bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 disease severity and diabetes: why the connection and what is to be done?
Authors: Mazucanti Caio Henrique , Egan Josephine Mary
Published: June 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a novel virus responsible for the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, has infected over 3.5 million people all over the world since the first case was reported from Wuhan, China 5 months ago. As more epidemiological data regarding COVID-19 patients is acquired, factors that increase the severity of the infection are being identified and reported. One of the most consistent co-morbidities associated with worse outcome in COVID-19 patients is diabetes, along with age and cardiovascular disease. Studies on the association of diabetes with other acute respiratory infections, namely SARS, MERS, and Influenza, outline what seems to be an underlying factor in diabetic patients that makes them more susceptible to complications. In this review we summarize what we think may be the factors driving this pattern between diabetes, aging and poor outcomes in respiratory infections. We also review therapeutic considerations and strategies for treatment of COVID-19 in diabetic patients, and how the additional challenge of this co-morbidity requires attention to glucose homeostasis so as to achieve the best outcomes possible for patients.
BDH2 triggers ROS-induced cell death and autophagy by promoting Nrf2 ubiquitination in gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Jia-Zhou , Hu Yi-Lin , Feng Ying , Jiang Yun , Guo Yi-Bing , Liu Yi-Fei , Chen Xi , Yang Jun-Ling , Chen Yu-yan , Mao Qin-Sheng , Xue Wan-Jiang
Published: June 2020

Background

3-Hydroxy butyrate dehydrogenase 2 (BDH2) is a short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase family member that plays a key role in the development and pathogenesis of human cancers. However, the role of BDH2 in gastric cancer (GC) remains largely unclear. Our study aimed to ascertain the regulatory mechanisms of BDH2 in GC, which could be used to develop new therapeutic strategies.

Methods

Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and RT-PCR were used to investigate the expression of BDH2 in GC specimens and cell lines. Its correlation with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of GC patients was analysed. Functional assays, such as CCK-8 and TUNEL assays, transmission electron microscopy, and an in vivo tumour growth assay, were performed to examine the proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy of GC cells. Related molecular mechanisms were clarified by luciferase reporter, coimmunoprecipitation, and ubiquitination assays.

Results

BDH2 was markedly downregulated in GC tissues and cells, and the low expression of BDH2 was associated with poor survival of GC patients. Functionally, BDH2 overexpression significantly induced apoptosis and autophagy in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, BDH2 promoted Keap1 interaction with Nrf2 to increase the ubiquitination level of Nrf2. Ubiquitination/degradation of Nrf2 inhibited the activity of ARE to increase accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby inhibiting the phosphorylation levels of AktSer473 and mTORSer2448.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that BDH2 is an important tumour suppressor in GC. BDH2 regulates intracellular ROS levels to mediate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway through Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signalling, thereby inhibiting the growth of GC.
Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta may contribute to improved survival
Authors: Aoki Makoto , Abe Toshikazu , Hagiwara Shuichi , Saitoh Daizoh , Oshima Kiyohiro
Published: June 2020

Background

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an increasingly used trauma resuscitation procedure, however, there are no reports of whether or not the survival of patients treated with REBOA increases over time.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study from a nationwide trauma registry in Japan was conducted between 2004 and 2015. Patients treated with REBOA were divided into three calendar year periods: early-period (2004–2007), mid-period (2008–2011), and late-period (2012–2015). The primary outcome of in-hospital survival was compared between the periods (early-period: reference) using mixed effects logistic regression analysis after adjustment for characteristics, trauma severity, and therapeutic choices.

Results

Of 236,698 trauma patients, 633 patients treated with REBOA were analyzed. Distribution of the patients across periods was as follows: early-period (91), mid-period (276), and late-period (266). In-hospital survival was 39, 49, and 60% in the early-period, mid-period, and late-period, respectively. In regression modeling, the late-period (OR = 2.976, 95% CI = 1.615–5.482) was associated with improved in-hospital survival compared to the early-period, however, the mid-period (OR = 1.614, 95% CI = 0.898–2.904) was not associated with improved survival.

Conclusions

Survival of patients treated with REBOA during the late-period improved compared with survival during the early-period, after adjustment for characteristics, trauma severity, and therapeutic choices. REBOA may be one of the important factors related to progression of modern trauma treatment.
The efficacy of Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablet in the treatment of diarrhea predominant irritable bowel syndrome: protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial
Authors: Bai Tao , Zeng Haoyu , Long Yanqin , Li Xiaoqing , Sun Xiaohong , Lan Yu , Gao Lingling , Zhang Lu , Feng Zenghui , Hou Xiaohua
Published: June 2020

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with defecation or a change in bowel habits. Leading to significant negative effect on patients’ quality of life and huge financial burden to health system, the management of IBS is a great challenge. Probiotics are considered as an effective therapy; however, in a lack of high-quality evidence of efficacy, no strain- and dose-specific probiotics were recommended in clinical guidelines. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablet in the treatment of IBS-D.

Methods/design

A multicenter randomized controlled trial will be performed in fourteen hospitals. A total of three hundred patients who fulfill the eligibility criteria will be stratified divided into an experimental group and a control group randomly in a ratio of 1:1. The experimental group is treated with the Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablet while the control group is treated with placebo. All the patients will receive a 4-week treatment and a 2-week follow-up. The primary outcome is the effectiveness in improving abdominal pain and stool consistency; the secondary outcome includes evaluation of overall symptom relief, frequency of defecation, bloating, urgency of defecation, remedial medication, score of IBS-QOL, and changes of microbiota and metabonomics. Physical examination, vital signs, laboratory tests, adverse events, and concomitant medication will be taken into account for intervention safety assessment during the trial.

Discussion

This multicenter randomized controlled trial may provide high-quality evidence on the efficacy of the Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablet for IBS-D on both physical and mental dimensions in China. To fill the gap of previous probiotic intervention studies, in addition, this study will also present safety assessment which will be a significant emphasis.

Trial registration

ChiCTR1800017721. Registered on 10 August 2018.
Identification and characterisation of endogenous Avian Leukosis Virus subgroup E (ALVE) insertions in chicken whole genome sequencing data
Authors: Mason Andrew S. , Lund Ashlee R. , Hocking Paul M. , Fulton Janet E. , Burt David W.
Published: June 2020

Background

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are the remnants of retroviral infections which can elicit prolonged genomic and immunological stress on their host organism. In chickens, endogenous Avian Leukosis Virus subgroup E (ALVE) expression has been associated with reductions in muscle growth rate and egg production, as well as providing the potential for novel recombinant viruses. However, ALVEs can remain in commercial stock due to their incomplete identification and association with desirable traits, such as ALVE21 and slow feathering. The availability of whole genome sequencing (WGS) data facilitates high-throughput identification and characterisation of these retroviral remnants.

Results

We have developed obsERVer, a new bioinformatic ERV identification pipeline which can identify ALVEs in WGS data without further sequencing. With this pipeline, 20 ALVEs were identified across eight elite layer lines from Hy-Line International, including four novel integrations and characterisation of a fast feathered phenotypic revertant that still contained ALVE21. These bioinformatically detected sites were subsequently validated using new high-throughput KASP assays, which showed that obsERVer was highly precise and exhibited a 0% false discovery rate. A further fifty-seven diverse chicken WGS datasets were analysed for their ALVE content, identifying a total of 322 integration sites, over 80% of which were novel. Like exogenous ALV, ALVEs show site preference for proximity to protein-coding genes, but also exhibit signs of selection against deleterious integrations within genes.

Conclusions

obsERVer is a highly precise and broadly applicable pipeline for identifying retroviral integrations in WGS data. ALVE identification in commercial layers has aided development of high-throughput diagnostic assays which will aid ALVE management, with the aim to eventually eradicate ALVEs from high performance lines. Analysis of non-commercial chicken datasets with obsERVer has revealed broad ALVE diversity and facilitates the study of the biological effects of these ERVs in wild and domesticated populations.
Trends in measures of handgrip strength from 2014 to 2017 among Korean adolescents using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data
Authors: Kang Yunkoo , Kim Jieun , Kim Seung , Park Sowon , Lim Hyunjung , Koh Hong
Published: June 2020

Object

Measuring handgrip strength is a useful method to evaluate sarcopenia. No study has shown the trends of handgrip strength to weight ratio among Korean adolescents by year. This study aimed to determine the trends of handgrip strength among Korean adolescents using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Data of 2304 adolescents who participated in the KNHANES between 2014 and 2017 were obtained. The handgrip-to-weight ratios were categorized by age, sex, and year.

Results

Handgrip strength in adolescents decreased from 28.67 kg in 2014 to 27 kg in 2017 (P for trend < 0.05). The handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased from 51.48 in 2014 to 48.18 in 2017 (P for trend < 0.05). The handgrip strength and handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased among boys and girls over the years 2014–2017 (P for trend < 0.05). The results of the present study indicate that the handgrip-to-weight ratio decreased in Korean adolescents from the years 2014 to 2017, and a declining overall ratio indicates a decrease in the health status among Korean adolescents. Hence, there is a need to review the health status of Korean adolescents.
Androgens’ effects on cerebrovascular function in health and disease
Authors: Abi-Ghanem Charly , Robison Lisa S. , Zuloaga Kristen L.
Published: June 2020

Androgens affect the cerebral vasculature and may contribute to sex differences in cerebrovascular diseases. Men are at a greater risk for stroke and vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) compared to women throughout much of the lifespan. The cerebral vasculature is a target for direct androgen actions, as it expresses several sex steroid receptors and metabolizing enzymes. Androgens’ actions on the cerebral vasculature are complex, as they have been shown to have both protective and detrimental effects, depending on factors such as age, dose, and disease state. When administered chronically, androgens are shown to be pro-angiogenic, promote vasoconstriction, and influence blood-brain barrier permeability. In addition to these direct effects of androgens on the cerebral vasculature, androgens also influence other vascular risk factors that may contribute to sex differences in cerebrovascular diseases. In men, low androgen levels have been linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, which greatly increase the risk of stroke and VCID. Thus, a better understanding of androgens’ interactions with the cerebral vasculature under physiological and pathological conditions is of key importance.
Simulation of tennis serve behavior based on video image processing and wireless sensor technology
Authors: Li Xiaozhong , Huang Pinglin
Published: June 2020

Video-based human motion analysis is an important research direction in the field of computer vision. It detects moving objects from video sequences, extracts key parts of the human body, and obtains useful information for human movements. In this paper, the joints of the teeing arm are first color-coded. The tennis teeing video is collected by a high-speed camera. The coordinates of the tacking points in each frame are used instead of the knuckles to study the trajectory of the teeing arm. In the process of video processing, after constructing a dictionary for a series of noise maps, the sparse representation idea was used to reconstruct an interference-free service diagram, and a mixture of Gaussian background modeling was used to extract the foreground of the motion. After obtaining the motion foreground, the marker points are extracted through the color features, and binarization operations are performed on the marker points. Next, the outline of the marker points is searched, the outline is surrounded by the minimum circle, and the returned circle center coordinates are used as the joint point coordinates. Taking the trajectory of the shoulder marking point as a research object, a tennis serving model based on an improved support vector machine was established.
Gonococcal resistance can be viewed productively as part of a syndemic of antimicrobial resistance: an ecological analysis of 30 European countries
Authors: Kenyon Chris , Manoharan-Basil Sheeba S. , Van Dijck Christophe
Published: June 2020

Background

It is unclear how important bystander selection is in the genesis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Methods

We assessed bystander selection in a novel way. Mixed-effects linear regression was used to assess if country-level prevalence of gonococcal AMR in 30 European countries predicts homologous AMR in other bacteria. The data used was from the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network.

Results

The prevalence of gonococcal ciprofloxacin resistance was found to be positively associated with AMR prevalence in E. coli (coef. 0.52; P = 0.007), Acinetobacter spp. (coef. 0.13; P = 0.044) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (coef. 0.36; P = 0.020) but not Klebsiella pneumoniae. Azithromycin resistance in N. gonorrhoeae was positively associated with macrolide resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae (coef. 0.01; P = 0.018). No association was found for cephalosporins.

Conclusions

Gonococcal AMR is linked to that in other bacteria. This finding is likely explained by high antimicrobial consumption in affected populations and provides additional motivation for strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programs.
Microbiome definition re-visited: old concepts and new challenges
Authors: Berg Gabriele , Rybakova Daria , Fischer Doreen , Cernava Tomislav , Vergès Marie-Christine Champomier , Charles Trevor , Chen Xiaoyulong , Cocolin Luca , Eversole Kellye , Corral Gema Herrero , Kazou Maria , Kinkel Linda , Lange Lene , Lima Nelson , Loy Alexander , Macklin James A. , Maguin Emmanuelle , Mauchline Tim , McClure Ryan , Mitter Birgit , Ryan Matthew , Sarand Inga , Smidt Hauke , Schelkle Bettina , Roume Hugo , Kiran G. Seghal , Selvin Joseph , Souza Rafael Soares Correa de , van Overbeek Leo , Singh Brajesh K. , Wagner Michael , Walsh Aaron , Sessitsch Angela , Schloter Michael
Published: June 2020

The field of microbiome research has evolved rapidly over the past few decades and has become a topic of great scientific and public interest. As a result of this rapid growth in interest covering different fields, we are lacking a clear commonly agreed definition of the term “microbiome.” Moreover, a consensus on best practices in microbiome research is missing. Recently, a panel of international experts discussed the current gaps in the frame of the European-funded MicrobiomeSupport project. The meeting brought together about 40 leaders from diverse microbiome areas, while more than a hundred experts from all over the world took part in an online survey accompanying the workshop. This article excerpts the outcomes of the workshop and the corresponding online survey embedded in a short historical introduction and future outlook. We propose a definition of microbiome based on the compact, clear, and comprehensive description of the term provided by Whipps et al. in 1988, amended with a set of novel recommendations considering the latest technological developments and research findings. We clearly separate the terms microbiome and microbiota and provide a comprehensive discussion considering the composition of microbiota, the heterogeneity and dynamics of microbiomes in time and space, the stability and resilience of microbial networks, the definition of core microbiomes, and functionally relevant keystone species as well as co-evolutionary principles of microbe-host and inter-species interactions within the microbiome. These broad definitions together with the suggested unifying concepts will help to improve standardization of microbiome studies in the future, and could be the starting point for an integrated assessment of data resulting in a more rapid transfer of knowledge from basic science into practice. Furthermore, microbiome standards are important for solving new challenges associated with anthropogenic-driven changes in the field of planetary health, for which the understanding of microbiomes might play a key role.
Improving early recognition and intervention in people at increased risk for the development of bipolar disorder: study protocol of a prospective-longitudinal, naturalistic cohort study (Early-BipoLife)
Authors: Pfennig Andrea , Leopold Karolina , Martini Julia , Boehme Anne , Lambert Martin , Stamm Thomas , Bermpohl Felix , Reif Andreas , Kittel-Schneider Sarah , Juckel Georg , Fallgatter Andreas J. , Kircher Tilo , Jansen Andreas , Pfeiffer Steffi , Berndt Christina , Rottmann-Wolf Maren , Sauer Cathrin , Ritter Philipp , Correll Christoph U. , Bechdolf Andreas , Falkenberg Irina , Bauer Michael
Published: June 2020

Background

Bipolar disorders (BD) belong to the most severe mental disorders, characterized by an early onset and recurrent, severe episodes or a chronic course with poor psychosocial functioning in a proportion of patients. Many patients with BD experience substantial symptomatology months or even years before full BD manifestation. Adequate diagnosis and treatment is often delayed, which is associated with a worse outcome. This study aims to prospectively evaluate and improve early recognition and intervention strategies for persons at-risk for BD.

Methods

Early-BipoLife is a prospective-longitudinal cohort study of 1419 participants (aged 15–35 years) with at least five waves of assessment over a period of at least 2 years (baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months). A research consortium of ten university and teaching hospitals across Germany conducts this study. The following risk groups (RGs) were recruited: RG I: help-seeking youth and young adults consulting early recognition centres/facilities presenting ≥ 1 of the proposed risk factors for BD, RG II: in-/outpatients with unipolar depressive syndrome, and RG III: in-/outpatients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The reference cohort was selected from the German representative IMAGEN cohort. Over the study period, the natural course of risk and resilience factors, early symptoms of BD and changes of symptom severity (including conversion to manifest BD) are observed. Psychometric properties of recently developed, structured instruments on potential risk factors for conversion to BD and subsyndromal symptomatology (Bipolar Prodrome Symptom Scale, Bipolar at-risk criteria, EPIbipolar) and biomarkers that potentially improve prediction are investigated. Moreover, actual treatment recommendations are monitored in the participating specialized services and compared to recently postulated clinical categorization and treatment guidance in the field of early BD.

Discussion

Findings from this study will contribute to an improved knowledge about the natural course of BD, from the onset of first noticeable symptoms (precursors) to fully developed BD, and about mechanisms of conversion from subthreshold to manifest BD. Moreover, these generated data will provide information for the development of evidence-based guidelines for early-targeted detection and preventive intervention for people at risk for BD.
Epidemiology of sepsis and septic shock in intensive care units between sepsis-2 and sepsis-3 populations: sepsis prognostication in intensive care unit and emergency room (SPICE-ICU)
Authors: Abe Toshikazu , Yamakawa Kazuma , Ogura Hiroshi , Kushimoto Shigeki , Saitoh Daizoh , Fujishima Seitaro , Otomo Yasuhiro , Kotani Joji , Umemura Yutaka , Sakamoto Yuichiro , Sasaki Junichi , Shiino Yasukazu , Takeyama Naoshi , Tarui Takehiko , Shiraishi Shin-ichiro , Tsuruta Ryosuke , Nakada Taka-aki , Hifumi Toru , Hagiwara Akiyoshi , Ueyama Masashi , Yamashita Norio , Masuno Tomohiko , Ikeda Hiroto , Komori Akira , Iriyama Hiroki , Gando Satoshi ,   for the JAAM SPICE Study Group
Published: June 2020

Background

Diagnosing sepsis remains difficult because it is not a single disease but a syndrome with various pathogen- and host factor-associated symptoms. Sepsis-3 was established to improve risk stratification among patients with infection based on organ failures, but it has been still controversial compared with previous definitions. Therefore, we aimed to describe characteristics of patients who met sepsis-2 (severe sepsis) and sepsis-3 definitions.

Methods

This was a multicenter, prospective cohort study conducted by 22 intensive care units (ICUs) in Japan. Adult patients (≥ 16 years) with newly suspected infection from December 2017 to May 2018 were included. Those without infection at final diagnosis were excluded. Patient’s characteristics and outcomes were described according to whether they met each definition or not.

Results

In total, 618 patients with suspected infection were admitted to 22 ICUs during the study, of whom 530 (85.8%) met the sepsis-2 definition and 569 (92.1%) met the sepsis-3 definition. The two groups comprised different individuals, and 501 (81.1%) patients met both definitions. In-hospital mortality of study population was 19.1%. In-hospital mortality among patients with sepsis-2 and sepsis-3 patients was comparable (21.7% and 19.8%, respectively). Patients exclusively identified with sepsis-2 or sepsis-3 had a lower mortality (17.2% vs. 4.4%, respectively). No patients died if they did not meet any definitions. Patients who met sepsis-3 shock definition had higher in-hospital mortality than those who met sepsis-2 shock definition.

Conclusions

Most patients with infection admitted to ICU meet sepsis-2 and sepsis-3 criteria. However, in-hospital mortality did not occur if patients did not meet any criteria. Better criteria might be developed by better selection and combination of elements in both definitions.

Trial registration

UMIN000027452
Ideal placement of an implant considering the positional relationship to an opposing tooth in the first molar region: a three-dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Morita Jun , Wada Masahiro , Mameno Tomoaki , Maeda Yoshinobu , Ikebe Kazunori
Published: June 2020

Background

Excessive loading from the occlusion is known as a major pathological factor in implant failure. The force applied to the implant varies depending on the positional relationship to an opposing tooth in clinical cases. However, no studies have clarified the relationship between the discrepancy and mechanical complications.

Materials and methods

The study enrolled patients whose mandibular first molar was missing and was opposed by a natural maxillary first molar. The horizontal and vertical distance between the residual ridge and the occlusal surface of the maxillary first molar were measured from computerized tomograms. Subsequently, four finite element models were constructed in combinations of horizontal and vertical discrepancies. Additionally, the effect of inclined implantation and angled abutments were examined in a large clearance model. Maximum von Mises stress values generated in abutments under 90° or 60° loading vectors were compared with a three-dimensional finite element method.

Results

Data from 123 subjects (39 males and 84 females, average age 55.2 ± 11.4 (SD) years) were collected for the analyses. Under all conditions, the stress on the load side (the buccal side) was concentrated on the platform, and the stress on the opposite side (the lingual side) was concentrated on the top of the abutment tube inserted into the implant. In comparison to 90° loading vectors, the maximum von Mises stresses of each model were 1.20 to 2.67 times under 60° loading vectors. For inclined implantation, the maximum stress was 8.4% less at a 90° load and 9.7% less at a 60° load compared with vertical implantation. With angled abutments, the maximum stress was 15.7% less at a 90° load and 30.0% less at a 60° load compared with vertical implantation.

Conclusion

In cases of progressive alveolar resorption with a large clearance between the implant and the opposing teeth, a higher stress concentration was observed at the joint between the implant and the abutment. Our findings also showed that stress concentration around this area can be reduced by the use of inclined implantation and angled abutments under the condition of a horizontal offset between the implant and opposing teeth.
The PTSD help app in a Danish PTSD population: research protocol of a randomized controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Scharff Frederik Bernt , Lau Marianne Engelbrecht , Riisager Lisa Helena Grønberg , Møller Stine Bjerrum , Salimi Mehrak Lykkeberg , Gondan Matthias , Folke Sofie
Published: June 2020

Background

Due to an increase in PTSD patients seeking help in the Danish mental health sector and the addition of Complex PTSD to the ICD-11, there is a need to increase efficiency of existing treatments for PTSD. mHealth interventions have been shown to reduce PTSD symptoms. Therefore, the implementation of a mHealth intervention designed for psychiatric PTSD patients as a therapy add-on may improve treatment outcome. No study to date has explored the effects of mHealth interventions for PTSD in the Danish mental health sector, the feasibility and effect of this type of intervention needs testing.

Methods

The study is an investigator-initiated randomized controlled feasibility trial investigating the clinical mHealth tool PTSD help combined with care as usual (CAU) compared to CAU for adults with PTSD. Seventy patients will be recruited and receive either the mHealth intervention combined with CAU or CAU alone. The primary feasibility outcome is the proportion of eligible patients that participate in the study until the end assessment. Secondary outcome data consists of the fraction of compliant patients in the experimental group and exploratory data on PTSD help on PTSD symptom severity, level of psychological distress, sleep quality, dissociation symptoms, therapy readiness, quality of life, disability levels, and recovery.

Discussion

This study may help increase our knowledge of possible benefits of, as well as potential barriers to, the implementation of mHealth tools in the psychiatric sector. It may also provide a cost-efficient means to increase therapy outcomes and decrease the duration of suffering for PTSD patients in the psychiatric sector.

Trial registration

The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT03862703) https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03862703 on the 27 of February 2019 and has been approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency (journal number: VD-2018-200 ISuite number 6443). Referring to the committee law §2, the National Committee on Health Research Ethics (DNVK) [H-18024180] decided that the study could proceed without approval as the use of PTSD help did not constitute a health science intervention according to Danish health science legislation.
Opioid Risk Screening in an Oncology Palliative Medicine Clinic
Authors: Greiner Rebecca S. , Boselli Danielle , Patel Jai N. , Salib Mariam , Edelen Connie , Walsh Declan
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE:

Little information exists on factors that predict opioid misuse in oncology. We adopted the Screener and Opioid Assessment for Patients With Pain–Short Form (SOAPP-SF) and toxicology testing to assess for opioid misuse risk. The primary objective was to (1) identify characteristics associated with a high-risk SOAPP-SF score and noncompliant toxicology test, and (2) determine SOAPP-SF utility to predict noncompliant toxicology tests.

METHODS:

From July 1, 2017, to December 31, 2017, new patients completed the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS), SOAPP-SF, and narcotic use agreement. Toxicology test results were collected at subsequent visits.

RESULTS:

Of 223 distinct patients, 96% completed SOAPP-SF. Mean age was 61 ± 12.7 years, 58% were female, 68% were White, and 28% were Black. Eighty-three eligible patients (38%) completed toxicology testing. Younger age, male sex, and increased ESAS depression scores were associated with high-risk SOAPP-SF scores. Smoking habit was associated with an aberrant test. An SOAPP-SF score ≥ 3 predicted a noncompliant toxicology test.

CONCLUSION:

Male sex, young age, and higher ESAS depression score were associated with a high SOAPP-SF score. Smoking habit was associated with an aberrant test. An SOAPP-SF of ≥ 3 (sensitivity, 0.74; specificity, 0.64), not ≥ 4, was predictive of an aberrant test; however, performance characteristics were decreased from those published by Inflexxion, for ≥ 4 (sensitivity, 0.86; specificity, 0.67). The specificity warrants caution in falsely labeling patients. The SOAPP-SF may aid in meeting National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommendations to screen oncology patients for opioid misuse.
Keeping Patients With Cancer Exercising in the Age of COVID-19
Authors: Newton Robert U. , Hart Nicolas H. , Clay Tim
Published: June 2020

The novel 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is a global public health emergency. To date, physical distancing and good personal hygiene have been the only effective measures to limit spread. The pandemic has altered routine cancer care, including allied health and supportive care interventions. Clinicians must adapt and find ways to continue to deliver optimal patient care at this time. The prescription of exercise to people with cancer has been demonstrated to have meaningful benefits for both physical and mental health and quality of life, and may even enhance survival. Such exercise interventions provide the largest benefit to patients when delivered in a supervised, group, clinic-based setting. In the age of COVID-19, group-based exercise in communal facilities presents risks for both aerosol and surface transmission of the virus among people exercising, necessitating a pivot from the usual methods of exercise delivery to home-based exercise programs. In this article, we discuss the challenges that need to be overcome in moving to a home-based program for patients with cancer while maintaining the benefits of targeted and high-fidelity exercise medicine. We provide practical recommendations for how home-based exercise can be supported and nurtured by qualified exercise professionals who treat people living with cancer, as well as pointing to resources that are available online to assist practitioners. Despite the challenges faced during this pandemic, we believe that it is important for people to continue to benefit from exercise in a safe environment with the support of exercise specialists.
Gut Hormone GIP Induces Inflammation and Insulin Resistance in the Hypothalamus
Authors: Fu Yukiko , Kaneko Kentaro , Lin Hsiao-Yun , Mo Qianxing , Xu Yong , Suganami Takayoshi , Ravn Peter , Fukuda Makoto
Published: June 2020

The hypothalamus plays a critical role in controlling energy balance. High-fat diet (HFD) feeding increases the gene expression of proinflammatory mediators and decreases insulin actions in the hypothalamus. Here, we show that a gut-derived hormone, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), whose levels are elevated during diet-induced obesity, promotes and mediates hypothalamic inflammation and insulin resistance during HFD-induced obesity. Unbiased ribonucleic acid sequencing of GIP-stimulated hypothalami revealed that hypothalamic pathways most affected by intracerebroventricular (ICV) GIP stimulation were related to inflammatory-related responses. Subsequent analysis demonstrated that GIP administered either peripherally or centrally, increased proinflammatory-related factors such as Il-6 and Socs3 in the hypothalamus, but not in the cortex of C57BL/6J male mice. Consistently, hypothalamic activation of IκB kinase-β inflammatory signaling was induced by ICV GIP. Further, hypothalamic levels of proinflammatory cytokines and Socs3 were significantly reduced by an antagonistic GIP receptor (GIPR) antibody and by GIPR deficiency. Additionally, centrally administered GIP reduced anorectic actions of insulin in the brain and diminished insulin-induced phosphorylation of Protein kinase B and Glycogen synthase kinase 3β in the hypothalamus. Collectively, these findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for brain GIP signaling in diet-induced inflammation and insulin resistance in the hypothalamus.
Border as Method
Authors: Shen Shuang
Published: June 2020

The current state of Chinese literary studies is undergoing a process of re(b)ordering where the nation-state is no longer seen as the only acceptable framing for Chinese literature, and existing identificatory markers of Chinese literature—locality, language, ethnicity—are subject to radical rethinking. This article proposes a paradigm of border as method for Chinese literary studies, following the lead of Sandro Mezzadra and Brett Neilson's volume by the same title. Border as method refers to a reflexive glance at the cognitive bordering that we as knowledge producers cannot avoid practicing as we set out to define our object of study or outline a polemic or paradigm. It invites questions such as, What sociological facts of compartmentalized space does the study of Chinese literature yield? If we follow the space making capacity of literature, would we take note of other trajectories of connectivity and relationality and produce alternative configurations of literary assemblage? How does the delineated space of Chinese literature engage with the unevenness and differentiation of Asia and the world? This method manifests as a constructionist engagement with Chinese literature and literary history. It also proposes a cultural geography fundamentally different from the conventional center vs. periphery model. In this new mapping, a borderscape defined in terms of a site or locality, a period, or a variety of other ways could become the de facto center that plays a definitive role in shaping the dynamics and critical terms of Chinese literature and culture as a whole.
Asia as Counter-method
Authors: Chang Hsiao-Hung , Rojas Carlos
Published: June 2020

By taking the recent legalization of same-sex marriage in Taiwan as a point of departure, this paper attempts to differentiate a “bloc asia” as a virtual aggregate from an “Area Asia” as a concrete geo-historical region in order to theorize the possibility of taking Taiwan or Asia as a counter-method. The paper starts with an examination of Takeuchi Yoshimi's 1960 “Asia as Method” in light of the two possible Asias—Asia as entity and Asia as method—suggested in Koyasu Nobukuni's poststructuralist reinterpretation. It then moves on to the two possible methods as disclosed in Kuan-Hsing Chen's Asia as Method—one adopts an “Asian studies in Asia” approach with an inter-referencing system; the other foregrounds a dynamic process of turning and hybridizing that occurs between Western colonial powers and local structures—to warp up the similar differentiation of Area Asia and bloc asia, as well as that of Asia as entity and Asia as method. The second part of the paper focuses on Taiwan's recent “Pikaochiu” incident, which uncannily conflates questions of same-sex marriage rights and ancestral tablet terminology. Instead of regarding it as merely an Internet kuso, the paper takes it to demonstrate how out of the old clan patriarchy in East Asia there may emerge new “homophobic” forms that rely not on a proscription of specific sex practices but rather on defending the integrity of the family surname and patrilineage. Yet its potentiality as a rollback against a Euro-American model of marriage, kinship, and family, and simultaneously a reversal against East Asian Confucian values, makes it a bizarre yet challenging case to explicate how Asia could function as a counter-method, a virtual “not yet.”
HSP70 drives myoblast fusion during C2C12 myogenic differentiation
Authors: Thakur Savant S. , Swiderski Kristy , Chhen Victoria L. , James Janine L. , Cranna Nicki J. , Islam A.M. Taufiqual , Ryall James G. , Lynch Gordon S.
Published: June 2020

In response to injury, skeletal muscle stem cells (MuSCs) undergo myogenesis where they become activated, proliferate rapidly, differentiate and undergo fusion to form multinucleated myotubes. Dramatic changes in cell size, shape, metabolism and motility occur during myogenesis which cause cellular stress and alter proteostasis. The molecular chaperone heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) maintains proteostasis by regulating protein biosynthesis and folding, facilitating transport of polypeptides across intracellular membranes and preventing stress-induced protein unfolding/aggregation. Although HSP70 overexpression can exert beneficial effects in skeletal muscle diseases and enhance skeletal muscle repair after injury, its effect on myogenesis has not been investigated. Plasmid-mediated overexpression of HSP70 did not affect the rate of C2C12 proliferation or differentiation, but the median number of myonuclei per myotube and median myotube width in differentiated C2C12 myotubes were increased with HSP70 overexpression. These findings reveal that increased HSP70 expression can promote myoblast fusion, identifying a mechanism for its therapeutic potential to enhance muscle repair after injury.
Incentivized Kidney Exchange
Authors: Sönmez Tayfun , Ünver M. Utku , Yenmez M. Bumin
Published: June 2020

Over the last 15 years, kidney exchange has become a mainstream paradigm to increase transplants. However, compatible pairs do not participate, and full benefits from exchange can be realized only if they do. We propose incentivizing compatible pairs to participate in exchange by insuring their patients against future renal failure via increased priority in deceased-donor queue. We analyze equity and welfare benefits of this scheme through a new dynamic continuum model. We calibrate the model with US data and quantify substantial gains from adopting incentivized exchange, both in terms of access to living-donor transplants and reduced competition for deceased-donor transplants. (JEL D47, I11, I12, I18)
Tax-Exempt Lobbying: Corporate Philanthropy as a Tool for Political Influence
Authors: Bertrand Marianne , Bombardini Matilde , Fisman Raymond , Trebbi Francesco
Published: June 2020

We explore the role of charitable giving as a means of political influence. For philanthropic foundations associated with large US corporations, we present three different identification strategies that consistently point to the use of corporate social responsibility in ways that parallel the strategic use of political action committee (PAC) spending. Our estimates imply that 6.3 percent of corporate charitable giving may be politically motivated, an amount 2.5 times larger than annual PAC contributions and 35 percent of federal lobbying. Absent of disclosure requirements, charitable giving may be a form of corporate political influence undetected by voters and subsidized by taxpayers. (JEL D22, D64, D72, L31)
The Production Relocation and Price Effects of US Trade Policy: The Case of Washing Machines
Authors: Flaaen Aaron , Hortaçsu Ali , Tintelnot Felix
Published: June 2020

We estimate the price effect of US import restrictions on washers. The 2012 and 2016 antidumping duties against South Korea and China were accompanied by downward or minor price movements along with production relocation to other export platform countries. With the 2018 tariffs, on nearly all source countries, the price of washers increased nearly 12 percent. Interestingly, the price of dryers—not subject to tariffs—increased by an equivalent amount. Factoring in dryer prices and price increases by domestic brands, the 2018 tariffs on washers imply a tariff elasticity of consumer prices of above one. (JEL F13, F14, F23, L68, 019, P33)
Phytochemical screening and antioxidant profiling of Sumatran wild mangoes (Mangifera spp.): a potential source for medicine antidegenerative effects
Authors: Fitmawati Fitmawati , Resida Esi , Kholifah Sri Nur , Roza Rodesia Mustika , Almurdani Muhammad , Emrizal Emrizal
Published: June 2020

Background: New findings on the potential of wild mangoes from the island of Sumatra as a source of antioxidant helps their conservation effort as it introduces their useful compounds to the public. This study aims to analyze the antioxidant profile and quantification of gallic acid and quercetin content from leaves and bark of Sumatran wild mangoes. Exploration and analysis of phytochemical constituents from 11 Sumatran wild mangoes was performed.

Methods: Antioxidant activity of wild mangoes was analysed with 1,1- diphenyl-2-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH), and determination of quercetin and gallic acid content was performed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Total flavonoid and phenolic analysis was also performed. Curve fitting analysis used a linear regression approach.

Results: The highest level of antioxidant activity, phenolic compound and flavonoid compound was found in the leaves and bark of Mangifera sp1. (MBS), the bark of M. foetida 3 (var. batu) and leaves of M. torquenda, and the bark and leaves of M. sumatrana, respectively. The content of gallic acid in leaves ranged from 5.23-35.48 mg/g dry weight. Quercetin content of wild mangoes leaves ranged from 0.76 to 1.16 mg/g dry weight with the lowest value in M. foetida 2 (var. manis) and the highest in M. laurina.

Conclusion: The results obtained are expected to be useful in supporting the development of drugs that have antidegenerative effects.
Case Report: Sarcoidosis with azygos vein enlargement mimicking metastatic cancer
Authors: Qasim Abdallah , Kousa Omar , Mansour Mohamed , Aly Ahmad K. , Awad Dana , Kousa Hamza , Addasi Yazan , Abuhazeem Bader , Andukuri Venkata
Published: June 2020

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease with heterogeneous clinical manifestations that is characterized histologically by the presence of noncaseating granulomas in the affected organs. It can be a diagnostic challenge, especially when mimicking malignancy or fungal infections. Previous case reports of sarcoidosis presenting with multiple masses are highly suggestive of infectious or malignant etiology.  In this case, our patient presented with enlarged lymph node and was found to have innumerable nodules in the mediastinum, lungs, and liver. Azygos vein enlargement was also seen on radiological imaging, and malignancy was highly suspected; hence, an extensive workup was conducted, including laboratory, radiology and biopsy evaluation, which were diagnostic of sarcoidosis. Our case showed the importance of correlation of the history, physical examination, radiological and histopathologic studies in confirming the diagnosis and the need to rule out other serious infections and malignancies, especially with azygous vein enlargement, which can sometimes be missed in chest radiograph.
Measures to increase value of preclinical research - an inexpensive and easy-to-implement approach to a QMS for an academic research lab
Authors: Hewera Michael , Nickel Ann-Christin , Knipprath Nina , Muhammad Sajjad , Fan Xiaolong , Steiger Hans-Jakob , Hänggi Daniel , Kahlert Ulf Dietrich
Published: June 2020

Background: Increasing concerns emerge regarding the limited success in reproducing research results. This is a major problem for science, society and economy. Driven by industry or scientific networks, several attempts to combat this crisis are initiated. However, only few measures address the applicability and feasibility of implementation of actions into an academic research environment with limited resources.

Methods: Here we propose a strategy catalogue aiming for a quality management system suitable for many research labs. Our proposal is guided by its inexpensiveness and possibility of rapid installation. Moreover, we restrict presentations of our actions on those for what we received a positive feedback by the users regarding its applicability.  For this we used eLabFTW, an electronic lab book, as hub for all other components of our quality management system (QMS). Storage of lab journals and project management will be done there as well. Standard operation procedures have been introduced. Those will be stored in eLabFTW too. Furthermore, we implemented a bio bank for safer long term storage of bio samples and cryo-cultures of cell lines. Next we set up a lab meeting as feedback mechanism for the QMS. In a final step we implemented an automated pipeline to be used for example for drug screens.

Results: With this effort we want to reduce individual differences in work techniques, to further improve the quality of our results. Although, just recently established, we can already observe positive outcomes in quality of experimental results, improvements in sample and data storage, stakeholder engagement and even promotion of new scientific discoveries.

Conclusions: We believe that our experiences can help to establish a road map to increase value and output of preclinical research in academic labs with limited budget and personnel.
SMARCB1/INI1-deficient tumors of adulthood
Authors: Parker Nathaniel A. , Al-Obaidi Ammar , Deutsch Jeremy M.
Published: June 2020

The SMARCB1/INI1 gene was first discovered in the mid-1990’s, and since then it has been revealed that loss of function mutations in this gene result in aggressive rhabdoid tumors. Recently, the term “rhabdoid tumor” has become synonymous with decreased SMARCB1/INI1 expression. When genetic aberrations in the SMARCB1/INI1 gene occur, the result can cause reduced, complete loss, and mosaic expression. Although SMARCB1/INI1-deficient tumors are predominantly sarcomas, this is a diverse group of tumors with mixed phenotypes, which can often make the diagnosis challenging. Prognosis for these aggressive tumors is often poor. Moreover, refractory and relapsing progressive disease is common. As a result, accurate and timely diagnosis is imperative. Despite the SMARCB1/INI1 gene itself and its implications in tumorigenesis being discovered over two decades ago, there is a paucity of rhabdoid tumor cases reported in the literature that detail SMARCB1/INI1 expression. Much work remains if we hope to provide additional therapeutic strategies for patients with aggressive SMARCB1/INI1-deficient tumors.