estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle may offer vasoprotection for endothelial and smooth muscle (VSM) function. While numerous studies have been published, the results are conflicting, leaving our understanding of the impact of the menstrual cycle on vascular function unclear. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to consolidate available research exploring the role of the menstrual cycle on peripheral vascular function. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE was performed for articles evaluating peripheral endothelial and VSM function across the natural menstrual cycle: early follicular (EF) phase versus late follicular (LF), early luteal, mid luteal, or late luteal. A meta-analysis examined the effect of the menstrual cycle on the standardized mean difference (SMD) of the outcome measures. Analysis from 30 studies ( n = 1,363 women) observed a “very low” certainty of evidence that endothelial function increased in the LF phase (SMD: 0.45, P = 0.0001), with differences observed in the macrovasculature but not in the microvasculature (SMD: 0.57, P = 0.0003, I2 = 84%; SMD: 0.21, P = 0.17, I2 = 34%, respectively). However, these results are partially explained by differences in flow-mediated dilation [e.g., discrete (SMD: 0.86, P = 0.001) vs. continuous peak diameter assessment (SMD: 0.25, P = 0.30)] and/or menstrual cycle phase methodologies. There was a “very low” certainty that endothelial function was largely unchanged in the luteal phases, and VSM was unchanged across the cycle. The menstrual cycle appears to have a small effect on macrovascular endothelial function but not on microvascular or VSM function; however, these results can be partially attributed to methodological differences.
Impact of Histological and Molecular Parameters on Prognosis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Analysis of 290 Cases
Authors: Siriwardena B. S. M. S. , Karunathilaka H. D. N. U. , Kumarasiri P. V. R. , Tilakaratne W. M.
Published: October 2020

Background. Nodal metastasis is a critical factor in predicting the prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). When patients present with a clinically positive neck, the treatment of choice is radical neck dissection. However, management of a clinically negative neck is still a subject of significant controversy. Aim. This study was carried out in order to propose a model to predict regional lymph node metastasis of OSCC using histological parameters such as tumour stage, tumour size, pattern of invasion (POI), differentiation of tumour, and host immune response, together with the expression levels of six biomarkers (periostin, HIF‐1α, MMP‐9, β‐catenin, VEGF‐C, and EGFR), and, furthermore, to compare the impact of all these parameters on recurrence and 3 yr and 5 yr survival rates. Materials and Method. Histological materials collected from the archives were used to evaluate histological parameters and immunohistochemical profiles. Standard methods were used for immunohistochemistry and for evaluation of results. Data related to recurrence and survival (3 and 5 years) was also recorded. Clinical data was collected from patients’ records. Results. Male to female ratio was 3 : 1. The commonest site of OSCC was the buccal mucosa, and majority of them were T3 or T4 tumours presented at stage 4. 62.5% of the tumours were well differentiated. Three‐year and 5‐year survival rates were significantly associated with lymph node metastasis and recurrence. POI was significantly correlated with tumour size, stage, 3‐year survival, EGFR, HIF‐1α, periostin, and MMP‐9 (p < 0.05). Expression of EGFR showed a direct association with metastasis (p < 0.05). Conclusion. POI, level of differentiation, and expression of EGFR are independent prognostic markers for lymph node metastasis. Therefore, these parameters may help in treatment planning of a clinically negative neck.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Nomogram of Transfusion and Associated Complications in Nonfracture Patients following Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Wang Yuanhe , Wang Cui , Hu Chuan , Chen Bo , Li Jianyi , Xi Yongming
Published: October 2020

The incidence, risk factors, and associated complications of perioperative transfusion in nonfracture patients following total hip arthroplasty (THA) are unclear. The aim of the present research was to study the predictors of transfusion risk in nonfracture patients following THA and develop a nomogram. One thousand six hundred and thirty‐five patients who underwent THA due to nonfracture disease in our institution between September 2013 and July 2017 were included. Independent predictors of transfusion were identified by univariate, LASSO, and multivariate analyses. A nomogram was established based on independent predictors. In addition, a prospective cohort was used to validate the nomogram. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was utilized to evaluate the discrimination of the nomogram. Calibration and decision curve analyses were established to evaluate the nomogram. In addition, the association between perioperative transfusion and 30‐ and 90‐day complications was studied. The incidence of transfusion was 15.78%, and 10 independent predictors were confirmed. The areas under the curve of the nomogram were 0.834 and 0.867 in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. Moreover, the area under the curve of the nomogram was significantly higher than that of any single predictor in both the training and validation cohorts. Calibration curve and decision curve analyses in both the training and validation cohorts showed good performance of the nomogram. In addition, perioperative transfusion was identified as an independent risk factor for both 30‐ and 90‐day complications. Generally, ten transfusion‐related factors for nonfracture patients following THA were identified. A validated nomogram was established, and several adverse events were confirmed to be associated with transfusion.
Ultrasound Microbubble-Mediated microRNA-505 Regulates Cervical Cancer Cell Growth via AKT2
Authors: Xu Leilei , Zhang Qin , Li Changhua , Hua Fu , Liu Xiaoping
Published: October 2020

The application of ultrasound and microbubbles (USMB-) mediated microRNA (miR) is a promising approach of gene delivery for cancer treatment. We aimed to discuss the effects of USMB-miR-505 on cervical cancer (CC) development. miR-505 mediated by USMB was prepared. The effect of miR-505 on its transfection efficiency and the effect of miR-505 on HeLa cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were studied. The target gene of miR-505 was predicted, and its expression in CC was detected. The effect of the target gene on HeLa cells was further verified. USMB-miR-505 showed a higher transfection efficiency than miR-505 alone. The inhibitory effect of miR-505 mediated by USMB on HeLa cells was better than miR-505. miR-505 targeted AKT2, which was upregulated in CC. Overexpression of AKT2 reversed the inhibitory effect of USMB-miR-505 on HeLa cell malignant behaviors. Overall, we highlighted that USMB-miR-505 inhibited HeLa cell malignant behaviors by targeting AKT2.
Bardoxolone Methyl Displays Detrimental Effects on Endothelial Bioenergetics, Suppresses Endothelial ET-1 Release, and Increases Endothelial Permeability in Human Microvascular Endothelium
Authors: Szczesny-Malysiak Ewa , Stojak Marta , Campagna Roberto , Grosicki Marek , Jamrozik Marek , Kaczara Patrycja , Chlopicki Stefan
Published: October 2020

Nrf2 is a master regulator of antioxidant cellular defence, and agents activating the Nrf2 pathway have been tested in various diseases. However, unexpected side effects of cardiovascular nature reported for bardoxolone methyl in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and stage 4 chronic kidney disease (the BEACON trial) still have not been fully explained. Here, we aimed to characterize the effects of bardoxolone methyl compared with other Nrf2 activators—dimethyl fumarate and L-sulforaphane—on human microvascular endothelium. Endothelial toxicity, bioenergetics, mitochondrial membrane potential, endothelin-1 (ET-1) release, endothelial permeability, Nrf2 expression, and ROS production were assessed in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) incubated for 3 and 24 hours with 100 nM–5 μM of either bardoxolone methyl, dimethyl fumarate, or L-sulforaphane. Three-hour incubation with bardoxolone methyl (100 nM–5 μM), although not toxic to endothelial cells, significantly affected endothelial bioenergetics by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential (

concentrations
≥
3
 
μ
M

), decreasing spare respiratory capacity (

concentrations
≥
1
 
μ
M

), and increasing proton leak (

concentrations
≥
500
 
nM

), while dimethyl fumarate and L-sulforaphane did not exert such actions. Bardoxolone methyl at

concentrations
≥
3
 
μ
M

also decreased cellular viability and induced necrosis and apoptosis in the endothelium upon 24-hour incubation. In turn, endothelin-1 decreased permeability in endothelial cells in picomolar range, while bardoxolone methyl decreased ET-1 release and increased endothelial permeability even after short-term (3 hours) incubation. In conclusion, despite that all three Nrf2 activators exerted some beneficial effects on the endothelium, as evidenced by a decrease in ROS production, bardoxolone methyl, the most potent Nrf2 activator among the tested compounds, displayed a distinct endothelial profile of activity comprising detrimental effects on mitochondria and cellular viability and suppression of endothelial ET-1 release possibly interfering with ET-1–dependent local regulation of endothelial permeability.
Fetal Rhesus D Genotyping and Sex Determination from Maternal Plasma of Rhesus D-Negative Antenatal Population: The Usefulness of Conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction in Resource-limited Settings
Authors: Addai-Mensah Otchere , Afriyie Edward Y. , Sakyi Samuel Asamoah , Obirikorang Christian , Annani-Akollor Max Efui , Owiredu Eddie-Williams , Amponsah Francis A. , Duneeh Richard Vikpebah , Asamoah Adu Evans
Published: October 2020

Background. This prospective cohort study evaluated the usefulness of conventional PCR in genotyping fetal Rhesus D (RhD) and sex from the maternal plasma of RhD-negative (RhD−) antenatal population in resource-limited settings. Methods. Thirty apparently healthy RhD− pregnant women with RhD positive (RhD+) partners were included. Blood samples were collected from each participant (in the third trimester of pregnancy) for DNA extraction/purification and fetal RhD genotyping. Results. Out of the 30 samples, 26 (86.7%) were found to be RhD+ while 4 (13.3%) were RhD−. The RhD+ comprised 24 (80.0%) RhD+ based on exons 5, 7, and 10 combined. Exons 5 and 7 were detected in two additional samples but not exon 10. Serological phenotyping of neonatal blood confirmed 26 RhD+ and 4 RhD−. There was a perfect agreement between the fetal RhD genotype and neonatal RhD phenotyping after delivery for exons 5 and 7 (concordance = 100%, κ = 100.0%, diagnostic accuracy = 100%,

p
<
0.0001

) while exon 10 presented with an almost perfect agreement (concordance = 93.3%, κ = 76.2%, diagnostic accuracy = 93.3%,

p
<
0.0001

). Regarding the prenatal test for the SRY gene, 9 (30.0%) were predicted to be males and the remaining 21 (60.0%) were females. All the 9 and 21 anticipated males and females, respectively, were confirmed after delivery (concordance = 100%, κ = 100.0%, diagnostic accuracy = 100%). Conclusion. Our study suggests that conventional PCR using the SRY, RhD exons 5 and 7 could be useful for predicting fetal sex and RhD from maternal peripheral blood in resource-limited settings.
The Important Role of Perituberal Tissue in Epileptic Patients with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex by the Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Li Shuqiang , Shao Huijie , Chang Liansheng
Published: October 2020

Epilepsy is most common in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). However, in addition to the challenging treatment, the pathogenesis of epilepsy is still controversial. To determine the transcriptome characteristics of perituberal tissue (PT) and clarify its role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, GSE16969 was downloaded from the GEO database for further study by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. Identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), functional enrichment analysis, construction of protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network, and selection of Hub genes were performed using R language, Metascape, STRING, and Cytoscape, respectively. Comparing with cortical tuber (CT), 220 DEGs, including 95 upregulated and 125 downregulated genes, were identified in PT and mainly enriched in collagen‐containing extracellular matrix and positive regulation of receptor‐mediated endocytosis, as well as the pathways of ECM‐receptor interaction and neuroactive ligand‐receptor interaction. As for normal cortex (NC), 1549 DEGs, including 30 upregulated and 1519 downregulated genes, were identified and mainly enriched in presynapse, dendrite and axon, and also the pathways of dopaminergic synapse and oxytocin signaling pathway. In the PPI network, 4 hub modules were found between PT and CT, and top 5 hub modules were selected between PT and NC. C3, APLNR, ANXA2, CD44, CLU, CP, MCHR2, HTR1E, CTSG, APP, and GNG2 were identified as Hub genes, of which, C3, CD44, ANXA2, HTR1E, and APP were identified as Hub‐BottleNeck genes. In conclusion, PT has the unique characteristics different from CT and NC in transcriptome and makes us further understand its importance in the TSC‐associated epilepsy.
Combined Administration of Bisphosphonates, Chemotherapeutic Agents, and/or Targeted Drugs Increases the Risk for Stage 3 Medication‐Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A 4‐Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhou Yuqiong , Yu Yejia , Shi Yueqi , Li Mengyu , Yang Chi , Wang Shaoyi
Published: October 2020

Objectives. Patients with stage 3 medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) suffer from severe complications. Chemotherapeutic agents and targeted drugs are considered to be associated with the development of MRONJ. However, little is known regarding the association of those agents with stage 3 MRONJ. The purpose of this study is to analyze the comprehensive medication history of patients with advanced‐stage MRONJ (stage 2 and stage 3) and evaluate the possible risk factors for stage 3 MRONJ. Patients and Methods. Sixty patients with advanced‐stage MRONJ were involved in this retrospective study. Patients with developmental maxillofacial anomalies, previous radiation in the head and neck areas, and jaw bone tumors were excluded from the study. All patients were divided into two groups by their MRONJ stage (stage 2 or stage 3). Demographic and clinical characteristics, comprehensive medication data (bisphosphonates, chemotherapeutic agents, targeted drugs, and immunosuppressive agents), and results of serological biomarkers were recorded and compared between two groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed by SPSS 25.0 for evaluating risk factors of stage 3 MRONJ. Results. Our results indicate that chemotherapy (adjusted OR = 3.43; 95% CI: 1.03 to 11.38), targeted drugs (adjusted OR = 3.69; 95% CI: 1.06 to 12.80), and maxillary lesions (adjusted OR = 4.26; 95% CI: 1.19 to 15.23) increase the risk of stage 3 MRONJ. Conclusion. The outcome of this study justifies that chemotherapeutic agents and targeted drugs are probably risk factors for stage 3 MRONJ. In addition, the osteonecrosis in maxilla is more easily to develop into stage 3 MRONJ. Intense clinical observation is recommended in MRONJ patients with maxillary osteonecrosis and in those who concurrently administered bisphosphonates, chemotherapeutic agents, and/or targeted drugs. This trial is registered with ChiCTR2000032428.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation of a Generalized Chikungunya Virus Infection Model with Two Modes of Transmission and Delays
Authors: Besbassi Hajar , Hattaf Khalid , Yousfi Noura
Published: October 2020

A generalized chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection model with nonlinear incidence functions and two time delays is proposed and investigated. The model takes into account both modes of transmission that are virus-to-cell infection and cell-to-cell transmission. Furthermore, the local and global stabilities of the disease-free equilibrium and the chronic infection equilibrium are established by using the linearization and Lyapunov functional methods. Moreover, the existence of Hopf bifurcation is also analyzed. Finally, an application is presented in order to support the analytical results.
Modeling Impulsive Intake of Glucose: The Significance of Diet to Glucose-Insulin System
Authors: Shi Xiangyun , Yao Jiaoyan , Zhou Xueyong
Published: October 2020

It is important to get good dietary advice such as a daily value of exogenous glucose intake to keep blood glucose within reasonable range for everyone, especially for those with diabetes mellitus or with borderline diabetes mellitus. In this paper, two novel glucose-insulin models with impulsive glucose intake are considered to investigate the significance of diet to the glucose-insulin system. For the first model, we prove the positiveness, boundedness, and permanence of the solutions and then the existence and stability of the periodic solutions are demonstrated. For the second model, we consider the insulin secretion delay based on the first model. The sufficient delay-dependent conditions which determine the stability of the periodic solution are also obtained. In addition, the theoretical results are verified by numerical simulation. The results can give people some dietary advice how to prevent diabetes, and also, the intake amount and frequency of the exogenous glucose from diet are recommended for diabetic patients to assist in the treatment of diabetes.
Assessment of Phenotypic Characteristics and Work Suitability for Working Donkeys in the Central Highlands in Kenya
Authors: Gichure Mary , Onono Joshua , Wahome Raphael , Gathura Peter
Published: October 2020

The study aimed to assess the phenotypic characteristics of donkeys and their suitability for work. Data were collected on age, sex, coat color, height at withers, body length, and heart girth from 360 randomly sampled donkeys raised in a highland agroecological system in Kenya between the months of June and September 2018. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA with the sex of the donkey and age group treated as sources of variation. The weight of donkeys was estimated using a formulae incorporating body length and heart girth. The study reveals that the average weight of the working donkey in the central highlands of Kenya was 155.5 kgs ± SE 1.71. Their height at withers was 99.7 cm ± SEM 0.50, with a heart girth of 113.7 cm ± SEM 0.43 and a body length of 113.2 cm ± SEM 0.58. All these body measurements varied significantly by sex and age group (

P
<
0.001

). Therefore, donkeys raised in Kenya had the same height but heavier, with longer body lengths and heart girth measurements when compared to other domesticated working donkeys in different parts of the world indicating genetic diversity, differences in ecogeographical conditions and husbandry practices. The majority (86%) of the donkeys were in good welfare conditions with moderate to ideal 86% body condition scores, minimal body lesions 5%, and lameness 18%. The results are useful for extension agents and donkey users when estimating optimal pack or cart loads in line with their welfare. The findings provide opportunities for future research on the reasons for phenotypic diversity between donkeys raised in Kenya and other parts of the world.
The Effects of Supersaturated Hydrogen-Rich Water Bathing on Biomarkers of Muscular Damage and Soreness Perception in Young Men Subjected to High-Intensity Eccentric Exercise
Authors: Todorovic Nikola , Javorac Dejan , Stajer Valdemar , Ostojic Sergej M.
Published: October 2020

High-intensity eccentric exercise can cause a delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), a short-term condition characterized by muscle damage and tenderness that might hold up recovery and jeopardize exercise routine. Previous studies indicated that hydrogen-rich water (HRW) might be a helpful topical intervention to boost recovery in musculoskeletal medicine, yet no data are available concerning the effectiveness and safety of whole-body bathing with supersaturated HRW after DOMS-inducing exercise. This study evaluates the effects of a single-session bathing with HRW on biochemical markers of muscular damage in healthy young men. The six volunteers who were exposed to DOMS-inducing eccentric exercise were assigned to either supersaturated HRW or control whole-body bathing in a double-blind crossover design. Immediately after an exercise session, the participants were immersed up to the neck into a 200 L bathtub with supersaturated HRW (8 mg of H2 per L) or control water (no hydrogen) for 30 min. Blood biomarkers of inflammation and muscular damage and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores for muscle soreness were assessed at baseline (before exercise) and at 24-hour follow-up. Two-way ANOVA revealed a significant difference between two groups in serum creatine kinase (CK) response over the period of intervention (

P
=
0.04

). A single-session bathing in HRW prevented a rise in circulating biomarkers of muscular damage induced by exercise at 24-hour follow-up, retaining the levels of all biomarkers similar to the baseline values (

P
>
0.05

). On the other hand, serum CK, aldolase, and aspartate transaminase were significantly elevated at 24-hour follow-up as compared to the baseline levels after the control bath (342 ± 309 U/L vs. 465 ± 295 U/L;

P
>
0.05

). HRW bath also induced a significant drop in VAS scores for muscle soreness in comparison with control water, both immediately after an intervention (32.7 ± 8.6% vs. 20.0 ± 12.8%;

P
=
0.02

) and at 24-hour follow-up (31.6 ± 24.3% vs. 22.4 ± 27.5%;

P
=
0.03

), respectively. No participants reported any major side effects during the trial. This pilot study suggests that the whole-body bathing in supersaturated HRW is a safe procedure that attenuates muscular damage and can ease sore muscles after high-intensity eccentric exercise.
Experimental Study on the Dynamic Rock-Breaking Performance of Pulsed Abrasive Jet Drilling Method
Authors: Du Yukun , Chen Xiaohong , Zhao Bo , Huang Zhiyuan , Wu Meilian , Bai Diangang , Hao Guoliang , Meng Qingshi , Mei Zhenhua , Chen Xiaocheng
Published: October 2020

The efficient development of deep oil and gas reservoirs with abundant resources is conducive to meet the growing energy demand. However, it is very difficult to drill in the deep reservoirs such as tight sand gas and shale gas because of their high strength, low porosity, and low permeability. In this study, it is pointed out that developing high-efficiency drilling methods based on new combined water jets is a good approach to promote the rate of penetration (ROP) in such tight deep reservoirs. A pulsed abrasive water jet drilling tool is designed, and its dynamic work principle is analyzed. The hydraulic structure is optimized; meanwhile, the rock-breaking experiments of this structure are carried out. The results show that the rock-breaking performance of the pulsed water jet is much better than that of the continuous water jet. It is also found that the rock-breaking performance of the pulsed abrasive water jet is much better than that of the premixed abrasive water jet. In addition, the best rock-breaking standoff distance, abrasive concentration, and particle size are detected.
Synthesis and Antifungal Activities of Cinnamaldehyde Derivatives against Penicillium digitatum Causing Citrus Green Mold
Authors: Gan Zengyu , Huang Jianping , Chen Jinyin , Nisar Muhammad Farrukh , Qi Wenwen
Published: October 2020

Penicillium digitatum (green mold) is pathogenic fungi and causes citrus fruit postharvest rotting that leads to huge economic losses across the world. The current study was aimed to develop a new derivative of cinnamaldehyde (4-methoxycinnamaldehyde) through the cross-hydroxyaldehyde condensation method with benzaldehyde substituted by a benzene ring under the catalysis of alkaline reagent and, moreover, to test their antifungal potential against P. digitatum, the major citrus fruit rotting fungi. Multiple derivatives of cinnamaldehyde viz. 4-nitro CA, 4-chloro CA, 4-bromo CA, 4-methyl CA, 4-methoxy CA, and 2,4-dimethoxy CA were synthesized in the current study whereas the 4-methoxy CA showed highest antifungal actions for citrus fruit postharvest rotting fungi P. digitatum. Moreover, 4-methoxy CA was found to reduce the spore germination and growth by damaging the fungal cell membrane, as well as declined the levels of reducing sugars.
The Functional Landscape of Patient-Derived RNF43 Mutations Predicts Sensitivity to Wnt Inhibition
Authors: Yu Jia , Yusoff Permeen A. Mohamed , Woutersen Daniëlle T.J. , Goh Pamela , Harmston Nathan , Smits Ron , Epstein David M. , Virshup David M. , Madan Babita
Published: October 2020

A subset of Wnt-addicted cancers are sensitive to targeted therapies that block Wnt secretion or receptor engagement. RNF43 loss-of-function (LOF) mutations that increase cell surface Wnt receptor abundance cause sensitivity to Wnt inhibitors. However, it is not clear which of the clinically identified RNF43 mutations affect its function in vivo. We assayed 119 missense and 45 truncating RNF43 mutations found in human cancers using a combination of cell-based reporter assays, genome editing, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Five common germline variants of RNF43 exhibited wild-type activity. Cancer-associated missense mutations in the RING ubiquitin ligase domain and a subset of mutations in the extracellular domain hyperactivate Wnt/β-catenin signaling through formation of inactive dimers with endogenous RNF43 or ZNRF3. RNF43 C-terminal truncation mutants, including the common G659fs mutant are LOF specifically when endogenous mutations are examined, unlike their behavior in transient transfection assays. Patient-derived xenografts and cell lines with C-terminal truncations showed increased cell surface Frizzled and Wnt/β-catenin signaling and were responsive to porcupine (PORCN) inhibition in vivo, providing clear evidence of RNF43 impairment. Our study provides potential guidelines for patient assignment, as virtually all RNF43 nonsense and frameshift mutations, including those in the C-terminal domain and a large number of patient-associated missense mutations in the RING domain and N-terminal region compromise its activity, and therefore predict response to upstream Wnt inhibitors in cancers without microsatellite instability. This study expands the landscape of actionable RNF43 mutations, extending the benefit of these therapies to additional patients.

Significance:

Systematic examination of patient-derived RNF43 mutations identifies rules to guide patient selection, including that truncation or point mutations in well-defined functional domains sensitize cancers to PORCN inhibitors.
Immuncheckpoint-Blockade – neue Hoffnung für Patienten mit Aderhautmelanom?
Authors: Wessely Anja
Published: October 2020

Uveal melanoma (UM) represents the most common intraocular malignancy in adults and accounts for about 5% of all melanomas. Primary disease can be effectively controlled by several local therapy options, but UM has a high potential for metastatic spread, especially to the liver. Despite its clinical and genetic heterogeneity, therapy of metastatic UM has largely been adopted from cutaneous melanoma (CM) with discouraging results until now. The introduction of antibodies targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1 for immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has revolutionized the field of cancer therapy and has achieved pioneering results in metastatic CM. Thus, expectations were high that patients with metastatic UM would also benefit from these new therapy options. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview on the role of ICB in UM. We give a summary of UM biology, its clinical features, and how it differs from CM. The results of several studies that have been investigating ICB in metastatic UM are presented. We discuss possible reasons for the lack of efficacy of ICB in UM compared to CM, highlight the pitfalls of ICB in this cancer entity, and explain why other immune-modulating therapies could still be an option for future UM therapies.
Two Notes on the Career of Aeschylus
Authors: Brown Andrew
Published: October 2020

The first part of this article seeks to reinforce the case made by S. Scullion that the fabled contest between Aeschylus, Pratinas and Choerilus in about 499, which was supposed to be the occasion of Aeschylus’s first dramatic production, is an invention and that ancient scholars did not possess detailed archival information (if any information at all) concerning the early years of his career. The second part argues that, while the tradition that the poet died at Gela in Sicily is very probably true, he almost certainly did not intend to settle there permanently and there is no reason to believe that he left Athens soon after presenting the Oresteia in 458. It then considers Aeschylus’s possible route from Athens to Sicily and argues that he could not easily have made the journey before the Athenians seized Naupactus, probably in 456.
Is Modern Science a Problem for Living as a Pyrrhonist Today? A Discussion of Richard Bett’s “Can We Be Ancient Sceptics?”
Authors: McCoy Ryan E.
Published: October 2020

In the final chapter of his recent book How to Be a Pyrrhonist: The Practice and Significance of Pyrrhonian Skepticism, Richard Bett discusses the possibility of living as a Pyrrhonian skeptic today. Chief among his concerns is the scope of the skeptic’s suspension of judgment and whether or not the skeptic could maintain suspension of judgment in light of the results of modern science. For example, how might the skeptic sustain suspension of judgment in light of overwhelming evidence for climate change? Or even atomic theory? Ultimately, Bett concludes that such claims within the natural sciences preclude us from living as Pyrrhonists today. In the following paper I argue, how it is possible for the Pyrrhonian skeptic to suspend judgment on certain well-confirmed scientific theories, how the skeptic does so in accord with rational norms, and in turn, that Pyrrhonian skepticism is possible as a way of life today.
Introduction to the Tafel v-bis Dataset: Death Duty Summary Information for The Netherlands, 1921
Authors: de Vicq A. , Peeters R.
Published: October 2020

This article introduces a newly constructed dataset (i.e. the Tafel v-bis Dataset) containing summary information for all Dutch citizens who died in 1921 and were subject to inheritance taxation. This dataset provides personal and socio-economic information on 24,263 individuals, including their total wealth, age, profession, residence and marital status at their time of death. Consequently, this dataset can be useful for researchers stemming from various academic disciplines. The article first discusses the range of possible uses of the dataset. Then the authors explain how they constructed the dataset and provide the necessary criticism regarding the underlying source material. The dataset is available via the Utrecht University data platform, yoda.
Friesodielsia subaequalis (Annonaceae): a new nomenclatural combination following conservation of the generic name against Schefferomitra

Authors: SAUNDERS RICHARD M.K. , GUO XING , TANG CHIN CHEUNG
Published: October 2020

Friesodielsia (Annonaceae; Uvarieae) was erected by Van Steenis (1948: 458) to replace the illegitimate name Oxymitra (Blume 1830: 71) Hooker & Thomson (1855: 145), which was a later homonym of the liverwort Oxymitra Bischoff in Lindenberg (1829: 124). Although Van Steenis recognized 52 species in Friesodielsia from Africa and Asia, many taxonomists questioned whether the taxa in these two geographical regions were truly congeneric (e.g., Verdcourt 1971, Van Heusden 1992). The African and Asian species are morphologically distinct with regard to overall flower shape (broad vs elongate), inner petal arrangement (loosely coherent vs apically connivent), monocarp shape (moniliform vs subglobose), seed number per monocarp (up to five vs one or two) and pollen exine (coarsely verrucate vs echinate) (Verdcourt 1971, Walker 1971, Van Heusden 1992, Guo et al. 2017a).
Magnolia quangninhensis (Magnoliaceae), a new species from northern Vietnam

Authors: VU QUANG NAM , XIA NIAN-HE , NGUYEN THI THO , KHUAT THI HAI NINH
Published: October 2020

A new species of the family Magnoliaceae, Magnolia quangninhensis Q.N. Vu & N.H. Xia from Yen Tu National Forest, in the Quang Ninh Province, north of Vietnam is described and illustrated. It is most closely related to M. bawangensis and M. shangsiensis, but differs by having all parts of tree glabrous (except for dense brown sericeous tomentose to tomentulose brachyblasts), larger elliptic-obovate leaves, creamy-white to pink–purple tepals and stamens, and (6–)9–11 tepals.
Hagneia kallea gen. and sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Ricaniidae) from North Vietnam
Authors: STROIŃSKI ADAM
Published: October 2020

A new monotypic genus of ricaniid planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Ricaniidae), Hagneia gen. nov., is described for Hagneia kallea sp. nov. (type species). Habitus, male and female external and internal genital structures of the new species are illustrated.
Trajectories and predictors of anxiety symptoms during pregnancy in an Australian sample
Authors: Viswasam Kirupamani , Berle David , Starcevic Vladan
Published: October 2020

Background:

There is a growing realisation that anxiety symptoms and disorders during pregnancy are associated with various negative outcomes. The aims of this study were to identify latent classes of anxiety symptom trajectories during pregnancy, compare anxiety levels between pregnancy trimesters and ascertain the predictors of anxiety symptom trajectories.

Methods:

Two hundred pregnant women in their first trimester who attended obstetric clinics at the local hospital were recruited. Three self-report questionnaires assessing anxiety levels were administered at three time points during pregnancy. Latent class growth analysis was used to identify anxiety symptom trajectories, and logistic regression analysis was performed to ascertain the predictors of latent class membership.

Results:

Data for analyses were available for 188 women. Two anxiety symptom trajectories were identified: a ‘high-anxiety’ trajectory (13.3% of participating women) and ‘low-anxiety’ trajectory (86.7%). This finding was consistent across all the anxiety measures used in the study. Overall, anxiety levels gradually decreased during pregnancy, with a significant decrease between the first and second trimesters on some measures. Past mental disorders and significant stressors in the preceding 6 months predicted membership in the ‘high-anxiety’ trajectory group.

Conclusions:

These findings support an early assessment of anxiety in pregnant women. If untreated, a high level of anxiety in the first trimester is likely to persist throughout pregnancy, although it may decrease somewhat. An early recognition of pathological anxiety during pregnancy allows its timely treatment and prevention of unfavourable outcomes.
A qualitative study on the use of mobile-based intervention for perinatal depression among perinatal mothers in rural Bihar, India
Authors: Seshu Uttara , Khan Homam A , Bhardwaj Manish , Sangeetha C , Aarthi G , John Sujit , Thara R , Raghavan Vijaya
Published: October 2020

Background:

Perinatal depression (PND) is one of the most common psychiatric illnesses in women, with a prevalence around 22% in India. Leveraging mobile-based technologies could help in the prevention and treatment of perinatal depression even in remote places. Understanding the experiences and barriers of using such technology interventions by perinatal mothers could help in the better design and in delivery of these interventions. We aimed to study the experiences of the perinatal women using a mobile phone-based intervention, Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS), for the prevention and management of perinatal depression in a rural district of Bihar, India.

Materials and methods:

A total of 12 in-depth interviews (IDIs) and one focus group discussion (FGD) with eight participants were conducted with perinatal mothers using the mobile-based IVRS to explore the experiences and perspectives of women receiving mobile phone-based interventions for the treatment of PND. Thematic analysis was done to identify major themes.

Results:

Five major themes emerged from the study around accessibility, usability, community participation, cost and preference to either intervention. Women found the mobile-based intervention useful as it made them feel lighter. They considered mental health as a health issue and wanted help to address their problems. They became familiar with terms like anxiety, depression, helplessness and burden and bean using them in their conversations. The patients used therapeutic strategies such as breathing, coping and relaxation. They even agreed to take up sessions for their peer group.

Conclusion:

Women in rural Bihar seemed satisfied with the technology-based intervention. It has made mental health issues more visible and acceptable even in the rural hinterlands of Bihar.
Tribological properties of High Density Polyethylene based composite: The effect of mollusc shell particles under dry condition
Authors: Sidia Besma , Bensalah Walid
Published: October 2020

This article highlights the importance of the addition of Mollusc shell (MS) particles, as bio-filler, on the tribological behavior of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix. The elaborated biocomposites are intended to be used as an orthopedic replacement biomaterial. Different mass content of MS (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt. %) have been added to the HDPE matrix. FTIR analysis, crystallinity rate and Rockwell hardness of different bio-composites were performed. A reciprocating pin-on-disc tribometer was used to fulfil dry wear tests. FTIR analysis showed that the presence of MS particles improved the crystallinity of the HDPE phase. Adding to that, it was found that MS improved the hardness, friction coefficient and wear resistance of the HDPE polymer. In fact, by adding 5 wt. % of MS to the HDPE, good tribological properties were achieved. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed to investigate the wear morphology of biocomposites under dry condition. SEM images showed that the morphology of the worn surfaces had been improved by the addition of MS to the polymer. Finally, a wear scenario was proposed.
Under Attack? The PCI and the Italian Peace Movement in the 1980s
Authors: Lomellini Valentine
Published: October 2020

This article investigates the key role played by the peace movement in re-defining the Italian Communist Party’s (PCI’s) identity, after the failure of the Eurocommunist project and the end of the historical compromise strategy in Italy. The first part of the article is dedicated to the international dimension: the relationship between the PCI and the Kremlin on the issue of peace protests, which was characterized both by growing mutual intolerance and the need to maintain a strong and effective internationalist tie. The second part examines how the PCI struggled domestically to deal with new political actors involved in peace mobilisation and the challenges of maintaining the hegemony within the peace movement. The article argues that the challenge posed by the surge of peace movement represented a genuine, albeit missed opportunity for the PCI to renew its own political identity.
Calls to a State Poison Center Concerning Cleaners and Disinfectants From the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic Through April 2020
Authors: Rosenman Kenneth D. , Reilly Mary Jo , Wang Ling
Published: October 2020

An increased use of disinfectants during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may increase the number of adverse health effects among people who apply them or among those who are in the area being disinfected. For the 3-month period from January 1 to March 30, 2020, the number of calls about exposure to cleaners and disinfectants made to US poison centers in all states increased 20.4%, and the number of calls about exposure to disinfectants increased 16.4%. We examined calls about cleaners and disinfectants to the Michigan Poison Center (MiPC) since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We compared all calls related to exposure to cleaners or disinfectants, calls with symptoms, and calls in which a health care provider was seen during the first quarters of 2019 and 2020 and in relationship to key COVID-19 dates. From 2019 to 2020, the number of all disinfectant calls increased by 42.8%, the number of calls with symptoms increased by 57.3%, the average number of calls per day doubled after the first Michigan COVID-19 case, from 4.8 to 9.0, and the proportion of calls about disinfectants among all exposure calls to the MiPC increased from 3.5% to 5.0% ( P < .001). Calls for exposure to cleaners did not increase significantly. Exposure occurred at home for 94.8%97.1% of calls, and ingestion was the exposure route for 59.7% of calls. Information about the adverse health effects of disinfectants and ways to minimize exposure should be included in COVID-19 pandemic educational materials.
Nation Building on the Margins: How the Anthropologists of India Contributed?
Authors: Guha Abhijit
Published: October 2020

The contributions of the anthropologists towards nation building in the early years after independence of India is still an unexplored research agenda in the social sciences in general and anthropology and sociology in particular. Under this background, an exploration is made in this study to search the contributions of anthropologists towards nation building and it revealed that there were at least five pioneering researches which dealt with the three major challenges confronted by the planners in newly independent India, and the challenges before the nation were famine, resettlement of refugees and industrialisation and big dam building. Apart from methodology, all the five studies have immense contemporary policy relevance.
Thinking Through Transfer: Examining How Community College Students Make Transfer Decisions
Authors: Jabbar Huriya , Epstein Eliza , Sánchez Joanna , Hartman Catherine
Published: October 2020

Objective: For many students, community college is a convenient first step toward a bachelor’s degree. Yet, although more than 80% of those who enroll in community colleges intend to transfer to a 4-year institution, fewer than 35% do so within 6 years. Quantitative data reveal the presence of a transfer gap and there is extensive research on college choice for high school students, but little qualitative research has been done to examine the transfer process for community college students to identify what drives their decisions. Method: In this article, we draw on interviews with 58 community college students in Texas to examine how they made transfer decisions. Results: We find that their decision-making and transfer pathways were complex and nonlinear in ways that were particular to the uncertainty of the community college context. For a subset of students, we identify minor hurdles that could derail their decision-making, lengthen their timelines to transfer, or lead to a failure to transfer. Contribution: By illuminating student pathways to transfer using qualitative research, our work identifies potential areas where policy and practice could strengthen transfer to improve student outcomes.
The Consistency of Expectations: An Analysis of Learning Objectives Within Cognitive Assessment Course Syllabi
Authors: Bumpus Emily C. , Vinco Megan H. , Lee Kayla B. , Accurso Jenilee F. , Graves Scott L.
Published: October 2020

Background:

The course on cognitive assessment is mandatory for all school psychology programs. However, there have been no published studies that have explored learning objectives for this course.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to examine content covered and complexity of learning objectives in the cognitive assessment course.

Method:

Five raters coded 90 syllabi from school psychology cognitive assessment courses across the United States on a sample of six American Psychological Association assessment-related standards and on complexity using the six Bloom’s Taxonomy levels.

Results:

The majority of objectives were addressing lower levels of complexity as measured by Bloom’s Taxonomy with few syllabi including learning objectives addressing a wide range of levels. Based on the analysis of objectives by the sample of Standards, learning objectives most frequently addressed administration accuracy and test selection, whereas integrating results and linking to recommendations were often missing.

Conclusion:

The learning objectives included in syllabi ranged in quantity, complexity, and content but focused on lower complexity skills. Learning objectives in cognitive assessment courses do not reflect the diverse assessment-related practice demands of school psychologists.

Teaching Implications:

To align training with future practice, instructors are advised to review learning objectives with attention to complexity and content standards.
High-involvement management practices and the productivity of firms: Detecting industry heterogeneity
Authors: Peutere Laura , Saloniemi Antti , Böckerman Petri , Aho Simo , Nätti Jouko , Nummi Tapio
Published: October 2020

The aim of this article is to clarify the links between high-involvement management (HIM) practices, productivity and branches of industry. The data combine a representative survey ( N = 787) of private-sector firms in Finland and register-based firm-level data on sales per employee in the year following the survey. The authors analysed the data using mixture regression and identified two clusters in the association between HIM and productivity. In one cluster, high-involvement management and productivity were positively associated, while in the other cluster, the association was negative. The association between the intensity of HIM utilisation and productivity is not always additive; the benefits of HIM were most prominent in industries where HIM was most seldom utilised. This paradox was most notable in the service sector.
Subtotal Petrosectomy With Preservation of Chorda Tympani for Petrous Bone Cholesteatoma: Case Report
Authors: Takata Yusuke , Anzai Takashi , Matsumoto Fumihiko , Hara Satoshi , Ikeda Katsuhisa
Published: October 2020

A petrous bone cholesteatoma (PBC) is a rare epidermoid cyst of the petrous portion of the temporal bone. The main treatment is subtotal petrosectomy (SP), which generally involves sacrificing the chorda tympani. We report a case of extensive supralabyrinthine PBC in an elderly patient undergoing hemodialysis that was treated by SP with anatomical preservation of the chorda tympani. To the best of our knowledge, preservation of the chorda tympani during SP has not been previously reported. For maintenance of postoperative taste and appetite, preservation of the chorda tympani is a meaningful maneuver whenever possible.