bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plastics derived endocrine‐disrupting compounds and their effects on early development
Authors: Basak Sanjay , Das Mrinal K. , Duttaroy Asim K.
Published: June 2020

Despite the fact that the estrogenic effects of bisphenols were first described 80 years ago, recent data about its potential negative impact on birth outcome parameters raises a strong rationale to investigate further. The adverse health effects of plastics recommend to measure the impacts of endocrine‐disrupting compounds (EDCs) such as bisphenols (BPA, BPS, BPF), bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in human health. Exposure to these compounds in utero may program the diseases of the testis, prostate, kidney and abnormalities in the immune system, and cause tumors, uterine hemorrhage during pregnancy and polycystic ovary. These compounds also control the processes of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of adult‐onset diseases by modulating DNA methylation and epimutations in reproductive cells. The early developmental stage is the most susceptible window for developmental and genomic programming. The critical stages of the events for a normal human birth lie between the many transitions occurring between spermatogenesis, egg fertilization and the fully formed fetus. As the cells begin to grow and differentiate, there are critical balances of hormones, and protein synthesis. Data are emerging on how these plastic‐derived compounds affect embryogenesis, placentation and feto‐placental development since pregnant women and unborn fetuses are often exposed to these factors during preconception and throughout gestation. Impaired early development that ultimately influences fetal outcomes is at the center of many developmental disorders and contributes an independent risk factor for adult chronic diseases. This review will summarize the current status on the impact of exposure to plastic derived EDCs on the growth, gene expression, epigenetic and angiogenic activities of the early fetal development process and their possible effects on birth outcomes.
Reduction of senescence‐associated beta‐galactosidase activity by vitamin E in human fibroblasts depends on subjects’ age and cell passage number
Authors: Ricciarelli Roberta , Azzi Angelo , Zingg Jean‐Marc
Published: June 2020

Cell senescence is due to the permanent cell cycle arrest that occurs as a result of the inherent limited replicative capacity toward the Hayflick limit (replicative senescence), or in response to various stressors (stress‐induced premature senescence, SIPS). With the acquisition of the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP), cells release several molecules (cytokines, proteases, lipids), and express the senescence‐associated beta‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐Gal). Here we tested whether vitamin E affects SA‐β‐Gal in an in vitro model of cell ageing. Skin fibroblasts from human subjects of different age (1, 13, 29, 59, and 88 years old) were cultured until they reached replicative senescence. At different passages (Passages 2, 9, 13, and 16), these cells were treated with vitamin E for 24 hr. Vitamin E reduced SA‐β‐Gal in all cells at passage 16, but at earlier passage numbers it reduced SA‐β‐Gal only in cells isolated from the oldest subjects. Therefore, short time treatment with vitamin E decreases SA‐β‐Gal in cells both from young and old subjects when reaching replicative senescence; but in cells isolated from older subjects, a decrease in SA‐β‐Gal by vitamin E occurs also at earlier passage numbers. The possible role of downregulation of CD36 by vitamin E, a scavenger receptor essential for initiation of senescence and SASP, is discussed.
Inorganic Porous Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery in Antitumoral Therapy
Authors: Parra‐Nieto Jorge , del Cid María Amor García , de Cárcer Iñigo Aguirre , Baeza Alejandro
Published: June 2020

The use of nanoparticles in oncology to deliver chemotherapeutic agents has received considerable attention in the last decades due to their tendency to be passively accumulated in solid tumors. Besides this remarkable property, the surface of these nanocarriers can be decorated with targeting moieties capable to recognize malignant cells which lead to selective nanoparticle uptake mainly in the diseased cells, without affecting the healthy ones. Among the different nanocarriers which have been developed with this purpose, inorganic porous nanomaterials constitute some of the most interesting due to their unique properties such as excellent cargo capacity, high biocompatibility and chemical, thermal and mechanical robustness, among others. Additionally, these materials can be engineered to present an exquisite control in the drug release behavior placing stimuli‐responsive pore‐blockers or sensitive hybrid coats on their surface. Herein, the recent advances developed in the use of porous inorganic nanomedicines will be described in order to provide an overview of their huge potential in the look out of an efficient and safe therapy against this complex disease. Porous inorganic nanoparticles have been designed to be accumulated in tumoral tissues; once there to recognize the target cell and finally, to release their payload in a controlled manner.
Noncoding RNA 886 alleviates tumor cellular immunological rejection in host C57BL/C mice
Authors: Ma Hui , Wang Miao , Zhou Ying , Yang Jia‐jie , Wang Li‐Yong , Yang Rong‐hui , Wen Min‐jie , Kong Lu
Published: June 2020

Non‐coding RNA 886 (nc886/VTRNA2‐1) is a Pol III transcript and an atypical imprinted gene. Its exact function as a negative regulator of protein kinase R establishes its connection with innate immunity. Studies have shown that nc886 silencing is closely associated with prostate cancer progression. Previous work has constructed a cell model of stable nc886 overexpression (“mimic” or “nc886+”) in PC‐3M‐1E8 cell lines (1E8), which are highly bone‐metastatic human prostate cancer cells with low expression of nc886, and cells expressing the mimic were validated to have lower invasive and metastatic abilities than cells expressing the scramble transcript in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we directly injected mimic or scramble cells into the left ventricle of C57BL/C mice, an immunocompetent animal model, to elucidate the immune mechanisms of tumor‐host interactions. Interestingly, we found that tumor cells induced the inflammation of many important organs due to xenogeneic antigen rejection; this inflammation was ultimately repaired by tissue fibrosis after 28 days, except for in the spleen. The reason is that mimic cells, as heterogeneous antigens, are mostly directly recognized by macrophages or T cells in blood, and few mimic cells enter the spleen compared with scramble cells. The induction of splenic macrophage polarization to M2 macrophages by scramble cells is a critical factor in maintaining chronic splenic inflammation. In addition, we recognize that nc886 broadly decreases the expression of some human leukocyte antigen molecules and antigen transporters. This evidence reveals the interesting role of nc886 in regulating tumor cell antigens.
MRI‐based radiomics nomogram to predict synchronous liver metastasis in primary rectal cancer patients
Authors: Liu Minglu , Ma Xiaolu , Shen Fu , Xia Yuwei , Jia Yan , Lu Jianping
Published: June 2020

At the time of diagnosis, approximately 15%‐20% of patients with rectal cancer (RC) presented synchronous liver metastasis (SLM), which is the most common cause of death in patients with RC. Therefore, preoperative, noninvasive, and accurate prediction of SLM is crucial for personalized treatment strategies. Recently, radiomics has been considered as an advanced image analysis method to evaluate the neoplastic heterogeneity with respect to diagnosis of the tumor and prediction of prognosis. In this study, a total of 1409 radiomics features were extracted for each volume of interest (VOI) from high‐resolution T2WI images of the primary RC. Subsequently, five optimal radiomics features were selected based on the training set using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method to construct the radiomics signature. In addition, radiomics signature combined with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9) was included in the multifactor logistic regression to construct the nomogram model. It showed an optimal predictive performance in the validation set as compared to that in the radiomics model. The favorable calibration of the radiomics nomogram showed a nonsignificant Hosmer‐Lemeshow test statistic (P > .05). The decision curve analysis (DCA) showed that the radiomics nomogram is clinically superior to the radiomics model. Therefore, the nomogram amalgamating the radiomics signature and clinical risk factors serve as an effective quantitative approach to predict the SLM of primary RC.
Adapting STEMI care for the COVID‐19 pandemic: The case for low‐risk STEMI triage and early discharge
Authors: Lopez John J. , Ebinger Joseph E. , Allen Sorcha , Yildiz Mehmet , Henry Timothy D.
Published: June 2020

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in the need for rapid assessment of resource utilization within our hospital systems. Specifically, the overwhelming need for intensive care unit (ICU) beds within epicenters of the pandemic has created a need for consideration as to how acute coronary syndrome cases, and specifically ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients, are managed postprocedure. While most patients in the United States continue to be managed in coronary care units after primary percutaneous coronary intervention, there is a robust literature regarding the ability to triage STEMI patients safely and efficiently with low‐risk features to non‐ICU beds. We review the various risk scores for STEMI triage and the data supporting their usage. In summary, these findings support an approach to low‐risk STEMI triage that does not come at the expense of quality patient care or outcomes, where up to two‐thirds of patients with STEMI may be able to be safely managed without ICU‐level care.
Gadolinium contrast balloon pulmonary angioplasty for a patient with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and severe iodine allergy
Authors: Saito Shota , Ikeda Nobutaka , Toi Satoru , Nakamura Masato
Published: June 2020

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is group 4 pulmonary hypertension caused by organized thrombi in the pulmonary arteries. Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is an emerging treatment option for patients with inoperable CTEPH but needs contrast media. Therefore, management can be very difficult in patients who have severe iodine allergies. We present a case of a 61‐year‐old female with CTEPH. Right heart catheterization showed that the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) was 47 mmHg. Her organized thrombi were not surgically accessible, so we performed BPA to improve her hemodynamic status. One session of BPA was performed, but the second session was halted because of iodine‐induced anaphylactic shock. Despite the administration of pulmonary arterial hypertension‐specific drugs for 3 months, the patient's mPAP was still 33 mmHg. CTEPH patients with mPAP ≥30 mmHg have a poor prognosis, so we decided to perform BPA using gadolinium contrast media. A total of six sessions of gadolinium contrast BPA (Gd‐BPA) improved the patient's mPAP to the normal range. Gadolinium contrast media could also be used for visualizing pulmonary arteries during BPA. Our report is the first successful case of Gd‐BPA, which improved the patient's hemodynamic status to the almost normal range. Gd‐BPA may be an attractive treatment option for patients with inoperable CTEPH and severe iodine allergy.
Percutaneous coronary intervention of unprotected left main and bifurcation in octogenarians: Subanalysis from RAIN (veRy thin stents for patients with left mAIn or bifurcatioN in real life)
Authors: Conrotto Federico , D'Ascenzo Fabrizio , Piroli Francesco , Franzé Alfonso , de Luca Leonardo , Quadri Giorgio , Ryan Nicola , Escaned Javier , Bo Mario , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria
Published: June 2020

Objective

Outcomes of complex percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) in older patients are still debated.

The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical outcomes of Octogenarian patients treated with ultrathinstents on left main or on coronary bifurcations, compared with younger patients.

Methods

All consecutive patients presenting a critical lesion of an unprotected left main (ULM) or a bifurcation and treated with very thin stents were included in the RAIN (veRy thin stents for patients with left mAIn or bifurcatioN in real life) registry and divided into octogenarians group (OG, 551 patients) and nonoctogenarians (NOGs, 2,453 patients). Major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), a composite end point of all‐cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), target lesion revascularization (TLR), and stent thrombosis (ST), was the primary endpoint, while MACE components, cardiovascular (CV) death, and target vessel revascularization (TVR) were the secondary ones.

Results

Indication for PCI was acute coronary syndrome in 64.7% of the OG versus 53.1% of the NOG. Severe calcifications and a diffuse disease were significantly more in OG. After a follow‐up of 15.2 ± 10.3 months, MACEs were higher in the OG than in the NOG patients (OG 19.1% vs. NOG 11.2%, p < .001), along with MI (OG 6% vs. NOG 3.4%, p = .002) and all‐cause death (OG 14% vs. NOG 4.3%, p < .001). In contrast, no significant difference was detected in CV‐death (OG 5.1% vs. NOG 4%, p = .871), TVR/TLR, or ST. At multivariate analysis, age was not an independent predictor of MACE (OR 1.02 CI 95% 0.76–1.38), while it was for all‐cause death, along with diabetes, GFR < 60 ml/min, and ULM disease.

Discussion

Midterm outcomes of complex PCI in OG are similar to those of younger patients. However, due to the higher non‐CV death rate, accurate patient selection is mandatory.
Cortical laminar necrosis in an infant with influenza A virus infection
Authors: Yaginuma Kazufumi , Watanabe Masahiro , Suzuki Yuichi , Suyama Kazuhide , Hashimoto Koichi , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: June 2020

Cortical laminar necrosis comprises ischemic neuronal changes and glial reaction. Despite fewer reports in the pediatric population, we encountered a case of cortical laminar necrosis with influenza virus A infection in an infant.
A comparative study of micro‐ and nano‐ZnO films fabricated by sol‐gel syringe spray method
Authors: Zargar Rayees Ahmad , Hassan Malik Mubasher , Boora Navjyoti , Ahmed Imran , Ahmed Sajaad , Nissa Khair‐un , Kumari Sushma , Hafiz Aurangzeb Khurram
Published: June 2020

Synthesis of ZnO‐based material is becoming more importance as eco‐friendly alternative to traditional production process because of its excellent industrial application. Here, in this paper, we report comparative study of ZnO micro‐ and ZnO nano‐films prepared by low‐cost sol‐gel syringe spray method and then followed by sintering in the muffle furnace at 450°C. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern confirms hexagonal structure with maximum diffraction intensity from (101) plane. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images confirm appreciable variation of grain size of micro‐ and nano‐coated films. EDAX spectrum confirms presence of Zn and O elements. An increase in optical band gaps from 3.21 eV for ZnO thick film to 3.40 eV for ZnO nano‐film was observed by UV‐Vis spectroscopy. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra show a wide absorption band at 1400 cm−1 corresponding to the stretching vibration of zinc and oxygen ZnO bond. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra exhibit strong ultraviolet emission at room temperature, indicating useful material for short‐wave light‐emitting photonic devices. The DC conductivity measurement from two probe method shows semiconductor characteristics.
Insights into the Mechanism of Gold(I) Oxidation with Aryldiazonium Salts
Authors: Medina‐Mercado Ignacio , Porcel Susana
Published: June 2020

In the last decade, aryldiazonium salts have attracted interest as coupling partners in cross‐coupling reactions mediated by gold. Initially, the presence of a photocatalyst and a light source was needed to achieve gold oxidation with these electrophiles. However, recently, it has been shown that in some instances just heating, light irradiation, or the addition of certain bases and/or nucleophiles is enough. In this review, the transformations developed so far using aryldiazonium salts as electrophiles are summarized with special emphasis on mechanistic studies. The information gained by different authors, indicates that the specific steps of gold oxidation with aryldiazonium salts depends upon the activation mode of the diazonium salt.
Investigation of Cycloparaphenylenes (CPPs) and their Noncovalent Ring‐in‐Ring and Fullerene‐in‐Ring Complexes by (Matrix‐Assisted) Laser Desorption/Ionization and Density Functional Theory
Authors: Minameyer Martin B. , Xu Youzhi , Frühwald Stefan , Görling Andreas , von Delius Max , Drewello Thomas
Published: June 2020

[n]Cycloparaphenylenes ([n]CPPs) with n=5, 8, 10 and 12 and their noncovalent ring‐in‐ring and [m]fullerene‐in‐ring complexes with m=60, 70 and 84 have been studied by direct and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization ((MA)LDI) and density‐functional theory (DFT). LDI is introduced as a straightforward approach for the sensitive analysis of CPPs, free from unwanted decomposition and without the need of a matrix. The ring‐in‐ring system of [[10]CPP⊃[5]CPP]+. was studied in positive‐ion MALDI. Fragmentation and DFT indicate that the positive charge is exclusively located on the inner ring, while in [[10]CPP⊃C60]+. it is located solely on the outer nanohoop. Positive‐ion MALDI is introduced as a new sensitive method for analysis of CPP⊃fullerene complexes, enabling the detection of novel complexes [[12]CPP⊃C60, 70 and 84]+. and [[10]CPP⊃C84]+.. Selective binding can be observed when mixing one fullerene with two CPPs or vice versa, reflecting ideal size requirements for efficient complex formation. Geometries, binding and fragmentation energies of CPP⊃fullerene complexes from DFT calculations explain the observed fragmentation behavior.
Disentangling levels of mother–infant neuroendocrine attunement and longitudinal relations with maternal risk and protective factors
Authors: Laurent Heidemarie K. , Sbrilli Marissa , Dawson Danyelle , Finnegan Megan , Ramdas‐Neal Dawn
Published: June 2020

Scientific understanding of mother–infant HPA axis attunement has been limited by discrepant methods for assessing attunement that often conflate different levels of association. We sought to refine the conceptualization of attunement by investigating whether mother–infant cortisol attunement exists as coupling of response trajectories within an acute stress episode, separate from shared developmental patterns and/or overall dyadic similarity in cortisol levels, and whether the degree of attunement depends on within‐ or between‐dyad differences in maternal risk and protective factors. We examined these questions using a longitudinal study with mother/infant salivary cortisol during dyadic stressors at 6, 12, and 18 months postnatal. A three‐level hierarchical linear model showed that sample‐wide associations between mother and infant cortisol were not significant at any level, suggesting normative lack of attunement; however, there was significant variability in degree of attunement across dyads. Concurrent levels of family resources and social support satisfaction predicted lower mother–infant cortisol attunement within the session, and overall (mean) parenting stress predicted the opposite. Follow‐up analyses showed this was typically due to an increase in infants’ (but not their mothers’) within‐session cortisol response slopes with increasing support and decreasing stress. Implications for the role of mother–infant cortisol attunement in intergenerational stress transmission are discussed.
An uncontrolled pilot feasibility trial of an intuitive eating intervention for college women with disordered eating delivered through group and guided self‐help modalities
Authors: Burnette C. Blair , Mazzeo Suzanne E.
Published: June 2020

Objective

College women engage in high rates of disordered eating behaviors (DEBs), and most do not receive treatment. Campuses lack resources to meet this need, thus accessible and affordable treatment options are important. Intuitive eating (IE) is gaining mainstream interest, but intervention research is scarce, with no known clinical trials in college women. This uncontrolled pilot trial examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an eight‐week IE intervention delivered through two potentially accessible and affordable modalities: group and guided self‐help (GSH).

Method

Racially and ethnically diverse college women (N = 71; <50% White) were recruited from a large public Mid‐Atlantic university and randomized to group (n = 40) or GSH (n = 31). Assessments occurred at 0 (pre‐test), 8 (post‐test), and 16 weeks (follow‐up). Group participants attended eight weekly 1.5‐hour sessions. GSH participants engaged in self‐study and had eight weekly 20‐minute phone calls.

Results

Both conditions demonstrated feasibility, with superior retention and attendance in GSH. Over 90% of those attending at least one session in either condition were retained through follow‐up. Both conditions were highly acceptable, and produced medium to large reductions in DEBs, body dissatisfaction, and weight‐bias internalization, and improvements in body appreciation, IE, and satisfaction with life from pre‐ to post‐test, which were maintained at follow‐up.

Discussion

Results of this pilot are encouraging and support the development of a larger randomized controlled trial. Avenues for refinement include strategies to improve feasibility of the group condition, and conducting longer‐term follow‐up to examine maintenance of effects and the intervention's eating disorder prevention potential.
Genetic Diversity of the root‐knot nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii in Mulberry Based on the Mitochondrial COI Gene
Authors: Shao Hudie , Zhang Pan , You Chunping , Li Chuanren , Feng Yan , Xie Zhenwen
Published: June 2020

This study explores the genetic diversity and structure of Meloidogyne enterolobii in mulberry in China. The COI mitochondrial gene (mtCOI) in M.enterolobii populations in Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hunan Provinces was PCR‐amplified, sequenced, and analyzed for genetic diversity. The total number of variations, haplotypes (Hap), the average number of nucleotide differences (k), haplotype diversity (H), and nucleotide diversity (π) of mtCOI were 25, 11, 4.248, 0.900, and 0.00596, respectively. Insignificant differences in Fst value (0.0169) and a high level of gene flow (7.02) were detected among the 19‐mulberry root‐knot nematode populations, and high genetic variation within each population and a small genetic distance among populations were observed. Both phylogenetic analyses and network mapping of the 11 haplotypes revealed a dispersed distribution pattern of 19 mulberry root‐knot nematode populations and an absence of branches strictly corresponding to the 19 range sampling sites. The neutrality test and mismatch analysis indicated that mulberry root‐knot nematode populations experienced a population expansion in the past. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that the genetic differentiation of M. enterolobii was mainly contributed by the variation within each group. No significant correlation was found between the genetic distance and geographical distance of M. enterolobii populations. The findings of this study provide a profound understanding of the M. enterolobii population and will inform the development of strategies to combat and manage root‐knot nematodes in mulberry.
Evolutionary tracking is determined by differential selection on demographic rates and density dependence
Authors: Vinton Anna Christina , Vasseur David Alan
Published: June 2020

Recent ecological forecasts predict that ~25% of species worldwide will go extinct by 2050. However, these estimates are primarily based on environmental changes alone and fail to incorporate important biological mechanisms such as genetic adaptation via evolution. Thus, environmental change can affect population dynamics in ways that classical frameworks can neither describe nor predict. Furthermore, often due to a lack of data, forecasting models commonly describe changes in population demography by summarizing changes in fecundity and survival concurrently with the intrinsic growth rate (r). This has been shown to be an oversimplification as the environment may impose selective pressure on specific demographic rates (birth and death) rather than directly on r (the difference between the birth and death rates). This differential pressure may alter population response to density, in each demographic rate, further diluting the information combined to produce r. Thus, when we consider the potential for persistence via adaptive evolution, populations with the same r can have different abilities to persist amidst environmental change. Therefore, we cannot adequately forecast population response to climate change without accounting for demography and selection on density dependence. Using a continuous‐time Markov chain model to describe the stochastic dynamics of the logistic model of population growth and allow for trait evolution via mutations arising during birth events, we find persistence via evolutionary tracking more likely when environmental change alters birth rather than the death rate. Furthermore, species that evolve responses to changes in the strength of density dependence due to environmental change are less vulnerable to extinction than species that undergo selection independent of population density. By incorporating these key demographic considerations into our predictive models, we can better understand how species will respond to climate change.
Influence of intra‐ and interspecific variation in predator–prey body size ratios on trophic interaction strengths
Authors: Cuthbert Ross N. , Wasserman Ryan J. , Dalu Tatenda , Kaiser Horst , Weyl Olaf L. F. , Dick Jaimie T. A. , Sentis Arnaud , McCoy Michael W. , Alexander Mhairi E.
Published: June 2020

Predation is a pervasive force that structures food webs and directly influences ecosystem functioning. The relative body sizes of predators and prey may be an important determinant of interaction strengths. However, studies quantifying the combined influence of intra‐ and interspecific variation in predator–prey body size ratios are lacking.

We use a comparative functional response approach to examine interaction strengths between three size classes of invasive bluegill and largemouth bass toward three scaled size classes of their tilapia prey. We then quantify the influence of intra‐ and interspecific predator–prey body mass ratios on the scaling of attack rates and handling times.

Type II functional responses were displayed by both predators across all predator and prey size classes. Largemouth bass consumed more than bluegill at small and intermediate predator size classes, while large predators of both species were more similar. Small prey were most vulnerable overall; however, differential attack rates among prey were emergent across predator sizes. For both bluegill and largemouth bass, small predators exhibited higher attack rates toward small and intermediate prey sizes, while larger predators exhibited greater attack rates toward large prey. Conversely, handling times increased with prey size, with small bluegill exhibiting particularly low feeding rates toward medium–large prey types. Attack rates for both predators peaked unimodally at intermediate predator–prey body mass ratios, while handling times generally shortened across increasing body mass ratios.

We thus demonstrate effects of body size ratios on predator–prey interaction strengths between key fish species, with attack rates and handling times dependent on the relative sizes of predator–prey participants.

Considerations for intra‐ and interspecific body size ratio effects are critical for predicting the strengths of interactions within ecosystems and may drive differential ecological impacts among invasive species as size ratios shift.
Cardiac involvement in a cross‐sectional cohort of myotonic dystrophies and other skeletal myopathies
Authors: Schmid Johannes , Beer Meinrad , Berghold Andrea , Stojakovic Tatjana , Scharnagl Hubert , Dieplinger Benjamin , Quasthoff Stefan , Binder Josepha S. , Rainer Peter P.
Published: June 2020

Aims

Cardiac involvement in myopathies that primarily affect the skeletal muscle is variable and may be subtle, necessitating sensitive diagnostic approaches. Here, we describe the prevalence of cardiac abnormalities in a cohort of patients with skeletal muscle disease presenting at a tertiary care neuromuscular centre.

Methods and results

We systematically investigated patients with skeletal myopathies and comprehensively analysed their cardiac phenotype including 24 h electrocardiogram, echocardiography with strain analyses, contrast‐enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and, if at increased risk of coronary artery disease, computed tomography coronary angiography. We prospectively screened 91 patients with diverse skeletal myopathies and enrolled 73 patients. The most pronounced cardiac involvement was present in patients with dystrophic myopathies (cardiac abnormalities in 59% of patients). We analysed myotonic dystrophies (n = 29) in more detail and found prolonged QRS (99.4 ± 15.6 vs. 91.5 ± 10.3 ms; P = 0.027) and QTc times (441.1 ± 28.1 vs. 413.0 ± 23.3 ms; P < 0.001) and increased left atrial size (27.28 ± 3.9 vs. 25.0 ± 3.2 mm/m2; P = 0.021) when compared with healthy controls. Left ventricular systolic function was reduced (ejection fraction < 55%) in 31% of myotonic dystrophies, while only 4% had an ejection fraction < 50%. Apical peak systolic longitudinal strain was slightly reduced (P = 0.023).

Conclusions

Screening for cardiac involvement in the skeletal muscle disease seems prudent particularly in patients with dystrophic myopathies. In the subset of myotonic dystrophy patients, QRS and QTc times as well as myocardial strain may be useful parameters. Their potential for predicting cardiac adverse events needs further evaluation.
Climate‐change refugia in boreal North America: what, where, and for how long?
Authors: Stralberg Diana , Arseneault Dominique , Baltzer Jennifer L , Barber Quinn E , Bayne Erin M , Boulanger Yan , Brown Carissa D , Cooke Hilary A , Devito Kevin , Edwards Jason , Estevo César A , Flynn Nadele , Frelich Lee E , Hogg Edward H , Johnston Mark , Logan Travis , Matsuoka Steven M , Moore Paul , Morelli Toni Lyn , Morissette Julienne L , Nelson Elizabeth A , Nenzén Hedvig , Nielsen Scott E , Parisien Marc‐André , Pedlar John H , Price David T , Schmiegelow Fiona KA , Slattery Stuart M , Sonnentag Oliver , Thompson Daniel K , Whitman Ellen
Published: June 2020

The vast boreal biome plays an important role in the global carbon cycle but is experiencing particularly rapid climate warming, threatening the integrity of valued ecosystems and their component species. We developed a framework and taxonomy to identify climate‐change refugia potential in the North American boreal region, summarizing current knowledge regarding mechanisms, geographic distribution, and landscape indicators. While “terrain‐mediated” refugia will mostly be limited to coastal and mountain regions, the ecological inertia (resistance to external fluctuations) contained in some boreal ecosystems may provide more extensive buffering against climate change, resulting in “ecosystem‐protected” refugia. A notable example is boreal peatlands, which can retain high surface soil moisture and water tables even in the face of drought. Refugia from wildfire are also especially important in the boreal region, which is characterized by active disturbance regimes. Our framework will help identify areas of high refugia potential, and inform ecosystem management and conservation planning in light of climate change.
Disturbance refugia within mosaics of forest fire, drought, and insect outbreaks
Authors: Krawchuk Meg A , Meigs Garrett W , Cartwright Jennifer M , Coop Jonathan D , Davis Raymond , Holz Andrés , Kolden Crystal , Meddens Arjan JH
Published: June 2020

Disturbance refugia – locations that experience less severe or frequent disturbances than the surrounding landscape – provide a framework to highlight not only where and why these biological legacies persist as adjacent areas change but also the value of those legacies in sustaining biodiversity. Recent studies of disturbance refugia in forest ecosystems have focused primarily on fire, with a growing recognition of important applications to land management. Given the wide range of disturbance processes in forests, developing a broader understanding of disturbance refugia is important for scientists and land managers, particularly in the context of anthropogenic climate change. We illustrate the framework of disturbance refugia through the individual and interactive effects of three prominent forest disturbance agents: fire, drought, and insect outbreaks. We provide examples of disturbance refugia and related applications to natural resource management in western North America, demonstrate methods for characterizing refugia, identify research priorities, and discuss why a more comprehensive definition of disturbance refugia is relevant to conservation globally.
Oases of the future? Springs as potential hydrologic refugia in drying climates
Authors: Cartwright Jennifer M , Dwire Kathleen A , Freed Zach , Hammer Samantha J , McLaughlin Blair , Misztal Louise W , Schenk Edward R , Spence John R , Springer Abraham E , Stevens Lawrence E
Published: June 2020

Natural springs in water‐limited landscapes are biodiversity hotspots and keystone ecosystems that have a disproportionate influence on surrounding landscapes despite their usually small size. Some springs served as evolutionary refugia during previous climate drying, supporting relict species in isolated habitats. Understanding whether springs will provide hydrologic refugia from future climate change is important to biodiversity conservation but is complicated by hydrologic variability among springs, data limitations, and multiple non‐climate threats to groundwater‐dependent ecosystems. We present a conceptual framework for categorizing springs as potentially stable, relative, or transient hydrologic refugia in a drying climate. Clues about the refugial capacity of springs can be assembled from various approaches, including citizen‐science‐powered ecohydrologic monitoring, remote sensing, landowner interviews, and environmental tracer analysis. Managers can integrate multiple lines of evidence to predict which springs may become future refugia for species of concern, strengthening the long‐term effectiveness of their conservation and restoration, and informing climate adaptation for terrestrial and freshwater species.
Vegetation refugia can inform climate‐adaptive land management under global warming
Authors: Thorne James H , Gogol‐Prokurat Melanie , Hill Sandra , Walsh Dana , Boynton Ryan M , Choe Hyeyeong
Published: June 2020

Natural resource managers need information about the risks associated with climate change to provide guidance on where to implement various management practices on natural lands. The spatial variation of projected impacts within a vegetation type can be used to target climate‐adaptive management actions because different locations will be exposed to different levels of climatic stress. Vegetation refugia are areas that retain non‐stressful climate conditions under future climates. Consensus vegetation refugia – areas retaining suitable climates under both wetter and drier future projections – represent only 14.6% of California's natural vegetation. One state and one federal government agency have incorporated vegetation refugia maps into conservation planning for 522 vertebrate species and for post‐wildfire reforestation. Monitoring how vegetation responds to management actions at sites within vegetation refugia can improve the conservation of plants subjected to a changing climate.
Utilizing environmentally friendly hyperbranched polyglycerol polymers to separate gasoline from deionized water
Authors: Elmobarak Wamda Faisal , Almomani Fares , Saad Mohammed Ali H Salah
Published: June 2020

Hyperbranched polyglycerol polymers (HPG) were synthesized, characterized, and used to separate gasoline from deionized water. The study indicates HPG as potentially effective materials for the recovery of oil from oil/water emulsion. High and low molecular weight HPG were synthesized using the cationic ring‐opening polymerization method and characterized by various methods including, NMR, Fourier transform infrared‐spectroscopy, DXR Raman microscope, carbon hydrogen and nitrogen analysis, gel permeation chromatography measurements, biodegradability, and toxicity testing. The prepared polymers are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and are able to recover up to 90.30% of oil from oil/water emulsion under an optimized dose of 500 mg L−1 in 1 h. A higher rate of removal can be achieved by increasing the polymer dose up to 200 mg L−1, with a reaction time up to 3 h, and a maximum operating temperature of 60°C. The results of this study offer a simple and effective technology that can be applied for the removal of valuable products, increase the profitability for the oil and gas industry, and protect the environment. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radial glia in the zebrafish brain: Functional, structural, and physiological comparison with the mammalian glia
Authors: Jurisch‐Yaksi Nathalie , Yaksi Emre , Kizil Caghan
Published: June 2020

The neuroscience community has witnessed a tremendous expansion of glia research. Glial cells are now on center stage with leading roles in the development, maturation, and physiology of brain circuits. Over the course of evolution, glia have highly diversified and include the radial glia, astroglia or astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells, each having dedicated functions in the brain. The zebrafish, a small teleost fish, is no exception to this and recent evidences point to evolutionarily conserved roles for glia in the development and physiology of its nervous system. Due to its small size, transparency, and genetic amenability, the zebrafish has become an increasingly prominent animal model for brain research. It has enabled the study of neural circuits from individual cells to entire brains, with a precision unmatched in other vertebrate models. Moreover, its high neurogenic and regenerative potential has attracted a lot of attention from the research community focusing on neural stem cells and neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, studies using zebrafish have the potential to provide fundamental insights about brain development and function, and also elucidate neural and molecular mechanisms of neurological diseases. We will discuss here recent discoveries on the diverse roles of radial glia and astroglia in neurogenesis, in modulating neuronal activity and in regulating brain homeostasis at the brain barriers. By comparing insights made in various animal models, particularly mammals and zebrafish, our goal is to highlight the similarities and differences in glia biology among species, which could set new paradigms relevant to humans.
Comparing national practice versus standard guidelines for the use of adjuvant treatment following robotic surgery for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bates James E. , Hitchcock Kathryn E. , Mendenhall William M. , Dziegielewski Peter T. , Amdur Robert J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Recent historical management of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma typically includes radiotherapy with/without chemotherapy. Novel surgical techniques such as robotic surgery have made primary surgery more frequent; however, postoperative radiotherapy may be recommended. We aimed to assess adherence to guidelines for postoperative therapy following robotic surgery.

Methods

Using the National Cancer Database, we analyzed the frequency of radiotherapy following robotic surgery for cT1‐3cN0‐2cM0 squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx, specifically in the presence of widely accepted indications for postoperative radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.

Results

Approximately two‐thirds of patients received radiotherapy after robotic surgery for early‐intermediate stage oropharyngeal cancer. One in five patients with an indication for adjuvant radiotherapy and 1/3 with an indication for adjuvant chemotherapy did not receive recommended adjuvant therapy.

Conclusions

A high proportion of patients require radiotherapy after robotic surgery for early‐intermediate stage oropharyngeal cancer. Patients with an indication for further adjuvant therapy commonly do not receive it.
Identifying predictors of HPV‐related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma progression and survival through patient‐derived models
Authors: Facompre Nicole D. , Rajagopalan Pavithra , Sahu Varun , Pearson Alexander T. , Montone Kathleen T. , James Claire D. , Gleber‐Netto Frederico O. , Weinstein Gregory S. , Jalaly Jalal , Lin Alexander , Rustgi Anil K. , Nakagawa Hiroshi , Califano Joseph A. , Pickering Curtis R. , White Elizabeth A. , Windle Bradford E. , Morgan Iain M. , Cohen Roger B. , Gimotty Phyllis A. , Basu Devraj
Published: June 2020

Therapeutic innovation for human papilloma virus‐related (HPV+) head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) is impaired by inadequate preclinical models and the absence of accurate biomarkers. Our study establishes the first well‐characterized panel of patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) and organoids from HPV+ HNSCCs while determining fidelity of the models to the distinguishing genetic features of this cancer type. Despite low engraftment rates, whole exome sequencing showed that PDXs retain multiple distinguishing features of HPV+ HNSCC lost in existing cell lines, including PIK3CA mutations, TRAF3 deletion and the absence of EGFR amplifications. Engrafted HPV+ tumors frequently contained NOTCH1 mutations, thus providing new models for a negatively prognostic alteration in this disease. Genotype‐phenotype associations in the models were then tested for prediction of tumor progression and survival in published clinical cohorts. Observation of high tumor mutational burdens (TMBs) in the faster‐growing models facilitated identification of a novel association between TMB and local progression in both HPV+ and HPV− patients that was prognostic in HPV− cases. In addition, reduced E7 and p16INK4A levels found in a PDX from an outlier case with lethal outcome led to detection of similar profiles among recurrent HPV+ HNSCCs. Transcriptional data from the Cancer Genome Atlas was used to demonstrate that the lower E2F target gene expression predicted by reduced E7 levels has potential as a biomarker of disease recurrence risk. Our findings bridge a critical gap in preclinical models for HPV+ HNSCCs and simultaneously reveal novel potential applications of quantifying mutational burden and viral oncogene functions for biomarker development.
Four‐dimensional echocardiographic and pathologic findings of congenital left ventricular aneurysm: A case report
Authors: Wen Yanting , Xiang Guishuang , Zhang Jing , Lai Qiancheng , Zhang Li
Published: June 2020

The sonographic and histopathologic features of a rare case of left ventricular aneurysm are reported, detailing the method of prenatal diagnosis and suggesting possible etiology of congenital ventricular aneurysm.
Adaptive image denoising for speckle noise images based on fuzzy logic
Authors: Yu Jimin , Chen Long , Zhou Shangbo , Wang Limin , Li Hantao , Huang Saiao
Published: June 2020

Speckle noise is a kind of ubiquitous noise in medical image, which will damage the texture structure of image and affect the analysis of image structure by doctors. Therefore, we propose an image denoising model based on fuzzy logic, which can eliminate speckle noise in the image well, improve the recognition of the image, and facilitate the acquisition of image information by doctors. The main work arrangement of the algorithm model is to design a membership function that can traverse the noise image and preprocess the noise image to make the image smooth. Then, a mask template of 5 × 5 is designed by the definition of g‐l calculus, and there is mainly an unknown parameter in this template. We design the functional relation between this parameter and the image gradient, which makes the model algorithm adaptive. Finally, the convolution operation is performed between the template and the smooth image. By comparison with the existing mainstream models, the overall denoising effect of this model is better than other models, and the relevant numerical indexes are better than other models. This model is an extension of the denoising model of fuzzy theory, which is beneficial to the future research and development.
Development of HFD‐Fed/Low‐Dose STZ‐Treated Female Sprague‐Dawley Rat Model to Investigate Diabetic Bone Fragility at Different Organization Levels
Authors: Sihota Praveer , Yadav Ram Naresh , Poleboina Sumathi , Mehandia Vishwajeet , Bhadada Sanjay Kumar , Tikoo Kulbhushan , Kumar Navin
Published: June 2020

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) adversely affects the normal functioning, intrinsic material properties, and structural integrity of many tissues, and bone fragility is one of them. To simulate human T2D and to investigate diabetic bone fragility, many rodent diabetic models have been developed. Still, an outbred genetically normal nonobese diabetic rat model is not available that can better simulate the disease characteristics of nonobese T2D patients, who have a high prevalence in Asia. In this study, we used a combination treatment of high‐fat diet (4 weeks, 58% kcal as fat) and low‐dose streptozotocin (STZ; 35 mg/kg i.p. at the end of the fourth week) to develop T2D in female Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats. After 8 weeks of the establishment of the T2D model, the femoral bones were excised after euthanizing rats (animal age approximately 21 to 22 weeks; n = 10 with T2D, n = 10 without diabetes). The bone microstructure (μCT), mechanical, and material properties (three‐point bending, cyclic reference point indentation, nanoindentation), mean mineral crystallite size (XRD), bone composition (mineral‐to‐matrix ratio, nonenzymatic cross‐link ratio [NE‐xLR], Fourier transform‐infrared microspectroscopy), and total fluorescent advanced glycation end products were analyzed. We found that diabetic bone had reduced whole‐bone strength and compromised structural properties (μCT). The NE‐xLRs were elevated in the T2D group, and strongly and negatively correlated with postyield displacement, which suggests bone fragility was caused by a lack of glycation control. Along with that, the decreased mineral‐to‐matrix ratio and modulus, increased indentation distance increase, and wider mineral crystallite size in the T2D group were evidence that the diabetic bone composition and material properties had changed, and bone became weaker with a tendency to easily fracture. Altogether, this model simulates the natural history and metabolic characteristics of late‐stage T2D (insulin resistance and as disease progress develops, hypoinsulinemia) for nonobese young (and/or adolescent) T2D patients (Asians) and provides potential evidence of diabetic bone fragility at various organization levels. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.