bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological quality of cucurbits in spectral qualities
Authors: Schmidt Denise , Fritsch Wust Géssica Leticia , Fontana Daniele Cristina , Pretto Matheus Milani , Santos Jullie dos , Mariotto Axel Bruno , Azevedo Gabrieli Cristina Vitalli de , De Cristo João Antonio
Published: April 2020

The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of spectral qualities on the germination and vigor of cucurbit seeds. This experiment was a completely randomized design, in a factorial scheme 3 x 6, with three species of cucurbitaceae: cucumber, melon and watermelon. Six spectral qualities were used: blue LED, white LED, red LED, blue + red LED, fluorescent and dark (no light). Variables related to germination and vigor were analyzed. The cucurbitaceae presented differentiated responses when submitted to the different spectral qualities. For cucumber seeds, the luminous spectra increased root length, compared to the dark treatment. The melon seeds had low physiological quality; for these, the dark promoted a higher percentage of germinated and normal seeds. For watermelon seeds, the white LED conditions led to a higher percentage of normal seedlings, high rate of germination (IVG) and lower percentage of dead seeds. Red LED conditioned high IVG in watermelon. In general, fluorescent light favors carotenoid content and the dark condition favors shoot length in cucurbit seeds.
Use of agricultural waste material as an alternative substrate in cabbage seedling production and development
Authors: Monaco Paola Alfonsa Vieira Lo , Vieira Josean de Castro , Colombo João Nacir , Krause Marcelo Rodrigo , Souza Vieira Gustavo Haddad , Almeida Karoline Matiello
Published: April 2020

Considering the need to reduce costs in the production of seedlings, the use of agricultural wastes becomes essential. The objective of this study was to evaluate a substrate composed of agricultural residues replacing the commercial substrate. The experiment was carried out in two phases. For the first phase, seedling production, we used a completely randomized design with six treatments and eight replications, using commercial substrate (Bioplant®) and five treatments with increasing proportions of moinha/descending proportions of rice husk (0/40; 10/30; 20/20; 30/10 and 40/0%), and fixed proportions of coconut fiber (15%) and pine bark (45%). We evaluated plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, root and shoot dry masses, and Dickson quality index at 33 days after sowing. In the second experiment, cabbage development under field conditions, the treatments were maintained with four replications, using the randomized block design. We evaluated cycle length, compactness, head and stem diameter, number of basal external leaves, mass of fresh matter of the head, and commercial yield. We recommend a substrate composed of 40% moinha, 15% coconut fiber, and 45% pine bark in the production of cabbage seedlings, replacing the commercial substrate.
Overcoming dormancy and storage of sapoti seeds
Authors: Paixão Marcus Vinicius Sandoval
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study was to overcome dormancy and germination capacity in sapoti seed storage. The study was conducted at IFES Seed Laboratory from January to December 2015. The experimental design was completely randomized with four replications of 25 seeds, in a split plot. The plots were represented by combinations of treatments of seeds: seeds without treatment; seeds stored for 24 hours in a refrigerator (8-10 ºC); seeds immersed in ice water for 30 min (0 ºC) and seeds stored permanently in a refrigerator at a temperature between 8-10 ºC. The subplots comprised the following storage period of the seeds: 0; 30; 60; 90; 120, 180; 270 and 360 days, at room temperature between 20-26° C. After each storage period were evaluated germination (%), germination speed index and average germination time. Treatment with ice for 30 min. showed the best germination. Permanent storage in refrigerator (8-10° C) presented the best-preserved viability. Heat treatment with ice for 30 min and/or permanent storage in the refrigerator can be used to break dormancy of sapoti seeds.
A method of using deep learning to predict three‐dimensional dose distributions for intensity‐modulated radiotherapy of rectal cancer
Authors: Zhou Jieping , Peng Zhao , Song Yuchen , Chang Yankui , Pei Xi , Sheng Liusi , Xu X. George
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To develop and test a three‐dimensional (3D) deep learning model for predicting 3D voxel‐wise dose distributions for intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).

Methods

A total of 122 postoperative rectal cancer cases treated by IMRT were considered in the study, of which 100 cases were randomly selected as the training–validating set and the remaining as the testing set. A 3D deep learning model named 3D U‐Res‐Net_B was constructed to predict 3D dose distributions. Eight types of 3D matrices from CT images, contoured structures, and beam configurations were fed into the independent input channel, respectively, and the 3D matrix of dose distributions was taken as the output to train the 3D model. The obtained 3D model was used to predict new 3D dose distributions. The predicted accuracy was evaluated in two aspects: (a) The dice similarity coefficients (DSCs) of different isodose volumes, the average dose difference of all voxels within the body, and 3%/5 mm global gamma passing rates of organs at risks (OARs) and planned target volume (PTV) were used to address the spatial correspondence between predicted and clinical delivered 3D dose distributions; (b) The dosimetric index (DI) including homogeneity index, conformity index, V50, V45 for PTV and OARs between predicted and clinical truth were statistically analyzed with the paired‐samples t test. The model was also compared with 3D U‐Net and the same architecture model without beam configurations input (named as 3D U‐Res‐Net_O).

Results

The 3D U‐Res‐Net_B model predicted 3D dose distributions accurately. For the 22 testing cases, the average prediction bias ranged from −1.94% to 1.58%, and the overall mean absolute errors (MAEs) was 3.92 ± 4.16%; there was no statistically significant difference for nearly all DIs. The model had a DSCs value above 0.9 for most isodose volumes, and global 3D gamma passing rates varying from 0.81 to 0.90 for PTV and OARs, clearly outperforming 3D U‐Res‐Net_O and being slightly superior to 3D U‐Net.

Conclusions

This study developed a more general deep learning model by considering beam configurations input and achieved an accurate 3D voxel‐wise dose prediction for rectal cancer treated by IMRT, a potentially easier clinical implementation for more comprehensive automatic planning.
Reduced Hessian based parameter selection and estimation with simultaneous collocation approach
Authors: Chen Weifeng , Biegler Lorenz T.
Published: April 2020

Parameter estimation is a critical step in the building of process models. Given the nonlinear structure and limited measurements, it is often difficult to correctly estimate all the parameters involved in the model. Linear dependence and low correlation among the parameters are the main problems to be handled in parameter estimation. The common approach is to estimate a subset of the parameters by fixing the others at reasonable values. However, it is a challenge to determine which parameters can be properly estimated. In this work, the ratio between standard deviation and estimated parameter value is introduced for evaluating the estimability. A Gauss‐Jordan elimination based approach is proposed for parameter estimability ranking. Combined with the proposed ranking approach and approximate ratio criterion, a reduced Hessian based approach is proposed for parameter selection and estimation under a simultaneous collocation framework. The proposed approach is at least as effective and more efficient than competing approaches based on multiple eigenvalue decompositions or orthogonalizations for larger problems. Three case studies with increasing complexity are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed approach.
Hematological findings and complications of COVID‐19
Authors: Terpos Evangelos , Ntanasis‐Stathopoulos Ioannis , Elalamy Ismail , Kastritis Efstathios , Sergentanis Theodoros N. , Politou Marianna , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Gerotziafas Grigoris , Dimopoulos Meletios A.
Published: April 2020

COVID‐19 is a systemic infection with a significant impact on the hematopoietic system and hemostasis. Lymphopenia may be considered as a cardinal laboratory finding, with prognostic potential. Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and peak platelet/lymphocyte ratio may also have prognostic value in determining severe cases. During the disease course, longitudinal evaluation of lymphocyte count dynamics and inflammatory indices, including LDH, CRP and IL‐6 may help to identify cases with dismal prognosis and prompt intervention in order to improve outcomes. Biomarkers, such high serum procalcitonin and ferritin have also emerged as poor prognostic factors. Furthermore, blood hypercoagulability is common among hospitalized COVID‐19 patients. Elevated D‐Dimer levels are consistently reported, whereas their gradual increase during disease course is particularly associated with disease worsening. Other coagulation abnormalities such as PT and aPTT prolongation, fibrin degradation products increase, with severe thrombocytopenia lead to life‐threatening disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which necessitates continuous vigilance and prompt intervention. So, COVID‐19 infected patients, whether hospitalized or ambulatory, are at high risk for venous thromboembolism, and an early and prolonged pharmacological thromboprophylaxis with low molecular weight heparin is highly recommended. Last but not least, the need for assuring blood donations during the pandemic is also highlighted.
Effectiveness of using a bioabsorbable implant (Latera) to treat nasal valve collapse in patients with nasal obstruction: systemic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Do Hyun , Lee Hyun Ho , Kim Sun Hong , Hwang Se Hwan
Published: April 2020

Background

Nasal obstruction is a common cause of breathing problems with lateral wall insufficiency (LWI) a key anatomic contributor. Recently, a bioabsorbable nasal implant was introduced to correct LWI and treat nasal obstruction. The goal of this study was to perform a systematic review with meta‐analysis to determine the efficacy of the bioabsorbable nasal implant for treating nasal obstruction caused by LWI.

Methods

Five databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Database) were independently reviewed by 2 researchers, starting at the earliest time point recorded in the database to September 2019. Studies that scored endoscopic lateral wall movement and nasal obstruction related to quality of life (QOL) postoperatively before and after bioabsorbable nasal implants and those that compared the outcomes of nasal implants (treatment group) with outcomes of sham surgery (control group) were included in the analysis.

Results

Five studies (396 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Bioabsorbable nasal implants significantly reduced endoscopic lateral wall motion compared to pretreatment values and also improved QOL at 12 months postoperatively. Most adverse effects following the nasal implant, such as skin or mucosal reaction, infection, or implant retrieval, were reported with a 5% incidence rate. All adverse outcomes were resolved without significant sequelae. Compared with sham surgery, bioabsorbable nasal implants significantly improved disease‐specific QOL.

Conclusion

Bioabsorbable nasal implants may reduce nasal wall movement and subjective symptom scores compared to preoperative status. More randomized clinical trials must be conducted to further verify the effectiveness of bioabsorbable nasal implants.
Monitoring H2O2on the Surface of Single Cells with Liquid Crystal Elastomer Microspheres
Authors: Li Weiwei , Khan Mashooq , Lin Ling , Zhang Qiang , Feng Shuo , Wu Zengnan , Lin Jin‐Ming
Published: April 2020

Live‐imaging of signaling molecules released from living cells is a fundamental challenge in life sciences. Herein, we synthesized liquid crystal elastomer microspheres functionalized with horse‐radish peroxidase (LCEM‐HRP), which can be immobilized directly on the cell membrane to monitor real‐time release of H2O2at the single‐cell level. LCEM‐HRP could report H2O2through a concentric‐to‐radial (C‐R) transfiguration, which is due to the deprotonation of LCEM‐HRP and the break of inter or intra‐chain hydrogen bonding in LCEM‐HRP caused by HRP‐catalyzed reduction of H2O2. The level of transfiguration of LCEM‐HRP revealed the different amounts of H2O2released from cells. The estimated detection sensitivity was ≈2.2×10−7 μmfor 10 min of detection time. The cell lines and cell–cell heterogeneity was explored from different configurations. LCEM‐HRP presents a new approach for in situ real‐time imaging of H2O2release from living cells and can be the basis for seeking more advanced chemical probes for imaging of various signaling molecules in the cellular microenvironment.
Nucleic Acid Aptamers for Molecular Diagnostics and Therapeutics: Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Li Long , Xu Shujuan , Yan He , Li Xiaowei , Yazd Hoda Safari , Li Xiang , Huang Tong , Cui Cheng , Jiang Jianhui , Tan Weihong
Published: April 2020

The advent of SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) technology has shown the ability to evolve artificial ligands with affinity and specificity able to meet growing clinical demand for probes that can, for example, distinguish between the target leukemia cells and other cancer cells within the matrix of heterogeneity, which characterizes cancer cells. Though antibodies are the conventional and ideal choice as a molecular recognition tool for many applications, aptamers complement the use of antibodies due to many unique advantages, such as small size, low cost, and facile chemical modification. This Minireview will focus on the novel applications of aptamers and SELEX, as well as opportunities to develop molecular tools able to meet future clinical needs in biomedicine.
Professional Attitudes in Health Professions' Education: The Effects of an Anatomy Near‐Peer Learning Activity
Authors: Merati Nickoo , Murphy‐Buske Anna , Alfaro Patricia , Larouche Sandie S. , Noël Geoffroy P.J.C. , Ventura Nicole M.
Published: April 2020

Interprofessional attitudes existing between healthcare disciplines can negatively impact communication and collaboration in the clinical setting. While human anatomy is a topic central to healthcare trainees, the potential of the anatomy laboratory to minimize negative interprofessional attitudes has yet to be characterized. This study aimed to assess the effects of an anatomy interprofessional near‐peer learning activity (AIP‐NPLA) on medical and nursing students' interprofessional attitudes at McGill University. The authors employed a convergent parallel mixed methods study to explore participants' AIP‐NPLA experiences. The Attitudes to Health Professionals Questionnaire (AHPQ) was used pre‐ and post‐AIP‐NPLA to assess participants' attitudes toward their own and their counterpart profession. In addition, a focus group was held immediately following the AIP‐NPLA to explore participants' experiences and interprofessional perceptions. Quantitative results using a principal components analysis demonstrated significant changes in nursing students' responses between pre‐ and post‐AIP‐NPLA scoring, rating the medical profession as being more caring overall. Medical students' responses pre‐ and post‐AIP‐NPLA demonstrated no significant differences. Qualitative results also suggested a breakdown of negative attitudes, an increased understanding of inter‐ and intra‐professional roles, and the importance of interprofessional collaboration and mutual learning for their careers. These findings revealed that attitudes among healthcare trainees may be positively restructured in the anatomy laboratory, allowing for collaborative care to predominate in current and future clinical practices.
Distinctive spring shortwave cloud radiative effect and its inter‐annual variation over southeastern China
Authors: Li Jiandong , You Qinglong , He Bian
Published: April 2020

The shortwave cloud radiative effect (SWCRE) plays a critical role in the earth's radiation balance, and its global mean magnitude is much larger than the warming effect induced by greenhouse gases. This study investigates the SWCRE at the top of the atmosphere and its inter‐annual variation over southeastern China (SEC) using satellite retrievals and ERA‐Interim reanalysis data. The results show that in this region the largest SWCRE with the maximum intensity up to −120 W·m−2 occurs in spring and is also the strongest between 60°S and 60°N. The domain‐averaged intensity of SWCRE is much larger than the longwave cloud radiative effect (LWCRE), suggesting the dominant cooling role of SWCRE in the regional atmosphere–surface system. The spring SWCRE over SEC shows a weak increasing trend and its anomalies in most years exceed those of LWCRE during 2000–2017. This means that SWCRE also plays a dominant role in the inter‐annual variation of regional cloud radiative effects. Over SEC, low‐ to mid‐level ascending motion and water vapor convergence during spring favor the generation and maintenance of cloud water, leading to strong SWCRE. Statistical analysis shows that the spatial pattern and intensity of the spring SWCRE are well correlated with the low‐ to mid‐level ascending motion and water vapor convergence. The temporal correlation coefficient between domain‐averaged spring SWCRE and 850–500‐hPa vertical velocity is .76 during 2000–2017. The long‐term variation in spring SWCRE over SEC can be inferred to some extent from regional ascending motion and associated large‐scale circulations.
Quantitative Gait Analysis in Duplication 15q Syndrome and Nonsyndromic ASD
Authors: Wilson Rujuta B. , Elashoff David , Gouelle Arnaud , Smith Beth A. , Wilson Andrew M. , Dickinson Abigail , Safari Tabitha , Hyde Carly , Jeste Shafali S.
Published: April 2020

Motor impairments occur frequently in genetic syndromes highly penetrant for autism spectrum disorder (syndromic ASD) and in individuals with ASD without a genetic diagnosis (nonsyndromic ASD). In particular, abnormalities in gait in ASD have been linked to language delay, ASD severity, and likelihood of having a genetic disorder. Quantitative measures of motor function can improve our ability to evaluate motor differences in individuals with syndromic and nonsyndromic ASD with varying levels of intellectual disability and adaptive skills. To evaluate this methodology, we chose to use quantitative gait analysis to study duplication 15q syndrome (dup15q syndrome), a genetic disorder highly penetrant for motor delays, intellectual disability, and ASD. We evaluated quantitative gait variables in individuals with dup15q syndrome (n = 39) and nonsyndromic ASD (n = 21) and compared these data to a reference typically developing cohort. We found a gait pattern of slow pace, poor postural control, and large gait variability in dup15q syndrome. Our findings improve characterization of motor function in dup15q syndrome and nonsyndromic ASD. Quantitative gait analysis can be used as a translational method and can improve our identification of clinical endpoints to be used in treatment trials for these syndromes. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1102‐1110. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Motor impairments, particularly abnormalities in walking, occur frequently in genetic syndromes highly penetrant for autism spectrum disorder (syndromic ASD). Here, using quantitative gait analysis, we find that individuals with duplication 15q syndrome have an atypical gait pattern that differentiates them from typically developing and nonsyndromic ASD individuals. Our findings improve motor characterization in dup15q syndrome and nonsyndromic ASD.
Differences in Developmental Functioning Profiles Between Male and Female Preschoolers Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Craig Francesco , Crippa Alessandro , De Giacomo Andrea , Ruggiero Marta , Rizzato Veronica , Lorenzo Alessandro , Fanizza Isabella , Margari Lucia , Trabacca Antonio
Published: April 2020

This study investigated differences in clinical symptoms and developmental functioning profiles as well as sex‐specific correlations of clinical characteristics and communication abilities, motor skills, and maladaptive behaviors in male and female preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Fifty‐two females (mean age 4.5 ± 2.16 years old) and 62 males (mean age 4.2 ± 1.17 years old) with ASD were enrolled and assessed by measures including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule‐Second Edition (ADOS‐2) and Psychoeducational Profile‐Third Edition (PEP‐3). We found intellectual disability in 91.2% of the children. While preschoolers with ASD showed comparable severity of restricted and repetitive behaviors (P = 0.17), females with ASD were less severely affected than age and intelligence quotient‐matched males with ASD in the ADOS‐2 social affect domain (P value = 0.001) and calibrated severity scores (P = 0.002). Interestingly, sex‐specific linear regressions revealed that fine motor skills were predictive of impaired social affect in males but not in females. Specifically, motor skills might be the core feature for sex differences in ASD. Although preliminary, this finding suggests the need for more sex‐specific diagnostic and intervention strategies in order to improve early identification efforts and specific intervention targets.

Lay Summary

Little is known about differences in developmental and functional profiles in males and females with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We found important similarities and differences in the core ASD symptoms between male and female preschoolers. In addition, fine motor skills seem to predict social affect impairment and ASD symptom severity in males with ASD. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1537–1547. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of nickel, cobalt, and iron on methanogenesis from methanol and cometabolic conversion of 1,2‐dichloroethene by Methanosarcina barkeri
Authors: Paulo Lara M. , Hidayat Mohamad R. , Moretti Giulio , Stams Alfons J. M. , Sousa Diana Z.
Published: April 2020

Methanogens are responsible for the last step in anaerobic digestion (AD), in which methane (a biofuel) is produced. Some methanogens can cometabolize chlorinated pollutants, contributing for their removal during AD. Methanogenic cofactors involved in cometabolic reductive dechlorination, such as F430 and cobalamin, contain metal ions (nickel, cobalt, iron) in their structure. We hypothesized that the supplementation of trace metals could improve methane production and the cometabolic dechlorination of 1,2‐dichloroethene (DCE) by pure cultures of Methanosarcina barkeri. Nickel, cobalt, and iron were added to cultures of M. barkeri growing on methanol and methanol plus DCE. Metal amendment improved DCE dechlorination to vinyl chloride (VC): assays with 20 µM of Fe3+ showed the highest final concentration of VC (5× higher than in controls without Fe3+), but also in assays with 5.5 µM of Co2+ and 5 µM of Ni2+ VC formation was improved (3.5–4× higher than in controls without the respective metals). Dosing of metals could be useful to improve anaerobic removal of chlorinated compounds, and more importantly decrease the detrimental effect of DCE on methane production in anaerobic digesters.
Purification and properties of a laccase from the mushroom Agaricus sinodeliciosus
Authors: Hao Jingzhe , Zhang Weiwei , Wang Hexiang , Ziya Nur , Luo Ying , Jia Peisong , Zhang Guoqing , Ng Tzibun
Published: April 2020

A homogeneous monomeric laccase (ASL) from Agaricus sinodeliciosus, with a molecular mass of 65 kDa, was isolated using ion‐exchange chromatography (CM‐cellulose and Q‐Sepharose) and gel‐filtration chromatography (Superdex 75). This laccase exhibited maximum activity at 50 °C and pH 5.0. Hg2+ and Cd2+ significantly inhibited its activity. The laccase displayed a Km value of 0.9 mM toward 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulfonate) (ABTS). In addition to ABTS, ASL exhibited higher affinity toward o‐toluidine and benzidine than other substrates. ASL is able to decolorize malachite green and Eriochrome black T.
Reconsidering assent for randomised control trials in education: Ethical and procedural concerns
Authors: McPherson Amy , Saltmarsh Sue , Tomkins Sara
Published: April 2020

Despite ongoing disagreement about what kinds of evidence are most valuable to education, there continues to be an increasing push to make a narrow group of scientific methodologies the basis of educational policy and practice. This has created a growth in the use of randomised control trials (RCTs), which are considered an exemplary example of scientifically rigorous research design. Yet despite the increase in both the prevalence and status of RCTs, this article will argue that the ethics informing this research orientation remains underdeveloped, with the specific need for an agenda that grapples with assent in RCTs in both a philosophical and a methodological way. As a corrective to this, we engage with Biesta’s observation of a lack of explicit engagement with the values informing our decisions about the direction of education practice. We begin by examining assent in existing education research literature, focusing on some of the ways that qualitative and praxis‐oriented researchers have grappled with the complexity of assent in research projects involving children and young people in schools. We then consider analogous debates concerning assent in fields such as bioethics and biomedicine, given the established nature of bioethics as a discipline. Finally, we turn our attention to developing an agenda that can work towards a consideration of assent in RCTs in education research, with the purpose of making transparent some of the ethical concerns that warrant attention in the design and conduct of RCT research studies in education.
Biosynthesis and characterization of poly(d‐lactate‐co‐glycolate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate)
Authors: Choi So Young , Chae Tong Un , Shin Jihoon , Im Jung Ae , Lee Sang Yup
Published: April 2020

Poly(d‐lactate‐co‐glycolate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) [poly(d‐LA‐co‐GA‐co‐4HB)] and poly(d‐lactate‐co‐glycolate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐d‐2‐hydroxybutyrate) [poly(d‐LA‐co‐GA‐co‐4HB‐co‐d‐2HB)] are of interest for their potential applications as new biomedical polymers. Here we report their enhanced production by metabolically engineered Escherichia coli. To examine the polymer properties, poly(d‐LA‐co‐GA‐co‐4HB) polymers having various monomer compositions (3.4–41.0mol% of 4HB) were produced by culturing the engineered E. coli strain expressing xylBC from Caulobacter crescentus, evolved phaC1 from Pseudomonas sp. MBEL 6‐19 (phaC1437), and evolved pct from Clostridium propionicum (pct540) in a medium supplemented with sodium 4HB at various concentrations. To produce these polymers without 4HB feeding, the 4HB biosynthetic pathway was additionally constructed by expressing Clostridium kluyveri sucD and 4hbD. The engineered E. coli expressing xylBC, phaC1437, pct540, sucD, and 4hbD successfully produced poly(d‐LA‐co‐GA‐co‐4HB‐co‐d‐2HB) and poly(d‐LA‐co‐GA‐co‐4HB) from glucose and xylose. Through modulating the expression levels of the heterologous genes and performing fed‐batch cultures, the polymer content and titer could be increased to 65.76wt% and 6.19g/L, respectively, while the monomer fractions in the polymers could be altered as desired. The polymers produced, in particular, the 4HB‐rich polymers showed viscous and sticky properties suggesting that they might be used as medical adhesives.
Using anticipated learning outcomes for backward design of a molecular cell biology Course‐based Undergraduate Research Experience
Authors: Hills Melissa , Harcombe Kimberley , Bernstein Nina
Published: April 2020

Anticipated learning outcomes (LOs) were defined and used for the backward design of a Course‐based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE). These LOs reflect the inquiry‐based nature of CUREs and capture key knowledge and skills inherent to scientific practice and essential in research. The LOs were used to plan a formative and summative assessment strategy to support and evaluate student achievement. A research question was identified that aligned with the learning goals of the course, provided an opportunity for discovery and iteration, and introduced a variety of molecular, cellular, and biochemical techniques. The course is offered to students in the final year of their degree and delivered over a 12‐week period with two 3‐hr labs each week. These LOs, and the rigorous assessment strategy used to support them, could be adapted to different projects. Likewise, the laboratory exercises are presented as a series of modules highlighting opportunities for adaptation to a variety of schedules.
Targeted double domain nanoplex based on galactosylated polyethylenimine enhanced the delivery of IL‐12 plasmid
Authors: Dehshahri Ali , Sadeghpour Hossein , Mohazzabieh Erfaneh , Saatchi Avval Sara , Mohammadinejad Reza
Published: April 2020

The objective of the present investigation was to design a targeted polyethylenimine (PEI)‐based polyplex by conjugating lactose bearing galactose groups on low molecular weight PEI (LMW PEI) grafted to a high molecular weight PEI (HMW PEI) via a succinic acid linker in order to restore the amine content of the whole conjugate used for ligand conjugation. The PEI conjugate was synthesized and characterized in terms of buffering capacity, particle size, zeta potential, plasmid condensation ability, and protection of DNA against degrading enzymes. Also, the transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity were evaluated in the cell line over‐expressing asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPRs) and compared with the cells lacking the receptors. The results demonstrated the ability of PEI conjugate in condensation of plasmid DNA and protection against enzyme degradation. The PEI conjugate formed nanoparticles of around 75 nm with higher buffering capacity compared with unmodified PEI. The polyplexes prepared by the modified PEI could increase the level of transgene up to four folds in the cells over‐expressing the receptor. The results demonstrated the separation of targeting and delivery domains could be considered as a strategy to restore the amine content of the PEI molecule utilized for targeting ligand conjugation.
Paleopathological study of a podal osteochondroma from the prehistoric Hypogeum of Calaforno (Sicily)
Authors: Varotto Elena , Militello Pietro Maria , Platania Erica , Sferrazza Paolo , Galassi Francesco Maria
Published: April 2020

In this article, we report a case of isolated podal osteochondroma from the prehistoric Hypogeum of Calaforno (Giarratana, Ragusa, Sicily). Although the phalanx exhibiting the benign tumoral mass comes from a context featuring several commingled remains, the very good state of preservation of this bone allowed us to perform a comprehensive study of the neoplasm by applying a multidisciplinary approach encompassing archeology, morphology, stereomicroscopy, and radiology. The results from this very ancient specimen have been assessed in the light of the available paleopathological literature and clinical implications currently encountered in modern patients.
HOXD9 promote epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and metastasis in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Xiao Yizhi , Tang Weimei , Li Jiaying , Hong Linjie , Dai Weiyu , Zhang Wenjing , Peng Ying , Wu Xiaosheng , Wang Jing , Chen Yaying , Bai Yang , Lin Jianjiao , Yang Qiong , Wang Yusi , Lin Zhizhao , Liu Side , Xiong Jing , Wang Jide , Xiang Li
Published: April 2020

Background

HOXD9, a Hox family member, is involved in cancer growth and metastasis. But, its regulation mechanism at the molecular level particularly in colorectal cancer (CRC), is mostly unknown.

Methods

The HOXD9 protein expression levels were analyzed using immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays, and western blot. The in vivo and in vitro roles of HOXD9 in CRC were determined using colony formation and EdU incorporation, CCK‐8, wound scratch and transwell invasion assay, and animal models.

Results

Expression of HOXD9 was higher in CRC than in matched healthy tissues. High expression of HOXD9 has significantly associated with the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stages, tumor differentiation, lymph node metastasis, and other serious invasions, and it had a poor prognosis. In vitro, HOXD9 encouraged proliferation, movement and EMT processes in cells of CRC. Also, TGF‐β1 promoted the expression of HOXD9 and this effect was dependent on the dose and downregulation of HOXD9 repressed TGF‐β1 ‐induced EMT. In vivo, HOXD9 promoted the invasive and metastasis of CRC cells via orthotopic implantation.

Conclusions

The ectopic expression of HOXD9 promoted the invasion metastasis in cells of the colorectal tumor by induction of EMT in vitro and vivo.
The value of renal score in both determining surgical strategies and predicting complications for renal cell carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shi Naipeng , Zu Feng , Shan Yong , Chen Shuqiu , Xu Bin , Du Mulong , Chen Ming
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Radical nephrectomy (RN) was the standard treatment for renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, recent studies have found that partial nephrectomy (PN) could achieve similar effects as radical nephrectomy, and has the advantages of less bleeding and shorter hospital stay. The choice of surgical strategies has become a concern of clinicians, which could be guided by renal score introduced by Kutikov et al Therefore, we conducted this meta‐analysis to clarify the value of renal score of determining surgical strategies and predicting complications.

Methods

The keywords “RENAL score,” “renal nephrometry score,” or “nephrometry score” were used to retrieve electronic databases for relevant literature up to Feb 2020, including PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane library. Surgical strategies and complications are outcome measures. Risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) is applied to assess the effect size.

Results

A total of 20 studies met the selection criteria for meta‐analysis. There was significant difference in RN operation rate for each subgroup (low‐moderate: RR = 3.50, 95% Cl = 2.60‐4.71, P < .001; low‐high: RR = 6.29, 95% Cl = 4.40‐9.00, P < .001; moderate‐high: RR = 1.80, 95% Cl = 1.39‐2.32, P < .001).The overall incidence of complications from high renal score group was significantly higher than that in low renal score group (low‐moderate: RR = 1.32, 95% Cl = 1.03‐1.69, P = .026; low‐high: RR = 2.45, 95% Cl = 1.48‐4.07, P = .001; moderate‐high: RR = 1.75, 95% Cl = 1.17‐2.61, P = .007).

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis indicated that renal score is an efficient tool for determining surgical strategies and predicting complications in PN. More prospective research is essential to verify the predictive value of renal score.
Usefulness of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for predicting the prognosis and treatment response of neoadjuvant therapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yokose Takahiro , Kitago Minoru , Matsusaka Yohji , Masugi Yohei , Shinoda Masahiro , Yagi Hiroshi , Abe Yuta , Oshima Go , Hori Shutaro , Endo Yutaka , Toyama Kenji , Iwabuchi Yu , Takemura Ryo , Ishii Ryota , Nakahara Tadaki , Okuda Shigeo , Jinzaki Masahiro , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: April 2020

Background

The Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) for computed tomography (CT) is preoperatively used to evaluate therapeutic effects. However, it does not reflect the pathological treatment response (PTR) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The Positron Emission Tomography Response Criteria in Solid Tumors (PERCIST) for positron emission tomography (PET)/CT is effective in other cancers. This study aimed to confirm the usefulness of PERCIST and the prognostic utility of PET/CT for PDAC.

Methods

Forty‐two consecutive patients with PDAC who underwent neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) and pancreatectomy at our institution between 2014 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. We evaluated the treatment response and prognostic significance of PET/CT parameters and other clinicopathological factors.

Results

Twenty‐two patients who underwent PET/CT both before and after NAT with the same protocol were included. RECIST revealed stable disease and partial response in 20 and 2 cases, respectively. PERCIST revealed stable metabolic disease, partial metabolic response, and complete metabolic response in 8, 9, and 5 cases, respectively. The PTR was G3, G2, and G1 in 8, 12, and 2 cases, respectively. For comparing the concordance rates between PTR and each parameter, PERCIST (72.7% [16/22]) was significantly superior to RECIST (36.4% [8/22]) (P = .017). The area under the curve survival values of PET/CT parameters were 0.777 for metabolic tumor volume (MTV), 0.500 for maximum standardized uptake value, 0.554 for peak standardized uptake value corrected for lean body mass, and 0.634 for total lesion glycolysis. A 50% cut‐off value for the MTV reduction rate yielded the largest difference in survival between responders and nonresponders. On multivariate analysis, MTV reduction rates < 50% were independent predictors for relapse‐free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 3.92; P = .044) and overall survival (HR, 14.08; P = .023).

Conclusions

PERCIST was more accurate in determining NAT’s therapeutic effects for PDAC than RECIST. MTV reduction rates were independent prognostic factors for PDAC.
Retracted: The lncRNA SNHG5‐mediated miR‐205‐5p downregulation contributes to the progression of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by targeting ZEB1
Authors: Xiang Wei , Lv Lei , Zhou Gaofeng , Wu Wei , Yuan Jingdong , Zhang Chuanhua , Jiang Guosong
Published: April 2020

Recent findings have unraveled the critical functions of the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) SNHG5 in human malignancies. Nevertheless, the role and mechanism of SNHG5 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) are still elusive. In our study, substantially higher abundance of SNHG5 was observed in ccRCC specimens and cell lines, and increased SNHG5 expression was intimately correlated with tumor size, tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node invasion, and distant metastases in patients with ccRCC. SNHG5 knockdown obviously suppressed the proliferative, migratory, and invasive capabilities of ccRCC cells, whereas SNHG5 overexpression induced the opposite effects. Mechanistically, SNHG5 activated the transcription of ZEB1, which exerts a pivotal role in modulation of epithelia‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor metastasis. SNHG5 was then shown to act as an endogenous sponge for miR‐205‐5p, which targets ZEB1 in ccRCC. Moreover rescue experiments revealed that SNHG5 promotes ccRCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in a miR‐205‐5p‐dependent manner. Additionally, in vivo assays further indicated that overexpression or silencing of SNHG5 in ccRCC cells promoted or suppressed the tumorigenesis and metastasis, respectively. Altogether, the present data provide the first evidence that the lncRNA SNHG5 has an oncogenic role in ccRCC through the SNHG5/miR‐205‐5p/ZEB1 signaling axis and represents a novel potential therapeutic regimen against ccRCC.
Introduction to the Special Section ‘Innovative counselling and psychotherapy research methods’: Defining the future of counselling and psychotherapy research
Authors: Kramer Ueli , Timulak Ladislav
Published: April 2020

In the call for papers for this Special Issue, we sought submissions that would introduce innovative methods with the potential to shape counselling and psychotherapy research into the future. We believe that we accomplished this goal and that this issue introduces a range of valuable examples of current innovations in counselling and psychotherapy research methods. Through the review process, we encouraged authors to offer practical guidelines on how to innovatively assess and analyse change and other relevant aspects of therapy. We also guided authors to not only provide the field with an update on cutting‐edge methodology, but also describe these methods in a practice‐friendly way. As such, the Special Issue aims at becoming a building block for future practice‐friendly research in counselling and psychotherapy.
Olaparib‐Based Photoaffinity Probes for PARP‐1 Detection in Living Cells
Authors: Voorneveld Jim , Florea Bogdan I. , Bakkum Thomas , Mendowicz Rafal J. , van der Veer Miriam S. , Gagestein Berend , van Kasteren Sander I. , van der Stelt Mario , Overkleeft Herman S. , Filippov Dmitri V.
Published: April 2020

The poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase (PARP) is a protein from the family of ADP‐ribosyltransferases that catalyzes polyadenosine diphosphate ribose (ADPR) formation in order to attract the DNA repair machinery to sites of DNA damage. The inhibition of PARP activity by olaparib can cause cell death, which is of clinical relevance in some tumor types. This demonstrates that quantification of PARP activity in the context of living cells is of great importance. In this work, we present the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of photo‐activatable affinity probes inspired by the olaparib molecule that are equipped with a diazirine for covalent attachment upon activation by UV light and a ligation handle for the addition of a reporter group of choice. SDS‐PAGE, western blotting and label‐free LC‐MS/MS quantification analysis show that the probes target the PARP‐1 protein and are selectively outcompeted by olaparib; this suggests that they bind in the same enzymatic pocket. Proteomics data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD018661.
Metallic Nanoparticle‐Enabled Sensing of a Drug‐of‐Abuse: An Attempt at Forensic Application
Authors: Hu Ming , Han Qinyu , Xing Bengang
Published: April 2020

γ‐Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) functions as a depressant on the central nerve system and serves as a pharmaceutical agent in the treatment of narcolepsy and alcohol withdraw. In recent years, GHB has been misused as a recreational drug due to its ability to induce euphoric feelings. Moreover, it has gained increasing attention as a popular drug of abuse that is frequently related to drug‐facilitated sexual assaults. At the moment, detection methods based on chromatography exhibit extraordinary sensitivity for GHB sensing. However, such techniques require complicated sample treatment prior to analysis. Optical sensors provide an alternative approach for rapid and simple analysis of GHB samples. Unfortunately, currently reported probes are mostly based on hydrogen bonding to recognize GHB, and this raises concerns about, for example, the lack of specificity. In this work, we report a bioinspired strategy for selective sensing of GHB. The method is based on specific enzyme recognition to allow highly selective detection of GHB with minimum interference, even in a complex sample matrix (e. g., simulated urine). In addition, the result can be obtained by either quantitative spectroscopy analysis or colorimetric change observed by the naked‐eye, thus demonstrating its potential application in drug screening and forensic analysis.
Exogenous spermine attenuates myocardial fibrosis in diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress and the canonical Wnt signaling pathway
Authors: Hu Jing , Lu Xiaoxiao , Zhang Xinying , Shao Xiaoting , Wang Yuehong , Chen Junting , Zhao Bingbing , Li Siwei , Xu Changqing , Wei Can
Published: April 2020

Myocardial fibrosis is one of the main pathological manifestations of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Spermine (SPM), a product of polyamine metabolism, plays an important role in many cardiac diseases including hypertrophy, ischemia, and infarction, but its role in diabetic myocardial fibrosis has not been clarified. This study aimed to investigate the role of polyamine metabolism, specifically SPM, in diabetic myocardial fibrosis and to explore the related mechanisms. We used intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 60 mg/kg) in Wistar rats and high glucose (HG, 40 mM) stimulated cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) to established a type 1 diabetes (T1D) model in vivo and in vitro, which were pretreated with exogenous SPM (5 mg/kg per day and 5 μM). The results showed that hyperglycemia induced the expression of the key polyamine synthesis enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) decreased and the key catabolic enzyme spermidine/spermine N1‐acetyltransferase (SSAT) increased compared with those in the control group. The body weight, blood insulin level, and cardiac ejection function were decreased, while blood glucose, heart weight, the ratio of heart weight to body weight, myocardial interstitial collagen deposition, and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)‐related protein (glucose‐regulated protein‐78, glucose‐regulated protein‐94, activating transcription factor‐4, and C/EBP homology protein) expression in the T1D group were all significantly increased. HG also caused an increased expression of Wnt3, β‐catenin (in cytoplasm and nucleus), while Axin2 and phosphorylated β‐catenin decreased. Exogenous SPM improved the above changes caused by polyamine metabolic disorders. In conclusion, polyamine metabolism disorder occurs in the myocardial tissue of diabetic rats, causing myocardial fibrosis and ERS. Exogenous SPM plays a myocardial protective role via inhibiting of ERS and the canonical Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
Pigmented fungiform papillae of the tongue in a Japanese child
Authors: Sugiyama Yuki , Hayashi Katsuhiko , Takayama Takeshi
Published: April 2020

Pigmented fungiform papillae of the tongue (PFPT) does not require invasive investigation and treatment. However, if the patient requests treatment for aesthetic reasons, and the pigmentation is focally distributed, an excisional biopsy can be chosen for both diagnosis and treatment.
An unusual mechanism of spinal cord injury due to active neck stretching and its functional implications
Authors: Ullah Sami , Qureshi Ahmad Zaheer , Tantawy Sherif Samir , AlJaizani Yazid Antar
Published: April 2020

Spinal cord injury without radiological abnormality is a rare entity and has not been reported to occur secondary to active neck stretching. The case report highlights the possible mechanisms of injury and functional outcomes of multidisciplinary rehabilitation.
Vision loss, tractional retinal detachment, and profound anemia due to rectal carcinoma
Authors: Yamamoto Akira , Nishimura Yoshito , Obika Mikako , Morizane Yuki , Otsuka Fumio
Published: April 2020

Profound anemia can cause severe proliferative retinopathy and tractional retinal detachment; therefore, it is important to closely investigate the cause of anemia. Endoscopy and computed tomography are valuable tools for this purpose.
Pruritic annular and vesicular eruption on trunk and extremities
Authors: Koumaki Dimitra , Koumaki Vasiliki , Boumpoucheropoulos Sotirios , Katoulis Alexander , Kouvidou Charikleia , Stefanidou Maria , Bitados Panagiotis P. , Baltaga Ludmila , Miaris Orestis , Evangelou George , Krueger‐Krasagakis Sabine Elke , Krasagakis Konstantinos
Published: April 2020

We report a case of linear IgA bullous dermatosis, a rare autoimmune blistering disorder that usually presents with the abrupt onset of tense bullae. We also emphasize the importance of direct immunofluorescence for the definitive diagnosis.
Rare case of circumferential esophageal peeling
Authors: Tominaga Kentaro , Tsuchiya Atsunori , Sato Hiroki , Ishii Yui , Takeda Nobutaka , Natsui Kazuki , Kawata Yuzo , Kimura Naruhiro , Arao Yoshihisa , Takeuchi Suguru , Hayashi Kazunao , Yokoyama Junji , Terai Shuji
Published: April 2020

This report highlights the easy peeling of the esophageal epithelium with Nikolsky phenomenon after swallowing the foreign body and the healing status of the esophagus only 3 days later in a patient of pemphigus vulgaris.