bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Клініко-генетичний та міжгенетичний кореляційний аналіз за експресією miR-29a у хворих на плеоморфні аденоми слинних залоз
Authors: Brodetsky I. S.
Published: February 2021

Резюме. Найбільш поширеною пухлиною слинних залоз залишається плеоморфна аденома (ПА) – 60–90 % від усіх доброякісних пухлин слинних залоз. Сучасним генетичним напрямком у діагностиці пухлин є вивчення ролі молекул мікроРНК. МікроРНК – це малі некодуючі РНК, які регулюють контроль клітинного циклу, апоптоз, метаболізм, розвиток та диференціацію клітин. Найбільший інте­рес серед них становить проапотозна miR-29a. Вона експресується у 84 % плеоморфних аденом слинних залоз. Статей, в яких описано клініко-генетичні та міжгенетичні кореляції miR-29a в інших біоптатах, окрім пухлини, – прилегла до пухлини тканина слинної залози, інтактна залоза (група контролю), та кров, не знайдено.

Мета дослідження – провести клініко-генетичний та міжгенетичний (за експресією miR-29a) кореляційний аналіз у тканинах плеоморфних аденом великих слинних залоз, тканині слинної залози, прилеглій до пухлини та в інтактній тканині слинної залози, що не мала зв’язку з пухлиною, та венозній крові.

Матеріали і методи. Матеріалом дослідження було 22 хворих на  доброякісні пухлини великих слинних залоз (плеоморфні аденоми). Експресію miR-29a оцінювали за допомогою зворотної транскрипції та кількісної полімеразної ланцюгової реакції (qPCR) у режимі реального часу.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Проведений аналіз рівня експресії 29а мікроРНК виявив, що серед 4-х груп показників (тканина пухлини, тканина слинної залози, прилегла до пухлини, інтактна тканина слинної залози, що не мала зв’язку з пухлиною, та венозна  кров) у пацієнтів із плеоморфними аденомами великих слинних залоз найбільша експресія відмічалась у групі – тканина слинної залози, прилегла до пухлини, – 111,93±56,97.

Висновки. Проведений кореляційний аналіз клінічних (вік, тривалість захворювання, розмір пухлини, відстань від поверхні шкіри до пухлини) та генетичних показників за рівнем експресії miR-29a в різних біологічних тканинах (тканина пухлини, тканина слинної залози, прилегла до пухлини, інтактна тканина слинної залози, що не мала зв’язку з пухлиною, та венозна кров) у хворих на ПА великих слинних залоз виявив наявність однієї статистично­значущої асоціації (miR-29a). При проведенні міжгенетичного кореляційного аналізу хворих на ПА великих слинних залоз за експресією miR-29a з різними фрагментами біопсійного матеріалу інших статистично значимих асоціацій не виявлено.
Значення параметра та особливості структури біоширини навколо дентальних імплантатів: ретроспективний аналіз даних
Authors: Goncharuk-Khomyn M. Yu. , Boychuk M. M. , Krichfalushij S. I. , Voytovich V. I. , Kinash O. B. , Mykhailiuk I. A. , Mykhailiuk V. M.
Published: February 2021

Резюме. Доказово доведено, що для формування надійного м᾽якотканинного бар᾽єра в периімплантатній ділянці необхідно забезпечити умови для біологічної організації мінімальних геометричних параметрів біоширини. Дефіцит останніх асоційований із ризиком розвитку патологічних резорбтивних процесів із редукцією рівня навколишнього кісткового гребня, та низкою поступових ускладнень.

Мета дослідження – проаналізувати значення та особливості структури біологічної ширини навколо дентальних імплантатів на основі доступних даних наукової літератури.

Матеріали і методи. Формування первинної вибірки наукових публікацій, що стосувалися теми дослідження, проводилося з використанням пошукової системи Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/) та бази даних PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) із застосуванням відповідних ключових слів («biowidth», «biological width», «dental implants») та Mesh-термінів (алгоритм пошуку: («biology»[MeSH Terms] OR «biology»[All Fields] OR «biological»[All Fields]) AND width[All Fields] AND («dental implants»[MeSH Terms] OR («dental»[All Fields] AND «implants»[All Fields]) OR «dental implants»[All Fields])).

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. В результаті проведеного аналізу вдалось виокремити такі основні характеристики зони комплексу біологічної ширини навколо дентальних імплантатів: апікальну частину епітеліальної складової, що характеризується мінімальною товщиною з формуванням навколо поверхні імплантату тонких гемідесмосомних структур; сполучнотканинну складову, яка характеризується наявністю безпосереднього контакту з поверхнею імплантату без ознак вираженого функціонального прикріплення; зону безпосереднього контакту, що характеризується відсутністю кровоносних судин та великою кількістю клітин фібробластів у структурі між колагеновими волокнами; латеральніше вищезгаданої зони відмічається зменшення кількості фібробластів та паралельне зростання величини колагенових волокон і кількісного складу судинних структур.

Висновки. Більшість досліджень, асоційованих із вивченням різних аспектів формування комплексу біологічної ширини навколо дентальних імплантатів, проводилася на тваринних моделях, що певною мірою обмежує можливості для безпосередньої інтерпретації отриманих результатів у клінічній стоматологічній практиці. Дані, отримані в ході як лабораторних, так і клінічних досліджень, свідчать про те, що вихідний дефіцит товщини м᾽яких тканин у периімплантатній ділянці пов᾽язаний із процесом редукції рівня кісткового гребеня задля забезпечення формування необхідних параметрів біоширини.
Maternal Stroke
Authors: Elgendy Islam Y. , Bukhari Syed , Barakat Amr F. , Pepine Carl J. , Lindley Kathryn J. , Miller Eliza C. ,   On behalf of the American College of Cardiology Cardiovascular Disease in Women Committee
Published: February 2021

Maternal mortality rates have been steadily increasing in the United States, and cardiovascular mortality is the leading cause of death among pregnant and postpartum women. Maternal stroke accounts for a significant burden of cardiovascular mortality. Data suggest that rates of maternal stroke have been increasing in recent years. Advancing maternal age at the time of birth and the increasing prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and other risk factors, as well, such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, migraine, and infections, may contribute to increased rates of maternal stroke. In this article, we provide an overview of the epidemiology of maternal stroke, explore mechanisms that may explain increasing rates of stroke among pregnant women, and identify key knowledge gaps for future investigation in this area.
Common Medications and Intracerebral Hemorrhage: The ARIC Study
Authors: Sharma Richa , Matsushita Kunihiro , Wu Aozhou , Jack Clifford R. , Griswold Michael , Mosley Thomas H. , Fornage Myriam , Gottesman Rebecca F.
Published: February 2021

Background

Antiplatelets, anticoagulants, and statins are commonly prescribed for various indications. The associations between these medications and the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are unclear.

Methods and Results

We performed a retrospective study of the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) study cohort, recruited from 4 US communities in 1987 to 1989 with follow‐up. In 2011 to 2013, a subset (N=1942) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging with CMB evaluation. Time‐varying and any antiplatelet, anticoagulant, or statin use was evaluated at subsequent study visits in participants not on each medication at baseline. To determine the hazard of ICH and odds of CMB by medication use, logistic and Cox proportional hazard models were built, respectively, adjusting for the propensity to take the medication, concomitant use of other medications, and cognitive, genetic, and radiographic data. Of 15 719 individuals during up to 20 years of follow‐up, 130 participants experienced an ICH. The adjusted hazard of ICH was significantly lower among participants taking an antiplatelet at the most recent study visit before ICH versus nonusers (hazard ratio [HR], 0.53; 95% CI, 0.30–0.92). Statin users had a significantly lower hazard of an ICH compared with nonusers (adjusted HR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.05–0.34). There was no association of CMB and antiplatelet, anticoagulant, or statin use in adjusted models.

Conclusions

In this US community‐based study, antiplatelet and statin use were associated with lower ICH hazard, whereas no association was noted between CMBs and antiplatelets, anticoagulants, and statins. Further study is needed to understand the differential roles of these medications in cerebral microhemorrhages and macrohemorrhages.
Variant Spectrum of Formin Homology 2 Domain‐Containing 3 Gene in Chinese Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wu Guixin , Ruan Jieyun , Liu Jie , Zhang Channa , Kang Lianming , Wang Jizheng , Zou Yubao , Song Lei
Published: February 2021

Background

The
FHOD3
(formin homology 2 domain‐containing 3) gene has recently been identified as a causative gene of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). However, the pathogenicity of
FHOD3
variants remains to be evaluated. This study analyzed the spectrum of
FHOD3
variants in a large HCM and control cohort, and explored its correlation with the disease.

Methods and Results

The genetic analysis of
FHOD3
was performed using the whole exome sequencing data from 1000 patients with HCM and 761 controls without HCM. A total of 37
FHOD3
candidate variants were identified, including 25 missense variants and 2 truncating variants. In detail, there were 27 candidate variants detected in 33 (3.3%) patients with HCM, which was significantly higher than in the 12 controls (3.3% versus 1.6%; odds ratio, 2.13;
P
<0.05). On the basis of familial segregation, we identified one truncating variant (c.1286+2delT) as a causal variant in 4 patients. Furthermore, the
FHOD3
candidate variant experienced significantly more risk of cardiovascular death and all‐cause death (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 3.71; 95%, 1.32–8.59;
P
=0.016; and adjusted HR, 3.02; 95% CI, 1.09–6.85;
P=
0.035, respectively).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that
FHOD3
is a causal gene for HCM, and that the presence of
FHOD3
candidate variants is an independent risk for cardiovascular death and all‐cause death in HCM.
Small Dense Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Is the Most Atherogenic Lipoprotein Parameter in the Prospective Framingham Offspring Study
Authors: Ikezaki Hiroaki , Lim Elise , Cupples L. Adrienne , Liu Ching‐Ti , Asztalos Bela F. , Schaefer Ernst J.
Published: February 2021

Background

Elevated plasma levels of direct low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), small dense LDL‐C (sdLDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) triglycerides, triglycerides, triglyceride‐rich lipoprotein cholesterol, remnant lipoprotein particle cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a) have all been associated with incident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Our goal was to assess which parameters were most strongly associated with ASCVD risk.

Methods and Results

Plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, direct LDL‐C, sdLDL‐C, LDL triglycerides, remnant lipoprotein particle cholesterol, triglyceride‐rich lipoprotein cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a) were measured using standardized automated analysis (coefficients of variation, <5.0%) in samples from 3094 fasting subjects free of ASCVD. Of these subjects, 20.2% developed ASCVD over 16 years. On univariate analysis, all ASCVD risk factors were significantly associated with incident ASCVD, as well as the following specialized lipoprotein parameters: sdLDL‐C, LDL triglycerides, triglycerides, triglyceride‐rich lipoprotein cholesterol, remnant lipoprotein particle cholesterol, and direct LDL‐C. Only sdLDL‐C, direct LDL‐C, and lipoprotein(a) were significant on multivariate analysis and net reclassification after adjustment for standard risk factors (age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol). Using the pooled cohort equation, many specialized lipoprotein parameters individually added significant information, but no parameter added significant information once sdLDL‐C (hazard ratio, 1.42;
P
<0.0001) was in the model. These results for sdLDL‐C were confirmed by adjusted discordance analysis versus calculated non–high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, in contrast to LDL triglycerides.

Conclusions

sdLDL‐C, direct LDL‐C, and lipoprotein(a) all contributed significantly to ASCVD risk on multivariate analysis, but no parameter added significant risk information to the pooled cohort equation once sdLDL‐C was in the model. Our data indicate that small dense LDL is the most atherogenic lipoprotein parameter.
TNFRSF13B
c.226G>A (p.Gly76Ser) as a Novel Causative Mutation for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Shinya Yoshiki , Hiraide Takahiro , Momoi Mizuki , Goto Shinichi , Suzuki Hisato , Katsumata Yoshinori , Kurebayashi Yutaka , Endo Jin , Sano Motoaki , Fukuda Keiichi , Kosaki Kenjiro , Kataoka Masaharu
Published: February 2021

Background

Recently, some studies reported the pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH)–associated genes. However, a majority of patients with familial or sporadic PAH lack variants in the known pathogenic genes. In this study, we investigated the new causative gene variants associated with PAH.

Methods and Results

Whole‐exome sequencing in 242 Japanese patients with familial or sporadic PAH identified a heterozygous substitution change involving c.226G>A (p.Gly76Ser) in tumor necrotic factor receptor superfamily 13B gene (
TNFRSF13B
) in 6 (2.5%) patients.
TNFRSF13B
controls the differentiation of B cell and secretion of inflammatory cytokines and may be involved in vascular inflammation. In silico structural analysis simulation demonstrated the structural instability of the N‐terminal region of the protein synthesized from
TNFRSF13B
p.Gly76Ser variant. These suggest that the
TNFRSF13B
p.Gly76Ser variant may be involved in the development of PAH via aberrant inflammation in pulmonary vessels.

Conclusions

TNFRSF13B
p.Gly76Ser variant is a candidate of novel causative gene variant for PAH.
Verbenaceae in Espírito Santo, Brazil: richness, patterns of geographic distribution and conservation
Authors: CARDOSO PEDRO HENRIQUE , VALÉRIO VANESSA IMACULADA DOS REIS , MENINI NETO LUIZ , SALIMENA FÁTIMA REGINA GONÇALVES
Published: February 2021

Verbenaceae is represented in Brazil by 15 genera and ca. 290 species, with most of its richness in the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest domains. The state of Espírito Santo has an area of 46,184.1 km2, wholly embedded in the Atlantic Forest. Nonetheless, due to the intense environmental degradation in the state, only 10.5% of its original vegetation remains. The present study is part of the “Flora do estado do Espírito Santo” project and aims to provide a taxonomic treatment to Verbenaceae in the state, as well as to analyze its distribution patterns, together with preliminary conservation assessments for each species. It is based on morphological analysis of herbaria collections, field expeditions, and literature compilation. Distribution maps were made for each species, while the preliminary conservation assessments followed the criteria proposed by the IUCN. Verbenaceae is represented in the state of Espírito Santo by 31 species arranged in 11 genera: Aloysia (2 spp.), Bouchea (1 sp.). Casselia (1 sp.), Citharexylum (1 sp.), Glandularia (1 sp.), Lantana (10 spp.), Lippia (4 spp.), Petrea (1 sp.), Priva (2 spp.), Stachytarpheta (6 spp.) and Verbena (2 spp.). Eight species occurring in Espírito Santo are threatened with extinction. Three new records are verified, including species of the genus Lantana. The dense rainforest, which covers most of the state’s territory, presents the most significant number of species (20 spp.), followed by pioneer vegetations (12 spp.), seasonal semideciduous forests (11 spp.), inselbergs (8 spp.), and ecological refuges (2 spp.). The main richness centers for Verbenaceae in the state of Espírito Santo are the municipalities of Linhares, Santa Teresa, Vitória, Vila Velha, and Guarapari in this order. In contrast, the family is noticeably little represented in the northern region of the state, as well as near its borders, where the forest remnants are highly fragmented and scattered. The current results contribute to the taxonomic and biogeographic knowledge of Verbenaceae, to the creation of conservation strategies for threatened species in the State of sspírito Santo, and reinforce the need of fieldwork in several areas of the state.
A broadly sampled 3-loci plastid phylogeny of Atraphaxis (Polygoneae, Polygonoideae, Polygonaceae) reveals new taxa: II. Atraphaxis selengensis spec. nov., and A. davurica Jaub. & Spach from Russian Transbaikalia
Authors: YURTSEVA OLGA V. , BADMAEVA N.K. , MAVRODIEV EVGENY V.
Published: February 2021

Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian analyses (BI) applied for 3-plastid loci (cpDNA trnL(UAA) intron, trnL–trnF IGS, and rpl32–trnL(UAG) IGS regions) / 55 tips of Atraphaxis revealed a subclade of two endemics from Transbaikalia (Dahuria) which are often mistaken for A. pungens and A. frutescens but phylogenetically distant from both. Atraphaxis selengensis is a species new to science which inhabits dune sands along the Selenga and Chikoy rivers and has specific morphology of perianth, fruits, ochreas, leaf blades, and pollen. Atraphaxis davurica inhabits stony mountain steppe in Buryatia and Chita region and differs from A. pungens and A. frutescens by longer ochreas, fruits, styles and stigmas extended to ends. Two varieties recognized by Ledebour in plants from Russian Transbaikalia have no clear morphological and molecular distinctions, but the plants from Khentei-Chikoy Highlands subtly differ in leaf ratio (length/width), bark colour, and a single-nucleotide substitution in trnL–F region. These plants are described as A. davurica var. chikoensis var. nov. Morphological descriptions of A. selengensis and A. davurica are supplied with LM and SEM images and a distributional map. Atraphaxis frutescens and A. pungens are absent from Russian Transbaikalia but distributed in Altai, Tuva, Khakassia, Mongolia and China.
Taxonomic diversity and karyology of Anthemis rigida (Anthemideae, Asteraceae) in the Aegean, Greece

Authors: GOULA KATERINA , CONSTANTINIDIS THEOPHANIS
Published: February 2021

This study investigates and taxonomically interprets the morphological variation of Anthemis rigida in the Aegean region (Greece). The eligulate plants are widespread and morphologically homogeneous whereas the ligulate forms are local and more variable. Based on a morphometric evaluation of 20 characters, four different ligulate subspecies are recognized; A. rigida subsp. antri-neptuni is described here as new. All taxa share the same chromosome number of 2n = 18 and are karyologically similar. The new subspecies slightly deviates in the karyotype formula, even though asymmetry indices do not discriminate among taxa in the group. Notes on the taxonomy, geographical distribution and habitat of all ligulate subspecies are provided, together with photographs and a distribution map.
Cyathea gratissima, a new name for a Neotropical tree fern (Cyatheaceae, Polypodiopsida)

Authors: TEJEDOR ADRIAN , CALATAYUD GLORIA
Published: February 2021

Domin, C. (1930) The species of the genus Cyathea J.Sm. Acta Botanica Bohemica 9: 85–174.Hooker, W.J. & Baker, J.G. (1874) Synopsis Filicum, ed. 2. R. Hardwicke, London.         https://doi.org/10.5962/bhl.title.41433Tejedor, A. & Calatayud, G. (2018) Six new scaly tree ferns (Cyathea: Cyatheaceae) from Northern Peru. American Fern Journal 108(4): 117–138.         https://doi.org/10.1640/0002-8444-108.4.117Weigend, M. (2002) Observations on the biogeography of the Amotape-Huancabamba Zone in northern Peru. The Botanical Review 68: 38–54.                https://doi.org/10.1663/0006-8101(2002)068[0038:OOTBOT]2.0.CO;2
Decoding secrecy as multiple temporal processes: Co-constitution of concealment and revelation in archival stories
Authors: Fan Ziyun , Liu Yihan
Published: February 2021

How can we understand secrecy as temporal processes in organization? How can we address the inherent dynamics between concealment and revelation over time? In this article, we build on an inherent and yet overlooked character of secrecy as temporal, and explore temporalization processes of secrecy. We suggest that secrecy should be reconceptualized as processes of simultaneous concealment and revelation in multiple temporalities. Drawing on such temporal sensitivity, we apply a history-laden analysis of four examples of archival stories as ongoingly completing processes of secrecy. The analysis sheds light on the paradoxical dynamics of secrecy in three interconnected ways: first, writing archival stories offer opportunities to mask and attack the concealed. Therefore, second, archival stories as the site and process that sustain secrecy can become the site where secrecy is revealed. In this sense, as the third way, secrecy is ongoingly and fragmentally formed, producing multiple and subjective experiences of time. This article also contributes to the methodological potential for using archival stories in organizational studies.
Older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic – Forgotten and stigmatized?
Authors: Seifert Alexander
Published: February 2021

During the current worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, older adults are particularly excluded from in-person society. This essay presents current discussions around self-perceptions and external perceptions of aging during this health crisis. Viewing older adults primarily as members of a risk group hinders recognition of the individuality of millions of older adults worldwide. Social workers should remain aware of the diverse aspects of aging when working with older adults during this pandemic.
Influence of re-entrant hexagonal structure and helical auxetic yarn on the tensile and auxetic behavior of parametric fabrics
Authors: Chen Junli , Li Yonggui , Yan Taohai , Liu Xiang , Cao Jiqiang , Du Zhaoqun
Published: February 2021

This paper focuses on systematically analyzing the influence of macro fabric structure and yarn architecture on the mechanical and auxetic performance of parametric auxetic fabrics. Re-entrant hexagonal (REH) and helical auxetic yarn (HAY) were adopted as a macro fabric structure and weft yarn to produce three kinds of auxetic fabrics: REH fabric with HAY as weft yarn (REH-HAY); REH fabric with elastic yarn as weft yarn (REH-1, REH-2, REH-3); and plain fabric with HAY as weft yarn (NREH-HAY). By controlling the existence of the HAY and REH structure, the influence of the REH structure and HAY on the mechanical and auxetic properties was thoroughly analyzed. It is demonstrated that both the REH macrostructure and HAY micro configuration can contribute to the performance of the auxetic fabric. Specifically, in the presence of the REH structure and HAY, the auxeticity was found to a 77% increase compared with NREH-HAY and the breaking strain and load rises by about 37.50% and 90.42%, respectively. Notably, the variation of the polyurethane (PU) weft yarn per unit length influenced the tensile and auxetic performance to a lesser extent, while by changing PU to HAY, a significant increase of negative Poisson’s ratio value from –1.155 to –1.492 was noticed without greatly jeopardizing the stretchability. Furthermore, the cyclic tensile results demonstrate the stability and elasticity of the fabric. The comparative analysis can give guidance to optimize fabric design and inspire the innovative design of the auxetic textiles, all of which will pave the way for a quantitative and optimizing design for auxetic textiles.
Signal filtering method of variational mode decomposition and Euclidean distance based on optimizing parameters of classification particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Lu Jingyi , Qu Xue , Wang Dongmei , Yue Jikang , Zhu Lijuan , Li Gongfa
Published: February 2021

In order to deal with the problem that the noise of leakage signals from natural gas pipelines has a great influence on the feature extraction of pipeline leakage, this paper proposes a signal denoising method of variational mode decomposition (VMD) and Euclidean distance (ED) based on optimizing parameters of classification particle swarm optimization (CPSO) algorithm. First, CPSO algorithm is used to optimize parameters K and [Formula: see text] of VMD, adaptively. The sum of the ratio of the mean and variance of the cross-correlation coefficient and the ratio of the mean and variance of kurtosis is used as the fitness function of CPSO. Then, the optimized VMD is used to decompose the signal to obtain several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Finally, ED is used to select the effective modes, and the signal is reconstructed to achieve signal noise reduction. The corresponding evaluation indicators show that the accuracy and robustness of the improved method are better than other noise reduction methods. The denoising effect is significant, which proves that the algorithm proposed in this paper is effective in signal filtering.
Diagnostic Accuracy of a Direct Panfungal Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay Performed on Stained Cytology Slides
Authors: Myers Alexandra N. , Jeffery Unity , Seyler Zachary G. , Lawhon Sara D. , Hoffmann Aline Rodrigues
Published: February 2021

Molecular techniques are increasingly being applied to stained cytology slides for the diagnosis of neoplastic and infectious diseases. Such techniques for the identification of fungi from stained cytology slides have not yet been evaluated. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of direct (without nucleic acid isolation) panfungal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by sequencing for identification of fungi and oomycetes on stained cytology slides from dogs, cats, horses, and other species. Thirty-six cases were identified with cytologically identifiable fungi/oomycetes and concurrent identification via fungal culture or immunoassay. Twenty-nine controls were identified with no cytologically or histologically visible organisms and a concurrent negative fungal culture. Direct PCR targeting the internal transcribed spacer region followed by sequencing was performed on one cytology slide from each case and control, and the sensitivity and specificity of the assay were calculated. The sensitivity of the panfungal PCR assay performed on stained cytology slides was 67% overall, 73% excluding cases with oomycetes, and 86% when considering only slides with abundant fungi. The specificity was 62%, which was attributed to amplification of fungal DNA from control slides with no visible fungus and negative culture results. Direct panfungal PCR is capable of providing genus- or species-level identification of fungi from stained cytology slides. Given the potential of panfungal PCR to amplify contaminant fungal DNA, this assay should be performed on slides with visible fungi and interpreted in conjunction with morphologic assessment by a clinical pathologist.
Twenty-five years of triptans – a nationwide population study
Authors: Davidsson Olafur B , Olofsson Isa A , Kogelman Lisette JA , Andersen Michael Asger , Rostgaard Klaus , Hjalgrim Henrik , Olesen Jes , Hansen Thomas Folkmann
Published: February 2021

Background

The efficacy of triptans as the main acute treatment strategy for migraine headache at the population-wide level needs to be understood to inform clinical decision-making. We summarise key trends in triptan use using more than 25 years of Danish nationwide data.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide register-based cohort study based on all Danish residents with access to public healthcare between 1 January 1994 and 31 October 2019 and summarise informative trends of all purchases of triptans in Denmark in the same period. Complete purchase records of Sumatriptan, Naratriptan, Zolmitriptan, Rizatriptan, Almotriptan, Eletriptan, and Frovatriptan were used.

Findings

Over a 25-year period, triptan use increased from 345 to 945 defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants per year and the yearly prevalence of triptan use increased from 5.17 to 14.57 per 1000 inhabitants. Between 2014 and 2019, 12.3% of the Danish migraine population purchased a triptan. Following their initial purchase, 43% of patients had not repurchased triptans within 5 years. At most, 10% of patients indicating triptan discontinuation tried more than one triptan. The prevalence of triptan overuse, defined as having purchased at least 20 DDDs of triptans per month for 3 consecutive months, increased in parallel with the prevalence of triptan use, prevalent in 56 of every 1000 triptan users every year between 2014 and 2019.

Interpretation

In a cohort with access to free clinical consultations and low medication costs, we observed low rates of triptan adherence, likely due to disappointing efficacy and/or unpleasant side effects rather than economic considerations. Triptan success continues to be hindered by poor implementation of clinical guidelines and high rates of treatment discontinuance.
Multi-condition optimization of a cross-flow fan based on the maximum entropy method
Authors: Yanyan Ding , Wang Jun , Wang Wei , Jiang Boyan , Xiao Qianhao , Ye Tao
Published: February 2021

Cross-flow fans are widely used in heating, wind-curtains, and air-conditionings, as well as other ventilation systems. A single or double arc is generally used as the camber line of cross-flow fans, but this design leads to constraints in the geometry of the blade profiles. In this study, the camber line of a cross-flow fan blade was parameterized by five parameters based on the fourth-order Bezier curve. A two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation was conducted to predict the aerodynamic characteristics and the internal flow field. It is necessary in multi-condition optimization, to evaluate the relative importance of the performance parameters under different working conditions and determine their weight factors. Here, a novel maximum entropy method (MEM) was proposed to quantify of volume flow rate, because the method avoids the subjectivity in the selection of the weights. Subsequently, a multi-island genetic algorithm (MIGA), combined with numerical simulation, was used to search the global optimum in the given design space. The results indicated that the optimum combination of the structural parameters reduced the blade channel vortex in a particular location of the impeller and changed the position and size of the eccentric vortex. The volume flow rate of the optimized impeller was 4.28% higher at the minimum rotation speeds and 12.87% higher at the maximum rotation speeds.
Cutaneous manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Gomez-Flores Minerva , Herrera-Argaez Genesis , Vazquez-Martinez Osvaldo , Herz-Ruelas Maira , Ocampo-Candiani Jorge , Villarreal-Martinez Alejandra , Galarza-Delgado Dionicio A , Hernandez-Galarza Ivan , Chavez-Alvarez Sonia
Published: February 2021

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired thrombophilic disorder in which autoantibodies are produced against a variety of phospholipids and phospholipid-binding proteins. The purpose of this article is to review cutaneous findings in patients with APS diagnosis. An overview regarding prevalence, description, pathogenesis and histopathology, are described for cutaneous manifestations of APS.
Simultaneous bilateral or sequential DCR? What to choose?
Authors: Weinberger Yehonatan , Soudry Ethan , Avisar Inbal
Published: February 2021

Background:

Dacryocystorhinostomy is used to treat nasolacrimal duct obstruction when conservative measures fail. It may be performed via an external or endoscopic-endonasal approach. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction treated with simultaneous bilateral or unilateral dacryocystorhinostomy.

Methods:

The database of a tertiary medical center was retrospectively reviewed for all patients treated for nasolacrimal duct obstruction in 2012–2017. The study sample was divided into six groups by surgery type and approach: adults (>18 years) – external or endoscopic-endonasal sequential unilateral or simultaneous bilateral dacryocystorhinostomy (four subgroups); children (18 years) – endoscopic-endonasal unilateral or simultaneous bilateral dacryocystorhinostomy (two subgroups). Data were collected on patient age and sex, surgery and anesthesia type and duration, and complications.

Results:

The cohort included 95 adults and 27 children who underwent 111 and 41 surgical procedures, respectively. Among the adults, the durations of anesthesia and surgery were significantly longer in the external bilateral dacryocystorhinostomy group than the others, but no such differences were found between simultaneous bilateral endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy and unilateral dacryocystorhinostomy by either approach. Among the children, there was no significant between-group difference in surgery duration. In neither age population was bilateral endoscopic surgery associated with an excess of intraoperative or postoperative complications of hemorrhage, infection, and epiphora.

Conclusion:

The lack of intergroup differences in clinical, surgical, and outcome parameters suggests that in cases of bilateral nasolacrimal duct obstruction in adults and children, simultaneous bilateral endoscopic-endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy may yield excellent therapeutic results.
Inhibition of ACE2 Expression by Ascorbic Acid Alone and its Combinations with Other Natural Compounds
Authors: Ivanov Vadim , Goc Anna , Ivanova Svetlana , Niedzwiecki Aleksandra , Rath Matthias
Published: February 2021

Background:

Angiotensin-converting enzyme II or ACE2 is an integral membrane protein present on many types of cells, including vascular endothelial cells and lung alveolar epithelial cells. This receptor serves as the entry point for SARS-coronaviruses (SARS-CoVs), including a novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV. Limited availability of these receptors can thwart cellular entry of this virus.

Methods:

We tested the effects of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) on cellular expression of ACE2 at the protein and RNA levels in human small alveolar epithelial cells and microvascular endothelial cells. In addition, we investigated whether combinations of ascorbic acid with other natural compounds can affect ACE2 expression.

Results:

The results show that ascorbic acid itself has moderate but consistent lowering effects on ACE2 expression at the cellular, protein, and RNA levels. Some natural compounds were effective in lowering ACE2 cellular expression, with the highest inhibitory effects observed for baicalin (75%) and theaflavin (50%). Significantly, combinations of these and other test compounds with ascorbic acid further decreased ACE2 expression. The highest impact of ascorbate on ACE2 expression was noted when combined with theaflavin (decrease from 50% to 87%), zinc (decrease from 22% to 62%), and with 10-undecenoic acid (from 18% to 53%). Ascorbic acid showed moderate additional benefits in decreasing ACE2 expression when combined with N-acetylcysteine and baicalin.

Conclusion:

Our study provides valuable experimental confirmation of the efficacy of micronutrients in controlling ACE2 expression—the coronavirus cellular “entry” point. It further validates the importance of nutrient interactions in various aspects of cellular metabolism and in considering potential therapeutic applications of nutrient-based approaches. The study shows that ascorbic acid and its combination with some natural compounds could be included in developing preventive and therapeutic approaches toward the current pandemic.
A data acquisition setup for data driven acoustic design
Authors: Rust Romana , Xydis Achilleas , Heutschi Kurt , Perraudin Nathanael , Casas Gonzalo , Du Chaoyu , Strauss Jürgen , Eggenschwiler Kurt , Perez-Cruz Fernando , Gramazio Fabio , Kohler Matthias
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we present a novel interdisciplinary approach to study the relationship between diffusive surface structures and their acoustic performance. Using computational design, surface structures are iteratively generated and 3D printed at 1:10 model scale. They originate from different fabrication typologies and are designed to have acoustic diffusion and absorption effects. An automated robotic process measures the impulse responses of these surfaces by positioning a microphone and a speaker at multiple locations. The collected data serves two purposes: first, as an exploratory catalogue of different spatio-temporal-acoustic scenarios and second, as data set for predicting the acoustic response of digitally designed surface geometries using machine learning. In this paper, we present the automated data acquisition setup, the data processing and the computational generation of diffusive surface structures. We describe first results of comparative studies of measured surface panels and conclude with steps of future research.
Glamping after the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Craig Christopher A , Karabas Ismail
Published: February 2021

Glamping is an increasingly popular and accessible modern form of camping. To address current and future impacts of COVID-19 on glamping, 2926 active leisure travelers in the US and Canada were surveyed. Respondents were asked about post-COVID-19 glamping trip plans and hotel/resort trip plans for comparison. Independent variables of interest include 2019 accommodation experiences, 2020 accommodation plans prior to COVID-19, and socio-demographics. Results indicate more active leisure travelers have plans to take glamping trips (45.9%) after COVID-19 when permissible than hotel/resort trips (24.7%). The results highlight that the broad accessibility of glamping make it a viable leisure travel alternative during and after the pandemic.
Low levels of BRCA1 protein expression predict a worse prognosis in stage I–II colon cancer
Authors: Du Changzheng , Peng Yifan , He Yiping , Chen Guoan , Chen Hao
Published: February 2021

Background:

BRCA1 and BRCA2 have been well studied for their roles in tumorigeneis, plus cancer diagnosis and treatment, but their prognostic value in colon cancer, especially for early-stage cancer, has not been fully illuminated. This study examined the expression levels of BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins in sporadic colon cancer cases and investigated their value in prognosis.

Methods:

The expression levels of BRCA1 and BRCA2 in 275 colon cancer patients who underwent radical surgeries were assayed by immunohistochemical staining in dissected tumor samples. Also, its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics, disease-free survival, and overall survival was investigated.

Results:

Tumors with low expression levels of BRCA1, BRCA2, and both were 19.6%, 17.8%, and 6.5%, respectively. The levels of BRCA1/2 expression were not associated with clinicopathological parameters (gender, age, histological differentiation, and tumor node metastasis stage). Patients with low-levels of BRCA1 protein in their tumors demonstrated a lower chance of 5-year disease-free survival (55.6% vs. 69.7%, P=0.046), which was more obvious in the patients with stage I–II tumors without chemotherapy (52.6% vs. 82.6%, P=0.006). Neither BRCA1 nor BRCA2 affected overall survival in this cohort. Multivariate analysis revealed that pathologic stage and the level of BRCA1 protein were independent factors of long-term disease-free survival.

Conclusion:

This study highlights BRCA1 as an independent prognosticator of early-stage colon cancer.
Hypoxemia during sleep and overnight rostral fluid shift in pulmonary arterial hypertension: a pilot study
Authors: Jutant Etienne‐Marie , Montani David , Sattler Caroline , Günther Sven , Sitbon Olivier , Garcia Gilles , Arnulf Isabelle , Humbert Marc , Similowski Thomas , Redolfi Stefania
Published: February 2021

Sleep‐related breathing disorders, including sleep apnea and hypoxemia during sleep, are common in pulmonary arterial hypertension, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Overnight fluid shift from the legs to the upper airway and to the lungs promotes obstructive and central sleep apnea, respectively, in fluid‐retaining states. The main objective was to evaluate if overnight rostral fluid shift from the legs to the upper part of the body is associated with sleep‐related breathing disorders in pulmonary arterial hypertension. In a prospective study, a group of stable patients with idiopathic, heritable, related to drugs, toxins, or treated congenital heart disease pulmonary arterial hypertension underwent a polysomnography and overnight fluid shift measurement by bioelectrical impedance in the month preceding or following a one‐day hospitalization according to regular pulmonary arterial hypertension follow‐up schedule with a right heart catheterization. Results show that among 15 patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (women: 87%; median (25–75th percentiles); age: 40 (32–61) years; mean pulmonary arterial pressure 56 (46–68) mmHg; pulmonary vascular resistance 8.8 (6.4–10.1) Wood units), two patients had sleep apnea and eight (53%) had hypoxemia during sleep without apnea. The overnight rostral fluid shift was 168 (118–263) mL per leg. Patients with hypoxemia during sleep had a greater fluid shift (221 (141– 361) mL) than those without hypoxemia (118 (44–178) mL, p = 0.045). In conclusion, this pilot study suggests that hypoxemia during sleep is associated with overnight rostral fluid shift in pulmonary arterial hypertension.
A multicenter retrospective study of patients with pulmonary hypertension transitioned from inhaled to oral treprostinil
Authors: Zwicke Diane L. , Restrepo‐Jaramillo Ricardo , Alnuaimat Hassan , Gordon Kathryn , Broderick Meredith , Edwards Lisa D. , Allmon Andrew , Leary Peter J.
Published: February 2021

Oral treprostinil has recently been shown to delay disease progression in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension in a long‐term outcomes study. The potential advantages of an oral formulation have resulted in patients transitioning from inhaled to oral treprostinil. The current study reports a retrospective analysis of patients who transitioned from treatment with inhaled to oral treprostinil. A multicenter retrospective chart review was conducted for 29 patients with pulmonary hypertension that transitioned from inhaled to oral treprostinil. Data were collected from inhaled treprostinil initiation and patients were followed until discontinuation of oral treprostinil or the end of the observation period. Persistence was calculated using Kaplan–Meier estimates. Prior to transition to oral treprostinil, patients had received inhaled treprostinil for a median of 643 (IQR: 322–991) days and 52% of patients were New York Heart Association/World Health Organization Functional Class III. For patients that cross‐titrated between formulations, the median time to complete the cross titration was 24 (IQR: 1–57) days. At 16‐ and 24‐weeks post‐transition, oral treprostinil persistence was 86 and 76%, respectively. Persistence was 59% at 52 weeks post‐transition. Clinical stability for the majority of patients at first follow‐up post‐transition was suggested based on available New York Heart Association/World Health Organization Functional Classification. Transitions from inhaled to oral treprostinil appeared safe and tolerable in the short‐term. Additional prospective studies are needed to fully evaluate the safety and efficacy of transitions from inhaled to oral treprostinil.
Knockdown of lncRNA X inactive specific transcript (XIST) radiosensitizes non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells through regulation of miR-16-5p/WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1) axis
Authors: Du Ran , Jiang Feng , Yin Yanhua , Xu Jinfen , Li Xia , Hu Likuan , Wang Xiuyu
Published: February 2021

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) X inactive specific transcript (XIST) is reported to play an oncogenic role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the role of XIST in regulating the radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells remains unclear. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expressions of XIST and miR-16-5p in NSCLC in tissues and cells, and Western blot was used to assess the expression of WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase (WEE1). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation and flow cytometry assays were used to determine cell viability and apoptosis after NSCLC cells were exposed to different doses of X-rays. The interaction between XIST and miR-16-5p was confirmed by StarBase database, qRT-PCR and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays. TargetScan database was used to predict WEE1 as a target of miR-16-5p, and their targeting relationship was further validated by Western blot, qRT-PCR and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays. XIST was highly expressed in both NSCLC tissue and cell lines, and knockdown of XIST repressed NSCLC cell viability and cell survival, and facilitated apoptosis under the irradiation. MiR-16-5p was a target of XIST, and rescue experiments demonstrated that miR-16-5p inhibitors could reverse the role of XIST knockdown on radiosensitivity in NSCLC cells. WEE1 was validated as a target gene of miR-16-5p, and WEE1 could be negatively regulated by XIST. XIST promotes the radioresistance of NSCLC cells by regulating the expressions of miR-16-5p and WEE1, which can be a novel target for NSCLC therapy.
Disco Time: The Relationship Between Perceived Duration and Tempo in Music
Authors: Hammerschmidt David , Wöllner Clemens , London Justin , Burger Birgitta
Published: February 2021

Our perception of the duration of a piece of music is related to its tempo. When listening to music, absolute durations may seem longer as the tempo—the rate of an underlying pulse or beat—increases. Yet, the perception of tempo itself is not absolute. In a study on perceived tempo, participants were able to distinguish between different tempo-shifted versions of the same song (± 5 beats per minute (BPM)), yet their tempo ratings did not match the actual BPM rates; this finding was called tempo anchoring effect (TAE). In order to gain further insights into the relation between duration and tempo perception in music, the present study investigated the effect of musical tempo on two different duration measures, to see if there is an analog to the TAE in duration perception. Using a repeated-measures design, 32 participants (16 musicians) were randomly presented with instrumental excerpts of Disco songs at the original tempi and in tempo-shifted versions. The tasks were (a) to reproduce the absolute duration of each stimulus (14–20 s), (b) to estimate the absolute duration of the stimuli in seconds, and (c) to rate the perceived tempo. Results show that duration reproductions were longer with faster tempi, yet no such effect was found for duration estimations. Thus, lower-level reproductions were affected by the tempo, but higher-level estimations were not. The tempo-shifted versions showed no effect on both duration measures, suggesting that the tempo difference for the duration-lengthening effect requires a difference of at least 20 BPM, depending on the duration measure. Results of perceived tempo replicated the typical rating pattern of the TAE, but this was not found in duration measures. The roles of spontaneous motor tempo and musical experience are discussed, and implications for future studies are given.