bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and targeting of selective vulnerability rendered by tamoxifen resistance
Authors: Singh Madhurendra , Zhou Xiaolei , Chen Xinsong , Santos Gema Sanz , Peuget Sylvain , Cheng Qing , Rihani Ali , Arnér Elias S. J. , Hartman Johan , Selivanova Galina
Published: July 2020

Background

The estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer represents over 80% of all breast cancer cases. Even though adjuvant hormone therapy with tamoxifen (TMX) is saving lives of patients with ER-positive breast cancer, the acquired resistance to TMX anti-estrogen therapy is the main hurdle for successful TMX therapy. Here we address the mechanism for TMX resistance and explore the ways to eradicate TMX-resistant breast cancer in both in vitro and ex vivo experiments.

Experimental design

To identify compounds able to overcome TMX resistance, we used short-term and long-term viability assays in cancer cells in vitro and in patient samples in 3D ex vivo, analysis of gene expression profiles and cell line pharmacology database, shRNA screen, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, real-time PCR, immunofluorescent analysis, western blot, measurement of oxidative stress using flow cytometry, and thioredoxin reductase 1 enzymatic activity.

Results

Here, for the first time, we provide an ample evidence that a high level of the detoxifying enzyme SULT1A1 confers resistance to TMX therapy in both in vitro and ex vivo models and correlates with TMX resistance in metastatic samples in relapsed patients. Based on the data from different approaches, we identified three anticancer compounds, RITA (Reactivation of p53 andInduction ofTumor cellApoptosis), aminoflavone (AF), and oncrasin-1 (ONC-1), whose tumor cell inhibition activity is dependent on SULT1A1. We discovered thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1, encoded byTXNRD1) as a target of bio-activated RITA, AF, and ONC-1. SULT1A1 depletion prevented the inhibition of TrxR1, induction of oxidative stress, DNA damage signaling, and apoptosis triggered by the compounds. Notably, RITA efficiently suppressed TMX-unresponsive patient-derived breast cancer cells ex vivo.

Conclusion

We have identified a mechanism of resistance to TMX via hyperactivated SULT1A1, which renders selective vulnerability to anticancer compounds RITA, AF, and ONC-1, and provide a rationale for a new combination therapy to overcome TMX resistance in breast cancer patients. Our novel findings may provide a strategy to circumvent TMX resistance and suggest that this approach could be developed further for the benefit of relapsed breast cancer patients.
Efficacy of high-dose versus low-dose vitamin D supplementation on serum levels of inflammatory factors and mortality rate in severe traumatic brain injury patients: study protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Arabi Seyed Mostafa , Sedaghat Alireza , Ehsaei Mohammad Reza , Safarian Mohammad , Ranjbar Golnaz , Rezaee Hamid , Rezvani Reza , Tabesh Hamed , Norouzy Abdolreza
Published: July 2020

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the most common trauma worldwide and is a leading cause of injury-related death and disability. Inflammation is initiated as a result of the TBI, which is in association with severity of illness and mortality in brain trauma patients, especially in subdural hemorrhage and epidural hemorrhage cases. A high percentage of adults admitted to the intensive care unit with TBI are diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency; this deficiency may induce impaired immune responses and increase the risk of infections. Vitamin D intervention has been shown to modulate pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in non-critically ill patients, but to date, there is no substantial data on the effectiveness of vitamin D for the improvement of immune function in traumatic brain injury patients.

Methods/design

A randomized clinical trial (RCT) will be performed on 74 Iranian adults 18–65 years old with brain trauma and will be treated daily with vitamin D supplements (100,000 IU oral drop) or a similar placebo (1000 IU) for 5 days.

Discussion

If this randomized clinical trial demonstrates reductions in inflammatory cytokines, it would provide evidence for a multicenter clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in neurocritically ill patients. Since vitamin D supplements are inexpensive and safe, this clinical trial could have the potential to improve clinical outcomes in traumatic brain injury patients through reduction of inflammation and infection-associated morbidity and mortality rates.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, IRCT20180619040151N3. Registered on 10 August 2019.
Identification of risk areas and practices for Taenia saginata taeniosis/cysticercosis in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jorga Edilu , Van Damme Inge , Mideksa Bizunesh , Gabriël Sarah
Published: July 2020

Background

Bovine cysticercosis (BCC) is an infection of cattle with the metacestode stage ofTaenia saginata, the beef tapeworm, which causes taeniosis in humans. BCC is responsible for considerable economic losses in the meat sector worldwide. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes the prevalence, risk factors and treatment efforts made so far onT. saginatainfections in Ethiopia, providing a detailed analysis of different factors influencing the varying prevalence estimates in Ethiopia to gain more insight into the occurrence and risk factors ofT. saginatataeniosis and cysticercosis to date.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted on data collected from published and grey literature accessed through an electronic database and manual search.

Results

The literature search resulted in 776 outputs of which 132 conformed to the predefined criteria. The average zonal prevalence of meat inspection-based BCC ranged from 2% in Buno-Bedele to 24.6% in Sidama zone. The pooled prevalence of BCC was influenced by the number of muscle/organs inspected, ranging from 3.4% (95% CI: 1.7–5.1%) using fewer predilection sites to 19.4% (95% CI: 13.3–25.4%) using inspection of a maximum number of predilection sites. None of the tested variables were significantly associated with BCC. Questionnaire-based taeniosis ranged between 19.0% in Halaba special woreda to 70.0% in Gedeo zone and stool test-based taeniosis varied from 0.6% in central Tigray to 10.7% in Gurage zone. Questionnaire-based prevalence of taeniosis was higher in people with a frequent raw beef consumption habit (pooled OR, pOR: 10.5, 95% CI: 6.0–17.9), adults (pOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.7–3.6), men (pOR: 2.8, 95% CI: 2.1–3.6), and Christians (pOR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4–2.8) compared to less frequent raw beef consumers, younger people, women and Muslims, respectively.

Conclusions

This review revealed a widespread but variable occurrence of BCC and taeniosis in Ethiopian regions and zones, urging for harmonized and enhanced detection for improved control of the parasite. Accurate prevalence estimates using more sensitive tests, detailed risk factor analysis, as well as data on financial losses are needed to develop effective control strategies for the Ethiopian epidemiologic condition.
The great potential of entomopathogenic bacteria Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus for mosquito control: a review
Authors: da Silva Wellington Junior , Pilz-Júnior Harry Luiz , Heermann Ralf , da Silva Onilda Santos
Published: July 2020

The control of insects of medical importance, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are still the only effective way to prevent the transmission of diseases, such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika. Their control is performed mainly using chemical products; however, they often have low specificity to non-target organisms, including humans. Also, studies have reported resistance to the most commonly used insecticides, such as the organophosphate and pyrethroids. Biological control is an ecological and sustainable method since it has a slow rate of insect resistance development. Bacterial species of the genera Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus have been the target of several research groups worldwide, aiming at their use in agricultural, pharmaceutical and industrial products. This review highlights articles referring to the use of Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus for insects and especially for mosquito control proposing future ways for their biotechnological applicability. Approximately 24 species of Xenorhabdus and five species of Photorhabdus have been described to have insecticidal properties. These studies have shown genes that are capable of encoding low molecular weight proteins, secondary toxin complexes and metabolites with insecticide activities, as well as antibiotic, fungicidal and antiparasitic molecules. In addition, several species of Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus showed insecticidal properties against mosquitoes. Therefore, these biological agents can be used in new control methods, and must be, urgently considered in short term, in studies and applications, especially in mosquito control.
Detection of human intestinal protozoan parasites in vegetables and fruits: a review
Authors: Li Junqiang , Wang Zhenzhen , Karim Md Robiul , Zhang Longxian
Published: July 2020

Diarrheal diseases caused by intestinal protozoan parasites are a major food-borne public health problem across the world. Vegetables and fruits provide important nutrients and minerals, but are also common sources of some food-borne human pathogenic microorganisms. The contamination of raw vegetables and fruits with human pathogenic parasites are now a global public health threat, despite the health benefits of these foods in non-pharmacological prophylaxes against diseases. A large number of reports have documented the contamination of vegetables or fruits with human pathogenic microorganisms. In this paper, we reviewed the contamination and detection methods of human pathogenic intestinal protozoans that are frequently recovered from raw vegetables and fruits. The protozoan parasites include Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Cyclospora cayetanensis, Entamoeba spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Balantioides coli, Blastocystis sp., Cystoisospora belli and Enterocytozoon bieneusi. The risk factors involved in the contamination of vegetables and fruits with parasites are also assessed.
Antimicrobial resistance and toxigenic profiles of bacteria isolated from tropical shrimps (Farfantepenaeus notialis and Penaeus monodon) in Cameroun
Authors: Nga Ombede Sabine Ninelle , Dougnon Victorien , Koudokpon Hornel , Deguenon Esther , Mindzie Ngomo Rajeunie Pernelle Jaelle , Tchibozo Carine , Gnimatin Jean Pierre , Tchoumbougnang François , Yadouleton Anges , Dougnon Jacques
Published: July 2020

Objective

Post-harvest shrimp losses are a big problem due to the proliferation of spoilage bacteria. Presence and multiplication of these bacteria promotes the emergence of food-borne diseases. This study was carried out to characterize some spoilage bacteria from tropical brackish water shrimps and black tiger shrimps stored in ambient temperature (25 °C).

Results

22 isolates of Bacillus spp; 09 isolates of Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CNS) and 04 isolates of enterobacteria such as Pantoea spp (01); Serratia plymutica (01) and Serratia rubidaea (02) have been identified. Resistance and virulence genes were then detected. All isolates expressed resistance to at least three of antibiotics tested. 03 isolates of enterobacteria were susceptible to cetfazidim and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Bacillus spp showed total susceptibility to cefixim, ertapenem and cetfazidim. Staphylococci were susceptible to clindamycin. Pantoea spp was resistant to all antibiotics but exhibited intermediate susceptibility to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. 04 isolates of Staphylococci were positive to mecA resistances genes. All the enterobacteria harbor no tetracycline resistance genes. All the isolates of Bacillus exhibited the presence of enterotoxin genes. Also, a high prevalence of 21 isolates to hemolytic enterotoxins was noted. 17 isolates from them kept ability to cell-lyse factor production like sphingomyelinase activities. The majority of Bacillus isolates identified by the present study poses a potential risk of food poisoning due to the prevalence of toxin genes found.
Some notable records of mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) from big rivers in Indiana
Authors: Jacobus Luke M.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) were collected from the Ohio River, Wabash River and White River in Indiana during July and August 2019, with the goals of confirming the continued existence of historic populations of species and discovering previously undocumented populations.

Data description

Notable new data for Ephoron album (Say) (Polymitarcyidae), Heptagenia elegantula (Eaton) (Heptageniidae), Pentagenia vittigera (Walsh) (Palingeniidae), and Tortopsis primus (McDunnough) (Polymitarcyidae) are reported.
Does the addition of concurrent visual feedback increase adherence to a home exercise program in people with stroke: a single-case series?
Authors: Levy Tamina , Crotty Maria , Laver Kate , Lannin Natasha , Killington Maggie
Published: July 2020

Objective

Evidence is accumulating for the potential benefits of technology use in stroke rehabilitation. However, few studies have examined ways in which technology can be used to increase adherence to programs after discharge from rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to determine if the addition of concurrent visual feedback, via a tablet computer, increased adherence to an exercise program following stroke. Ten participants were provided with a self-administered exercise program and were asked to perform 60 min of the exercises daily. After a baseline phase (1 week), participants were given a tablet computer (2 weeks) and were asked to video record each exercise session. The tablet computer was removed during the fourth week of the program.

Results

Exercise duration, measured via wrist-worn accelerometry, was investigated over the 4 weeks using the two-standard deviation (2 SD) band method. A statistically significant effect was observed in four out of ten cases, demonstrated by two successive data points occurring outside the 2 SD band during the intervention phase, suggesting that adherence was increased in response to the tablet computer use. This preliminary study indicates that the use of visual feedback, via a tablet computer, may increase adherence to an exercise program in people with stroke.

Trial registrationACTRN: ACTRN12620000252910 (26 February 2020, Retrospectively registered)
Novel candidate genes for ECT response prediction—a pilot study analyzing the DNA methylome of depressed patients receiving electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Moschny Nicole , Zindler Tristan , Jahn Kirsten , Dorda Marie , Davenport Colin F. , Wiehlmann Lutz , Maier Hannah B. , Eberle Franziska , Bleich Stefan , Neyazi Alexandra , Frieling Helge
Published: July 2020

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) represents a serious global health concern. The urge for efficient MDD treatment strategies is presently hindered by the incomplete knowledge of its underlying pathomechanism. Despite recent progress (highlighting both genetics and the environment, and thus DNA methylation, to be relevant for its development), 30–50% of MDD patients still fail to reach remission with standard treatment approaches. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most powerful options for the treatment of pharmacoresistant depression; nevertheless, ECT remission rates barely reach 50% in large-scale naturalistic population-based studies. To optimize MDD treatment strategies and enable personalized medicine in the long- term, prospective indicators of ECT response are thus in great need. Because recent target-driven analyses revealed DNA methylation baseline differences between ECT responder groups, we analyzed the DNA methylome of depressed ECT patients using next-generation sequencing. In this pilot study, we did not only aim to find novel targets for ECT response prediction but also to get a deeper insight into its possible mechanism of action.

Results

Longitudinal DNA methylation analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from a cohort of treatment-resistant MDD patients (n= 12; time points: before and after 1st and last ECT, respectively) using a TruSeq-Methyl Capture EPIC Kit for library preparation, led to the following results: (1) The global DNA methylation differed neither between the four measured time points nor between ECT responders (n= 8) and non-responders (n= 4). (2) Analyzing the DNA methylation variance for every probe (=1476812 single CpG sites) revealed eight novel candidate genes to be implicated in ECT response (protein-coding genes:RNF175,RNF213,TBC1D14,TMC5,WSCD1; genes encoding for putative long non-coding RNA transcripts:AC018685.2,AC098617.1,CLCN3P1). (3) In addition, DNA methylation of two CpG sites (located withinAQP10andTRERF1) was found to change during the treatment course.

Conclusions

We suggest ten novel candidate genes to be implicated in either ECT response or its possible mechanism. Because of the small sample size of our pilot study, our findings must be regarded as preliminary.
The effect of electronic monitoring combined with weekly feedback and reminders on adherence to inhaled corticosteroids in infants and younger children with asthma: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Jiande , Xu Juan , Zhao Liebin , Zhang Jing , Yin Yong , Zhang Fen
Published: July 2020

Background

Adherence to asthma treatment among children is usually poor. We sought to explore whether electronic adherence monitoring combined with weekly feedback regarding adherence along with a reminder to use inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) would lead to improved compliance with ICS in infants and younger children with asthma.

Methods

96 recruited children (aged 6 months to 3 years) with mild or moderate persistent asthma who were on regular inhaled corticosteroids were randomly allocated to receive electronic monitoring combined with instant messaging software (IMS)-based weekly feedback regarding adherence along with a reminder to keep taking the ICS (intervention group) and to receive electronic monitoring only (control group).

Results

The mean device-monitored adherence was significantly higher in the intervention group (80%) than in the control group (45.9%), with a difference of 34.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 26.8–41.3%; P < 0.001). No difference in the mean caregiver-reported adherence between the interventional group (89.7%) and the control group (92.7%) was observed (P = 0.452).

Conclusions

Electronic monitoring combined with IMS-based weekly feedback regarding adherence along with a reminder to keep taking the ICS significantly improved the treatment compliance of infants and younger children with asthma. Caregiver-reported adherence is an unreliable monitoring indicator.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03277664. Registered 11 September 2017—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=&term=NCT03277664
Intermittent parathyroid hormone (1–34) supplementation of bone marrow stromal cell cultures may inhibit hypertrophy, but at the expense of chondrogenesis
Authors: Music Ena , Futrega Kathryn , Palmer James S. , Kinney Mackenzie , Lott Bill , Klein Travis J. , Doran Michael R.
Published: July 2020

Background

Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) have promise in cartilage tissue engineering, but for their potential to be fully realised, the propensity to undergo hypertrophy must be mitigated. The literature contains diverging reports on the effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on BMSC differentiation. Cartilage tissue models can be heterogeneous, confounding efforts to improve media formulations.

Methods

Herein, we use a novel microwell platform (the Microwell-mesh) to manufacture hundreds of small-diameter homogeneous micro-pellets and use this high-resolution assay to quantify the influence of constant or intermittent PTH(1–34) medium supplementation on BMSC chondrogenesis and hypertrophy. Micro-pellets were manufactured from 5000 BMSC each and cultured in standard chondrogenic media supplemented with (1) no PTH, (2) intermittent PTH, or (3) constant PTH.

Results

Relative to control chondrogenic cultures, BMSC micro-pellets exposed to intermittent PTH had reduced hypertrophic gene expression following 1 week of culture, but this was accompanied by a loss in chondrogenesis by the second week of culture. Constant PTH treatment was detrimental to chondrogenic culture.

Conclusions

This study provides further clarity on the role of PTH on chondrogenic differentiation in vitro and suggests that while PTH may mitigate BMSC hypertrophy, it does so at the expense of chondrogenesis.
Extracellular vesicles from human mesenchymal stem cells expedite chondrogenesis in 3D human degenerative disc cell cultures
Authors: Hingert Daphne , Ekström Karin , Aldridge Jonathan , Crescitelli Rosella , Brisby Helena
Published: July 2020

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are known to be mediators of intercellular communication and have been suggested as possible therapeutic agents in many diseases. Their potential use in intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration associated with low back pain (LBP) is yet to be explored. Since LBP affects more than 85% of the western population resulting in high socioeconomic consequences, there is a demand for exploring new and possibly mini-invasive treatment alternatives. In this study, the effect of hMSC-derived small EVs (sEVs) on degenerated disc cells (DCs) isolated from patients with degenerative discs and chronic LBP was investigated in a 3D in vitro model.

Methods

hMSCs were isolated from bone marrow aspirate, and EVs were isolated from conditioned media of the hMSCs by differential centrifugation and filtration. 3D pellet cultures of DCs were stimulated with the sEVs at 5 × 1010 vesicles/ml concentration for 28 days and compared to control. The pellets were harvested at days 7, 14, and 28 and evaluated for cell proliferation, viability, ECM production, apoptotic activity, chondrogenesis, and cytokine secretions.

Results

The findings demonstrated that treatment with sEVs from hMSCs resulted in more than 50% increase in cell proliferation and decrease in cellular apoptosis in degenerated DCs from this patient group. ECM production was also observed as early as in day 7 and was more than three times higher in the sEV-treated DC pellets compared to control cultures. Further, sEV treatment suppressed secretion of MMP-1 in the DCs.

Conclusion

hMSC-derived sEVs improved cell viability and expedited chondrogenesis in DCs from degenerated IVDs. These findings open up for new tissue regeneration treatment strategies to be developed for degenerative disorders of the spine.
Pathophysiological effects of androgens on the female vascular system
Authors: Stone Tori , Stachenfeld Nina S.
Published: July 2020

Sex hormones and their respective receptors affect vascular function differently in men and women, so it is reasonable to assume they play a role in the sex differences in cardiovascular disease states. This review focuses on how the effects of testosterone on arterial vessels impact the female vasculature. In women with androgen-excess polycystic ovary syndrome, and in transgender men, testosterone exposure is associated with high blood pressure, endothelial dysfunction, and dyslipidemia. These relationships suggest that androgens may exert pathophysiological effects on the female vasculature, and these effects on the female vasculature appear to be independent from other co-morbidities of cardiovascular disease. There is evidence that the engagement of androgens with androgen receptor induces detrimental outcomes in the female cardiovascular system, thereby representing a potential causative link with sex differences and cardiovascular regulation. Gender affirming hormone therapy is the primary medical intervention sought by transgender people to reduce the characteristics of their natal sex and induce those of their desired sex. Transgender men, and women with androgen-excess polycystic ovary syndrome both represent patient groups that experience chronic hyperandrogenism and thus lifelong exposure to significant medical risk. The study of testosterone effects on the female vasculature is relatively new, and a complex picture has begun to emerge. Long-term research in this area is needed for the development of more consistent models and controlled experimental designs that will provide insights into the impact of endogenous androgen concentrations, testosterone doses for hormone therapy, and specific hormone types on function of the female cardiovascular system.
Subjective working memory predicts objective memory in cognitively normal aging: a HUNT study
Authors: Bosnes Ole , Almkvist Ove , Bosnes Ingunn , Stordal Eystein
Published: July 2020

Background

Recent studies have shown that subjective memory is multi-, rather than uni-dimensional, in line with the results of objective memory tests. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is an association between aspects of memory measured by the subjective Meta-Memory Questionnaire (MMQ) and aspects of memory measured by the objective Wechsler Memory Scale-III (WMS-III) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-III (WAIS-III) tests in cognitively normal older adults.

Method

The study subjects (n = 106) were cognitively normal, were aged 57–89 years and had participated in the third wave of the North-Trøndelag Health survey (HUNT3). All subjects had completed the MMQ, the WMS-III and the WAIS-III. Previous results from the MMQ (measured as the total MMQ score; the Component I score, related to long-term explicit declarative memory; and the Component II score, related to working/short-term memory) were compared with objective results from WMS-III (Logical Memory) and WAIS-III (Vocabulary and Letter-Number Sequencing) subtests. We conducted linear regression analyses with each objective memory test result as the dependent variable, and subjective memory measures and demographics as independent variables, as well as analyses of MMQ items vs. objective memory.

Results

Subjective working memory impairment (Component II) was significant related to poor performance in objective episodic memory, according to correlation and regression analyses with demographic covariates. In contrast, ratings of impaired subjective declarative memory (Component I) were not related to poor objective memory performance.

Conclusions

Specific aspects of subjective memory related differentially to performance in specific objective memory tests. Clinicians and researchers might consider targeting working memory aspects of subjective memory tests, when seeking an estimate of objective memory performance.
Euthanasia and assisted suicide in patients with personality disorders: a review of current practice and challenges
Authors: Mehlum Lars , Schmahl Christian , Berens Ann , Doering Stephan , Hutsebaut Joost , Kaera Andres , Kramer Ueli , Moran Paul Anthony , Renneberg Babette , Ribaudi Joaquim Soler , Simonsen Sebastian , Swales Michaela , Taubner Svenja , di Giacomo Ester
Published: July 2020

Background

Over the last two decades an increasing number of countries have legalized euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (EAS) leading to considerable debate over the inherent ethical dilemmas. Increasing numbers of people with personality disorders, faced with unbearable suffering, have requested and received assistance in terminating their lives. EAS in people with personality disorders has, however, received very sparse attention from clinicians and researchers. In this paper, we examine the literature on the practice and prevalence of EAS in people with personality disorders to date and discuss the associated challenges for research and practice.

Methods

Narrative review of the literature combined with the authors’ collective experience and knowledge of personality disorders.

Results

In six of the eight countries where EAS is currently legal, mental disorders are accepted as disorders for which EAS may be granted. In four of these countries, EAS in minors with mental disorders is also accepted. Our literature search resulted in 9 papers on the subject of EAS in people with personality disorders. These studies suggest that most clinicians who grant EAS have indeed perceived their patients’ suffering as chronic, unbearable and untreatable without prospect of improvement. The majority of patients with personality disorders had tried some form of psychotherapy, but very few had received any of the relevant evidence-based treatments. The decision to grant EAS based on a perception of the patient’s illness as being untreatable with no prospect of improvement, could, thus, in many cases fail to meet the due care criteria listed in EAS laws. People with personality disorders more often wish for death for extended periods of time than people without these disorders. However, there is ample empirical data to show that suicidal tendencies and behaviour can be treated and that they fluctuate rapidly over time.

Conclusions

In light of our findings, we believe that the current legislation and practice of EAS for people with personality disorders is based on an inadequate understanding of underlying psychopathology and a lack of awareness about the contemporary treatment literature. Moreover, we assert that this practice neglects the individual’s potential for having a life worth living.
Assessing the effects of climate change on flood inundation in the lower Mekong Basin using high-resolution AGCM outputs
Authors: Try Sophal , Tanaka Shigenobu , Tanaka Kenji , Sayama Takahiro , Lee Giha , Oeurng Chantha
Published: July 2020

Climate change currently affects the resilience and aquatic ecosystem. Climate change alters rainfall patterns which have a great impact on river flow. Annual flooding is an important hydrological characteristic of the Mekong River Basin (MRB) and it drives the high productivity of the ecosystem and biodiversity in the Tonle Sap floodplain and the Mekong Delta. This study aims to assess the impacts of climate change on river flow in the MRB and flood inundation in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB). The changing impacts were assessed by a two-dimensional rainfall-runoff and inundation model (RRI model). The present climate (1979–2003) and future projected climate (2075–2099) datasets from MRI-AGCM3.2H and MRI-AGCM3.2S models were applied with a linear scaling bias correction method before input into the RRI model. The results of climate change suggested that flood magnitude in the LMB will be severer than the present climate by the end of the twenty-first century. The increment of precipitation between 6.6 and 14.2% could lead to increase extreme flow (Q5) 13–30%, peak inundation area 19–43%, and peak inundation volume 24–55% in the LMB for ranging of Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) and sea surface temperature (SST) scenarios while there is no significant change on peak flood timing.
An in vivo multimodal feasibility study in a rat brain tumour model using flexible multinuclear MR and PET systems
Authors: Choi Chang-Hoon , Stegmayr Carina , Shymanskaya Aliaksandra , Worthoff Wieland A. , da Silva Nuno A. , Felder Jörg , Langen Karl-Josef , Shah N. Jon
Published: July 2020

Background

In addition to the structural information afforded by 1H MRI, the use of X-nuclei, such as sodium-23 (23Na) or phosphorus-31 (31P), offers important complementary information concerning physiological and biochemical parameters. By then combining this technique with PET, which provides valuable insight into a wide range of metabolic and molecular processes by using of a variety of radioactive tracers, the scope of medical imaging and diagnostics can be significantly increased. While the use of multimodal imaging is undoubtedly advantageous, identifying the optimal combination of these parameters to diagnose a specific dysfunction is very important and is advanced by the use of sophisticated imaging techniques in specific animal models.

Methods

In this pilot study, rats with intracerebral 9L gliosarcomas were used to explore a combination of sequential multinuclear MRI using a sophisticated switchable coil set in a small animal 9.4 T MRI scanner and, subsequently, a small animal PET with the tumour tracer O-(2-[18F]-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine ([18F]FET). This made it possible for in vivo multinuclear MR-PET experiments to be conducted without compromising the performance of either multinuclear MR or PET.

Results

High-quality in vivo images and spectra including high-resolution 1H imaging, 23Na-weighted imaging, detection of 31P metabolites and [18F]FET uptake were obtained, allowing the characterisation of tumour tissues in comparison to a healthy brain. It has been reported in the literature that these parameters are useful in the identification of the genetic profile of gliomas, particularly concerning the mutation of the isocitrate hydrogenase gene, which is highly relevant for treatment strategy.

Conclusions

The combination of multinuclear MR and PET in, for example, brain tumour models with specific genetic mutations will enable the physiological background of signal alterations to be explored and the identification of the optimal combination of imaging parameters for the non-invasive characterisation of the molecular profile of tumours.
Microarray profiling and functional analysis of differentially expressed plasma exosomal circular RNAs in Graves’ disease
Authors: Sun Ying , Wang Wei , Tang Yuxiao , Wang Daping , Li Liang , Na Min , Jiang Guantong , Li Qian , Chen Shulin , Zhou Jin
Published: July 2020

Background

Circulating RNA (circRNA) regulates various bioactivities in cells. A better understanding of the exosomal circRNA can provide novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of Graves’ disease (GD). We aimed to profile the differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcRs) in plasma exosomes of patients with GD and speculate and probe the functions of the DEcR by comprehensive bioinformatics analyses.

Methods

Serum exosomes were isolated from five primary GD patients and five healthy controls via ultracentrifugation. After verification with transmission electron microscopy, exosome samples were subjected to microarray profiling using human circRNA microarrays. Two up-regulated and two down-regulated DEcRs were selected for validation in plasma exosomes from 20 GD and 20 healthy control participants using reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The circRNA/microRNA/mRNA interaction network was then assembled and the analysis of the Gene Ontology and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways was utilized to predict the potential functions of the DEcR associated genes.

Results

There were 15 DEcRs revealed in primary GD cases. The intronic circRNA hsa_circRNA_000102 was confirmed as an up-regulated component in plasma exosomes from patients with GD. The circRNA/microRNA/mRNA interaction network unveiled the most potential targeting microRNAs of hsa_circRNA_000102 and its associated genes. The functional analyses predicted involvement of hsa_circRNA_000102 associated genes in pathways of immune system activation, such as viral infection and interferon-beta signaling.

Conclusions

hsa_circRNA_000102 is a differentially up-regulated plasma exosomal circRNA in patients with GD. Our study highlights multiple pathways, particularly virus infection and interferon-beta signaling, for mediating immune activation in Graves’ disease.
Long-term follow-up of full-arch immediate implant-supported restorations in edentulous jaws: a clinical study
Authors: Werbelow Laura , Weiss Michael , Schramm Alexander
Published: July 2020

Background

This study aims to show the long-time stability of straight and tilted implants loaded immediately with a provisional resin bridge followed by a definitive prosthodontic rehabilitation in edentulous jaws despite difficult hygiene conditions postoperatively.

Results

This study included the participation of 23 patients and the restoration of 170 dental implants in 32 edentulous jaws. Patient data was analyzed from the start of treatment with a minimum follow-up period of 6 years in order to determine long-term implant success rates. However, the age of patients at time of surgery significantly affected the BOP to the detriment of younger patients (median 62 years old).

Conclusion

Although there was a higher risk of implant failure due to general disease, all the implants in this study survived successfully. As a replacement for a complete dental arch, the reduced number of implants in combination with the avoidance of augmentations reduces treatment costs. The immediate fixed prosthetic restoration of edentulous jaws thus represents a reliable therapeutic alternative to a two- to three-stage procedure. Optimized aftercare including professional teeth cleaning (PTC) (at least twice a year) can minimize the anamnestic effect of smoking, diabetes mellitus, and osteoporosis on BOP and possible bone loss.
Medicinal plants utilized for hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices: a review
Authors: Muluye Abrham Belachew , Ayicheh Muluken Wubetu
Published: July 2020

Background

Ethiopia is among the top floral biodiversity rich countries in the world. More than 7000 species of plants, 15% of they are endemic, are reported in the country. Accessibility, cultural enrichment, and cheapness make 80% of the Ethiopian people used indigenous plants for various health ailments and diseases in their traditional medical practices. Therefore, the current review examined the use patterns of medicinal plants utilized for hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices for further scientific investigations.

Methods

Ethnobotanical and related studies on medicinal plants utilized for hepatic disorders in Ethiopia were reviewed. Ethiopian university websites, Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, and other online internet search engines were used to access literature articles. The number of plant species and families, used parts, used conditions, modes of preparation, and routes of administration were tabulated and summarized using Excel spreadsheet and descriptive statistics, respectively.

Results

The current review showed that 276 plant species belonging to 89 families were used for hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices. The commonly utilized plant families wereAsteraceae(10.14%),Fabaceae(9.08%),Euphorbiaceae(7.61%),Laminaceae(4.35%),Solanaceae(3.99%), andAloaceae(2.90%).Justicia schimperiana(34.34%),Croton macrostachyus,andPhytolacca dodecandra(each 20.20%),Cordia africana,Cucumis ficifolius,andRumex abyssinica(each 10.10%) were among the most utilized plant species. They were mainly distributed in Oromo (58%), southern (36%), and Amhara (35.5%) regions. Herbs (47.10%), shrubs (26.09%) and trees (20.65%) were their primary growth forms, while leaves (34.30%) and roots (33.06%) were their commonly utilized parts. Pounding (24.59%), decoction (19.67%), powdering (9.84%), and concoction (9.13%) were their major modes of preparations. Water was the most utilized solvent (48.26%) for the remedy preparations, which were mainly administered orally (76.35%).

Conclusions

This review showed that many claimed medicinal plants were utilized for the treatment of hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices. Hence, further experimental investigation is recommended to standardize their quality and phytochemistry and validate their safety and efficacy. Documentation and conservation of indigenous herbal knowledge have also been strengthened.
Endangered Saudi Arabian plants having ethnobotanical evidence as antidotes for scorpion envenoming
Authors: Al-Asmari Abdulrahman Khazim , Abbasmanthiri Rajamohamed , Osman Nasreddien Mohammed Abdo , Al-Asmari Byan Abdulrahman
Published: July 2020

Scorpion sting envenoming in Saudi Arabia posed major public health problems. Conventional treatment with antivenom with its limitations and hazards called for the use of support remediation like prazosin therapy and phytotherapy as alternative solutions in systematic medicine and a trend of use in medicinal plants. The present study is aiming to procure the medicinal plants that exhibit antidotes of scorpion stings which, were scientifically ignored in Saudi Arabia. Current study data of 11 rare and endangered medicinal plants were collected identified up to the family level, in addition to the parts used. The Family Leguminosae was represented by 4 species. The families Acanthaceae, Amaranthaceae, Annonaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Plumbaginaceae, and Zygophyllaceae, were represented with a single species each. All of them have got medicinal ability of antidote potential against scorpion venoms. These commonly used herbs that belonged to 8 families were similar in the use of all parts in treatment. This review study may assist the researchers recruiting new natural herbs and their active products as therapeutic agents against scorpion envenoming. However, these medicinal plants are still requiring pharmacological and phytochemical investigations in order to be claimed as effective antidotes in scorpion envenoming syndrome.
Innovative solutions to enhance safe and green environments for ageing well using co-design through patient and public involvement
Authors: Hatton Anna L. , Haslam Catherine , Bell Sarah , Langley Joe , Woolrych Ryan , Cory Corrina , Brownjohn James M. W. , Goodwin Victoria A.
Published: July 2020

Background

There is a need to develop innovative solutions to enhance safe and green physical environments, which optimise health, wellbeing and community participation among older adults. To develop solutions that meet the needs of a diverse ageing population, an interdisciplinary approach is needed. Our aim was to identify the needs of older people in relation to ageing well in the environment by bringing together knowledge from different perspectives using Patient and Public Involvement.

Methods

An international consortium (Retrofit living For ageing well through Understanding and Redesign of Built environments consortium: ReFURB) was established in April 2018, including ten core members, to (i) explore cutting-edge solutions to safe living for ageing populations and (ii) develop innovative approaches to everyday physical environments, which bring about health benefits. We used a co-design, interdisciplinary framework involving older adults, carers, physiotherapists, geriatricians, engineers, human movement experts, geographers and psychologists from the UK and Australia. This engaged people in a 1 day workshop that comprised a series of presentations from international speakers on urban design, social connectedness, hazards and injury prevention, and the physical environment. Small group discussions (facilitated by consortium members) followed presentations to consider the opportunities, challenges and barriers encountered with ageing, which included the use of creative engagement activities (LEGO® Serious Play, mind maps, poster gallery walk), to help participants share personal stories and reflect on the issues raised. Thematic coding was used to synthesise the outputs of the small group work.

Results

Five themes were identified across the workshops: access and transport; involvement of the whole community; restoration rather than redesign; assistive and digital technology; and intergenerational approaches. These dimensions related to the physical, social and nature-based qualities of everyday environments, as they pertain to ageing well.

Conclusions

Co-design was a valuable tool that helped understand the perceptions of participants and essential to develop effective interventions and solutions. Participants highlighted several issues affecting people as they age and key environmental considerations to promote wellbeing, activity, and participation. The consortium identified gaps in the existing evidence base and are now planning activities to further develop research ideas in collaboration with our co-design participants.
Endoscopy-assisted vitrectomy vs. vitrectomy alone: comparative study in complex retinal detachment with proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Rezende Flavio A. , Vila Natalia , Rampakakis Emmanouil
Published: July 2020

Background

Recurrent retinal detachment (RD) is still a widespread event despite the therapeutic options available. Proliferative vitreoretinopoathy (PVR) is one of the main causes of redetachment. Little is known about the use of endoscopy-assisted vitrectomy (E-PPV) in complex recurrent RD with PVR. The purpose of this study was to identify the potential advantages of E-PPV in complex RD with PVR compared with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) alone.

Methods

Single-center, retrospective, observational, descriptive study. The medical records of 293 patients were reviewed. Patients who underwent PPV for complex rhegmatogenous RD and associated PVR between 2009 and 2017 were included. Patients with diabetic tractional RD, trauma, uveitis or detachment postendophthalmitis were excluded. After 2013, an endoscopic visualization system was used in a nonrandomized fashion at the surgeon’s discretion. Outcome measures (reattachment rate, number of surgeries, lens status, PVR stage, intraocular pressure, phthisis rate) were compared between the E-PPV and PPV-only groups with independent samples t-tests (continuous variables) and Fisher’s exact test (categorical variables), as well as time-adjusted analyses. Postoperative time to retinal redetachment was assessed with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

One hundred one eyes from 100 patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean participant age was 63.3 years old (95% CI 60.4–66.1 years), without a significant difference between groups. E-PPV was performed in 36.6% (n = 37) of eyes, and 63.4% (n = 64) underwent PPV only. The mean follow-up was significantly longer in the PPV-only group (31.9 vs. 21.1 months; p = 0.021). Upon adjustment for follow-up duration, the mean number of surgeries was significantly lower in the PPV-only group (2.6 vs. 4.3 number of surgeries; p < 0.001) than in the E-PPV group. A significantly higher risk for redetachment was observed in the PPV-only group (HR [95% CI] 4.1 [1.4–11.8]) than in the E-PPV group (p = 0.037). The evolution to phthisis was 7% (n = 4) in the PPV-only group and 2.7% (n = 1) in the E-PPV group (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared to PPV alone, endoscopy-assisted vitrectomy seems to be advantageous in achieving better reattachment rates in complex RD with advanced PVR. Endoscopic visualization allows a thorough examination and extensive anterior PVR and vitreous base dissection.