bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrastructure and Innovation: Emerging Priorities of EU and Chinese Aid in Africa
Authors: Ampwera Meshach
Published: July 2020

The international development cooperation system has long revolved around the notion of a North-South divide and reflected much of the systemic imbalances in global economic relations. It aimed mostly at increasing official development assistance rather than tackling other key development issues like priority infrastructure and innovation capacity. Over the past decade, Africa has experienced rapid growth and rising global prominence, which has profound implications for global development cooperation on the continent. The European Union and China, two major contributors to African development, have increasingly felt the need to put infrastructure development and innovation capacity at the core of their aid policies toward Africa. Recently, important factors, such as growing competition within the international development cooperation regime, search for new markets, increasing role of regional regimes, persistent poverty, the need to stabilize the world economy, and the responsibility to support international peace and stability are shaping Europe’s and China’s aid policies toward Africa. Priority infrastructure like highways, railways, energy, and technological innovation in pillar sectors such as agriculture and textile have been prioritized in Africa’s development cooperation with China and Europe. Although Brussels and Beijing have maintained a visible level of traditional development cooperation policies, this new form of cooperation is causing an embryonic policy shift from aid to investment within their development and cooperation policies.
Developing an optimized artificial intelligence model for S&P 500 option pricing: A hybrid GARCH model
Authors: Hajizadeh Ehsan
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we propose two hybrid models to release some limitations and enhancement of the results. In this regard, three popular GARCH-type models are utilized for more accurate estimating of volatility, as the most important parameter for option pricing. Furthermore, the two non-parametric models based on Artificial Neural Networks and Neuro-Fuzzy Networks tuned by Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm are proposed to price call options for the S&P 500 index. By comparing the results obtained using these models, we conclude that both Neural Network and Neuro-Fuzzy Network models outperform the Black–Scholes model.
Pricing kernel factorization and recovery theorem
Authors: Diffouo Pauline M. Ngugnie , Noupoue Yves Y. Yameni
Published: July 2020

Recently, Ross proposed an idea, now known as the “Recovery Theorem,” that asserts that the real (physical) probability measure can be recovered from the market prices of derivatives. This work has generated a great deal of controversy in the finance literature. The purpose of this paper is to revisit the core idea of the recovery theorem and to examine its implications. In particular, issues concerning the so-called factorization of the pricing kernel will be examined from the viewpoint of the Flesaker–Hughston representation.
Impact of cashless policy on bank’s profitability: Evidence from a developing economy
Authors: Moudud-Ul-Huq Syed , Hossain Sk Alamgir
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates the relationship between e-banking and commercial bank performance in Bangladesh. A five-year aggregate quarterly commercial bank data as provided by Payment System Department of Central Bank of Bangladesh was used in this study. A multiple regression procedure was used to determine the significance of the relationship between the independent variables (electronic banking indicators) and the profitability measures of return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE) as the dependent variables. The findings were that only IB was statistically significant at 0.01% level under both ROA and ROE models with p-values of 0.0000 and 0.0000, respectively. However, the predictive power of ROE was found to be higher than ROA using adjusted r-square and d-statistic. Some of the other variables (POS, CHQ) were also statistically significant ([Formula: see text]) and the rest of variables had mixed result. The results show that at an aggregate level, commercial banks in Bangladesh widely use the traditional banking methods such as use of cheques. The results are expected to inform bank managers on the need to discover the optimal supply of electronic banking services such as MOB, EFT and ATM payment systems in order to improve bank profitability. This study will further inform policy makers on the need to improve on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in order to cater for optimal use of electronic banking service in Bangladesh.
How to excite reader interest
Authors: Yaffe Philip
Published: July 2020

Each "Communication Corner" essay is self-contained; however, they build on each other. For best results, before reading this essay and doing the exercise, go to the first essay "How an Ugly Duckling Became a Swan," then read each succeeding essay.

Unless under duress, such as a school assignment or work assignment, people will read only what they want to. However, many will read at least the first couple lines before saying yes or no. Here are five techniques that greatly increase the chances they will say yes.
The Comparative Politics of Collective Memory
Authors: Zubrzycki Geneviève , Woźny Anna
Published: July 2020

This article examines the theoretical and empirical contributions of the interdisciplinary field of memory studies for a comparative sociology of collective memory and politics. We identify three major empirical foci that have structured the scholarship: the role of collective memory in the creation, legitimation, and maintenance of national identities and nation-states; political reckoning with the memory of difficult and violent pasts; and the ongoing transnationalization of collective memory. We conclude with suggestions for future research on the politics of memory given the rise of populism and so-called fake news.
Why Sociology Matters to Race and Biosocial Science
Authors: Roberts Dorothy E. , Rollins Oliver
Published: July 2020

Recent developments in genetics and neuroscience have led to increasing interest in biosocial approaches to social life. While today's biosocial paradigms seek to examine more fully the inextricable relationships between the biological and the social, they have also renewed concerns about the scientific study of race. Our review describes the innovative ways sociologists have designed biosocial models to capture embodied impacts of racism, but also analyzes the potential for these models normatively to reinforce existing racial inequities. First, we examine how concepts and measurements of difference in the postgenomic era have affected scientific knowledges and social practices of racial identity. Next, we assess sociological investigations of racial inequality in the biosocial era, including the implications of the biological disciplines’ move to embrace the social. We conclude with a discussion of the growing interest in social algorithms and their potential to embed past racial injustices in their predictions of the future.
Influence of joint angle on muscle fascicle dynamics and rate of torque development during isometric explosive contractions
Authors: Hager Robin , Poulard Thomas , Nordez Antoine , Dorel Sylvain , Guilhem Gaël
Published: July 2020

Ankle angle influences the operating muscle fascicle lengths of gastrocnemius medialis and the rate of torque development during explosive isometric plantar flexions. The rate of torque development peaks in neutral angles where muscle fascicles shorten over the plateau of the force-length relationship. When fascicles operate over the plateau of the force-length relationship (neutral ankle positions), the force-velocity properties represent a limiting factor for the rapid force-generating capacity from 100 ms after the onset of explosive contractions.
Relationship between maximal aerobic power with aerobic fitness as a function of signal-to-noise ratio
Authors: Beltrame Thomas , Gois Mariana Oliveira , Hoffmann Uwe , Koschate Jessica , Hughson Richard Lee , Moraes Frade Maria Cecília , Linares Stephanie Nogueira , da Silva Torres Ricardo , Catai Aparecida Maria
Published: July 2020

Optimized methods for cardiorespiratory health evaluation are of great interest for public health. Moderate exercise protocols might be as good as maximum exertion exercise protocols to evaluate cardiorespiratory health. Pseudorandom or constant workload moderate exercise can be used to evaluate cardiorespiratory health.
Endurance test selection optimized via sample size predictions
Authors: Salgado Roy M. , Caldwell Aaron R. , Coffman Kirsten E. , Cheuvront Samuel N. , Kenefick Robert W.
Published: July 2020

This is the first investigation to utilize time-trial (TT) data from previous studies in simulations to estimate statistical power. We developed an easy-to-use decision aid detailing the required sample size needed to detect a given change in TT performance for the purpose of test selection. Furthermore, our detailed methods can be applied to any scenario in which there is an impact of a stressor and the desire to detect a treatment effect.
Intracellular activity of pharyngeal motoneurons during breathing, swallowing, and coughing
Authors: Umezaki Toshiro , Shiba Keisuke , Sugiyama Yoichiro
Published: July 2020

We have provided the first demonstration of the multifunctional activity of the pharyngeal motoneurons at the level of membrane potential during respiration, swallowing, and coughing.
Frequency-separated principal component analysis of cortical population activity
Authors: Thivierge Jean-Philippe
Published: July 2020

A method termed frequency-separated principal component analysis (FS-PCA) is introduced for analyzing populations of simultaneously recorded neurons. This framework extends standard principal component analysis by extracting components of activity delimited to specific frequency bands. FS-PCA revealed that circuits of the primary visual cortex generate a broad range of components dominated by low-frequency activity. Furthermore, low-dimensional fluctuations in population activity modulated the response of individual neurons to sensory input.
Components of complex movement that can be best studied using the sequence learning paradigm
Authors: Babu Reshma
Published: July 2020

The sequence learning paradigm has been used extensively to study motor skill acquisition. Skilled movement involves combining smaller elements of the movement in a particular order with certain timing; in sequence learning these are typically button presses, but other motor skills may include more complex elements. This paper reviews recent evidence suggesting the sequence learning paradigm can be used to understand how the brain abstractly represents the ordering of discrete actions in a complex movement.
Effect of Used Motor Oil and Bitumen as Additive on the Permeability and Mechanical Properties of Low Plastic Soil
Authors: Iqbal Kamran , Xu Chengshun , Nasir Hassan , Alam Muhammad , Farooq Asim , Williams Edward J.
Published: July 2020

Stability of permeable soils near large‐scale water reservoirs for paved and unpaved road pavements is all too frequently compromised due to excessive seepage and the climatic conditions of that area. In this research, a multilevel research approach was adopted by conducting a comparative study of the microspectroscopy through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra to investigate the maximum absorbance correlation along with mechanical investigations (such as the compressive strength, modified proctor test, California bearing ratio test, and swell percentage test). The native low plastic soil sample (CL) was blended with varying percentages of petroleum additives (bitumen and used motor oil) independently at 0%, 4%, 8%, 12%, 16%, and 20%. A comparison of results in the case of bitumen and used motor oil revealed that a decrease in Atterberg’s limits occurred accompanied by an increase of bitumen blending percentage, while used motor oil (UMO) increased the plastic limit. Maximum dry density (MDD) increases while optimum moisture content (OMC) decreases with the increase in bitumen. Used motor oil (UMO) initially (up to 4%) increased the MDD and subsequently decreased it. Investigative reports show that bitumen causes a decrease in swell percentage and increases California bearing ratio (CBR), whereas UMO causes a continuous increase in percentage swell and decrease in CBR. The addition of bitumen in soil resulted in a decrease in the coefficient of permeability (k), while UMO has a significant result of up to 4%. Regarding the control sample, spectrum analysis through FTIR effectively supports the laboratory results as the intensity of peaks increases with the oil, and bitumen concentration reveals that oil and bitumen impart cementitious property to the soil. Moreover, this research work by experiment supported and strengthened the idea of soil pavement stabilization through bitumen, which gives antiwater stability, and facilitates low‐cost construction by obtaining raw material on the spot. UMO adversely affects soil properties beyond 4% addition by weight.
Effect of Electroacupuncture versus Sham Electroacupuncture in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wang Qi , Lv Hui , Sun Zhao-Tian , Tu Jian-Feng , Feng Yong-Wei , Wang Tian-Qi , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: July 2020

Objective. To explore the feasibility of evaluating the effectiveness and safety of electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Method. A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted at a teaching hospital in Beijing. A total of 30 patients with KOA (Kellgren grade II or III) were randomly allocated to an eight‐week treatment of either electroacupuncture or sham electroacupuncture. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. The primary outcome was the proportion of responders achieving at least 1.14 seconds decrease in the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) at week eight compared with baseline. The secondary outcomes included the knee range of motion, the knee extensor and flexor muscle strength, Lequesne index, 9‐step stair‐climb test (9‐SCT), and TUG. Results. Of 30 patients allocated to two groups, 27 (90%) completed the study. The proportion of responders was 53.3% (8 of 15) for electroacupuncture group and 26.7% (4 of 15) for sham electroacupuncture group by the intention‐to‐treat analysis (P = 0.264). There was no statistically significant difference in TUG between the two groups at eight weeks (P = 0.856). The compliance rate measured according to patients who conformed to the protocol and had received treatments ≥20 times was 93.3% (28 of 30). The dropout rate was 20% (3 of 15). Adverse effects were not reported in the study. Conclusion. Our research demonstrated that further evaluation of the effectiveness of electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture was feasible and safe for patients with KOA. Whether or not the electroacupuncture can improve the physical functions of knee joint, expand the knee range of motion, and increase the extensor and flexor muscle strength more significantly than sham electroacupuncture, future studies can be designed with larger sample size, randomization design and less biases. This trial is registered with NCT03366363.
Ablation of the Brca1–Palb2 Interaction Phenocopies Fanconi Anemia in Mice
Authors: Park Dongju , Bergin Stephen M. , Jones Dan , Ru Peng , Koivisto Christopher S. , Jeon Young-Jun , Sizemore Gina M. , Kladney Raleigh D. , Hadjis Ashley , Shakya Reena , Ludwig Thomas
Published: July 2020

Heterozygous mutations in the BRCA1 gene predispose women to breast and ovarian cancer, while biallelic BRCA1 mutations are a cause of Fanconi anemia (FA), a rare genetic disorder characterized by developmental abnormalities, early-onset bone marrow failure, increased risk of cancers, and hypersensitivity to DNA-crosslinking agents. BRCA1 is critical for homologous recombination of DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). Through its coiled-coil domain, BRCA1 interacts with an essential partner, PALB2, recruiting BRCA2 and RAD51 to sites of DNA damage. Missense mutations within the coiled-coil domain of BRCA1 (e.g., L1407P) that affect the interaction with PALB2 have been reported in familial breast cancer. We hypothesized that if PALB2 regulates or mediates BRCA1 tumor suppressor function, ablation of the BRCA1–PALB2 interaction may also elicit genomic instability and tumor susceptibility. We generated mice defective for the Brca1–Palb2 interaction (Brca1 L1363P in mice) and established MEF cells from these mice. Brca1L1363P/L1363P MEF exhibited hypersensitivity to DNA-damaging agents and failed to recruit Rad51 to DSB. Brca1L1363P/L1363P mice were viable but exhibited various FA symptoms including growth retardation, hyperpigmentation, skeletal abnormalities, and male/female infertility. Furthermore, all Brca1L1363P/L1363P mice exhibited macrocytosis and died due to bone marrow failure or lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia with activating Notch1 mutations. These phenotypes closely recapitulate clinical features observed in patients with FA. Collectively, this model effectively demonstrates the significance of the BRCA1–PALB2 interaction in genome integrity and provides an FA model to investigate hematopoietic stem cells for mechanisms underlying progressive failure of hematopoiesis and associated development of leukemia/lymphoma, and other FA phenotypes.

Significance:

A new Brca1 mouse model for Fanconi anemia (FA) complementation group S provides a system in which to study phenotypes observed in human FA patients including bone marrow failure.

See related commentary by Her and Bunting, p. 4044
Ovarian Cancer Risk Factor Associations by Primary Anatomic Site: The Ovarian Cancer Cohort Consortium
Authors: Fortner Renée T. , Rice Megan S. , Knutsen Synnove F. , Orlich Michael J. , Visvanathan Kala , Patel Alpa V. , Gaudet Mia M. , Tjønneland Anne , Kvaskoff Marina , Kaaks Rudolf , Trichopolou Antonia , Pala Valeria , Onland-Moret N. Charlotte , Gram Inger T. , Amiano Pilar , Idahl Annika , Allen Naomi E. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Poynter Jenny N. , Robien Kim , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Setiawan Veronica W. , Merritt Melissa A. , van den Brandt Piet A. , Zeleniuch-Jacquotte Anne , Arslan Alan A. , O'Brien Katie M. , Sandler Dale P. , Wolk Alicja , Håkansson Niclas , Harris Holly R. , Trabert Britton , Wentzensen Nicolas , Tworoger Shelley S. , Schouten Leo J.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers have shared developmental pathways. Few studies have prospectively examined heterogeneity in risk factor associations across these three anatomic sites.

Methods:

We identified 3,738 ovarian, 337 peritoneal, and 176 fallopian tube incident cancer cases in 891,731 women from 15 prospective cohorts in the Ovarian Cancer Cohort Consortium. Associations between 18 putative risk factors and risk of ovarian, peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancer, overall and for serous and high-grade serous tumors, were evaluated using competing risks Cox proportional hazards regression. Heterogeneity was assessed by likelihood ratio tests.

Results:

Most associations did not vary by tumor site (Phet ≥ 0.05). Associations between first pregnancy (Phet = 0.04), tubal ligation (Phet = 0.01), and early-adult (age 18–21 years) body mass index (BMI; Phet = 0.02) and risk differed between ovarian and peritoneal cancers. The association between early-adult BMI and risk further differed between peritoneal and fallopian tube cancer (Phet = 0.03). First pregnancy and tubal ligation were inversely associated with ovarian, but not peritoneal, cancer. Higher early-adult BMI was associated with higher risk of peritoneal, but not ovarian or fallopian tube, cancer. Patterns were generally similar when restricted to serous and high-grade serous cases.

Conclusions:

Ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers appear to have both shared and distinct etiologic pathways, although most risk factors appear to have similar associations by anatomic site.

Impact:

Further studies on the mechanisms underlying the differences in risk profiles may provide insights regarding the developmental origins of tumors arising in the peritoneal cavity and inform prevention efforts.
Pathway Analysis of Renal Cell Carcinoma Genome-Wide Association Studies Identifies Novel Associations
Authors: Purdue Mark P. , Song Lei , Scélo Ghislaine , Houlston Richard S. , Wu Xifeng , Sakoda Lori C. , Thai Khanh , Graff Rebecca E. , Rothman Nathaniel , Brennan Paul , Chanock Stephen J. , Yu Kai
Published: July 2020

Background:

Much of the heritable risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) associated with common genetic variation is unexplained. New analytic approaches have been developed to increase the discovery of risk variants in genome-wide association studies (GWAS), including multi-locus testing through pathway analysis.

Methods:

We conducted a pathway analysis using GWAS summary data from six previous scans (10,784 cases and 20,406 controls) and evaluated 3,678 pathways and gene sets drawn from the Molecular Signatures Database. To replicate findings, we analyzed GWAS summary data from the UK Biobank (903 cases and 451,361 controls) and the Genetic Epidemiology Research on Adult Health and Aging cohort (317 cases and 50,511 controls).

Results:

We identified 14 pathways/gene sets associated with RCC in both the discovery (P < 1.36 × 10−5, the Bonferroni correction threshold) and replication (P < 0.05) sets, 10 of which include components of the PI3K/AKT pathway. In tests across 2,035 genes in these pathways, associations (Bonferroni corrected P < 2.46 × 10−5 in discovery and replication sets combined) were observed for CASP9, TIPIN, and CDKN2C. The strongest SNP signal was for rs12124078 (PDiscovery = 2.6 × 10−5; PReplication = 1.5 × 10−4; PCombined = 6.9 × 10−8), a CASP9 expression quantitative trait locus.

Conclusions:

Our pathway analysis implicates genetic variation within the PI3K/AKT pathway as a source of RCC heritability and identifies several promising novel susceptibility genes, including CASP9, which warrant further investigation.

Impact:

Our findings illustrate the value of pathway analysis as a complementary approach to analyzing GWAS data.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Ovarian Cancer Risk: Results from the Multiethnic Cohort Study
Authors: Sarink Danja , Wu Anna H. , Le Marchand Loïc , White Kami K. , Park Song-Yi , Setiawan V. Wendy , Hernandez Brenda Y. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Merritt Melissa A.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Incidence rates of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) vary across racial/ethnic groups, yet little is known about the impact of hormone-related EOC risk factors in non-Whites.

Methods:

Among 91,625 female Multiethnic Cohort Study participants, 155 incident EOC cases were diagnosed in Whites, 93 in African Americans, 57 in Native Hawaiians, 161 in Japanese Americans, and 141 in Latinas. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between race/ethnicity and EOC risk and between hormone-related factors and EOC risk across racial/ethnic groups.

Results:

Compared with Whites, African Americans and Japanese Americans had a lower multivariable-adjusted EOC risk; Native Hawaiians had a suggestive higher risk. Parity and oral contraceptive (OC) use were inversely associated with EOC risk (Pint race/ethnicity ≥ 0.43); associations were strongest among Japanese Americans (e.g., ≥4 vs. 0 children; HR = 0.45; CI, 0.26–0.79). Age at natural menopause and postmenopausal hormone (PMH) use were not associated with EOC risk in the overall population, but were positively associated with risk in Latinas (e.g., ≥5 years vs. never PMH use; HR = 2.13; CI, 1.30–3.49).

Conclusions:

We observed strong associations with EOC risk for parity and OC use in Japanese Americans and PMH use and age at natural menopause in Latinas. However, differences in EOC risk among racial/ethnic groups were not fully explained by established hormone-related risk factors.

Impact:

Our study indicates there are racial/ethnic differences in EOC risk and risk factors, and could help improve prevention strategies for non-White women.
Stimulation of Oncogene-Specific Tumor-Infiltrating T Cells through Combined Vaccine and αPD-1 Enable Sustained Antitumor Responses against Established HER2 Breast Cancer
Authors: Crosby Erika J. , Acharya Chaitanya R. , Haddad Anthony-Fayez , Rabiola Christopher A. , Lei Gangjun , Wei Jun-Ping , Yang Xiao-Yi , Wang Tao , Liu Cong-Xiao , Wagner Kay U. , Muller William J. , Chodosh Lewis A. , Broadwater Gloria , Hyslop Terry , Shepherd Jonathan H. , Hollern Daniel P. , He Xiaping , Perou Charles M. , Chai Shengjie , Ashby Benjamin K. , Vincent Benjamin G. , Snyder Joshua C. , Force Jeremy , Morse Michael A. , Lyerly Herbert K. , Hartman Zachary C.
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

Despite promising advances in breast cancer immunotherapy, augmenting T-cell infiltration has remained a significant challenge. Although neither individual vaccines nor immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) have had broad success as monotherapies, we hypothesized that targeted vaccination against an oncogenic driver in combination with ICB could direct and enable antitumor immunity in advanced cancers.

Experimental Design:

Our models of HER2+ breast cancer exhibit molecular signatures that are reflective of advanced human HER2+ breast cancer, with a small numbers of neoepitopes and elevated immunosuppressive markers. Using these, we vaccinated against the oncogenic HER2Δ16 isoform, a nondriver tumor-associated gene (GFP), and specific neoepitopes. We further tested the effect of vaccination or anti–PD-1, alone and in combination.

Results:

We found that only vaccination targeting HER2Δ16, a driver of oncogenicity and HER2-therapeutic resistance, could elicit significant antitumor responses, while vaccines targeting a nondriver tumor-specific antigen or tumor neoepitopes did not. Vaccine-induced HER2-specific CD8+ T cells were essential for responses, which were more effective early in tumor development. Long-term tumor control of advanced cancers occurred only when HER2Δ16 vaccination was combined with αPD-1. Single-cell RNA sequencing of tumor-infiltrating T cells revealed that while vaccination expanded CD8 T cells, only the combination of vaccine with αPD-1 induced functional gene expression signatures in those CD8 T cells. Furthermore, we show that expanded clones are HER2-reactive, conclusively demonstrating the efficacy of this vaccination strategy in targeting HER2.

Conclusions:

Combining oncogenic driver targeted vaccines with selective ICB offers a rational paradigm for precision immunotherapy, which we are clinically evaluating in a phase II trial (NCT03632941).
X- and Y-Linked Chromatin-Modifying Genes as Regulators of Sex-Specific Cancer Incidence and Prognosis
Authors: Tricarico Rossella , Nicolas Emmanuelle , Hall Michael J. , Golemis Erica A.
Published: July 2020

Biological sex profoundly conditions organismal development and physiology, imposing wide-ranging effects on cell signaling, metabolism, and immune response. These effects arise from sex-specified differences in hormonal exposure, and from intrinsic genetic and epigenetic differences associated with the presence of an XX versus XY chromosomal complement. In addition, biological sex is now recognized to be a determinant of the incidence, presentation, and therapeutic response of multiple forms of cancer, including cancers not specifically associated with male or female anatomy. Although multiple factors contribute to sex-based differences in cancer, a growing body of research emphasizes a role for differential activity of X- and Y-linked tumor-suppressor genes in males and females. Among these, the X-linked KDM6A/UTX and KDM5C/JARID1C/SMCX, and their Y-linked paralogs UTY/KDM6C and KDM5D/JARID1D/SMCY encode lysine demethylases. These epigenetic modulators profoundly influence gene expression, based on enzymatic activity in demethylating H3K27me3 and H3K4me3, and nonenzymatic scaffolding roles for large complexes that open and close chromatin for transcription. In a growing number of cases, mutations affecting these proteins have been recognized to strongly influence cancer risk, prognosis, and response to specific therapies. However, sex-specific patterns of mutation, expression, and activity of these genes, coupled with tissue-specific requirement for their function as tumor suppressors, together exemplify the complex relationship between sex and cancer vulnerabilities. In this review, we summarize and discuss the current state of the literature on the roles of these proteins in contributing to sex bias in cancer, and the status of clinical agents relevant to their function.
Primary Pleural Extranodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma Presenting as Bilateral Chylothorax
Authors: Paul Thushara , Yadav Dhiraj Kumar , Alhamar Mohamed , Dabak Vrushali
Published: July 2020

Here we describe a case of pleural extranodal marginal zone lymphoma presenting as bilateral chylothorax which has not been reported in the literature prior to this. Primary pleural lymphomas are a rare entity most commonly associated with chronic infections, autoimmune conditions or long-standing pyothorax which were not seen in this case. Chylous pleural effusions in this patient were successfully managed with chemotherapy for the underlying lymphoma.
Diarrhea as an Initial Presentation in Patients with Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Delaying the Diagnosis
Authors: Shakir Mohamed K.M. , Spiro Andrew J. , Mai Vinh Q. , Hoang Thanh D.
Published: July 2020

Tumoral secretion of various molecular factors, such as calcitonin (Ct), can cause diarrhea in patients with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). We report 3 patients (age 26–38 years, serum Ct levels ranging from 2,890 to 52,894 ng/L) with chronic diarrhea, and the diagnosis of MTC was delayed. Diarrheal symptoms improved after thyroid surgery. Two patients with elevated Ct had no diarrhea. The link between tumor humoral secretion and diarrhea is not well established in patients with MTC. Diarrhea is more common in patients with metastatic disease and improves after resection of the tumor. Diarrhea may result from elevated circulating levels of Ct or other substances, such as prostaglandins or serotonin. Other proposed mechanisms include decreased absorption in the colon secondary to gastrointestinal motor disturbances. In conclusion, MTC should be considered when evaluating chronic diarrhea.
Recurrence of Noninvasive Perianal Extramammary Paget’s Disease in the Lymph Nodes without Local Recurrence after Complete Excision
Authors: Maeda Yoshiaki , Minagawa Nozomi , Koyama Ryota , Kobayashi Tadayuki , Saito Akira , Shinohara Toshiki
Published: July 2020

Primary extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) is a rare intraepithelial adenocarcinoma. Lymph node metastasis from noninvasive EMPD originating in the anorectal region is extremely rare, and the recurrence of noninvasive EMPD is commonly associated with local recurrence mainly due to an insufficient resection margin. We herein report a case of inguinal and para-aortic lymph node recurrence without local recurrence after complete margin-free surgical resection of noninvasive perianal EMPD. The patient was a man in his 40s who presented with an erythematous plaque of 7 × 5 cm in the perianal region, which had been present for 1 year. Biopsy from the perianal skin suggested EMPD; it was positive for cytokeratin (CK)7 and negative for CK20. Underlying malignancy was ruled out based on whole-body enhanced computed tomography (CT) and total colonoscopy. Surgery including complete wide resection of the lesion with preservation of the rectum was performed, and VY-advancement flap reconstruction and flap-rectum anastomosis were performed. A histological examination of the whole specimen with 5-mm slices confirmed noninvasive EMPD resected with all-negative surgical margins. At 2 years and 6 months after surgery, however, enlargement of the inguinal and para-aortic lymph nodes was detected by follow-up enhanced CT, and the recurrence of EMPD was diagnosed based on left inguinal lymph node biopsy. The patient underwent chemotherapy without a remarkable response. He died of the disease 53 months after the first surgery. This is the first case report of lymph node metastasis without local recurrence after complete margin-free resection of noninvasive perianal EMPD.
Influence of Induction Therapy on Robot-Assisted McKeown Esophagectomy for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Duan Xiaofeng , Gong Lei , Yue Jie , Shang Xiaobin , Ma Zhao , Tang Peng , Chen Chuangui , Jiang Hongjing , Yu Zhentao
Published: July 2020

Background: The present study was to investigate the influence of induction therapy on robot-assisted McKeown esophagectomy (RAME) with radical superior mediastinal lymph node dissection for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in a high-volume cancer center. Methods: A consecutive patient cohort who underwent RAME from January 2017 to May 2019 were reviewed. The perioperative outcomes of patients with induction therapy were compared with those who had surgery alone. Results: In total, 118 patients underwent RAME during the study period. The average age was 59.1 ± 7.5 years, including 100 male and 18 female patients. Thirty patients (25.4%) had induction therapy, and 88 patients did not receive induction therapy. The average age of the patients treated with induction therapy was younger than those received surgery alone (56.8 ± 6.1 vs. 59.5 ± 7.6 years, p = 0.039). There were no statistically significant differences in the mean operative time and estimated blood loss between both groups. Complications occurred in 46 (39.0%) patients. There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of any complications between both groups (p = 0.951). There were no deaths in either group. The hospital stay was prolonged in patients with induction therapy than those in the surgery-alone group (20.8 ± 8.9 vs. 16.8 ± 6.0, p = 0.048). There was no statistically significant difference in the average number of dissected lymph nodes in total and both recurrent laryngeal nerve stations between both groups. Conclusion: For patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, induction therapy has no influence on RAME with radical superior mediastinal lymph node dissection.
Safety and Efficacy of Tirofiban in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Receiving Endovascular Treatment: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fu Zhiyong , Xu Chuanli , Liu Xin , Wang Zhengze , Gao Lianbo
Published: July 2020

Objectives: Tirofiban is widely used in clinical practice for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, whether tirofiban increases the bleeding risk or improves the outcome of AIS patients with endovascular treatment (ET) is unknown. The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of tirofiban compared with those without tirofiban in AIS patients receiving ET. Methods: Systematic literature search was done in PubMed and EMBASE databases without language or time limitation. Safety outcomes were symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and mortality. Efficacy outcomes were recanalization rate and favorable functional outcome. Review Manager 5.3 and Stata Software Package 15.0 were used to perform the meta-analysis. Results: Eleven studies with a total of 2,028 patients were included. A total of 704 (34.7%) patients were administrated tirofiban combined with ET. Meta-analysis suggested that tirofiban did not increase the risk of sICH (odds ratio (OR) 1.08; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81–1.46; p = 0.59) but significantly decreased mortality (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.52–0.89; p = 0.005). There was no association between tirofiban and recanalization rate (OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.86–1.82; p = 0.23) or favorable functional outcome (OR 1.21; 95% CI 0.88–1.68; p = 0.24). Subgroup analyses indicated that preoperative tirofiban significantly increase recanalization rate (OR 3.89; 95% CI 1.70–8.93; p = 0.001) and improve favorable functional outcome (OR 2.30; 95% CI 1.15–4.60; p = 0.02). Conclusions: Tirofiban is safe in AIS patients with ET and can significantly reduce mortality; preoperative tirofiban may be effective, but further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy.
COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akhtar Hubba , Patel Chandni , Abuelgasim Eyad , Harky Amer
Published: July 2020

Introduction: To review published studies related to the association of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections with pregnancy, foetal, and neonatal outcomes during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in a systematic manner. Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was done through PubMed, Scopus, Medline, Cochrane database, and Google Scholar from December 01, 2019, to May 22, 2020, along with the reference list of all included studies. All cohort studies that reported on outcomes of COVID-19 during pregnancy were included. Qualitative assessment of included studies was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Results: Upon admission, most pregnant women underwent a low-dose radiation CT scan; the reports of which included unilateral/bilateral pneumonia in most patients. A marked lymphopenia was also noted in many patients with COVID-19. 513 titles were screened, and 22 studies were included, which identified 156 pregnant women with COVID-19 and 108 neonatal outcomes. The most common maternal/foetal complications included intrauterine/foetal distress (14%) and premature rupture of membranes (8%). The neonatal clinical manifestations of COVID-19 commonly included shortness of breath (6%), gastrointestinal symptoms (4%), and fever (3%). Conclusion: COVID-19 infection in pregnancy leads to increased risk in pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, PPROM, and may possibly lead to maternal death in rare cases. There is no evidence to support vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection to the unborn child. Due to a paucity of inconsistent data regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the newborn, caution should be undertaken to further investigate and monitor possible infection in the neonates born to COVID-19-infected mothers.
Kidney Autotransplantation in a 78-Year-Old Man with Proximal Ureteral Urothelial Carcinoma after Living Donor Nephrectomy
Authors: Wacker Caroline , Schiffer Mario , Richterstetter Mario , Opgenoorth Mirian , Apel Hendrik
Published: July 2020

Six years after living donor nephrectomy to his daughter, the 78-year-old donor presented to the emergency room with anuria for approximately 12 h. Only arterial hypertension, mildly reduced kidney function (eGFR 54 mL/min), and benign prostatic hyperplasia were known as preexisting medical conditions. In sonography, hydronephrosis III° was visible in the right single kidney. Ureterorenoscopy revealed an occlusive tumor in the right proximal ureter, which was treated via double J stent. Biopsy showed focal invasive papillary urothelial carcinoma of G2 high grade. Preoperative staging did not show any signs of lymph node or distant metastases. For therapeutic options, nephroureterectomy with consecutive need for dialysis was discussed versus partial ureteral resection with in situ ureteral reconstruction versus nephroureterectomy with partial ureteral resection and kidney autotransplantation. Eventually, laparoscopic right nephroureterectomy was performed with back-table preparation and tumor resection, followed by ipsilateral autotransplantation. The patient developed postsurgical acute kidney failure due to ischemia/reperfusion with a maximum serum Cr of 5.66 mg/dL (eGFR 10 mL/min), which quickly resolved. The papillary invasive urothelial carcinoma was graded pT1 pTis G2 high grade R0. Regular follow-ups showed no sign for cancer recurrence in computer tomography or cystoscopy; serum Cr was at 1.87 mg/dL (eGFR 53) 12 months after surgery.
Critical Coronavirus Disease 2019 in a Hemodialysis Patient: A Proposed Clinical Management Strategy
Authors: Sia Charmaine Si Min , Cheong Samantha Hui Ling , Ngoh Clara Lee Ying , Tan Yi Hern , Wong Weng Kin
Published: July 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a catastrophic global health crisis. There is a lack of mitigation and clinical management strategies for COVID-19 in specific patient cohorts such as hemodialysis (HD) patients. We report our experience in treating the first case of COVID-19 in a HD patient in Singapore who had a severe clinical course including acute respiratory distress syndrome and propose a clinical management strategy. We propose a clinical workflow in managing such patients based on available evidence from literature review. We also highlight the importance of early recognition and intervention for disease control, dialysis support in an acute hospital isolation facility, deisolation protocol, and discharge planning due to prolonged viral shedding. The case highlights important points specific to a HD patient with a COVID-19 diagnosis, tailored interventions for each stage of the disease, and deisolation considerations in the recovery phase.
Manual técnico operacional, v. 1: procedimentos de biossegurança para a COVID-19 nos encontros nas rotinas produtivas entre técnicos extensionistas e produtores rurais de suínos
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Zanella Adroaldo José , Zanella Márcia I. Grapéggia ,   Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Zuin Luís Fernando Soares ,   Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Araujo Michelle Silva ,   Unyleya, Brandão Paulo Eduardo ,   Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Holmes Mark Adrian ,   Universidade de Cambridge, Bartlett Harriet ,   Universidade de Cambridge
Published: July 2020

Este Manual Técnico Operacional foi desenvolvido por pesquisadores da Universidade de São Paulo e da Universidade de Cambridge (UK), visando ofertar, ao leitor técnico extensionista e também aos interessados no tema, um conjunto de orientações que busca diminuir o risco de propagação do Coronavírus (Sars-CoV-2), nos mais variados tipos de encontros de trabalho que acontecem nas rotinas produtivas das granjas de suínos junto dos produtores rurais, funcionários e familiares. Devido à pandemia global da COVID-19, é importante que medidas de biossegurança sejam tomadas para evitar a contaminação dos técnicos, produtores de suínos, seus familiares e funcionários, buscando assegurar a manutenção da saúde dessas pessoas nos seus territórios rurais. De forma complementar, este manual técnico também visa contribuir com a manutenção dos processos produtivos dos frigoríficos. De acordo com as normas vigentes de biossegurança, este documento oferta um conjunto de informações sobre procedimentos interacionais, os quais deverão ser internalizados e adotados nas rotinas produtivas de cada granja de suínos. A ciência revela, todos os dias, novas descobertas e novos conhecimentos e, portanto, o conteúdo deste manual será atualizado na medida do possível.
Comércio de alimentos saudáveis: um guia de ações para gestores e comerciantes varejistas promoverem um ambiente alimentar saudável na comunidade
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Scaciota Laura Luciano , Jaime Patricia Constante ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Borges Camila Aparecida ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública
Published: July 2020

Este Guia tem o objetivo de apoiar com ações práticas os comerciantes de alimentos e os atores políticos sociais que buscam transformar o ambiente alimentar de varejo em um espaço promotor de uma alimentação adequada e saudável. O livro é destinado também a diretores e profissionais de saúde que estejam engajados no desenvolvimento e implementação de políticas públicas que visam às melhorias nas condições de alimentação e nutrição da população de forma geral, além de fornecer apoio no processo de tomada de decisão de políticas públicas locais que fomentem o papel do ambiente alimentar na qualidade de vida.
Práticas recentes de intervenções contemporâneas em cidades da América Latina
Authors: D’Ottaviano Camila ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Arquitetura e Urbanismo
Published: July 2020

Este livro espera contribuir com a divulgação de repertório e com a circulação de ideias sobre as práticas recentes de intervenção urbana em áreas informais de precariedade urbana e habitacional em cidades latino-americanas. Com isso, almeja-se delinear um quadro de como a questão da intervenção urbana, em áreas de precariedade urbana e habitacional, está sendo tratada no ensino de graduação da Arquitetura e Urbanismo, na investigação docente ou na pesquisa de pós-graduação. A obra foi elaborada com a intenção de colaborar para a construção de um conjunto coerente de conhecimentos sobre a problemática urbana das áreas informais latino-americanas, mostrando diferenças e semelhanças de processos urbanos, a partir de diversas perspectivas dos autores/pesquisadores que se debruçaram sobre o tema.
Protective Role of C3aR (C3a Anaphylatoxin Receptor) Against Atherosclerosis in Atherosclerosis-Prone Mice
Authors: Wei Lin-Lin , Ma Ning , Wu Kun-Yi , Wang Jia-Xing , Diao Teng-Yue , Zhao Shu-Juan , Bai Liang , Liu Enqi , Li Zong-Fang , Zhou Wuding , Chen Daxin , Li Ke
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Emerging evidence suggests that C3aR (C3a anaphylatoxin receptor) signaling has protective roles in various inflammatory-related diseases. However, its role in atherosclerosis has been unknown. The purpose of the study was to investigate the possible protective role of C3aR in aortic atherosclerosis and explore molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the protection.

Approach and Results:

C3ar
−/−
/Apoe
−/−
mice were generated by cross-breeding of atherosclerosis-prone
Apoe
−/−
mice and
C3ar
−/−
mice.
C3ar
−/−
/Apoe
−/−
mice and
Apoe
−/−
mice (as a control) underwent high-fat diet for 16 weeks were assessed for (1) atherosclerotic plaque burden, (2) aortic tissue inflammation, (3) recruitment of CD11b
+
leukocytes into atherosclerotic lesions, and (4) systemic inflammatory responses. Compared with
Apoe
−/−
mice,
C3ar
−/−
/Apoe
−/−
mice developed more severe atherosclerosis. In addition,
C3ar
−/−
/Apoe
−/−
mice have increased local production of proinflammatory mediators (eg, CCL2 [chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2], TNF [tumor necrosis factor]-α) and infiltration of monocyte/macrophage in aortic tissue, and their lesional macrophages displayed an M1-like phenotype. Local pathological changes were associated with enhanced systemic inflammatory responses (ie, elevated plasma levels of CCL2 and TNF-α, increased circulating inflammatory cells). In vitro analyses using peritoneal macrophages showed that C3a stimulation resulted in upregulation of M2-associated signaling and molecules, but suppression of M1-associated signaling and molecules, supporting the roles of C3a/C3aR axis in mediating anti-inflammatory response and promoting M2 macrophage polarization.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrate a protective role for C3aR in the development of atherosclerosis and suggest that C3aR confers the protection through C3a/C3aR axis–mediated negative regulation of proinflammatory responses and modulation of macrophage toward the anti-inflammatory phenotype.