bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tetraphenyl porphyrin films as selective detectors for amino acid molecules
Authors: Rivera Jesús Miguel , Rivera Margarita
Published: July 2020

The interaction of different amino acids and vacuum evaporated tetraphenyl porphyrin films was investigated by using kinetic isotherms, UV-vis spectroscopy, quartz crystal microbalance and density functional theory techniques. The adsorption process was analyzed by using pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models. From these results, the adsorption order changed depending on the chemical characteristics of the porphyrin film, although most of the interactions were classified as pseudo-second-order at the films interface. From absorbance measurements, red shifts on the Soret peak positions were observed for all amino acids interacting with the metal free and the ZnTPP systems, while the position of the Soret peak barely change for the CuTPP surface, except for a slight bathocromic shift for arginine. On the other hand, the broadening of the Soret peak was more important for the ZnTPP and H2TPP surfaces, but the interaction with the CuTPP interfaces decreased the width of the peaks in all cases. In addition, a quartz crystal microbalance analysis was employed to investigate the film sensing performance during amino acid exposure. From these results, positively charged amino acids were more easily adsorbed on the films in contrast with the polar (serine) molecule. DFT calculations exhibited important deformations for H2TPP, the out-of-plane displacement of the Zn atom for ZnTPP, and hydrogen bond interactions with the CuTPP molecule. DFT also showed high binding energies for the positively charged amino acids but low binding energies for serine in agreement with experimental data. From these results, porphyrin films could be used as selective detectors for various L-amino acid molecules.
Environmentally Friendly Magnetic Nanoparticles for Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue and Cr(VI) from Water
Authors: Wang Rui , Chen Kanglong , Peng Si , Wang Qiu-Yue , Huang Shuang-Hui , Zhou Qing-Han , Wang Jiandong , Lin Juan
Published: July 2020

The poor environmental friendliness, low adsorption capacity and nonreusability of adsorbents are still challenging for the removal of pollutants in aqueous solution. Herein, novel polypeptide-functionalized silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles (PS-MNPs), Fe3O4@SiO2@PLL nanoparticles, with good environmental friendliness, excellent adsorption capability and economic reusability were designed and prepared for efficient removal of methylene blue (MB) and Cr(VI) ion (Cr2O[Formula: see text]. The chem-physical properties of Fe3O4@SiO2@PLL nanoparticles, such as chemical structure, nanosize, nanomorphology, crystalline structure, magnetization and thermo-oxidative degradation behavior were fully investigated in this study. In addition, the adsorption properties of the Fe3O4@SiO2@PLL nanoparticles for MB and Cr(VI) ion in aqueous solution were explored by batch adsorption experiments. Based on the experimental results, the Fe3O4@SiO2@PLL nanoparticles demonstrated excellent adsorption capacity for removal of both MB and Cr(VI) ion that the theoretical maximum adsorption capacities of the nanoparticles were 301.2[Formula: see text]mg [Formula: see text] g[Formula: see text] for MB and 164.7[Formula: see text]mg [Formula: see text] g[Formula: see text] for Cr(VI), respectively. The adsorption process could be better fitted by pseudo-second-order model, and matched well with the Langmuir isotherm equation. Moreover, the Fe3O4@SiO2@PLL nanoparticles could be easily regenerated by desorbing metal ions and organic dyes from the adsorbents with appropriate eluents, and showed good adsorption capacity after five recycles. In brief, the as-prepared PS-MNPs exhibited improved environmental friendliness, excellent adsorption properties and high regeneration efficiency, which could be used as a potential adsorbent for different kinds of contaminants removal.
Management of Birth Brachial Plexus Injury Including Use of Distal Nerve Transfers
Authors: Thatte Mukund R. , Nayak Nayana S. , Hiremath Amita S.
Published: July 2020

Birth Brachial plexus injury continues to remain a problem despite significant care from obstetricians to prevent it. Many children show spontaneous recovery but a significant proportion do not have adequate recovery. This review article discusses, etiology, assessment, investigations and overall strategy to treat the condition. Surgical strategy consists of primary intraplexal repair as the standard of care but of late the distal nerve transfers used in adult plexus injuries are increasingly being used in infants too. We discuss the history, current usage and pros and cons of distal nerve transfers, the usage of Botulinum Toxin and finally given an overall algorithm for the management.
Treatment of Distal Humerus Articular Fracture with Pin-and-Plate Technique
Authors: Abdoli Abbas , Farhoud Amir Reza , Kamrani Reza Shahryar
Published: July 2020

Background: Distal Humerus Articular Fracture (classified by Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopedic Trauma Association as 13-B3) is an uncommon fracture with significant complications. We report results of 14 patients treated by open reduction and pin-and-plate fixation technique.

Methods: In this retrospective study, we applied pin-and-plate fixation to 14 distal humerus articular fractures, in which screw fixation alone was inefficient or inadequate to provide stable fixation. After anatomical reduction of articular fragments, multiple Kirschner wires were inserted through the fragments. To prevent migration of Kirschner wires a small plate was placed proximally on the bent end of the pins.

Results: The average age of 14 patients (8 males and 6 females) was 36.4 years (range: 16–57) and the mean follow up period was 43 months (range: 12–80). At last follow up the average quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 18.9 (range: 2.3–42.5) and the mean points for Mayo Elbow Performance Index was 75.3 (range: 50–100). Mean final arc of flexion-extension was 97° (range: 40–131).

Conclusions: Distal humerus articular fracture is sometimes difficult to fix with conventional methods. We used pin-and-plate technique that could make a stable fixation and allow early range of motion with acceptable results.
How Long Should We Immobilize the Wrist after Vascularized Bone Grafting for the Treatment of Scaphoid Nonunion?
Authors: Tsumura Takuya , Matsumoto Taiichi , Matsushita Mutsumi , Ono Kousei , Kishimoto Katsuma , Shiode Hayao
Published: July 2020

Background: Although vascularized bone grafting can effectively treat scaphoid nonunion, the optimal duration of the immobilization period after bone grafting is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to examine the difference in the union rate and range of motion between short and long immobilization periods and infer the optimal post-immobilization period after pedicled vascularized bone grafting for scaphoid nonunion treatment.

Methods: A total of 23 wrists (21 men and 1 woman) with scaphoid nonunion treated using an intercompartmental supraretinacular artery pedicled vascularized bone graft were analyzed. We examined the difference in the union rate and range of motion between patients immobilized for less than 49 days (short immobilization group) and those immobilized for more than 49 days (long immobilization group). The range of motion of the wrist joint was measured before and after surgery. Patient outcomes were also assessed.

Results: The overall union rate was 95.6%. A significant difference was found in postoperative extension and flexion between the two groups, but not in terms of the functional outcome. If the intraoperative fixation is solid, intraoperative proximal pole bleeding is confirmed, and the follow-up radiograph shows a normal healing process, we propose immobilization of the wrist for ≤ 7 weeks.

Conclusions: The immobilization duration should depend on the solidity of intraoperative fixation and a satisfactory appearance on follow-up radiography: absence of a gap at the graft interface, surrounding lucency, or movement of the implant and displacement of the graft. If there are no signs of graft failure and fixation is solid, immobilization of the wrist for 7 weeks or less is recommended.
Treatment of Multiple Digit Amputation in an Infant Using an Abdominal Pocket Combined with Composite Grafts of the Amputated Distal Phalanxes and Nails
Authors: Takeda Shinsuke , Yamamoto Michiro , Takeichi Yosuke , Hara Tatsuya , Kurahashi Toshikazu , Hirata Hitoshi
Published: July 2020

Retention of the distal phalanxes is important in the treatment of multiple digit amputations in infants to preserve the digit length and nail for functional and cosmetic reasons. We report the case of a 22-month-old boy with multiple digit amputations of his left index, middle, and ring fingers, which were severely mangled and not suitable for replantation. We propose the usefulness of the abdominal pocket method combined with composite grafts of the amputated phalanxes and nails and report the outcome of our case, with 2-year follow-up.
Wrist Arthroplasty to Facilitate Communication in the Hearing Impaired
Authors: Sivakumar Brahman , Piercey Joshua , Graham David
Published: July 2020

Management of wrist arthritis may involve many options, including motion preserving and motion sacrificing procedures. Total wrist arthrodesis is often considered the gold standard for severe wrist arthritis, failing non-operative management. We present the first case to our knowledge of total wrist arthroplasty (TWA) for patient with rheumatoid arthritis who is also deaf, requiring sign language for communication with excellent results.
Relativity of the Conventional Hand Tendon Zones and the Actual Glide Zones of Tendon Injury and Repair: A Need for Concept Reappraisal
Authors: Macionis Valdas
Published: July 2020

The conventional hand tendon zones and subzones do not reflect the actual lengths covered by the involved locus of the tendon during full digital and wrist motion, which warrant reappraisal of the tendon zone concept. Because of the tendon excursions many lacerations should be regarded as multiple zone injuries. Furthermore, the length-spans of glide of the distal tendon stump and of the tendon junction (i.e. the glide zones of tendon injury and repair, respectively) are mostly not of the same length because, due to pulley release and bulkiness of the tenorrhaphy, the glide zone of tendon repair is shorter than that of tendon injury. Therefore, it would be practical to notate the glide zones of the lacerated tendon by indicating the anatomic position of the distal tendon stump and tendon junction in full extension and flexion. This data can be provided separately or along with the conventional tendon zones, e.g. II (A4–C2) or II–III (A2–PA), where A, C, and PA stand for the annular, cruciform, and palmar aponeurosis pulleys, respectively. The conventional tendon zone classification could be improved with a tendon glide zone concept. Documentation of the actual excursions of the distal tendon stump and of the tenorrhaphy interface would prevent misinterpretation of the actual level of tendon injury and repair.
Chiral Magnetic Effects in Nuclear Collisions
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Gang
Published: July 2020

The interplay of quantum anomalies with strong magnetic fields and vorticity in chiral systems could lead to novel transport phenomena, such as the chiral magnetic effect (CME), the chiral magnetic wave (CMW), and the chiral vortical effect (CVE). In high-energy nuclear collisions, these chiral effects may survive the expansion of a quark–gluon plasma fireball and be detected in experiments. The experimental searches for the CME, the CMW, and the CVE have aroused extensive interest over the past couple of decades. The main goal of this article is to review the latest experimental progress in the search for these novel chiral transport phenomena at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider at Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. Future programs to help reduce uncertainties and facilitate the interpretation of the data are also discussed.
Stimulus intensity-dependent recruitment of NaV1 subunits in action potential initiation in nerve terminals of vagal C-fibers innervating the esophagus
Authors: Ru Fei , Pavelkova Nikoleta , Krajewski Jeffrey L. , McDermott Jeff S. , Undem Bradley J. , Kollarik Marian
Published: July 2020

We report that pharmacologically distinguishable voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV1) mediate action potential initiation at low (innocuous) versus high (noxious) intensity of esophageal distention in nerve terminals of vagal nodose C-fibers. Action potential initiation at low intensity is entirely dependent on NaV1.7; however, additional tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive NaV1s are recruited at higher intensity of distention. This is the first demonstration that NaV1s underlying action potential initiation in visceral C-fibers depend on the intensity of the stimulus.
EpCAM+CD73+ mark epithelial progenitor cells in postnatal human lung and are associated with pathogenesis of pulmonary disease including lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Limei , Dorn Patrick , Simillion Cedric , Froment Laurène , Berezowska Sabina , Tschanz Stefan A. , Haenni Beat , Blank Fabian , Wotzkow Carlos , Peng Ren-Wang , Marti Thomas M. , Bode Peter K. , Moehrlen Ueli , Schmid Ralph A. , Hall Sean R. R.
Published: July 2020

Lung injury in mice induces mobilization of discrete subsets of epithelial progenitor cells to promote new airway and alveolar structures. However, whether similar cell types exist in human lung remains unresolved. Using flow cytometry, we identified a distinct cluster of cells expressing the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), a cell surface marker expressed on epithelial progenitor cells, enriched in the ecto-5′-nucleotidase CD73 in unaffected postnatal human lungs resected from pediatric patients with congenital lung lesions. Within the EpCAM+CD73+ population, a small subset coexpresses integrin β4 and HTII-280. This population remained stable with age. Spatially, EpCAM+CD73+ cells were positioned along the basal membrane of respiratory epithelium and alveolus next to CD73+ cells lacking EpCAM. Expanded EpCAM+CD73+ cells give rise to a pseudostratified epithelium in a two-dimensional air–liquid interface or a clonal three-dimensional organoid assay. Organoids generated under alveolar differentiation conditions were cystic-like and lacked robust alveolar mature cell types. Compared with unaffected postnatal lung, congenital lung lesions were marked by clusters of EpCAM+CD73+ cells in airway and cystic distal lung structures lined by simple epithelium composed of EpCAM+SCGB1A1+ cells and hyperplastic EpCAM+proSPC+ cells. In non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), there was a marked increase in EpCAM+CD73+ tumor cells enriched in inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules CD47 and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), which was associated with poor survival in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). In conclusion, EpCAM+CD73+ cells are rare novel epithelial progenitor cells in the human lung. Importantly, reemergence of CD73 in lung adenocarcinoma enriched in negative immune checkpoint molecules may serve as a novel therapeutic target.
Advances in Laboratory‐Scale Hydraulic Fracturing Experiments
Authors: Qian Yelin , Guo Panpan , Wang Yixian , Zhao Yanlin , Lin Hang , Liu Yan
Published: July 2020

Hydraulic fracturing has been widely applied to stimulate the natural gas and oil production from unconventional reservoirs. To optimize the design of hydraulic fracturing in this application, an accurate estimation of the initiation and propagation of hydraulic fractures is indispensable. However, it still remains challenging as a result of the complex stress state and geological conditions. On account of their ability to complete control some significant factors and efficient observation of fracture geometry, laboratory‐scale hydraulic fracturing experiments have received abundant research attention in recent years. This paper presents a review of the state of the art of laboratory‐scale hydraulic fracturing experiments, focusing on the scaling analysis, experimental setup, fracturing fluids, and sample preparation. A discussion of the directions for future research is also provided with the intention of stimulating the development of the experimental technique for investigating hydraulic fracturing.
Infrared and Visible Image Fusion with Hybrid Image Filtering
Authors: Zhang Yongxin , Li Deguang , Zhu WenPeng
Published: July 2020

Image fusion is an important technique aiming to generate a composite image from multiple images of the same scene. Infrared and visible images can provide the same scene information from different aspects, which is useful for target recognition. But the existing fusion methods cannot well preserve the thermal radiation and appearance information simultaneously. Thus, we propose an infrared and visible image fusion method by hybrid image filtering. We represent the fusion problem with a divide and conquer strategy. A Gaussian filter is used to decompose the source images into base layers and detail layers. An improved co-occurrence filter fuses the detail layers for preserving the thermal radiation of the source images. A guided filter fuses the base layers for retaining the background appearance information of the source images. Superposition of the fused base layer and fused detail layer generates the final fusion image. Subjective visual and objective quantitative evaluations comparing with other fusion algorithms demonstrate the better performance of the proposed method.
Peroxiredoxin-1 Overexpression Attenuates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis
Authors: Jiang Lai , Gong Yanping , Hu Yida , You Yangyang , Wang Jiawu , Zhang Zhetao , Wei Zeyuan , Tang Chaoliang
Published: July 2020

Background. Previous research has shown that peroxiredoxin 1 (Prdx1) is an important modulator of physiological and pathophysiological cardiovascular events. This study is aimed at investigating the role and underlying mechanism of Prdx1 in doxorubicin- (DOX-) induced cardiotoxicity. Cardiac-specific expression of Prdx1 was induced in mice, and the mice received a single dose of DOX (15 mg/kg) to generate cardiotoxicity. First, our study demonstrated that Prdx1 expression was upregulated in the heart and in cardiomyocytes after DOX treatment. Second, we provided direct evidence that Prdx1 overexpression ameliorated DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by attenuating oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Mechanistically, we found that DOX treatment increased the phosphorylation level of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (ASK1) and the downstream protein p38 in the heart and in cardiomyocytes, and these effects were decreased by Prdx1 overexpression. In contrast, inhibiting Prdx1 promoted DOX-induced cardiac injury via the ASK1/p38 pathway. These results suggest that Prdx1 may be an effective therapeutic option to prevent DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.
Coexistence of Primary and Secondary Delusional Parasitosis
Authors: Roberts Kourtne , Das Aparna , Fuller Michael , Thomas Christopher
Published: July 2020

Objective. Delusional parasitosis (DP) is a difficult-to-treat condition. It is prevalent in all cultures, societies, and countries. Previous case reports of DP have been published; however, the patient presented in this report is unique because of the co-occurrence of both primary and secondary types of DP. We aim to explore the two subtypes of DP. Conclusions. We discuss DP from a nosological perspective and also highlight the various theories at play in the pathogenesis of primary and secondary DP. The different subtypes of DP should be taken into consideration as they also have a bearing on the management.
A Bertrand Duopoly Game with Long-Memory Effects
Authors: Xin Baogui , Cao Fangrui , Peng Wei , Elsadany Abdelalim A.
Published: July 2020

Reconsidering the Bertrand duopoly game based on the concept of long short-term memory, we construct a fractional-order Bertrand duopoly game by extending the integer-order game to its corresponding fractional-order form. We build such a Bertrand duopoly game, in which both players can make their decisions with long-memory effects. Then, we investigate its Nash equilibria, local stability, and numerical solutions. Using the bifurcation diagram, the phase portrait, time series, and the 0-1 test for chaos, we numerically validate these results and illustrate its complex phenomena, such as bifurcation and chaos.
Invasion of Epithelial Cells Is Correlated with Secretion of Biosurfactant via the Type 3 Secretion System (T3SS) of Shigella flexneri
Authors: Kinouani Kinavouidi Duchel Jeanedvi , Kayath Christian Aimé , Nguimbi Etienne
Published: July 2020

Biosurfactants are amphipathic molecules produced by many microorganisms, usually bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. They possess the property of reducing the tension of the membrane interfaces. No studies have been conducted on Shigella species showing the role of biosurfactant-like molecules (BLM) in pathogenicity. The aim of this study is to assess the ability of Shigella environmental and clinical strains to produce BLM and investigate the involvement of biosurfactants in pathogenicity. Our study has shown that BLM are secreted in the extracellular medium with EI24 ranging from 80% to 100%. The secretion is depending on the type III secretion system (T3SS). Moreover, our results have shown that S. flexneri, S. boydii, and S. sonnei are able to interact with hydrophobic areas with 17.64%, 21.42%, and 22.22% hydrophobicity, respectively. BLM secretion is totally prevented due to inhibition of T3SS by 100 mM benzoic and 1.5 mg/ml salicylic acids. P. aeruginosa harboring T3SS is able to produce 100% of BLM in the presence or in the absence of both T3SS inhibitors. The secreted BLM are extractable with an organic solvent such as chloroform, and this could entirely be considered a lipopeptide or polypeptide compound. Secretion of BLM allows some Shigella strains to induce multicellular phenomena like “swarming.”
Antifatigue Activity of Glycoprotein from Schisandra chinensis Functions by Reducing Oxidative Stress
Authors: Shao Shuai , Wang Ming-xing , Zhang Hong-yin , Fan Lin , Han Rong-xin , Shen Ying-xin , Yan Ming-ming , Zhao Da-qing
Published: July 2020

The glycoprotein from Schisandra chinensis was obtained with alkali extraction and acid precipitation, purified with DEAE Sepharose Fast Flow and Superdex G‐75 column. The molecular composition structure and antifatigue activities of glycoprotein were studied. SCGP’s molecular weight was approximately 10 KDa, and it consisted of a carbohydrate component (52.94%) and protein component (47.06%). SCGP comprised mannose, galactoside, rhamnose, glucose, galactose, xylose, arabinose, and fucose, its molar ratio was 2.14 : 1.43 : 1.59 : 8.17 : 8.99 : 3.18 : 18.51 : 1, and it contained 16 kinds of amino acids. SCGP could obviously extend the swimming time in mice by increasing LDH, SOD level, GSH‐Px activity, and liver glycogen and decreasing the contents of BUN and MDA. The antioxidant activity of SCGP is a potential mechanism of its antifatigue effect. In vitro antioxidant test showed that SCGP scavenged DPPH and OH radicals in a dose‐dependent manner (IC50 was 0.91 mg/ml and 0.72 mg/ml).
Bayesian Modeling of 3-Component Mixture of Exponentiated Inverted Weibull Distribution under Noninformative Prior
Authors: Cheema Ammara Nawaz , Aslam Muhammad , Almanjahie Ibrahim M. , Ahmad Ishfaq
Published: July 2020

Bayesian study of 3-component mixture modeling of exponentiated inverted Weibull distribution under right type I censoring technique is conducted in this research work. The posterior distribution of the parameters is obtained assuming the noninformative (Jeffreys and uniform) priors. The different loss functions (squared error, quadratic, precautionary, and DeGroot loss function) are used to obtain the Bayes estimators and posterior risks. The performance of the Bayes estimators through posterior risks under the said loss functions is investigated through simulation process. Real data analysis of tensile strength of carbon fiber is also applied for 3 components to conclude the presentation of Bayes estimators. The limiting expressions are also elaborated for Bayes estimators and posterior risks in this study. The impact of some test termination times and sample sizes is reported on Bayes estimators.
Lognormal Distribution Function for Describing Seepage Damage Process of Single‐Cracked Rock
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Zhu Zhende , Liu Aihua , Tian Yuan
Published: July 2020

The precondition of rock stress and deformation analysis is a reasonable rock constitutive model. Most of the previous studies have described the heterogeneous microdamage by Weibull distribution or normal distribution. However, both of them have limitations. Therefore, this paper intends to use the lognormal distribution as the probability distribution model of rock microunit strength. Based on the tensile failure of the single‐fractured rock under the hydrodynamic force, the maximum tensile strain failure criterion is used as the distribution parameter of rock microunit strength. And, considering the multiphase properties of the filling fractured rock, the equivalent elastic modulus parameter is adopted in the model. We design a triaxial seepage test for the filled single‐fractured rock and analyze the applicability and rationality of the modified lognormal statistical damage model for characterizing the fractured rock by using the test data. According to the comparison of the experimental stress‐strain curve and the model stress‐strain curve and the analysis of the damage value test curve and the model curve, the rationality of the established statistical damage constitutive model is verified, and the advantages and limitations of the model are proposed.
Higher Plasma Amyloid-β Levels Are Associated with a Higher Risk of Cancer: A Population-Based Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: van der Willik Kimberly D. , Ghanbari Mohsen , Fani Lana , Compter Annette , Ruiter Rikje , Stricker Bruno H.Ch. , Schagen Sanne B. , Ikram M. Arfan
Published: July 2020

Background:

Various studies show an inverse relation between Alzheimer disease and cancer, but findings are likely to be biased by surveillance and survival bias. Plasma amyloid-β (Aβ) is defined as a preclinical feature of Alzheimer disease, with lower levels of Aβ42 being associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer disease. To get more insight into the biological link between Alzheimer disease and cancer, we investigated plasma Aβ levels in relation to the risk of cancer.

Methods:

Between 2002 and 2005, we measured plasma Aβ40 and Aβ42 levels in 3,949 participants from the population-based Rotterdam Study. These participants were followed until the onset of cancer, all-cause dementia, death, loss to follow-up, or January 1, 2014, whichever came first. We used Cox proportional hazards models to investigate the association between plasma Aβ40 and Aβ42 levels, and the risk of cancer. Analyses were stratified by cancer site.

Results:

During a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 9.0 years (6.9–10.1), 560 participants were diagnosed with cancer. Higher levels of log2 plasma Aβ40 and Aβ42 were associated with a higher risk of cancer [hazard ratio per standard deviation increase for Aβ40 = 1.12 (95% confidence interval, CI = 1.02–1.23) and Aβ42 = 1.12 (95% CI = 1.03–1.23)]. These effect estimates were most pronounced for hematologic cancers, urinary tract cancers, and cancers of unknown primary origin.

Conclusions:

We found that higher levels of both plasma Aβ40 and Aβ42 were associated with a higher risk of cancer.

Impact:

Our study suggests a potential biological link between Alzheimer disease and cancer. The pathophysiologic role of Aβ in cancer and its causality warrant further investigation.
The Human Microbiome in Relation to Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review of Epidemiologic Studies
Authors: Huybrechts Inge , Zouiouich Semi , Loobuyck Astrid , Vandenbulcke Zeger , Vogtmann Emily , Pisanu Silvia , Iguacel Isabel , Scalbert Augustin , Indave Iciar , Smelov Vitaly , Gunter Marc J. , Michels Nathalie
Published: July 2020

The microbiome has been hypothesized to play a role in cancer development. Because of the diversity of published data, an overview of available epidemiologic evidence linking the microbiome with cancer is now needed. We conducted a systematic review using a tailored search strategy in Medline and EMBASE databases to identify and summarize the current epidemiologic literature on the relationship between the microbiome and different cancer outcomes published until December 2019. We identified 124 eligible articles. The large diversity of parameters used to describe microbial composition made it impossible to harmonize the different studies in a way that would allow meta-analysis, therefore only a qualitative description of results could be performed. Fifty studies reported differences in the gut microbiome between patients with colorectal cancer and various control groups. The most consistent findings were for Fusobacterium, Porphyromonas, and Peptostreptococcus being significantly enriched in fecal and mucosal samples from patients with colorectal cancer. For the oral microbiome, significantly increased and decreased abundance was reported for Fusobacterium and Streptococcus, respectively, in patients with oral cancer compared with controls. Overall, although there was a large amount of evidence for some of these alterations, most require validation in high-quality, preferably prospective, epidemiologic studies.
Breast Cancer Population Attributable Risk Proportions Associated with Body Mass Index and Breast Density by Race/Ethnicity and Menopausal Status
Authors: Bissell Michael C.S. , Kerlikowske Karla , Sprague Brian L. , Tice Jeffery A. , Gard Charlotte C. , Tossas Katherine Y. , Rauscher Garth H. , Trentham-Dietz Amy , Henderson Louise M. , Onega Tracy , Keegan Theresa H.M. , Miglioretti Diana L.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Overweight/obesity and dense breasts are strong breast cancer risk factors whose prevalences vary by race/ethnicity. The breast cancer population attributable risk proportions (PARP) explained by these factors across racial/ethnic groups are unknown.

Methods:

We analyzed data collected from 3,786,802 mammography examinations (1,071,653 women) in the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium, associated with 21,253 invasive breast cancers during a median of 5.2 years follow-up. HRs for body mass index (BMI) and breast density, adjusted for age and registry were estimated using separate Cox regression models by race/ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic, Asian) and menopausal status. HRs were combined with observed risk-factor proportions to calculate PARPs for shifting overweight/obese to normal BMI and shifting heterogeneously/extremely dense to scattered fibroglandular densities.

Results:

The prevalences and HRs for overweight/obesity and heterogeneously/extremely dense breasts varied across races/ethnicities and menopausal status. BMI PARPs were larger for postmenopausal versus premenopausal women (12.0%–28.3% vs. 1.0%–9.9%) and nearly double among postmenopausal Black women (28.3%) than other races/ethnicities (12.0%–15.4%). Breast density PARPs were larger for premenopausal versus postmenopausal women (23.9%–35.0% vs. 13.0%–16.7%) and lower among premenopausal Black women (23.9%) than other races/ethnicities (30.4%–35.0%). Postmenopausal density PARPs were similar across races/ethnicities (13.0%–16.7%).

Conclusions:

Overweight/obesity and dense breasts account for large proportions of breast cancers in White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian women despite large differences in risk-factor distributions.

Impact:

Risk prediction models should consider how race/ethnicity interacts with BMI and breast density. Efforts to reduce BMI could have a large impact on breast cancer risk reduction, particularly among postmenopausal Black women.
Head and Neck Cancer Survival Disparities by Race and Rural–Urban Context
Authors: Clarke Jacob A. , Despotis Alyssa M. , Ramirez Ricardo J. , Zevallos Jose P. , Mazul Angela L.
Published: July 2020

Background:

This study aims to examine the relationship between race and rural–urban context in head and neck cancer (HNC) survival and determine factors that potentially drive this disparity.

Methods:

Using the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2015, we identified a retrospective cohort of 146,256 patients with HNC. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and the Cox proportional hazards regression were used to calculate adjusted HRs.

Results:

Median survival by patient subgroup was as follows: White urban [67 months; 95% confidence interval (CI), 66.0–67.9], White rural (59.1 months; 95% CI, 57.2–60), Black urban (43.1 months; 95% CI, 41.1–44.5), and Black rural (35.1 months; 95% CI, 31.9–39.0). The difference in 5-year survival, stratified by rural–urban context, was greater among Black patients [Δ restricted mean survival time (ΔRMST) 0.18; 95% CI, 0.10–0.27] than White patients (ΔRMST 0.08; 95% CI, 0.06–0.11). In the univariate Cox proportional hazards analysis with White urban patients as reference group, Black rural patients had the worst survival (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.43–1.48; P < 0.001), followed by Black urban patients (HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.28–1.30; P < 0.001), and White rural patients (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.07–1.09; P < 0.001). This disparity persisted when controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical factors.

Conclusions:

Black patients with HNC, specifically those living in rural areas, have decreased survival. Survival differences by rural–urban status are greater among Black patients than White patients.

Impact:

We have shown that race and rural–urban status impact HNC survival outcomes. Our findings will help future researchers to better frame approaches to address this disparity.
Lung Adenocarcinoma during Pregnancy: 11-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Acosta Rojas Angel , Collazo-Lorduy Ana , Remon Jordi , Hernando Requejo Ovidio , Jiménez-Munarriz Beatriz , Rubio Rodríguez María Carmen , De Castro Javier
Published: July 2020

The incidence of lung cancer during pregnancy is rising due to the high rate of smokers in young women and the late mean age of pregnancy; in addition, considering that the patients are young women with a higher incidence of molecular alterations, molecular testing in lung adenocarcinoma should always be performed, even in pregnancy. Here, we report the case of a lung adenocarcinoma diagnosed during pregnancy with a long survival who benefitted from brain radiotherapy, conventional chemotherapy, and ALK TKI-targeted treatment. It reveals the safety of whole brain radiotherapy during pregnancy and consideration of other brain radiation techniques even in palliative cases, which should be personalized and managed by a multidisciplinary team. However, upfront management of brain metastasis in ALK-positive patients remains unresolved.
Measurement of Intraoperative Graft Flow Predicts Radiological Hyperperfusion during Bypass Surgery in Patients with Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Nakamura Akikazu , Kawashima Akitsugu , Nomura Shunsuke , Kawamata Takakazu
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disease associated with cerebral infarction or hemorrhage. Hyperperfusion is the most significant complication of direct bypass surgery. Previous research has shown that an increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) is strongly related to symptomatic hyperperfusion and highlighted the importance of postoperative assessment of CBF. Objective: The principal aims of this study were to quantitatively analyze the relationship between intraoperative graft flow and increase in CBF and to evaluate the effectiveness of intraoperative graft flow measurement during bypass surgery for patients with MMD. Methods: This study included 91 surgeries in 67 consecutive adult patients with MMD who underwent direct revascularization surgery at our institution between November 2013 and September 2018. Intraoperative graft flow of the branches and main trunk was measured in all patients, after anastomosis had been established. Postoperative CBF measurements were performed under sedation, immediately after surgery. Radiological hyperperfusion was defined as focal high uptake, as determined by CBF imaging immediately after surgery. Patients were divided into two groups (radiological hyperperfusion and nonradiological hyperperfusion groups), and the relationship between intraoperative graft flow and radiological hyperperfusion was analyzed. Results: Significant differences were observed between the radiological hyperperfusion and nonradiological hyperperfusion groups in terms of intraoperative graft flow of both the branch (median 72 vs. 42 mL/min, respectively; p < 0.01) and main trunk (median 113 vs. 68 mL/min, respectively; p < 0.01). A receiver-operating characteristic analysis was performed to test the utility of intraoperative flow as a quantitative measure. We set the cutoff values for the intraoperative branch and main trunk flow at 57 mL/min (sensitivity: 0.707, specificity: 0.702; area under the curve [AUC]: 0.773; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.675–0.871) and 84 mL/min (sensitivity: 0.667, specificity: 0.771; AUC: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.685–0.875), respectively. Conclusions: Measuring intraoperative graft flow during bypass surgery may be an effective means of predicting hyperperfusion and could serve to facilitate early therapeutic intervention such as strict blood pressure control.
Aspiration of Pericardial Effusion Performed with EUS-B-FNA in Suspected Lung Cancer
Authors: Christiansen Ida Skovgaard , Clementsen Paul Frost , Petersen Jesper Koefod , Fjaellegaard Katrine , Høegholm Asbjørn , Bodtger Uffe
Published: July 2020

Ultrasound-guided needle aspiration via the esophagus using the endobronchial endoscope (EUS-B-FNA) is increasingly being performed by the pulmonologist for the diagnosis of lung cancer, but we have little experience and data available in the literature especially with respect to staging of the disease. We present 2 cases of EUS-B-guided aspiration of malignant pericardial effusion performed in the same setting as bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound. No complications were observed. We conclude that EUS-B-FNA may be safe and efficacious in the evaluation of pericardial effusion during lung cancer workup. Thus, EUS-B-FNA may save time in the diagnostic workup, improve cancer staging, and prevent transthoracic pericardiocentesis.
Effect of Statins on Renal Function and Total Kidney Volume in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Xue Cheng , Zhang Li-Ming , Zhou Chenchen , Mei Chang-Lin , Yu Sheng-Qiang
Published: July 2020

Background: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common hereditary nephropathy with few treatments to slow renal progression. The evidence on the effect of lipid-lowering agents (statins) on ADPKD progression remains inconclusive. Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases (up to November 2019). Changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and total kidney volume (TKV) were the primary outcomes. Mean differences (MDs) for continuous outcomes and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by a random-effects model. Results: Five clinical studies with 648 participants were included. Statins did not show significant benefits in the yearly change in eGFR (4 studies, MD = −0.13 mL/min/m2, 95% CI: −0.78 to 0.52, p = 0.70) and the yearly change in TKV (3 studies, MD = −1.17%, 95% CI: −3.40 to 1.05, p = 0.30) compared with the control group. However, statins signiﬁcantly decreased urinary protein excretion (−0.10 g/day, 95% CI: −0.16 to -0.03, p = 0.004) and serum low-density lipoprotein level (−0.34 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.58 to −0.10, p = 0.006). Conclusion: Despite these proteinuria and lipid-lowering benefits, the effect of statins on ADPKD progression was uncertain.
Contribution of Serotonin 3A Receptor to Motor Function and Its Expression in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Aikiyo Satoshi , Kishi Kazuhisa , Kaji Noriyuki , Mikawa Shoma , Kondo Makoto , Shimada Shoichi , Hori Masatoshi
Published: July 2020

Introduction: The serotonin 3A receptor (5-HT3AR) is involved in vomiting and gastrointestinal motility. However, it is not well understood the expression pattern of 5-HT3AR in the gut immunohistochemically and how much contribution of 5-HT3AR to upper or lower intestinal motility. Objectives: We investigated the contribution of 5-HT3AR to gastrointestinal motor function by using 5-HT3AR KO mice and sought to identify 5-HT3AR-expressing cells via immunohistochemical staining using 5-HT3AR-GFP reporter mice. Methods: The expression of 5-HT3AR was measured in each section of the gut through real-time PCR. The motor function of the stomach and colon was assessed via the 13C-octanoic acid breath test and colonic bead expulsion test, respectively, using 5-HT3AR KO mice. 5-HT3AR-expressing cells in the muscle layer of the gut were identified by immunohistochemical staining using 5-HT3AR-GFP reporter mice. Results: 5-HT3AR was expressed throughout the digestive tract, and 5-HT3AR expression in the stomach and lower digestive tract was higher than that in the other sections. Motor function in the stomach and colon was lower in 5-HT3AR KO mice than in WT mice. As a result of immunohistochemical staining using GFP reporter mice, cholinergic neurons and PDGFRα+ cells were shown to express 5-HT3AR. In contrast, 5-HT3AR indicated by GFP fluorescence was rarely detected in ICC and smooth muscle cells. Conclusions: These results show that 5-HT3AR is highly expressed in the stomach and large intestine and that the activation of 5-HT3AR accelerates gastric emptying and large intestine transit. Additionally, 5-HT3AR is highly expressed in cholinergic neurons and some interstitial cells, such as PDGFRα+ cells.
Safety of Upper Pole Puncture in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy with the Guidance of Ultrasonography versus Fluoroscopy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sahan Ahmet , Cubuk Alkan , Ozkaptan Orkunt , Ertaş Kasım , Canakci Cengiz , Eryildirim Bilal , Toprak Tuncay , Tanidir Yiloren
Published: July 2020

Introduction: The aim of this study was to compare the safety of ultrasonography-guided (UG) puncture and fluoroscopy-guided (FG) upper pole access (UPA) in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Methods: Consecutive patients with a solitary UPA were enrolled into the study from 2012 to 2020 and analyzed in a retrospective manner. In total, 177 patients were divided into 2 groups according to the method during the puncture phase of the access: FG (n = 105) and UG (n = 72). The UG and FG groups were compared in terms of complications (i.e., pleural injury and blood transfusion rate) and surgical outcomes. Results: Gender, side, grade of hydronephrosis, type of access (i.e., supracostal vs. subcostal), Guy’s stone score, age, stone diameter, skin-to-stone distance, and stone density were similar in the 2 groups (p > 0.05). Only in 25.9% of cases, UPA was done using a subcostal approach. The overall complication rates were similar between the groups (p > 0.178). For the UG and FG groups, the rate of pleural injury (8.5 vs. 4.1%) and the blood transfusion rate (8.5 vs. 2.8%) were also similar (p > 0.05). The fluoroscopy time and mean hemoglobin drop were significantly lower in the UG group than in the FG group (134.2 vs. 82.2 s, respectively, p = 0.001; 20.8 ± 9.8 vs. 16.8 ± 7.9 g/L, respectively, p = 0.001). Stone-free rate (SFR) was also similar in the FG and UG groups (77.1 vs. 75.0%, respectively, p = 0.742). Conclusion: While it is commonly expected that the complication rates are lower in UG puncture for UPA in PCNL than they are in FG puncture, the present study failed to show this difference. However, the radiation exposure time seemed to be lower in UG puncture than FG puncture and had a similar stone-free rate (SFR) for UPA in PCNL.
Increased Incident Ischemic Stroke Risk in Advanced Kidney Disease: A Large-Scale Real-World Data Study
Authors: Maeda Tosihki , Nishi Takumi , Funakoshi Shunsuke , Tada Kazuhiro , Tsuji Masayoshi , Satoh Atsushi , Kawazoe Miki , Yoshimura Chikara , Arima Hisatomi
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Evidence using real-world data is sparse regarding the effects of oral anticoagulants (OACs) among patients with kidney disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of kidney disease on ischemic stroke (IS) or systemic embolism (SE) among patients taking OAC, using large-scale real-world data in Japan. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study using claims data and health checkup data from health insurance associations in Japan, from January 2005 to June 2017. We enrolled 21,581 patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF). Of the total population, 11,848 (54.9%) patients were taking OAC. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to examine the effect of kidney disease on IS/SE with or without OAC. Results: During follow-up, 208 participants who were not taking OAC (mean follow-up 2.6 years) and 200 who were taking OAC (mean follow-up 3.0 years) experienced IS/SE. The % IS/SE incidence rates with and without kidney disease were 2.42/person-year and 0.63/person-year in the total population, 3.66/person-year and 0.76/person-year in the group without OAC use, and 1.52/person-year and 0.55/person-year in patients with OAC use, respectively. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of kidney disease for IS/SE were high, irrespective of OAC, even after adjustment: adjusted HR 2.62 (95% CI: 1.72–3.99) without OAC and adjusted HR 2.03 (95% CI: 1.20–3.44) with OAC; p = 0.193 for interaction between no OAC and OAC. Although bleeding risk was also high for kidney disease irrespective of OAC use (HR 2.93 [95% CI: 2.27–3.77] in the total population, HR 3.08 [95% CI: 2.15–4.43] in the group without OAC, and HR 2.73 [95% CI: 1.90–3.91] in the group with OAC use), net clinical benefit indicated that the benefit of OAC use exceeded the risk of bleeding: HR 4.50 (95% CI: 0.76–8.23) among those with kidney disease and HR 0.35 (95% CI: 0.04–0.66) among those without kidney disease. Conclusion: Although we found that OAC use was effective and recommended for patients with AF, advanced kidney disease is still an independent risk factor for IS/SE, even in patients taking OAC. Physicians should be aware of this risk and strictly control modifiable risk factors, regardless of OAC use.
Unexpected Presentation of COVID-19 in a 38-Year-Old Male Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Malih Narges , Hajinasrollah Ghazal , Zare Marjan , Taheri Mahboobeh
Published: July 2020

We presently report the case of COVID-19 in a 38-year-old male who had come to the primary health care clinic of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, which specializes in the COVID-19 epidemic. He reported having fatigue, myalgia, fever, rash, and loss of taste and smell. The physical findings were maculopapular rash over his trunk, inguinal regions, and left arm, erythema of larynx with an aphthous lesion on left tonsil, he did not have a fever, and respiratory distress symptoms. There were no changes regarding COVID-19 in the spiral lung CT scan. However, the result of PCR for COVID-19 RNA was positive.