bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
β1 Integrins Are Necessary for Medial Prefrontal Cortex Development and Function
Authors: Kietzman Henry W. , Shapiro Lauren P. , Gourley Shannon L.
Published: April 2020

Proper development and maturation of the brain relies on periods of structural remodeling. These structural adaptations require coordinated signaling between the extracellular environment and the intracellular actin cytoskeleton. Composed of an α subunit responsible for extracellular ligand binding and a β subunit that activates intracellular signaling, integrin receptors provide such a link. Here we tested the hypothesis that the β1 subunit, localized to neuronal synapses and abundant in the mammalian prefrontal cortex, would be essential to prefrontal cortical development, which extends well into adolescence. We used viral‐mediated gene silencing to reduce β1‐integrins in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), delivering viral vectors just prior to the onset of adolescence or in adulthood. Early‐life, but not adult‐onset, β1‐integrin silencing eliminated dendritic spines, the primary sites of excitatory plasticity in the brain. To assess functional consequences, we focused on goal‐directed decision making. The mPFC is necessary for acquiring and consolidating associations between actions and their outcomes, such that mPFC inactivation causes organisms to defer to habitual behavior, which is insensitive to outcomes. We trained mice to nose poke for food reinforcers, then decreased either: 1) the predictive contingency between nose poking and food, or 2) food value. Early‐life β1‐integrin silencing occluded behavioral sensitivity to action‐outcome associations in both conditions, causing habits. Meanwhile, depression‐ and anxiety‐like behaviors were intact. Our findings suggest that developmental β1‐integrins are necessary for mPFC maturation and function.

Support or Funding Information

The work in the SLG lab was supported by NIH F31MH109208 and R01MH117103. The Yerkes National Primate Research Center was supported by the Office of Research Infrastructure Programs/OD P51 OD011132.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
The Effect of Engaging in a Lifestyle Weight Loss Program on Adaptive Thermogenesis in Older Adults
Authors: Baugh Mary Elizabeth , Brinkley Tina , Houston Denise , Lyles Mary , Hugenschmidt Christina , Beavers Kristen , Leng Xiaoyan , Nicklas Barbara
Published: April 2020

Objective

Studies in younger adults show that weight loss results in adaptive thermogenesis, a reduction in resting metabolic rate (RMR) beyond what is predicted by changes in body composition. However, whether adaptive thermogenesis occurs in response to weight loss in older adults is not as well documented. The objective of this analysis was to determine whether adaptive thermogenesis occurs in older adults engaging in a lifestyle weight loss program involving aerobic exercise training (AEX) and dietary caloric restriction (CR).

Methods

Older (65–79 yrs) sedentary men and women with obesity (BMI: 30–45 kg/m2) participated in a 20‐week study assessing the effects of adding CR to AEX on cardiorespiratory fitness and physical function outcomes. Participants were randomly assigned to CR+AEX (n=107) or AEX only (n=41). All participants engaged in the same treadmill walking program of 4 days/week for 30 minutes at 65–70% heart rate reserve. Baseline and post‐intervention RMR and body composition were measured with indirect calorimetry and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry, respectively. Baseline measures of body composition, age, and sex were used to generate a linear regression equation to predict RMR. To determine metabolic changes resulting from the intervention, post‐intervention measures were applied to the same regression equation. Adaptive thermogenesis was calculated as the difference between predicted and measured RMR post‐intervention; a value <0 indicated the presence of adaptive thermogenesis.

Results

The CR+AEX group lost more body weight (−8.9 ± 4.4 vs. −1.5 ± 3.5 kg, p<0.01) and fat free mass (FFM; −2.4 ± 2.2 vs. −0.5 ± 2.1 kg, p<0.01) compared with AEX. Measured RMR was similar in CR+AEX compared with AEX before (1365 ± 275 vs. 1378 ± 256 kcal/d, p=0.79) and after (1294 ± 259 vs. 1332 ± 252 kcal/d, p=0.42) the intervention. Adaptive thermogenesis was similar in CR+AEX compared with AEX (−23 ± 159 vs. −33 ± 189 kcal/d, p=0.73). There was large individual variability in the degree of adaptive thermogenesis in both groups (CR+AEX: −409 to 376 kcal/d; AEX: −534 to 359 kcal/d), which did not correlate with the individual degree of relative or absolute CR or to the individual amount of weight lost (all p>0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with AEX alone, older adults engaging in weight loss by CR and AEX did not experience a greater decline in RMR beyond what was expected from changes in body composition. Since individual variability in adaptive thermogenesis was not related to amount of weight lost or CR, further research is needed to identify factors that cause adaptive thermogenesis in some older individuals.

Support or Funding Information

NIH R01 HL093713 (BJN), NIA P30 AG021332, NIH T32 AG033534

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
OUTCOMES OF COMBINED PHACOEMULSIFICATION AND PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY FOR RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT
Authors: Tan Alexia , Bertrand-Boiché Mathilde , Angioi-Duprez Karine , Berrod Jean-Paul , Conart Jean-Baptiste
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate and to compare the anatomical and functional results of phacovitrectomy and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) alone for phakic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Methods:

Retrospective, comparative case series of 266 phakic eyes that underwent either combined phacovitrectomy or PPV alone for primary retinal detachment. The primary anatomical success rate, the final best-corrected visual acuity, and the refractive outcomes were analyzed.

Results:

One hundred and twenty-seven eyes were included in the combined group and 139 in the PPV group. The primary anatomical success rate was 84.3% in the combined group and 89.2% in the PPV group (P = 0.311). One hundred and nine (78.4%) eyes of the PPV group required cataract removal for visual rehabilitation during the follow-up period. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean final best-corrected visual acuity (P = 0.185) and mean visual changes (P = 0.470). Overall, combined cataract extraction resulted in a significant myopic shift compared with delayed cataract surgery (P = 0.047).

Conclusion:

Combined phacoemulsification and PPV is a safe and effective procedure to treat retinal detachment. The anatomical and functional results were comparable with those obtained with PPV and delayed cataract surgery. However, the refractive outcomes were less favorable and shifted toward myopia, especially in macula-off cases.
Combination Therapy With Chemotherapy, Donor Lymphocyte Infusion With Concurrent Blinatumomab in Relapsed/Refractory Acute Precursor B-Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Choi Ho Jung , Choi Jung Yoon , Kim Bo Kyung , An Hong Yul , Hong Kyung Taek , Shin Hee Young , Kang Hyoung Jin
Published: April 2020

The therapeutic approach for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) remains to be a challenge. The patient was diagnosed as B-cell ALL at 6 months of age and relapsed for the second time following repeat allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (one after first complete remission [CR1] and the other after CR2). During blinatumomab monotherapy, he developed an extramedullary relapse. Finally, the combined therapy with clofarabine, donor lymphocyte infusion, and blinatumomab induced CR of the bone marrow and extramedullary relapse. Unfortunately, the patient developed central nervous system relapse, however, this case showed a promising potential for combination therapy with clofarabine, donor lymphocyte infusion, and blinatumomab in relapsed/refractory B-cell ALL.
Nurses' Perspective of Treating Patients With an Amputation Due to Diabetic Foot Syndrome
Authors: Font-Jimenez Isabel , Acebedo-Uridales Maria Sagrario , Aguaron-Garcia Maria Jesus , De Sousa Maria Rui , Rubio-Rico Lourdes
Published: April 2020

Background

Expert nurses must provide both physical and emotional care to patients with diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) who require an amputation. This includes helping patients and families to cope with this situation, while ensuring the maximum level of comfort.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore the perspective of expert nurses on the needs and hospital care of people requiring an amputation due to DFS.

Method

This was a qualitative multicenter study involving 8 hospitals in Spain and Portugal. In-depth interviews with expert nurses were transcribed verbatim to enable content analysis.

Results

Twenty-four expert nurses were interviewed about their knowledge and experience of treating patients with diabetic foot disease. Two themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: (1) poor self-care and the disease trajectory, and (2) effective hospital care.

Conclusions

The results of this study highlight the key role that expert nurses play in the care of patients with DFS. Expert nurses considered that amputation leaves the individual physically and psychologically vulnerable, especially upon discharge from hospital. It is therefore essential to provide these patients with comprehensive and multidisciplinary care that includes emotional support.
Multimodality Assessment of Thoracic Aortic Dimensions
Authors: Frazao Caio , Tavoosi Anahita , Wintersperger Bernd J. , Nguyen Elsie T. , Wald Rachel M. , Ouzounian Maral , Hanneman Kate
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to compare thoracic aortic measurements between computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 127 patients (mean age: 45±18 y, 49% male) who had undergone CT and MRI evaluation of the thoracic aorta at a single tertiary referral hospital within a 6-month interval between 2007 and 2017 were included in this retrospective study. TTE studies performed within the same 6-month interval were also evaluated. Thoracic aortic measurements were blindly evaluated using multiple techniques and were compared between modalities.

Results:

There was no significant difference in maximum aortic root diameter between CT and MRI when using the inner lumen-to-inner lumen technique (mean difference: 0.2±1.4 mm,P=0.51) or the outer lumen-to-outer lumen technique (mean difference: 0.5±1.4 mm,P=0.07). There were no significant differences between CT and MRI at any other level except for the distal descending aorta (20.2±4.6 vs. 19.8±4.6 mm,P<0.001). However, aortic root measurements by TTE using the leading edge-to-leading edge technique were significantly smaller compared with maximum aortic root diameters using the inner lumen-to-inner lumen and outer lumen-to-outer lumen techniques by both CT (mean difference: 4.9±2.7 mm,P<0.001 and 7.4±2.8 mm,P<0.001, respectively) and MRI (mean difference: 4.8±3.2 mm,P<0.001 and 8.2±3.0 mm,P<0.001, respectively).

Conclusions:

There is excellent agreement in thoracic aortic measurements between CT and MRI. However, TTE significantly underestimates maximum aortic root diameter compared with CT and MRI. Therefore, caution should be used when interpreting small apparent changes in aortic root diameters between TTE and CT or MRI.
Unleashing knowledge sharing in a developing country: a case of healthcare industry
Authors: Blouch Riffat , Yasmeen Aiza , Khan Muhammad Majid , Shakeel Wajid
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the role of the types of psychological contract (PC) to enhance knowledge sharing (KS) behavior of employees through the intervention of perceived organizational support (POS).

Design/methodology/approach

The current study uses primary sources to get data from the participants of both private and public hospitals. Overall, 210 respondents participated in the study, which later subjected to the analysis using CAUSALMED procedures using statistical analysis software.

Findings

The findings from the study projected that all types of psychological have a considerable effect on KS behavior of employees, either directly or through the intervening mechanism. Furthermore, the study also indicates that if employees’ POS, they will share a stronger bond with the organization, which will be beneficial for the organizations’ health.

Research limitations/implications

Firstly, despite the fact that this study proposes valuable insights into KS behavior; it allows some impediments of a primary study. Secondly, the research is constrained to the hospital industry. Finally, this exploration can likewise be reinforced by incorporating other intervening mechanisms, to give an extensive understanding of the connection between employees’ perception regarding PC and KS behavior.

Practical implications

The findings of the present research have potential applications for human resource managers of the healthcare industry to place more emphasis on the types of PC, organizational support and KS among the employees to achieve a competitive advantage in this dynamic environment through knowledge management, which is considered a strategic asset nowadays.

Originality/value

This study provides an original contribution by identifying the diverse paths, indicating how the types of PC can impact KS with employees’ perceptions toward organizational support. It also highlights that how the heaths care industries, as compare to the old practices can encourage a culture of KS in this highly competitive and dynamic environment to remain at the top on the market.
Sensory evaluation and volatile compounds of an alternative ready‐to‐use therapeutic food for malnourished children
Authors: Miele Nicoletta A. , Armini Vincenzo , Troccoli Anna Maria , Puleo Sharon , Paduano Antonello , Sacchi Raffaele , Cavella Silvana
Published: April 2020

Ready‐to‐use therapeutic foods (RUTFs) are special foods used to encourage rapid weight gain in 5‐year‐old malnourished children, avoiding hospitalization. The factors affecting sensory characteristics and acceptability of RUTFs have been not adequately described. The aim of this work was to evaluate both the sensory properties and volatile compounds of four alternative RUTFs, varying in soy and sorghum, icing sugar, and oil content. Nine nonoral sensory attributes were evaluated by nine selected and trained assessors. The perceived intensity of five oral sensory attributes and the overall liking were assessed by 100 adult consumers. The volatile compounds were extracted and concentrated by solid phase microextraction and analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. RUTF formulations significantly differed for graininess between fingers (size of granules) (P = 0.007), viscosity (P = 0.013), adhesiveness to the spoon (P < 0.044), and meltability (P = 0.005), but in consumers’ opinion, they differed only for difficulty in swallowing, intensity of global odor, flavor, and sweetness. A positive correlation between overall liking and sweetness was found. Volatile compounds arising from lipid oxidation (hexanal and octanoic acid) were positively correlated with global odor and flavor. These attributes negatively affected the overall liking and were mainly contained in one out of the four formulations. Sensory and instrumental characterization identified key attributes for this kind of food, such as difficulty in swallowing, global odor, and sweetness, suggesting how to formulate an alternative RUTF to be used for a future clinical trial on malnourished children.

Practical Application

Starting from the world's need to fight child malnutrition, the present study tried to characterize alternative ready‐to‐use therapeutic foods (RUTFs), special foods used to encourage rapid weight gain in 5‐year‐old malnourished children, from several points of view, such as acceptability, stability, technological, and overall quality.

Results obtained will be an aid to setup the technological conditions and scale‐up parameters for local productions of RUTFs to be tested in real trials on malnourished children. Indeed, key sensory attributes that drive consumer acceptance for this special food, such as sweetness and difficulty in swallowing, came out from the present study.
Integrated mRNA and microRNA transcriptome profiling during differentiation of human nasal polyp epithelium reveals an altered ciliogenesis
Authors: Callejas‐Díaz Borja , Fernandez Guerau , Fuentes Mireya , Martínez‐Antón Asunción , Alobid Isam , Roca‐Ferrer Jordi , Picado César , Tubita Valeria , Mullol Joaquim
Published: April 2020

Background

Human adult basal stem/progenitor cells (BSCs) obtained from chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) when differentiated in an air‐liquid interface (ALI) usually provide a pseudostratified airway epithelium with similar abnormalities than original in vivo phenotype. However, the intrinsic mechanisms regulating this complex process are not well defined and their understanding could offer potential new therapies for CRSwNP (incurable disease).

Methods

We performed a transcriptome‐wide analysis during in vitro mucociliary differentiation of human adult BSCs from CRSwNP, compared to those isolated from control nasal mucosa (control‐NM), in order to identify which key mRNA and microRNAs are regulating this complex process in pathological and healthy conditions.

Results

A number of genes, miRs, biological processes, and pathways were identified during mucociliary differentiation of both CRSwNP and control‐NM epithelia, and notably, we have demonstrated for the first time that genetic transcriptional program responsible of ciliogenesis and cilia function is significantly impaired in CRSwNP epithelium, presumably produced by an altered expression of microRNAs, particularly of those miRs belonging to mir‐34 and mi‐449 families.

Conclusions

This study provides for the first time a novel insight into the molecular basis of sinonasal mucociliary differentiation, demonstrating that transcriptome related to ciliogenesis and cilia function is significantly impaired during differentiation of CRSwNP epithelium due to an altered expression of microRNAs.
Subcutaneous desmoplastic small round‐cell tumor: An unusual primary location expanding the differential of superficial round‐cell tumors
Authors: Asadbeigi Sepideh N. , Zhang Lisheng , Linos Konstantinos
Published: April 2020

Desmoplastic small round‐cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare, aggressive malignant tumor, which in the great majority of cases arises at abdominal‐pelvic sites. Nevertheless, rare cases of primary extra‐abdominal tumors have been reported. In challenging cases, its molecular hallmark, the EWSR1‐WT1 reciprocal translocation, can be exploited diagnostically by various molecular techniques. Herein, we report an extremely rare case of primary subcutaneous DSRCT in an effort to raise awareness among our dermatopathology colleagues by expanding the differential of superficial round‐cell tumors.
Using species distribution models to assess the long‐term impacts of changing oceanographic conditions on abalone density in south east Australia
Authors: Young Mary A. , Treml Eric A. , Beher Jutta , Fredle Molly , Gorfine Harry , Miller Adam D. , Swearer Stephen E. , Ierodiaconou Daniel
Published: April 2020

Warming from climate change and resulting increases in energy stored in the oceans is causing changes in the hydrodynamics and biogeochemistry of marine systems, exacerbating current challenges facing marine fisheries. Although studies have evaluated effects of rising temperatures on marine species, few have looked at these impacts along with other environmental drivers over long time periods. In this study, we associate long‐term density of blacklip abalone to changing oceanographic conditions in a climate change ‘hot‐spot’ off southeast Australia. We downscaled and hind‐casted existing hydrodynamic models to provide information on waves and currents over 25 yr and used this information to run biophysical connectivity models. We combined the connectivity models with 21 yr of data on abalone density, temperature, seafloor habitat, and the effects of a disease outbreak in an machine learning modeling approach to develop a spatio‐temporal model of abalone density. We found that the combination of temperature, connectivity, current speed, wave orbital velocity, fishery catch, depth, reef structure and a disease outbreak explain 70% of variation in abalone density and allowed us to create 30 m resolution predictive grids with 75% accuracy. An emerging hotspot analysis run on the individual predictive grids from each year detected a predominance of low‐density grids across the region, with 49.5% of cells classified as cold spots, 14.3% as hotspots and 36.2% with no significant patterns observed. This type of spatio‐temporal analysis provides important insights into how changing environmental conditions are impacting density in an important fishery species, allowing for better adaptive management in the face of future climate change.
SOD1 p.D12Y variant is associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/distal myopathy spectrum
Authors: Tasca G. , Lattante S. , Marangi G. , Conte A. , Bernardo D. , Bisogni G. , Mandich P. , Zollino M. , Ragozzino E. , Udd B. , Sabatelli M.
Published: April 2020

Background and purpose

The aim of our study was to describe patients with the p.D12Y variant (previously reported as D11Y) in SOD1 showing heterogeneous clinicopathological features.

Methods

We performed clinical, electrophysiological, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and muscle pathology studies in four SOD1 p.D12Y variant‐positive patients.

Results

The SOD1 p.D12Y clinical manifestations ranged from a benign phenotype characterized by distal distribution of muscular weakness and long survival to classic forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with poor prognosis. Two patients with the distal clinical phenotype showed MRI and muscle pathology alterations indicating a concurrent muscle involvement. In one of these patients significant myopathic changes were associated with rimmed vacuolar pathology.

Conclusions

We expand the clinical spectrum of SOD1 p.D12Y variant, including predominant lower motor neuron forms with long survival and classic forms with aggressive course. Some patients may have concomitant distal myopathy without other explanations. Given clinical, MRI and muscle pathology alterations, SOD1 should be considered in the differential diagnosis of molecularly undefined distal myopathies with rimmed vacuoles.
Don't patronize me! An experiment on preferences for authorship
Authors: Lübbecke Silvia , Schnedler Wendelin
Published: April 2020

Do people only reject interference and keep control to affect the outcome? We find that 20% of subjects reject unrequired help and insist on their solution to a problem—although doing so is costly and does not change the result. We tease out the motives by varying the information available to the interfering party (paternalist). Subjects do not resist to show to the paternalist that they were able to find the correct solution. Instead, two motives seem to play a role. First, subjects prefer to have produced or “authored” the solution themselves. Second, subjects desire to signal their authorship and hence their independence to the paternalist.
Case of medullary thyroid carcinoma with desmoid‐type fibromatosis
Authors: Cho Yoon Ah , Oh Young Lyun
Published: April 2020

A 36‐year‐old man was admitted to hospital for a right thyroid nodule incidentally discovered on a chest computed tomography scan for a rib fracture. He had no history of radiation to the head and neck, no known family history of endocrine disease, and no medical or surgical history. A 17 × 10 mm, well‐demarcated, multinodular, whitish nodule with neither necrosis nor hemorrhage was found in the right thyroid. Microscopically, the tumor consisted of epithelial cell nests with oval, plasmacytoid or polygonal cells with speckled chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli and granular cytoplasm. The surrounding stroma showed amyloid deposition and prominent spindle cell proliferation with myxoid substance. Epithelial cell nests showed an immunoreactive pattern for typical medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and the spindle cell stroma showed nuclear expression of beta‐catenin. This may be the first report on histopathologic findings of MTC with desmoid‐type fibromatosis. Further studies are necessary to discover the clinicopathologic characteristics and pathogenesis of this rare type of tumor.
Friction and bureaucratic control in authoritarian regimes
Authors: Chan Kwan Nok , Fan Shiwei
Published: April 2020

Democracies deliberately create “friction” in bureaucratic processes, using inefficiencies to mitigate the impact of government transitions and asymmetric information on leaders' ability to exert control. With far more centralized power, would authoritarians prefer less friction? We argue that they do not. In fact, excess friction is actively supplied to hinder bureaucratic coordination independent of or even in opposition to top‐down control, leaving the central leaders the only player powerful enough to organize complex actions. Our analysis of data on the Chinese government indicates that bureaucrats are systematically sent to unfamiliar work environment, and that agencies that are more exposed to the resultant inefficiencies are also more likely to come under direct control by senior Politburo members. The pattern of targeted intervention indicates that bureaucratic control in authoritarian regimes is predicated not only on centralized power in general but also the deliberate supply of friction to obstruct independent actions from the bottom up.
Rapid Preparation of Geometrically Optimal Battery Electrode Samples for Nano Scale X-ray Characterisation
Authors: Tan C. , Daemi S. , Heenan T. , Iacoviello F. , Leach A. S. , Rasha L. , Jervis R. , Brett D. J. L. , Shearing P. R.
Published: April 2020

Rechargeable lithium-based batteries are one of the key enabling technologies driving the shift to renewable energy, and research into novel technologies has intensified to meet growing demands in applications requiring higher energy and power density. The mechanisms behind battery degradation can be investigated across multiple length-scales with X-ray imaging methods; at the nano-scale severe constraints are imposed on sample size in order to obtain adequate signal to noise. Here, we present a novel laser-milling technique to prepare geometrically optimal samples for X-ray nano-tomography. Advantages of this technique include significantly reduced sample preparation time, and a suitable geometry for mosaic acquisition, enabling a larger field of view to be captured at high spatial resolution, thus improving statistics. The geometry of the resulting electrode remains highly suitable for nano-tomography, and yet permits in situ and operando experiments to be carried out on standard electrode coatings, providing new insights into transient phenomena whilst closely mimicking standard electrochemical cells.
Towards Efficient Potentiometric Sensor for a Homogenous Active Metal Ion: Rationalization Using Perpendicular and Parallel Solution Flow Methods
Authors: Muthuraman G. , Silambarasan P. , Moon I. S.
Published: April 2020

Electrode surface renewal in electrochemical sensors is a key parameter in on-line potentiometric sensors for obtaining detailed analyses of the direction of solution flow to the electrode. In this study, a standard redox couple Fe(III)/Fe(II) was taken to check static, perpendicular flow (by rotating disc electrode (RDE)), and parallel flow (by tubular electrode in flow path). The results showed that parallel solution flow to the electrode was efficient. In the sensing of [Co(I)(CN)5]4− (Co(I)) in solution, the electrolytic reduction of [Co(II)(CN)5]3− (Co(II)) was carried out and the results monitored by perpendicular and parallel solution flow to the electrode showed that parallel solution flow using the tubular electrode was efficient for the potentiometric sensor. An adsorption-complicated diffusion-controlled process for Co(II) reduction was confirmed by analyzing the i vs v
1/2 plot. The change in the reduction potential during the electrolysis of Co(II) only by parallel solution flow using a tubular flow electrode highlights its potential as a potentiometric sensor, particularly for compounds with adsorption complications. Using a calibration plot obtained by ex situ potentiometric titrations, the change in limiting potential allows monitoring of the concentration of electrogenerated Co(I) during electrolysis or during pollutant removal.
Lorazepam-Resistant Catatonia in an Antipsychotic-Naïve 24-Year-Old with Psychotic Symptoms
Authors: Lucchelli Juan Pablo , Kourakou Stamatia , de Lucia Bové Laia Pérez , Rodriguez Daniel Diaz
Published: April 2020

Catatonia is a complex identifiable clinical syndrome characterized primarily by psychomotor symptoms. In recent decades, some authors have considered that catatonia can be presented as a catatonic syndrome in several pathologies such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders and not only in schizophrenia. Prior to DSM 5, there were two conceptions of catatonia: one in which clinical characterization seemed to play a determining role (a categorical view) and another in which a dimensional perspective advocated the existence of catatonia as a clinical entity in its own right, detached from the underlying pathology. Although there are no definitive consensus guidelines for the treatment of catatonia, some studies show that in the schizophrenic form of catatonia, benzodiazepines are partially effective, as well as treatment with ECT. We present the case of a 24-year-old man with severe catatonia and psychotic symptoms, resistant to lorazepam treatment, who achieved complete remission with clozapine treatment according to our diagnostic hypothesis of schizophrenia.
Radio-Pathological Correlations in Patients with Liver Metastases for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Serrablo Alejandro , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Paradisi Carlos , Hörndler Carlos , Sarría Luis , Tejedor Luis , Serrablo Leyre , Azoulay Daniel
Published: April 2020

Background:Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most frequent gastrointestinal cancer. The liver is the organ most commonly affected by CRC metastases. Synchronous CRC liver metastases (CRCLM) are present in 15–25% at diagnosis, and metastases are confined to the liver in 70–80% of these cases. The aim of the present study was to investigate the existence of significant correlations between the pathological features and computed tomography scan morpho-densitometric findings. Summary:A retrospective study of prospectively collected data has been performed; all patients underwent curative-intent hepatic resection from January 2004 to December 2012 and had histologically confirmed CRCLM. Key Messages: Thirty-four (57%) patients were males; the mean age was 64.4 (±10.2) years. Statistically significant differences have been found with the percentages of intra-tumoral fibrosis (p = 0.038) and necrosis (p = 0.007); the values of fibrosis are higher in the absence of a peri-lesional ring, while those of necrosis are higher in the presence of a peri-lesional ring.There was a correlation between the histopathological response to treatments and the global attenuation levels observed in the computed tomography scan of CRCLM. Furthermore, the presence of a radiologically evidenced peripheral ring was associated with the amount of viable tumor cells in the periphery of the tumor, and with responses predominated by necrosis. More studies are needed to clarify the radiological and histological correlation and to be able to better select patients who are going to undergo surgery.
The Effect of Lactofem Oral Probiotic Capsule on Lactobacilli Colonization and Some Vaginal Health Parameters
Authors: Balaghi Zohreh , Azima Sara , Motamedifar Mohammad , Kaviani Maasumeh , Poordast Tahereh , Zare Najaf
Published: April 2020

Background and Objective: Healthy vaginal ecosystem is conserved with the connection of vaginal epithelium and flora in which lactobacilli play a significant role. The present study aimed to examine the effect of lactofem oral probiotic capsule on Lactobacillus colonization and some other vaginal health indices in women aged 18–55 years. Materials and Methods: This interventional, double-blind controlled clinical trial was conducted on 70 women with Nugent score = 4–6 and vaginal pH >4.5. The participants were divided into an oral probiotic group and a control group. The oral probiotic group was required to take one 500 mg lactofem capsule daily for 2 months, while placebo was prescribed for the control group. Samples from 6 visits were examined during the period of prescription. The data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical software, version 18. Results: The results showed no significant difference in the average colonization of vaginal Lactobacillus in the 2 groups before and during the intervention (p = 0.26). Also, no significant difference was observed in the 2 groups’ Nugent mean scores before and after the intervention up to the 60th day. However, a statistically significant difference was found in this regard on the 70th day (p = 0.032). Moreover, the results indicated no significant difference in the 2 groups’ mean vaginal pH before and after the intervention (p = 0.101). Conclusion: Lactofem oral capsule could improve the participants’ Nugent scores, but caused no change in Lactobacillus colonization or vaginal pH.
Functional constipation masked as irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Tosto Monica , D’Andrea Paola , Salamone Ignazio , Pellegrino Salvatore , Costa Stefano , Lucanto Maria Cristina , Pallio Socrate , Magazzu’ Giuseppe , Guandalini Stefano
Published: April 2020

Background

Rome IV criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders state that children suspected of having Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with Constipation (IBS-C) should be preliminarily treated for constipation. We aimed at verifying if functional constipation may indeed lead to an erroneous diagnosis of IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) or IBS with mixed pattern of diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M).

Methods

We prospectively enrolled in an unblinded fashion 10 and 16 consecutive children referred to our center who met Rome IV criteria for a diagnosis of IBS-D and IBS-M, respectively. Patients who fulfilled criteria for suspect “occult constipation” were then given a bowel cleaning regimen with Polyethylene glycol 3350, re-evaluated at 2 months and followed up for at least 6 months. Sixteen additional patients with IBS with Constipation (IBS-C) referred in the same period served as control. The endpoints were: 1) a decrease of more than 50% in abdominal pain intensity and frequency scores; and 2) for patients with IBS-D and IBS-M: resolution of diarrhea.

Results

The endpoints were met by 8 (80%) and 14 (87%) of the patients with IBS-D and IBS-M, respectively, with decrease of abdominal pain and resolution of “diarrhea”. The response was not significantly different from that observed in 15 (93%) of the IBS-C control group.

Conclusion

Acknowledging the limitations of the small number of patients and of the uncontrolled nature of the study, we suggest that a possibly large number of patients labeled as IBS-D or IBS-M may actually simply present functional constipation and should be managed as such.
lncRNA CRNDE promotes the proliferation and metastasis by acting as sponge miR-539-5p to regulate POU2F1 expression in HCC
Authors: Li Zhixi , Wu Gang , Li Jie , Wang Youyu , Ju Xueming , Jiang Wenjun
Published: April 2020

Background

This article focuses on the roles and mechanism of lncRNA CRNDE on the progression of HCC.

Methods

We used qRT-PCR to detect the expression of lncRNA CRNDE in HCC cells, normal cells and clinical tissues. MTT assay, FCM analysis, Transwell migration and invasion assay were used to detect the effects of lncRNA CRNDE on cell viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion of HCC cells. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins Bcl-2, Bax, Cleaved Caspase 3, Cleaved Caspase 9, EMT epithelial marker E-cadherin and mesothelial marker Vimentin were analyzed by Western blot. Online prediction software was used to predict the binding sites between lncRNA CRNDE and miR-539-5p, or miR-539-5p and POU2F1 3’UTR. Dual luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR and RNA pulldown were used to detect target-relationship between lncRNA CRNDE and miR-539-5p. Dual luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, Western blot and Immunofluorescence were used to detect target-relationship between miR-539-5p and POU2F1. qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-539-5p and POU2F1 in clinical tissues. Rescue experiments was used to evaluate the association among lncRNA CRNDE, miR-539-5p and POU2F1. Finally, we used Western blot to detect the effects of lncRNA CRNDE, miR-539-5p and POU2F1 on NF-κB and AKT pathway.

Results

lncRNA CRNDE was highly expressed in HCC cells and HCC tissues compared with normal cells and the corresponding adjacent normal tissues. lncRNA CRNDE promoted the cell viability, migration and invasion of HCC cells, while inhibited the apoptosis and promoted the EMT process of HCC cells. lncRNA CRNDE adsorbed miR-539-5p acts as a competitive endogenous RNA to regulate POU2F1 expression indirectly. In HCC clinical tissues, miR-539-5p expression decreased and POU2F1 increased compared with the corresponding adjacent normal tissues. lncRNA CRNDE/miR-539-5p/POU2-F1 participated the NF-κB and AKT pathway in HCC.

Conclusion

lncRNA CRNDE promotes the expression of POU2F1 by adsorbing miR-539-5p, thus promoting the progression of HCC.
Scleral thinning surgery for bullous retinal detachment with retinal pigment epithelial tear in central serous chorioretinopathy: a case report
Authors: Maggio Emilia , Mete Maurizio , Maraone Giorgia , Arena Fabrizio , Pertile Grazia
Published: April 2020

Background

Bullous serous retinal detachment (RD) with retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) tear is a rare and severe variant of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Due to its atypical presentation, it may raise diagnostic issues, leading to inappropriate therapeutic procedures. The optimum treatment for this CSC variant is still uncertain.

Case presentation

A 65-year-old male was referred for vitreo-retinal surgery with a provisional diagnosis of rhegmatogenous RD in his right eye. Dilated fundus examination showed an inferior bullous RD with no evidence of retinal breaks, while a large RPE tear was detected in the temporal quadrant. Ocular ultrasound showed no mass lesion. The axial length was 23.63 mm. Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) revealed a pachychoroid pattern in both eyes. The patient referred a history of CSC in the right eye and the recent use of intravenous corticosteroids for bronchitis. Laser therapy and photodynamic therapy were not applicable due to the extension and elevation of the RD. Two months after oral treatment with eplerenone, the subretinal fluid increased significantly. The patient underwent two 4 × 4 mm deep lamellar sclerectomies in the inferior quadrants. The surgical treatment resulted in complete RD resolution.

Conclusion

A correct diagnosis of bullous variant of chronic CSC with RPE tear is critical to avoid inappropriate procedures and to prevent severe visual loss as a result of neuroretinal damage. Scleral thinning surgery may be considered a valid option, resulting in rapid and long-lasting resolution of RD.
Vaccination coverage rates and predictors of HPV vaccination among eligible and non-eligible female adolescents at the Brazilian HPV vaccination public program
Authors: Faisal-Cury Alexandre , Levy Renata Bertazzi , Tourinho Maria Fernanda , Grangeiro Alexandre , Eluf-Neto José
Published: April 2020

Background

Since March 2014, the quadrivalent HPV vaccine has been incorporated into the Brazilian Unified Health Care System and began to be offered, without direct costs, for girls from 9 to 13 years of age. Older female adolescents would have the option to be vaccinated at private health care system being responsible for the payment of HPV vaccine. The present study aimed to evaluate the coverage rates and predictors of HPV vaccination in Brazil among two groups of female adolescents: eligible and non-eligible for the HPV vaccination public program.

Methods

We used data from the 2015 Brazilian National Adolescent School-Based Health Survey, which involved a probabilistic sample of 5404 female adolescents students at public and private schools. Using a questionnaire, we gathered information on sociodemographic characteristics, sexual behavior, and respondent perception of parental supervision and have been vaccinated for HPV. Age-specific vaccination rates were analyzed in girls aged 9 to 13 at the time of public vaccination (eligible for public policy), as well among those 14 to 17 years old not eligible by the Ministry of Health for vaccination. We used Poisson regression models to investigate associated factors.

Results

HPV vaccine coverage was 83.5 and 21.8% among eligible and non-eligible populations, respectively. In both populations, the chance of being vaccinated decreased with older age. In the eligible population there is a greater chance of being vaccinated among ethnic group “pardas” but not with other indicators of socioeconomic status. In the non-eligible population, there was a clear association between higher vaccine coverage and greater maternal education and living with the mother.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of public policies to minimize inequities in access to cancer prevention measures in vulnerable adolescents. A public policy of HPV vaccination for older female adolescents would increase coverage with possible reduction of HPV-related diseases in this group of women.
Words matter: the prevalence of chiropractic-specific terminology on Australian chiropractors’ websites
Authors: Young Kenneth J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Chiropractors use words and phrases in unique ways to express traditional, chiropractic-specific theories. This lexicon represents concepts that reinforce the separation of chiropractic from other health care professions. It may impact referrals both to and from chiropractors, lead to public confusion about health care issues, and reduce cross-disciplinary research. Therefore, it is important to understand how prevalent chiropractic-specific terms are in publicly available media.

Methods

Five chiropractic terms were selected: subluxation, adjustment, vital (−ism/−istic), wellness, and Innate (Intelligence). States and territories in Australia were proportionately sampled according to population of chiropractors using a Google search for chiropractors’ private practice websites. The top results were recorded. Websites were word-searched on every publicly available page for the five terms. Context was checked to count only terms that were used to support a chiropractic-specific concepts. The number of occurrences of each term was recorded, tallied nationally and by state/territory. Descriptive statistics were applied to determine prevalence.

Results

Three hundred sixty-nine websites were sampled, based on an estimate of 5500 chiropractors practising in Australia. Nationally, 85% of chiropractors used one or more terms. The term adjust (−ing/−ment) occurred most frequently, being found on 283 websites (77%) with a total of 2249 occurrences. Wellness was found on 199 websites (54%) with 872 occurrences; subluxation was found on 104 websites (28%), 489 occurrences; vital (−ism/−istic) on 71 websites (19%) with 158 occurrences; and Innate was least used, being found on 39 websites (11%) with 137 occurrences.

Conclusion

A majority of the Australian chiropractors sampled used one or more chiropractic-specific terms on their websites. Future research should explore the effects of chiropractic language on the public, policy-makers, and other health care professionals.
mRNAs biomarker related to the control of proliferation and cell death in HepG2/C3A spheroid and monolayer cultures treated with piperlongumine
Authors: Biazi Bruna Isabela , Zanetti Thalita Alves , Marques Lilian Areal , Baranoski Adrivanio , Coatti Giuliana Castello , Mantovani Mário Sérgio
Published: April 2020

Background

Cell culture (spheroid and 2D monolayer cultures) is an essential tool in drug discovery. Piperlongumine (PLN), a naturally occurring alkaloid present in the long pepper (Piper longum), has been implicated in the regulation of GSTP1 activity. In vitro treatment of cancer cells with PLN increases ROS (reactive oxygen species) levels and induces cell death, but its molecular mode of action has not been entirely elucidated.

Methods

In this study, we correlated the antiproliferative effects (2D and 3D cultures) of PLN (CAS 20069–09-4, Sigma-Aldrich) with morphological and molecular analyses in HepG2/C3A cell line. We performed assays for cytotoxicity (MTT), comet assays for genotoxicity, induction of apoptosis, analysis of the cell cycle phase, and analysis of the membrane integrity by flow cytometry. Relative expression of mRNA of genes related to proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle control, metabolism of xenobiotics, and reticulum endoplasmic stress.

Results

PLN reduced the cell proliferation by the cell cycle arrest in G2/M. Changes in the mRNA expression for CDKN1A (4.9x) and CCNA2 (0.5x) of cell cycle control genes were observed. Cell death occurred due to apoptosis, which may have been induced by increased expression of proapoptotic mRNAs (BAK1, 3.1x; BBC3, 2.4x), and by an increase in 9 and 3/7 active caspases. PLN induced cellular injury by ROS generation and DNA damage. DNA damage induced MDM2 signaling (3.0x) associated with the appearance of the monastral spindle in mitosis. Genes associated with ROS degradation also showed increased mRNA expression (GSR, 2.0x; SOD1, 2.1x). PLN induce endoplasmic reticulum stress with the increase in the mRNA expression of ERN1 (4.5x) and HSPA14 (2.2x). The xenobiotic metabolism showed increased mRNA expression for CYP1A2 (2.2x) and CYP3A4 (3.4x). In addition to 2D culture, PLN treatment also inhibited the growth of 3D culture (spheroids).

Conclusion

Thus, the findings of our study show that several gene expression biomarkers (mRNAs) and monastral spindle formation indicated the many pathways of damage induced by PLN treatment that contributes to its antiproliferative effects.

Graphical abstract