bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Kv1.3 Channel Inhibition Limits Uremia-Induced Calcification in Mouse and Human Vascular Smooth Muscle
Authors: Cazaña-Pérez Violeta , Cidad Pilar , Navarro-González Juan F , Rojo-Mencía Jorge , Jaisser Frederic , López-López José R , Alvarez de la Rosa Diego , Giraldez Teresa , Pérez-García Maria Teresa 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly increases cardiovascular risk. In advanced CKD stages, accumulation of toxic circulating metabolites and mineral metabolism alterations triggers vascular calcification, characterized by vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) transdifferentiation and loss of the contractile phenotype. Phenotypic modulation of VSMC occurs with significant changes in gene expression. Even though ion channels are an integral component of VSMC function, the effects of uremia on ion channel remodeling has not been explored. We used an in vitro model of uremia-induced calcification of human aorta smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) to study the expression of 92 ion channel subunit genes. Uremic serum-induced extensive remodeling of ion channel expression consistent with loss of excitability but different from the one previously associated with transition from contractile to proliferative phenotypes. Among the ion channels tested, we found increased abundance and activity of voltage-dependent K+ channel Kv1.3. Enhanced Kv1.3 expression was also detected in aorta from a mouse model of CKD. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of Kv1.3 decreased the amount of calcium phosphate deposition induced by uremia, supporting an important role for this channel on uremia-induced VSMC calcification.
A Slc25a46 Mouse Model Simulating Age-Associated Motor Deficit, Redox Imbalance, and Mitochondria Dysfunction
Authors: Gao Li , Wang Min , Liao Linfeng , Gou Na , Xu Piao , Ren Zhengyu , Yao Maojin , Yuan Erdong , Yang Xinquan , Ren Jiaoyan 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The mitochondrial theory of aging postulates that accumulation of mtDNA mutations and mitochondrial dysfunction are responsible for producing aging phenotypes. To more comprehensively explore the complex relationship between aging and mitochondria dysfunction, we have developed a mouse model with Slc25a46 knockout, a nuclear gene described as encoding mitochondrial carriers, by CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to mimic some typical aging phenotypes in human. Slc25a46−/− mice present segmental premature aging phenotypes characterized by shortened life span of no more than 2 months, obviously defective motor ability, gastrocnemius muscle atrophy, and imbalance of redox level in brain and liver. The underlying mechanism for multiple organ disorder may attribute to mitochondrial dysfunction, which is mainly manifested in the damaged mitochondrial structure (eg, vacuolar structure, irregular swelling, and disorganized cristae) and an age-associated decrease in respiratory chain enzyme (mainly complex I and IV) activity. In summary, our study suggests that the Slc25a46−/− mouse is a valid animal model for segmental aging-related pathologies studies based on mitochondrial theory, generating a new platform to both understand mechanisms between aging and mitochondria dysfunction as well as to design mitochondria-based therapeutic strategies to improve mitochondrial quality, and thereby the overall healthspan.
Accelerating full waveform inversion through Adaptive Gradient Optimization methods and Dynamic Simultaneous Sources
Authors: Bernal-Romero Marcos , Iturrarán-Viveros Ursula 
Published: December 2020

Summary
Full-Waveform Inversion (FWI) is a procedure based on the minimization of a misfit (or cost) function applied to the difference between synthetic waveforms and real seismic traces that derives high-resolution velocity models. This is achieved through the iterative adjustment of the velocity model and/or some other physical parameters of the Earth’s subsurface, which generally implies large computational effort. In order to minimize this cost function we explore the use of Adaptive Gradient Optimization (AGO), a variant of Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD) methods, combining them with a dynamic simultaneous sources strategy that allow us to reduce the computational cost involved in this process. AGO methods are computationally efficient, have little memory requirements and have the capability of adapting the step-length according to the optimization process’ evolution. Since a precise calibration of the step-length is needed to ensure efficiency, the AGOs are well-suited for this task because they are able to adapt the step-length according to the optimization’s development. In this work, we propose a simple non-linear relationship that allows an adjustment of the step-length with respect to the frequencies used in the multiscale FWI, avoiding the line-search strategy’s high computational burden. Additionally, the application of this new step-length rule into the AGO methods with a dynamic simultaneous sources strategy, allow us to concurrently accelerate and significantly improve the FWI’s numerical performance and results. We compare the performance and final results of seven AGO methods, using two different FWI misfit functionals (based on L1 and L2 norms) applied to estimate the final velocity models of two benchmark acoustic models: the Marmousi and the Canadian overthrust BP velocity models.
Modified ultrafiltration reduces postoperative blood loss and transfusions in adult cardiac surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Low Zhao Kai , Gao Fei , Sin Kenny Yoong Kong , Yap Kok Hooi 
Published: December 2020

Abstract OBJECTIVESCardiopulmonary bypass in cardiac surgery has been associated with several deleterious effects including haemodilution and systemic inflammation. Modified ultrafiltration (MUF) has been well established in paediatric cardiac surgery in counteracting postperfusion syndrome. However, MUF is less commonly used in adult cardiac surgery. In this meta-analysis, we compared clinical outcomes in adult patients who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass with and without MUF.METHODSElectronic searches were performed using Pubmed, Ovid Medline, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library until April 2020. Selection criteria were randomized studies of adult cardiac surgery patients comparing MUF versus no MUF. Primary outcomes were postoperative mortality, haematocrit, blood transfusion, chest tube drainage, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and duration of mechanical ventilation.RESULTSThirteen randomized controlled trials were included, comprising 626 patients in the MUF group, and 610 patients in the control (no-MUF) group. There was a significantly improved postoperative haematocrit [mean difference 2.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–4.73, P = 0.009], lower chest tube drainage (mean difference −105 ml, 95% CI −202 to −7 ml, P = 0.032), lower postoperative blood transfusion rate (mean difference −0.73 units, 95% CI −0.98 to −0.47 units, P &lt; 0.0001) and shorter duration of ICU stay (mean difference −0.13 days, 95% CI −0.27 to −0.00 days, P = 0.048) in the MUF group. There was no difference in ventilation time (mean difference −0.47 h, 95% CI −2.05 to 1.12 h, P = 0.56) or mortality rates (odds ratio 0.62, 95% CI 0.28–1.33, P = 0.22). There were no reported complications associated with MUF.CONCLUSIONSMUF is a safe and feasible option in adult cardiac patients, with significant benefits including improved postoperative haematocrit, as well as reduced postoperative chest tube bleeding, transfusion requirements and duration of ICU stay.
Measures used to assess the burden of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli infections in humans: a scoping review
Authors: McDonald Kathryn L , Garland Sarah , Carson Carolee A , Gibbens Kimberly , Parmley E Jane , Finley Rita , MacKinnon Melissa C 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
ESBL-producing bacteria pose a serious challenge to both clinical care and public health. There is no standard measure of the burden of illness (BOI) of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-EC) in the published literature, indicating a need to synthesize available BOI data to provide an overall understanding of the impact of ESBL-EC infections on human health.

Objectives
To summarize the characteristics of BOI reporting in the ESBL-EC literature to (i) describe how BOI associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is measured and reported; (ii) summarize differences in other aspects of reporting between studies; and (iii) highlight the common themes in research objectives and their relation to ESBL-EC BOI.

Methods and results
Two literature searches, run in 2013 and 2018, were conducted to capture published studies evaluating the BOI associated with ESBL-EC infections in humans. These searches identified 1723 potentially relevant titles and abstracts. After relevance screening of titles and abstracts and review of full texts, 27 studies were included for qualitative data synthesis. This review identified variability in the reporting and use of BOI measures, study characteristics, definitions and laboratory methods for identifying ESBL-EC infections.

Conclusions
Decision makers often require BOI data to make science-based decisions for the implementation of surveillance activities or risk reduction policies. Similarly, AMR BOI measures are important components of risk analyses and economic evaluations of AMR. This review highlights many limitations to current ESBL-EC BOI reporting, which, if improved upon, will ensure data accessibility and usefulness for ESBL-EC BOI researchers, decision makers and clinicians.
A rare case of peritoneal Xanthogranuloma in a 23-year-old woman
Authors: Kudra Danial Aghyad , Klaho Abdulqader , Abou Redn Abdulaziz , Al-Najjari Zeina , Tarabishi Joudi , Chabarek Sara , Sankari Tarabishi Ahmad , Alhaj Ahmad 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Xanthogranuloma is a very rare tumor when it comes to abdomen. Macroscopically, it is characterized by formation of multiple, golden yellow or bright yellow nodules, whereas histologically, the lesion is predominantly composed of foamy cells mixed with acute and chronic inflammatory cells. We report a case of 23-year-old woman presented to the hospital with chronic constipation, colic abdominal pain and recurrent vomiting. The patient had a history of sigmoid colon volvulus. Radiological investigations showed sigmoid colon elongation, multi-density formations in the left iliac region and pelvis and a small amount of pelvic fluid. Laparoscopy followed by excisional biopsy of the formations were made, and pathological examination showed Xanthogranuloma with no ovarian parenchyma. Hence, Xanthogranuloma should be considered as a differential diagnosis for idiopathic abdominal pain. Laparoscopy and excisional biopsy are suggested procedures when short-term therapy is concerned.
Resection of a giant mediastinal atypical lipomatous tumor involving the esophagus
Authors: Suzuki Takaya , Sato Taku , Hasumi Tohru 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Liposarcoma is one of the common soft tissue tumors but barely arises from the mediastinum. Complete surgical resection with a negative surgical margin is required for the treatment; however, mediastinal liposarcomas tend to be large due to its slow-growing nature. A 57-year-old man was referred to us for having an abnormal mediastinal shadow in a chest X-ray. Computed tomography scanning revealed a giant posterior mediastinal tumor, completely involving the esophagus. Because of the unusual size and location of the tumor, we took a bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic approach. First, the soft lipomatous compartment of the tumor was dissected from the esophagus and the descending aorta via the left thoracic cavity complete thoracoscopic procedure. Then, the patient was placed in the left lateral position, and the solid part of the tumor was completely resected using 13 cm of right-side thoracotomy. There was no complication or local recurrence in the first 26 months of follow-up.
Artemisinin resistance surveillance in African Plasmodium falciparum isolates from imported malaria cases to Italy
Authors: L'Episcopia Mariangela , Bartoli Tommaso Ascoli , Corpolongo Angela , Mariano Andrea , D’Abramo Alessandra , Vulcano Antonella , Paglia Maria G , Perrotti Edvige , Menegon Michela , Nicastri Emanuele , Severini Carlo 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria is a significant public health problem in returning travellers, and artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) remains the first choice for treatment. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the P. falciparum kelch 13 (Pfk13) gene have been associated with artemisinin (ART) resistance. Moreover, the increase in the P. falciparum plasmepsin 2 (Pfpm2) gene copy number was shown to be linked with reduced susceptibility of P. falciparum to piperaquine (PPQ), a partner drug in an ACT regimen. Active molecular surveillance for imported drug-resistant malaria parasites is a pivotal activity to provide adequate chemoprophylaxis and treatment guidelines.

Methods
A retrospective study to review imported P. falciparum malaria in patients admitted to Spallanzani Institute between 2014 and 2015 was conducted. Information collected included clinic and epidemiological characteristics such as age, gender, country of origin, time since arrival to our country, travel history. All P.falciparum isolates were analysed for SNPs in the Pfk13 gene and for copy number variations in the Pfpm2 gene.

Results
P. falciparum malaria was identified in 54 travellers. The mean age was 37 years, 44 were males. All cases were imported from non-EU countries. In the Pfk13 gene two mutations (R561R and F673L) were detected. Six P. falciparum isolates carried two copies of Pfpm2 gene, and one three copies, representing ≈16% of the analysed isolates.

Conclusions
None of the SNPs known to be associated with ART resistance were detected in the examined parasites. Our results provide evidence that Pfpm2 duplications (associated with piperaquine resistance) occur in Africa, emphasizing the necessity to better decode the genetic background associated with PPQ resistance. Further epidemiological investigations in Pfpm2 amplification along with mutations in the Pfk13 gene will be useful for developing and updating anti-malarial guidance in travellers.
Research on climate change and migration where are we and where are we going?
Authors: Ferris Elizabeth 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Today the issue of climate change-induced mobility—whether displacement, migration, or relocation—is receiving increased interest from policy-makers, academics, and the general public. Many are turning to the academic community for answers to basic questions (how many people are expected to move? when? where?) and for directions for future policies (what measures can support people to remain in their communities? If people have to move, how can the disruption be minimized—for those moving and for the affected communities?). While there is a growing body of literature on the issue, the academic community writ large is presently unable to provide consistent comprehensive evidence or guidance on these issues. Most obviously, there is no consensus about what terminology to use—climate change refugee? Environmental migrant? [e.g. Dun and Gemenne 2008. ‘Defining Environmental Migration’, Forced Migration Review, 31: 10–11]. Nor is there consensus on how many people are expected to move; different research projects use different time frames (2030, 2050, 2100, etc.), are based on different assumptions, and (not surprisingly) come up with different estimates, ranging from 50 million to 1 billion migrants associated with the effects of climate change during this century [e.g. Stern, N. (2006) ‘Stern review on the economics of climate change. Executive Summary’. London: HM Treasury. Baird 2007. Human Tide: The Real Migration Crisis: A Christian Aid Report. London: Christian Aid; UN Development Programme (UNDP) (2007/2008). Human Development Report: Fighting Climate Change, Human Solidarity in a Divided World; Kolmannskog 2009, Climate Change, Disaster, Displacement and Migration: Initial Evidence from Africa. New Issues in Refuge Research (Research Paper No. 180). Geneva: UNHCR; Warner 2009. Global Environmental Change and Migration: Governance Challenges. Global Environmental Change].
The nature of giant clumps in high-z discs: a deep-learning comparison of simulations and observations
Authors: Ginzburg Omri , Huertas-Company Marc , Dekel Avishai , Mandelker Nir , Snyder Gregory , Ceverino Daniel , Primack Joel 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT
We use deep learning to explore the nature of observed giant clumps in high-redshift disc galaxies, based on their identification and classification in cosmological simulations. Simulated clumps are detected using the 3D gas and stellar densities in the VELA zoom-in cosmological simulation suite, with ${\sim}25\ \rm {pc}$ maximum resolution, targeting main-sequence galaxies at 1 &lt; z &lt; 3. The clumps are classified as long-lived clumps (LLCs) or short-lived clumps (SLCs) based on their longevity in the simulations. We then train neural networks to detect and classify the simulated clumps in mock, multicolour, dusty, and noisy HST-like images. The clumps are detected using an encoder–decoder convolutional neural network (CNN), and are classified according to their longevity using a vanilla CNN. Tests using the simulations show our detector and classifier to be ${\sim}80{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ complete and ${\sim}80{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ pure for clumps more massive than ∼107.5 M⊙. When applied to observed galaxies in the CANDELS/GOODS S+N fields, we find both types of clumps to appear in similar abundances in the simulations and the observations. LLCs are, on average, more massive than SLCs by ∼0.5 dex, and they dominate the clump population above Mc ≳ 107.6 M⊙. LLCs tend to be found closer to the galactic centre, indicating clump migration to the centre or preferential formation at smaller radii. The LLCs are found to reside in high-mass galaxies, indicating better clump survivability under supernova feedback there, due to clumps being more massive in these galaxies. We find the clump masses and radial positions in the simulations and the observations to agree within a factor of 2.
EXTH-33. VALPROIC ACID ENHANCES THE ANTI-PROLIFERATIVE EFFECT OF TUMOR-TREATING FIELDS ON PATIENT-DERIVED GLIOSARCOMA CELLS IN VITRO
Authors: Michelhaugh Sharon , Mittal Sandeep 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Valproic acid (VPA) is an anti-epileptic drug often prescribed for glioma-associated seizures. VPA is also investigated as a potential anti-proliferative cancer treatment due to its histone deacetylase inhibitor activity. Tumor-treating fields (TTFields) are an FDA-approved therapy that reduce proliferation of tumor cells by interfering with microtubule formation during mitosis. In this study, we determined whether the combination of VPA with TTFields in comparison to each treatment alone would alter proliferation or cytotoxicity in patient-derived gliosarcoma cells.

METHODS
Gliosarcoma cells were grown in DMEM/F12 media with 10% fetal bovine serum and gentamicin. Prior to TTFields application and VPA incubation, cells were plated on plastic coverslips (1×104cells/coverslip) and incubated overnight. TTFields were applied to cells at 200 kHz optimal frequency (field intensity of ~1.6 V/cm) for 14 days and/or incubated with VPA at concentrations of 0, 0.25, 0.5, or 1mM. Proliferation was assessed by quantifying total RNA from each coverslip (n=3–4/group). Cytotoxicity was assessed by measuring lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) released into the media (n=8/group). Groups were compared by t-tests.

RESULTS
RNA yields from cells treated with only VPA were unchanged compared to control. TTFields treatment alone reduced RNA yield from 14.85±4.23 to 8.92±1.39 µg (mean± SD; P&lt; 0.05). The addition of 1mM VPA to TTFields further reduced RNA yield to 5.48±1.5 µg (P&lt; 0.03), although VPA alone had no effect. Additionally, 1mM VPA increased media LDH from 4.00±1.3 to 6.68±1.7 AU (mean± SD; P&lt; 0.01), while TTFields alone also increased media LDH to 5.67±0.99 AU (P&lt; 0.02). Media LDH levels due to combined TTFields and 1mM VPA treatment was 5.86±1.2 AU (not statistically different from either alone).

CONCLUSIONS
In patient-derived gliosarcoma cells, TTFields and VPA individually elicited modest cytotoxicity. However, TTFields plus VPA combination treatment reduced proliferation more than TTFields alone, though VPA treatment alone did not induce an anti-proliferative effect.
First in Man Pilot Feasibility Study in Extracranial Carotid Robotic-Assisted Endovascular Intervention
Authors: Desai Virendra R , Lee Jonathan J , Sample Trevis , Kleiman Neal S , Lumsden Alan , Britz Gavin W 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Robotic-assistance in endovascular intervention represents a nascent yet promising innovation.

OBJECTIVE
To present the first human experience utilizing robotic-assisted angiography in the extracranial carotid circulation.

METHODS
Between March 2019 and September 2019, patients with extracranial carotid circulation pathology presenting to Houston Methodist Hospital were enrolled.

RESULTS
A total of 6 patients met inclusion criteria: 5 underwent diagnostic angiography only with robotic-assisted catheter manipulation, while 1 underwent both diagnostic followed by delayed therapeutic intervention. Mean age was 51 +/− 17.5 yr. Mean anesthesia time was 158.7 +/− 37.9 min, mean fluoroscopic time was 22.0 +/− 7.3 min, and mean radiation dose was 815.0 +/− 517.0 mGy. There were no technical complications and no clinical deficits postprocedure. None of the cases required conversion to manual neurovascular intervention (NVI).

CONCLUSION
Incorporating robotic technology in NVI can enhance procedural technique and diminish occupational hazards. Its application in the coronary and peripheral vascular settings has established safety and efficacy, but in the neurovascular setting, this has yet to be demonstrated. This study presents the first in human feasibility experience of robotic-assisted NVI in the extracranial carotid circulation.
MGMT-Positive vs MGMT-Negative Patients With Glioblastoma: Identification of Prognostic Factors and Resection Threshold
Authors: Katsigiannis Sotirios , Grau Stefan , Krischek Boris , Er Kadir , Pintea Bogdan , Goldbrunner Roland , Stavrinou Pantelis 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The importance of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status as a predictive factor for the response to chemotherapy with temozolomide is well established. Its significance though at stratifying glioblastoma (GBM) patients in regard to their prognostic factors and the impact of surgical approach on them has not been identified.

OBJECTIVE
To reveal possible differences in the prognostic factors and the impact of surgery between GBM patients stratified according to their MGMT status.

METHODS
The authors retrospectively analyzed 186 patients with a newly diagnosed primary supratentorial GBM treated with surgical resection followed by standard radiation and chemotherapy. A prospective quantitative volumetric analysis of tumor characteristics identified on magnetic resonance imaging was performed.

RESULTS
For the 109 patients with unmethylated MGMT promoter, extent of resection (EOR) represented independent predictor of survival, whereas residual tumor volume (RTV), Karnofsky Performance Score, and age were found to be independent prognostic factors of survival for the 77 patients with methylated MGMT promoter. For the group of patients with unmethylated and the group with methylated MGMT promoter, an EOR threshold of 70% and 98% and an RTV threshold of 1.5 and 1 cm3 were identified, respectively.

CONCLUSION
The selection of patients according to the MGMT promoter methylation status resulted in different prognostic factors and different resection thresholds for each patient population. A survival benefit seen from 70% EOR threshold in patients with MGMT unmethylated GBM supports the doctrine of maximum safe resection rather than the “all-or-nothing” approach.