The correlation between thyrotropin and dyslipidemia in a population-based study.

Abstract: This study investigated the relationship between serum thyrotrophin levels and dyslipidemia in subclinical hypothyroid and euthyroid subjects. A total of 110 subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism and 1,240 euthyroid subjects enrolled in this study. Patients with subclinical hypothyroidism had significantly lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels than those who were euthyroid. The lipid profiles were each categorized and mean thyrotrophin levels were higher in subjects in the dyslipidemia subclasses than subjects in the normal subclasses. Thyrotrophin was positively associated with serum triglyceride and negatively associated with serum HDL-C in women. Thyrotrophin was also positively associated with total cholesterol (TC) in the overweight population along with TC and LDL-C in overweight women. In the euthyroid population, thyrotrophin was positively associated with TC in the overweight population. In conclusion, serum thyrotrophin was correlated with dyslipidemia in subclinical hypothyroid and euthyroid subjects; the correlation was independent of insulin sensitivity.

Lu|Li|L| Wang|Beibei|B| Shan|Zhongyan|Z| Jiang|Fengwei|F| Teng|Xiaochun|X| Chen|Yanyan|Y| Lai|Yaxin|Y| Wang|Jiani|J| Xue|Haibo|H| Wang|Sen|S| Li|Chenyan|C| Liu|He|H| Li|Ningna|N| Yu|Jiashu|J| Shi|Liangfeng|L| Hou|Xin|X| Xing|Qian|Q| Bai|Xue|X| Teng|Weiping|W|

Thyrotropin
Triglyceride
Total Cholesterol
Cholesterol, HDL
Cholesterol, LDL


Performance evaluation of air pollution control device at traffic intersections in Delhi.

Abstract:
Urban air pollution and exposure-related health impacts are being noticed and discussed very intensely in India. On the other hand, source-specific control is the primary focus for policymakers; however, diverse and complex sources make it difficult to immediately see the action and consequent impacts on better air quality. Many cities across the world have witnessed high air pollution levels at traffic junctions, more so in all Indian cities. Site-specific air pollution reduction can be a promising solution for managing the pollution level at highly polluted locations. CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, India, has designed and developed Wind Augmentation and purifYing Unit (WAYU) to remove particulate and gaseous pollutants from urban hot spots such as traffic locations. In the present study, the authors attempted to evaluate the performance of two different designs of WAYU for the removal of particulate matters from polluted air at different traffic locations in Delhi City, the national capital territory of India. The performance analyses show that the current design of WAYU removes PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations in the range of 34-49% and 19-25%, respectively from the inlet air. The total PM collected from all WAYU devices was 34.19 kg from 120,557 operating hours' at all the sampling sites. The PM removal rate depends on the size-segregated particulate matter pollution load in the ambient air.

Supplementary Information
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13762-021-03641-3.

Gulia|S|S|0000-0002-1211-3032
Kaur|S|S|
Mendiratta|S|S|
Tiwari|R|R|
Goyal|S K|SK|
Gargava|P|P|
Kumar|R|R|

Particulate matter
Air purification device
Efficiency
Physical filtration
Size distribution
Vehicular pollution


Restorative Retelling for Violent Death: An Investigation of Treatment Effectiveness, Influencing Factors, and Durability.

Abstract: Many adults who have lost a loved one to violent death suffer from depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and complicated grief. Limited research has examined structured group interventions for violent death survivors or characteristics (e.g., types of loss, quality and type of relationship with the deceased) that may impact response to intervention. This records review of 91 survivors examined the effectiveness of Restorative Retelling (RR), a brief structured group intervention for violent loss survivors. Participants completed depression, PTSD, and complicated grief measures at pre- and post-treatment and at 1-year follow-up for a subset of participants. Findings revealed statistically significant changes in depression and PTSD symptoms (Cohen's d values ranged from .33-.46) at post-treatment, with significant changes observed across all domains at 1-year follow-up. Treatment response appeared to be influenced by high distress, gender, and relationship with the deceased. Results imply a large-scale randomized control trial to determine treatment efficacy.

Rheingold|Alyssa A|AA|
Baddeley|Jenna L|JL|
Williams|Joah L|JL|
Brown|Clara|C|
Wallace|Megan M|MM|
Correa|Fanny|F|
Rynearson|Edward K|EK|

restorative retelling
violent death
depression
PTSD
bereavement intervention


Macrophages promote endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via MT1-MMP/TGFβ1 after myocardial infarction.

Abstract: Macrophages (Mφs) produce factors that participate in cardiac repair and remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI); however, how these factors crosstalk with other cell types mediating repair is not fully understood. Here we demonstrated that cardiac Mφs increased the expression of Mmp14 (MT1-MMP) 7 days post-MI. We selectively inactivated the Mmp14 gene in Mφs using a genetic strategy (Mmp14f/f:Lyz2-Cre). This conditional KO (MAC-Mmp14 KO) resulted in attenuated post-MI cardiac dysfunction, reduced fibrosis, and preserved cardiac capillary network. Mechanistically, we showed that MT1-MMP activates latent TGFβ1 in Mφs, leading to paracrine SMAD2-mediated signaling in endothelial cells (ECs) and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Post-MI MAC-Mmp14 KO hearts contained fewer cells undergoing EndMT than their wild-type counterparts, and Mmp14-deficient Mφs showed a reduced ability to induce EndMT in co-cultures with ECs. Our results indicate the contribution of EndMT to cardiac fibrosis and adverse remodeling post-MI and identify Mφ MT1-MMP as a key regulator of this process.

D053773:Transforming Growth Factor beta1

macrophages
MT1-MMP
myocardial infarction
endothelial cells
TGFB1
immunology
inflammation
mouse
regenerative medicine
stem cells
tissue remodeling


Cerebral Glutamate and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Levels in Individuals at Ultra-high Risk for Psychosis and the Association With Clinical Symptoms and Cognition.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Studies examining glutamate or gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in ultra-high risk for psychosis (UHR) and the association with pathophysiology and cognition have shown conflicting results. We aimed to determine whether perturbed glutamate and GABA levels in the anterior cingulate cortex and glutamate levels in the left thalamus were present in UHR individuals and to investigate associations between metabolite levels and clinical symptoms and cognition.

METHODS
We included 122 UHR individuals and 60 healthy control subjects. Participants underwent proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy to estimate glutamate and GABA levels and undertook clinical and cognitive assessments.

RESULTS
We found no differences in metabolite levels between UHR individuals and healthy control subjects. In UHR individuals, we found negative correlations in the anterior cingulate cortex between the composite of glutamate and glutamine (Glx) and the Comprehensive Assessment of At-Risk Mental States composite score (p = .04) and between GABA and alogia (p = .01); positive associations in the anterior cingulate cortex between glutamate (p = .01) and Glx (p = .01) and spatial working memory and between glutamate (p = .04), Glx (p = .04), and GABA (p = .02) and set-shifting; and a positive association in the thalamus between glutamate and attention (p = .04). No associations between metabolites and clinical or cognitive scores were found in the healthy control subjects.

CONCLUSIONS
An association between glutamate and GABA levels and clinical symptoms and cognition found only in UHR individuals suggests a loss of the normal relationship between metabolite levels and cognitive function. Longitudinal studies with investigation of clinical and cognitive outcome and the association with baseline levels of glutamate and GABA could illuminate whether glutamatergic and GABAergic dysfunction predicts clinical outcome.

Wenneberg|Christina|C|
Nordentoft|Merete|M|
Rostrup|Egill|E|
Glenthøj|Louise Birkedal|LB|
Bojesen|Kirsten Borup|KB|
Fagerlund|Birgitte|B|
Hjorthøj|Carsten|C|
Krakauer|Kristine|K|
Kristensen|Tina Dam|TD|
Schwartz|Camilla|C|
Edden|Richard A E|RAE|
Broberg|Brian Villumsen|BV|
Glenthøj|Birte Yding|BY|

Glutamate
Ultra-high risk
GABA
UHR
Spectroscopy
(1)H-MRS


Echocardiography and Cardio-Oncology.

Abstract: Owing to the ongoing increase in cancer survivors because of the remarkable and continuous progress in cancer management, a paradigm shift is occurring from cancer as a 'terminal illness' to a 'chronic condition' with cardiovascular risks. This also affects cardiology practice with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rates among patients with cancer due to direct and/or indirect side effects of anticancer treatment. Thus, cardio-oncology has emerged as a new cardiology subspecialty, which focusses on risk stratification, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of cardiovascular disease related to cancer treatment. This review summarises echocardiographic evaluation of cardiac dysfunction and heart failure as they are the most concerning cardiovascular complications of cancer therapy and worsen its morbidity and mortality. This review covers cardiac function assessment and proposed cut-off values before/during/after cancer chemotherapy. The goal of this review is to aid clinicians to manage the patients with cancer sufficiently by connecting the existing knowledge in clinical cardiology with novel information from current advances in cardio-oncology.

Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction


Dynamic Complex Emulsions as Amplifiers for On-Chip Photonic Cavity-Enhanced Resonators.

Abstract: Despite the recent emergence of microcavity resonators as label-free biological and chemical sensors, practical applications still require simple and robust methods to impart chemical selectivity and reduce the cost of fabrication. We introduce the use of hydrocarbon-in-fluorocarbon-in-water (HC/FC/W) double emulsions as a liquid top cladding that expands the versatility of optical resonators as chemical sensors. The all-liquid complex emulsions are tunable droplets that undergo dynamic and reversible morphological transformations in response to a change in the chemical environment (e.g., exposure to targeted analytes). This chemical-morphological coupling drastically modifies the effective refractive index, allowing the complex emulsions to act as a chemical transducer and signal amplifier. We detect this large change in the refractive index by tracking the shift of the enveloped resonant spectrum of a silicon nitride (Si3N4) racetrack resonator-based sensor, which correlates well with a change in the morphology of the complex droplets. This combination of soft materials (dynamic complex emulsions) and hard materials (on-chip resonators) provides a unique platform for liquid-phase, real-time, and continuous detection of chemicals and biomolecules for miniaturized and remote, environmental, medical, and wearable sensing applications.

Savagatrup|Suchol|S|0000-0002-8286-8836
Ma|Danhao|D|
Zhong|Huikai|H|
Harvey|Kent S|KS|
Kimerling|Lionel C|LC|
Agarwal|Anuradha M|AM|
Swager|Timothy M|TM|0000-0002-3577-0510

complex emulsions
chemical sensor
SiN photonics
photonic sensor
ring resonator cavity


Pregnant rats treated with a high-fat/prooxidant Western diet with ANG II and TNF-α are resistant to elevations in blood pressure and renal oxidative stress.

Abstract: Oxidative stress and inflammation are risk factors for hypertension in pregnancy. Here, we examined the 24-h mean arterial pressure (MAP) via telemetry and the nitric oxide (NO) and redox systems in the kidney cortex, medulla, and aorta of virgin and pregnant rats treated with a high-fat/prooxidant Western diet (HFD), ANG II, and TNF-α. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were given a normal diet (ND) or a HFD for 8 wk before mating. Day 6 of pregnancy and age-matched virgins were implanted with minipumps infusing saline or ANG II (150 ng·kg(-1)·min(-1)) + TNF-α (75 ng/day) for 14 days. Groups consisted of Virgin + ND + Saline (V+ND) (n = 7), Virgin + HFD +ANG II and TNF-α (V+HFD) (n = 7), Pregnant + ND + Saline (P+ND) (n = 6), and Pregnant + HFD + ANG II and TNF-α (P+HFD) (n = 8). After day 6 of minipump implantation, V+HFD rats displayed an increase in MAP on days 7, 8, and 10-15 vs. V+ND rats. P+HFD rats, after day 6 of minipump implantation, showed an increase in MAP only on day 7 vs. P+ND rats. P+HFD rats had a normal fall in 24-h MAP, hematocrit, plasma protein concentration, and osmolality at late pregnancy. No change in kidney cortex, medulla, or aortic oxidative stress in P+HFD rats. P+HFD rats displayed a decrease in nNOSβ abundance, but no change in kidney cortex NOx content vs. P+ND rats. Pregnant rats subjected to a chronic HFD and prooxidant and proinflammatory insults have a blunted increase in 24-h MAP and renal oxidative stress. Our data suggest renal NO bioavailability is not altered in pregnant rats treated with a HFD, ANG II, and TNF-α.

Cunningham|Mark W|MW|
West|Crystal A|CA|
Wen|Xuerong|X|
Deng|Aihua|A|
Baylis|Chris|C|

Western diet
ANG II
oxidative stress
nitric oxide
tumor necrosis factor-α


Short-term response to phenytoin sodium in Andersen-Tawil syndrome-1 with a cardiac-dominant phenotype.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Andersen-Tawil syndrome (ATS) is a rare familial periodic paralysis that typically also affects the heart and skeletal system. Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are profound and difficult to control, but minimally symptomatic. In this report, we describe an atypical phenotype of ATS in two related families. We also report our experience with phenytoin sodium for the control of resistant VAs in these patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS
Between 2014 and 2018, seven siblings were diagnosed with ATS on the basis of cardiac arrhythmias and genetic evaluation. Heterozygous mutation with c.431G > C (p.G144A) in exon 2 of KCNJ2 gene was observed in all patients. Characteristic cardiac manifestations were noted in all patients but periodic paralysis or objective neurological involvement was distinctly absent. Phenytoin was considered for control of symptomatic VA in three patients. Intake of oral phenytoin (5 mg/kg/day) for 1 month completely suppressed VA (<1% in 24-h Holter monitoring) in two patients, and significantly in the third (8% per 24 h) patient. Phenytoin was well-tolerated in all three patients.

CONCLUSIONS
We describe a cardiac-predominant phenotype in ATS. ATS should be suspected in patients with typical cardiac manifestations even in the absence of periodic paralysis. Our initial experience with short-term use of phenytoin for control of resistant VAs is encouraging.

Rai|Maneesh K|MK|0000-0002-8187-8231
Pai|Rohith|R|
Prabhu|Mukund A|MA|0000-0001-9908-2891
Pasha|Syed Waleem|SW|
Kedambadi|Rakshith C|RC|
Kamath|Padmanabh|P|
Augustine|Alfred J|AJ|
Bhavani|Gangham SriLakshmi|GS|
Girisha|Katta M|KM|

phenytoin sodium
ATS
bidirectional VT
ectopics
ventricular tachycardia


The SAATELLITE and EVADE Clinical Studies Within the COMBACTE Consortium: A Public-Private Collaborative Effort in Designing and Performing Clinical Trials for Novel Antibacterial Drugs to Prevent Nosocomial Pneumonia.

Abstract: The Innovative Medicines Initiative-funded COMBACTE consortium fosters academic-industry partnership in pioneering studies to combat serious bacterial infections. We describe how this partnership is advancing the development of 2 monoclonal antibodies, MEDI4893 and MEDI3902, for the prevention of nosocomial pneumonia.

François|Bruno|B|
Chastre|Jean|J|
Eggiman|Philippe|P|
Laterre|Pierre-François|PF|
Torres|Antoni|A|
Sanchez|Miguel|M|
Esser|Mark T|MT|
Bishop|Brian|B|
Bonten|Marc|M|
Goosens|Herman|H|
Jafri|Hasan S|HS|

nosocomial pneumonia
monoclonal antibody
ICU
ventilator-associated pneumonia


AcERF1B and AcERF073 Positively Regulate Indole-3-acetic Acid Degradation by Activating AcGH3.1 Transcription during Postharvest Kiwifruit Ripening.

Abstract: Ethylene can accelerate the postharvest ripening process of kiwifruit, while indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) delays it. However, the molecular mechanism by which ethylene regulates IAA degradation is unclear. Here, we found that ethephon promotes the degradation of free IAA in kiwifruit. Furthermore, ethylene can promote the expression of AcGH3.1 and enhance its promoter activity. Two ethylene response factors (ERFs), AcERF1B and AcERF073, were obtained using an AcGH3.1 promoter as bait for a yeast one-hybrid screening library. Both AcERF1B and AcERF073 bind to the AcGH3.1 promoter to activate it. Also, AcERF1B/073 enhanced AcGH3.1 expression, decreased the free IAA content, and increased the IAA-Asp content in kiwifruit. In addition, we found that the AcERF1B and AcERF073 proteins directly interact, and this interaction enhanced their binding to the AcGH3.1 promoter. In summary, our results suggest that AcERF1B and AcERF073 positively regulate IAA degradation by activating AcGH3.1 transcription, which accelerated postharvest kiwifruit ripening.

D018506:Gene Expression Regulation, Plant

AcERF1B
AcERF073
kiwifruit
postharvest ripening
IAA degradation
AcGH3.1 expression


The effect of perirenal puncture and drainage with urokinase treatment of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection: Two cases' report.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to discuss the clinical significance of perirenal puncture and drainage with urokinase treatment of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection following surgery for upper urinary tract calculi. Two cases of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection following surgery for upper urinary tract calculi in 2017, and later received perirenal puncture and drainage of perirenal hematoma with urokinase treatment were selected. Puncture and drainage of perirenal hematoma with urokinase treatment were performed without the occurrence of severe complications such as sepsis, septic shock, or secondary bleeding. Both the renal morphology and functions were well restored. Puncture and drainage with urokinase treatment had definite efficacy in the treatment of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection.

urokinase
perirenal hematoma
infection
urinary tract calculi
case description
perirenal hematoma puncture drainage


Cognitive strengths in first episode psychosis: a thematic analysis of clinicians' perspectives.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Cognitive deficits are associated with poor functional outcomes in individuals recovering from a first episode of psychosis (FEP). Existing treatments that target cognitive deficits in FEP may enhance cognitive function, but improvements to real-world functioning are less consistent. Furthermore, these treatments may not adequately address the personal recovery goals of young people attending FEP services. A novel cognitive strengths-based approach may overcome these shortcomings.

METHODS
This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to explore clinicians' (N = 12) perspectives toward the potential development of a cognitive strengths-based assessment or treatment in FEP. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS
Five higher-order themes emerged: (1) pro-strengths attitude despite unfamiliarity and minimal use, (2) default to a cognitive deficit lens, (3) potential benefits of a cognitive strengths approach, (4) potential risks and barriers, and (5) considerations for successful implementation. While clinicians acknowledged their current deficit approach, they supported implementing a cognitive strengths assessment or treatment and highlighted their potential benefits for the personal recovery needs of young people with FEP.

CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest that a deficit-focused approach to cognitive function amongst clinicians may be common practice in FEP services. Nevertheless, a cognitive strengths approach was viewed favourably by clinicians and may represent a novel method of supporting personal recovery. Thus, the design and implementation of a cognitive strengths approach may be worthwhile. Future exploration of other stakeholder perspectives, such as young people with FEP, is essential.

Steele|Peter|P|
Cheng|Nicholas|N|
Phillips|Lisa J|LJ|
Bryce|Shayden|S|
Alvarez-Jimenez|Mario|M|
Allott|Kelly|K|

Cognition
Psychosis
Functional outcomes
Recovery
Qualitative
Youth


Expression analysis of two SOMATIC EMBRYOGENESIS RECEPTOR KINASE (SERK) genes during in vitro morphogenesis in Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata L.).

Abstract: Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is one of the most important steps during regeneration, but the molecular mechanism of SE remains unclear for Cedrela odorata. SOMATIC EMBRYOGENESIS RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE (SERK) is one of the genes associated with induction of SE and is considered a marker of cells competent to form somatic embryos. Our objective was to clone and characterize the SERK1 and SERK2 gene homologues and analyze their expression patterns during in vitro morphogenesis in Spanish cedar. CoSERK1 and CoSERK2 were isolated from cedar, both share domains characteristic of the SERK family, including leucine-rich repeats, a proline-rich motif, a transmembrane domain, and kinase domains. Embryogenic cultures were established from callus cultures induced on medium supplemented with 1 mg/L dicamba. Histological sections were studied to determine the embryogenic nature of the samples. The CoSERK1 gene was highly expressed during the acquisition of embryogenic competence. The expression level of SERK1 was lower in non-embryogenic tissues and organs than in embryogenic calli, and it was higher in 3-week old embryogenic calli. CoSERK2 gene was highly expressed in leaves and shoots but no difference in expression was obtained between somatic and embryogenic tissues. These results suggest that the expression of CoSERK1 is associated with somatic embryogenesis induction and could be used as a potential marker to monitor the transition from competent to embryogenic cells and tissues in Spanish cedar.

Somatic embryogenesis
Kinase
18S
CoSERK
Gene expression
LRR


Strengthening mass transfer with the Tesla-valve baffles to increase the biomass yield of Arthrospira platensis in a column photobioreactor.

Abstract: In this study, the Tesla-valve (TV) baffles were used to optimize the flow field in a column photobioreactor (PBR) in order to promote mass transfer of CO2 gas in the solution. The TV baffles were composed of many tilted plates with central holes and curved arcs facing downwards, installed along inner rising section of the column PBR. Many clockwise and anti-clockwise vortices were generated during the rising flow while passing through proposed TV baffles. An optimum TV baffle structure (30° plate angle, 8 cm arc width) decreased mixing time by 36.4% and increased the mass transfer coefficient by 50%. The TV baffles supported the movement of the A.platensis cells between light and dark regions to enhance their photochemical efficiency ϕPSII by 24.6% and Fv/Fm by 12.7%. Therefore, the biomass yield increased by 28.1% and exhibited an increased helix pitch and trichome length in comparison with traditional column PBR without baffles.

Kubar|Ameer Ali|AA|
Cheng|Jun|J|
Kumar|Santosh|S|
Liu|Shuzheng|S|
Chen|Shutong|S|
Tian|Jianglei|J|

Mass transfer
Mixing time
Photochemical efficiency
Biomass dry weight
Tesla-valve photobioreactor (TV-PBR)


The Three Teachings of East Asia (TTEA) Inventory: Developing and Validating a Measure of the Interrelated Ideologies of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.

Abstract: Objectives: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism have influenced societies and shaped cultures as they have spread across the span of history and ultimately across the world. However, to date, the interrelated nature of their impacts has yet to be examined largely due to the lack of a measure that comprehensively assesses their various tenets. Building on a conceptual integration of foundational texts on each ideology as well as on recent measure development work (much of which is unpublished), the current studies developed a comprehensive measure of these ideologies (the Three Teachings of East Asia Inventory; TTEA) and validated it across four languages. Methods: A combined sample of 2,091 online respondents (Study 1: 322 Chinese respondents, Study 2: 400 Japanese respondents, Study 3: 362 Taiwanese respondents, Study 4: 688 White Americans and 319 Asian Americans) completed 25-35 min online survey in their preferred language: English, Traditional Mandarin, Simplified Mandarin, or Japanese. Results: Exploratory Factor Analyses within a 122-item pool identified 18 stable dimensions across all samples. Measurement invariance analyses identified the final 61-items of the TTEA inventory (demonstrating reasonable invariance across all languages), confirming 18 individual tenet subscales that organize into four higher-order composites: Buddhism, Taoism, Restrictive Confucianism, and Empowering Confucianism. A shorter 36-item version of the TTEA inventory was also developed. The TTEA scales demonstrated (1) acceptable internal consistency, (2) discriminant validity, and (3) incremental predictive validity for current life satisfaction and vitality. Conclusions: The TTEA inventory offers one of the first comprehensive, multilingual measures that will allow cross-cultural researchers to examine the influence of three related Eastern ideologies on societies across the world.

Lin|Yi-Ying|YY|
Swanson|Dena Phillips|DP|
Rogge|Ronald David|RD|

Confucianism
Buddhism
Taoism
East Asians
mindfulness
psychological distress
self-cultivation
well-being


Psychological status of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis during coronavirus disease-2019 outbreak.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global health emergency. The aim was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological status of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

METHODS
Data on the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of 95 RRMS patients were collected. We used a self-designed questionnaire, the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 Instrument (MSQOL-54), Hamilton scales for the assessment of anxiety (HAM-A), and depression (HAM-D). Patients who were tested one year ago were reassessed using the same questionnaires during the COVID-19 outbreak. Group of 99 healthy individuals (HC) were tested, using the same questionnaires.

RESULTS
The main concerns in RRMS patients were that someone that they know could be infected with COVID-19 (78.5%), or could die due to the infection (33.8%), and the lack of specific treatment options (25.8%). The main concerns about the RRMS status were that their disease would be worse if they get infected with COVID-19 (36.4%), that they would experience some difficulties in drug availability (43.6%), that they could not go to the hospital as usual (72.4%). Results on all questionnaires were worse in RRMS patients than in HC (p<0.01). We noticed a statistically significant difference between the results obtained a year ago and the results from April 2020 in HAM-A (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS
There is an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological status of RRMS patients. Healthcare organizations need to provide professional therapeutic advice and psychosocial support for this population of patients during the pandemic.

Stojanov|Aleksandar|A| Malobabic|Marina|M| Milosevic|Vuk|V| Stojanov|Jelena|J| Vojinovic|Slobodan|S| Stanojevic|Goran|G| Stevic|Milos|M|

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
COVID-19
Anxiety
Depression
Quality of life


Role of Mitofusins and Mitophagy in Life or Death Decisions.

Abstract: Mitochondria entail an incredible dynamism in their morphology, impacting death signaling and selective elimination of the damaged organelles. In turn, by recycling the superfluous or malfunctioning mitochondria, mostly prevalent during aging, mitophagy contributes to maintain a healthy mitochondrial network. Mitofusins locate at the outer mitochondrial membrane and control the plastic behavior of mitochondria, by mediating fusion events. Besides deciding on mitochondrial interconnectivity, mitofusin 2 regulates physical contacts between mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum, but also serves as a decisive docking platform for mitophagy and apoptosis effectors. Thus, mitofusins integrate multiple bidirectional inputs from and into mitochondria and ensure proper energetic and metabolic cellular performance. Here, we review the role of mitofusins and mitophagy at the cross-road between life and apoptotic death decisions. Furthermore, we highlight the impact of this interplay on disease, focusing on how mitofusin 2 and mitophagy affect non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

mitofusins mitophagy mitochondria apoptosis MFN2 NAFLD


Spin-singlet Quantum Ground State in Zigzag Spin Ladder Cu(CF3 COO)2.

Abstract: The copper salt of trifluoroacetic acid, Cu(CF3 COO)2 , offers a new platform to investigate the quantum ground states of low-dimensional magnets. In practice, it realizes the ideal case of a solid hosting essentially isolated magnetic monolayers. These entities are constituted by well-separated two-leg half-integer spin ladders organized in a zigzag fashion. The ladders are comprised of dimeric units of edge-sharing tetragonal pyramids coupled through carbon ions. The spin-gap state in this compound was revealed by static and dynamic magnetic measurements. No indications of long range magnetic ordering down to liquid helium temperature were obtained in specific heat measurements. First principles calculations allow estimation of the main exchange interaction parameters, J⊥ =176 K and J∥ =12 K, consistent with the weakly interacting dimers model.

quantum ground state
spin ladder
ab initio calculations
electron spin resonance
magnetic properties


Psychological experiences of pregnant students at the University of Venda, Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Abstract: There is an increase in pregnancy rates among university students, world-wide. Unplanned pregnancy is a threat to the psychological well-being of students, as it could lead to mental health problems. The purpose of the study was to explore the psychological experiences of pregnant students at the University of Venda, in Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative approach, using a phenomenological design, was used for this study and convenience sampling was used to select 12 pregnant students from the target population. Data were collected through a semi -structured interview and an interpretative phenomenological approach was used to analyse the data. The study findings showed that pregnant students encountered various negative experiences, such as maternal stress, inability to cope, poor concentration and anxiety. From the study, it is recommended that the institution should offer adequate services to pregnant students, such as providing antenatal care services at the university clinic to alleviate stress, anxiety and the dropout rate among pregnant students.

Thabethe|Lindokuhle R|LR|
Mulondo|Seani A|SA|
Tugli|Augustine K|AK|

Pregnancy
Maternal stress
Female students
Psychological support


Carotenoid-induced non-photochemical quenching in the cyanobacterial chlorophyll synthase-HliC/D complex.

Abstract: Chl synthase (ChlG) is an important enzyme of the Chl biosynthetic pathway catalyzing attachment of phytol/geranylgeraniol tail to the chlorophyllide molecule. Here we have investigated the Flag-tagged ChlG (f.ChlG) in a complex with two different high-light inducible proteins (Hlips) HliD and HliC. The f.ChlG-Hlips complex binds a Chl a and three different carotenoids, β-carotene, zeaxanthin and myxoxanthophyll. Application of ultrafast time-resolved absorption spectroscopy performed at room and cryogenic temperatures revealed excited-state dynamics of complex-bound pigments. After excitation of Chl a in the complex, excited Chl a is efficiently quenched by a nearby carotenoid molecule via energy transfer from the Chl a Qy state to the carotenoid S1 state. The kinetic analysis of the spectroscopic data revealed that quenching occurs with a time constant of ~2ps and its efficiency is temperature independent. Even though due to its long conjugation myxoxanthophyll appears to be energetically best suited for role of Chl a quencher, based on comparative analysis and spectroscopic data we propose that β-carotene bound to Hlips acts as the quencher rather than myxoxanthophyll and zeaxanthin, which are bound at the f.ChlG and Hlips interface. The S1 state lifetime of the quencher has been determined to be 13ps at room temperature and 21ps at 77K. These results demonstrate that Hlips act as a conserved functional module that prevents photodamage of protein complexes during photosystem assembly or Chl biosynthesis.

Niedzwiedzki|Dariusz M|DM|
Tronina|Tomasz|T|
Liu|Haijun|H|
Staleva|Hristina|H|
Komenda|Josef|J|
Sobotka|Roman|R|
Blankenship|Robert E|RE|
Polívka|Tomáš|T|

Non-photochemical quenching
High-light inducible proteins
Carotenoids
Energy transfer
Cyanobacteria
Femtosecond spectroscopy


Hazard Ranking Method for Populations Exposed to Arsenic in Private Water Supplies: Relation to Bedrock Geology.

Abstract: Approximately one million people in the UK are served by private water supplies (PWS) where main municipal water supply system connection is not practical or where PWS is the preferred option. Chronic exposure to contaminants in PWS may have adverse effects on health. South West England is an area with elevated arsenic concentrations in groundwater and over 9000 domestic dwellings here are supplied by PWS. There remains uncertainty as to the extent of the population exposed to arsenic (As), and the factors predicting such exposure. We describe a hazard assessment model based on simplified geology with the potential to predict exposure to As in PWS. Households with a recorded PWS in Cornwall were recruited to take part in a water sampling programme from 2011 to 2013. Bedrock geologies were aggregated and classified into nine Simplified Bedrock Geological Categories (SBGC), plus a cross-cutting "mineralized" area. PWS were sampled by random selection within SBGCs and some 508 households volunteered for the study. Transformations of the data were explored to estimate the distribution of As concentrations for PWS by SBGC. Using the distribution per SBGC, we predict the proportion of dwellings that would be affected by high concentrations and rank the geologies according to hazard. Within most SBGCs, As concentrations were found to have log-normal distributions. Across these areas, the proportion of dwellings predicted to have drinking water over the prescribed concentration value (PCV) for As ranged from 0% to 20%. From these results, a pilot predictive model was developed calculating the proportion of PWS above the PCV for As and hazard ranking supports local decision making and prioritization. With further development and testing, this can help local authorities predict the number of dwellings that might fail the PCV for As, based on bedrock geology. The model presented here for Cornwall could be applied in areas with similar geologies. Application of the method requires independent validation and further groundwater-derived PWS sampling on other geological formations.

Crabbe|Helen|H|0000-0002-8548-5785
Fletcher|Tony|T|0000-0003-3385-200X
Close|Rebecca|R|
Watts|Michael J|MJ|
Ander|E Louise|EL|
Smedley|Pauline L|PL|
Verlander|Neville Q|NQ|
Gregory|Martin|M|
Middleton|Daniel R S|DRS|
Polya|David A|DA|
Studden|Mike|M|
Leonardi|Giovanni S|GS|

arsenic
private water supplies
geology
environmental public health tracking
hazard and exposure assessment
public health risk


Predictive Value of Excellent Uncorrected Visual Acuity Post-Operative Day One After Cataract Surgery.

Abstract:
Purpose
Patients and physicians are often pleased when uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) on post-operative day 1 (POD1) after cataract surgery is 20/20. Unfortunately, this UCVA does not always last. This article aims to investigate the relationship between excellent uncorrected visual acuity on post-operative day 1 and final post-operative UCVA after uncomplicated cataract surgery.

Patients and Methods
The medical records of patients who had undergone uncomplicated cataract surgery between 2012 and 2017 were assessed. UCVA on POD1 and final UCVA were obtained for patients who had a final best-corrected visual acuity of 20/20 or better.

Results
Of 309 patients with UCVA of 20/20 on POD 1, 62.4% maintained 20/20 and 87.4% maintained 20/25 or better as their final uncorrected visual outcome. Of 204 patients with UCVA of 20/25 on POD 1, 44.1% achieved 20/20 and 69.6% maintained 20/25 or better as their final uncorrected visual outcome. Patients with 20/20 UCVA on POD1 were more likely to have a better final UCVA compared with those who were 20/25 on POD1. Of the 531 patients with UCVA of 20/25 or better on POD1, 20% had final UCVA worse than 20/25 with 4% losing more than 2 lines for their final UCVA.

Conclusion
The majority of patients with 20/20 UCVA on POD1 after cataract surgery maintained excellent UCVA as their final visual outcome. However, a significant percentage of these patients experienced a decrease in UCVA over the course of the postoperative period.

Young|Jonathan W|JW|
Law|Nathan W|NW|0000-0003-1275-032X
Tu|Daniel C|DC|

visual acuity
cataract
phacoemulsification
pseudophakia
treatment outcome


Influence of exposure to nicotine during pregnancy on the learning and memory for adult offspring.

Abstract: We aimed to investigate the indirect influence of exposure to nicotine during pregnancy on the learning and memory of adult offspring mice. Thirty pregnant C57 mice were randomly divided into either the control group (CON) or the nicotine group (NIC), with 15 mice each. The CON group was given access to drug-free water, and the NIC group was given 60 g/ml nicotine in drinking water. Sixteen adult mice were randomly selected from the 8 litters for Morris water maze test. The level of products of related factors in the hippocampus of mice in the NIC and the CON groups were compared using the 1H-MRS method. The escape latency time that the adult offspring mice in the NIC group took in the place navigation test was significantly longer than that of the CON group. In addition, the NIC group took longer time to arrive at the plate than the CON group (P<0.05). mRNA and protein levels of NR1 in the hippocampus of the NIC group was significantly higher than that in the CON group (P<0.05).α7nACh mRNA in the hippocampus of the NIC group was not significantly different from that of the CON group (P>0.05), while the expression levels of α7nACh protein in the hippocampus of the NIC group was significantly lower than that in the CON group (P<0.05). Detection of protein level of muscarinic receptors in the hippocampus of adult offspring mice in the NIC group showed that when compared to the CON group, the expression levels of M1, M3, M5 of the NIC group was not significantly different from that of the CON group (P>0.05). Therefore, exposure to nicotine during pregnancy can cause damage to the learning ability of adult offspring mice but do not significantly influence their working memory.

Ma|Xing-Dui|XD| Li|Bei-Ping|BP| Han|Yuan|Y| Tian|Yun-Ping|YP| Wu|Liang|L| Wang|Hang|H|

nicotine
learning and memory
Morris water maze
1H-MRS


Melatonin treatment increases the transcription of cell proliferation-related genes prior to inducing cell death in C6 glioma cells in vitro.

Abstract: A number of studies have suggested that melatonin possesses anticancer properties. However, conflicting data exists with regard to the role of melatonin in the treatment of cancer. In the present study, the effects of melatonin on the transcriptional regulation of three genes associated with cell proliferation (Nestin, Bmi-1 and Sox2), and on C6 glioma cell survival and viability, were investigated in vitro to evaluate the use of melatonin in cancer therapy. Melatonin was shown to increase the mRNA levels of Nestin, Bmi-1 and Sox2 in a similar pattern, with the highest mRNA levels noted at a concentration of 3 mM. At higher concentrations of melatonin (5 mM), the mRNA levels of Nestin, Bmi-1 and Sox2 were reduced from their peak levels, and were correlated with changes observed in immunofluorescence morphology studies, cell viability and survival assays. Immunofluorescence studies of Nestin-stained cells demonstrated that treatment with a higher concentration of melatonin (3 and 5 mM) led to the Nestin filaments condensing and rearranging around the cell nuclei, and an alteration in the cell morphology. C6 cell viability was also significantly decreased at 3 mM melatonin, and cell death was observed at 5 and 10 mM melatonin. These results suggested that Nestin, Bmi-1 and Sox2 were strongly correlated with the survival of C6 cells following treatment with melatonin, and that high therapeutic concentrations of melatonin (>5 mM) were required to induce cell death. These findings suggested that the implementation of melatonin in the treatment of glioma and other types of cancer may be inhibited by conflicting cell growth signals in cells. Therefore, adjunct therapy is required to improve the efficacy of melatonin in the treatment of cancer.

Qu|Jiagui|J|
Rizak|Joshua D|JD|
Li|Xiaomiao|X|
Li|Jiejing|J|
Ma|Yuanye|Y|

melatonin
glioma
Nestin
Bmi-1
Sox2
survival
cell viability


Impedance Flow Cytometry as a Tool to Analyze Microspore and Pollen Quality.

Abstract: Analyzing pollen quality in an efficient and reliable manner is of great importance to the industries involved in seed and fruit production, plant breeding, and plant research. Pollen quality parameters, viability and germination capacity, are analyzed by various staining methods or by in vitro germination assays, respectively. These methods are time-consuming, species-dependent, and require a lab environment. Furthermore, the obtained viability data are often poorly related to in vivo pollen germination and seed set. Here, we describe a quick, label-free method to analyze pollen using microfluidic chips inserted into an impedance flow cytometer (IFC). Using this approach, pollen quality parameters are determined by a single measurement in a species-independent manner. The advantage of this protocol is that pollen viability and germination can be analyzed quickly by a reliable and standardized method.

Impedance flow cytometry
Pollen germination
Label-free
Microfluidic chip
IFC
Pollen viability
Developmental stages
Pollen size


SIRT1 and microRNAs: The role in breast, lung and prostate cancers.

Abstract: Breast cancer and prostate cancer are the most common malignant tumors in female and men, respectively. Furthermore, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It is an emergency to develop a powerful strategy to treat these threatening cancers more effectively, because of low efficacy and high rates of chemotherapy effects. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs, are key regulators of gene expression via induction of translational repression or mRNA degradation. MiRNA deregulation has been linked to cancer initiation and progression. Silent Inflammation Regulator 2 (SIR2) proteins-sirtuins- are a family of histone deacetylases (HDACs) that catalyze deacetylation of both histone and non- histone lysine residues. SIRT1 can act as an oncogene. It plays a role in tumorigenesis by anti-apoptotic activity and is implicated in diverse cellular process including autophagy, senescence, apoptosis, proliferation, and aging. MicroRNAs and SIRT1 serve as tumor suppressors or tumor promotors depending on the oncogenic pathway specific to particular tumors. MicroRNAs modulate cancer development by targeting SIRT1. In this review, we underlie the specific mechanisms involved in these threatening cancers by microRNAs/SIRT1 pathways.

SIRT1 MicroRNAs Cancer Autophagy Senescence


Low-dose radiotherapy for COVID 19: A radioimmunological perspective.

Abstract: The world is fighting the onslaught of COVID 19 for the last 10 months, ever since the first case was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Now, it has spread to over 200 countries. COVID 19-associated respiratory syndrome is causing a lot of mortality and morbidity. There are reports suggesting that the complications and ARDS associated with COVID 19 is an immune response reaction. The cytokine storm associated with severe cases of COVID 19 acts as a cause of death in many sick patients. It has been shown that COVID 19 is associated with a peculiar immune profile: Decrease in CD3, CD4, CD8, natural killer cell and B-cells; Rise in interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha; Decrease in IL-10; Decrease in interferon-gamma. Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) immunosuppressive features resulting from M2 macrophage phenotype activation, increase in IL-10, transforming growth factor beta, a decrease in IL-6, TNF alpha and an increase in CD3, CD4, and CD8 T cell counts may negate the harmful effects of cytokine release syndrome. Literature review shows that radiation was previously used to treat viral pneumonia with a good success rate. This practice was discontinued in view of the availability of effective antibiotics and antivirals. As there are no scientifically proven treatment for severe COVID 19-associated respiratory distress today, it is prudent that we understand the benefits of LDRT at this critical juncture and take rational decisions to treat the same. This article provides an radioimmunological rationale for the treatment of immune crisis mediated complications in severe cases of COVID 19.

Kumar|Rishabh|R|
Haresh|Kunhi Parambath|KP|
Sharma|Daya Nand|DN|
Gupta|Anil|A|
Gupta|Subhash|S|
Vellaiyan|Subramani|S|
Rath|Goura Kishor|GK|

D000086382:COVID-19
D000066491:Clinical Decision-Making
D000080424:Cytokine Release Syndrome
D006801:Humans
D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy
D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage
D000086402:SARS-CoV-2
D012720:Severity of Illness Index
D016896:Treatment Outcome

low-dose radiotherapy
COVID 19
cytokine storm
pneumonia
SARS-CoV-2
immunology


Cadaveric feasibility study on the use of ultrasound contrast to assess spread of injectate in the serratus anterior muscle plane.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The Serratus anterior muscle plane (SAP) block has recently been described for the purpose of perioperative pain management following cases of trauma and breast surgery. It might prove a safer alternative to the other regional thoracic paravertebral and central neuraxial blockade techniques. There are no descriptive cadaveric studies in the pre-existing literature to delineate the anatomical plane for this novel technique. The main objectives for our study were to examine the location of the Serratus anterior muscle belly, assess the efficacy of achieving adequate delineation of the muscle plane utilising ultrasound imaging with agitated water as the contrast agent, and finally, to observe the extent of the cepahlo-caudal spread of the injectate in the SAP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Seven cadavers were studied. 20 mls of saline was injected into posterior axillary line (PAL) at the level of the 4-5(th) rib under ultrasound guidance. This was followed by injection of 10 mls of water with air (8 mls water and 2 mls of air). The presence of hyperechoic air bubbles in the fluid distended SAP (hypoechoic) area demonstrated the spread of water and air.

RESULTS
In 36% of cadavers, fully formed Serratus Anterior muscle belly was identified at the midaxillary line (MAL), 14% in PAL, and remaining 50% between PAL and MAL. The lower most limit of air-water spread was identified at the subcostal margin. Cephalad spread of contrast was noted in 2(nd) intercostal space ICS (7%), 3(rd) ICS (71%), and 4(th) ICS (22%).

CONCLUSION
This study describes that the serratus anterior muscle is well-formed near the PAL and the injectate spread can be determined with the help of agitated water contrast on ultrasound. Furthermore, there was variability in the cephalad spread of the injectate.

Daga|V|V|
Narayanan|M K|MK|
Dedhia|J D|JD|
Gaur|P|P|
Crick|H|H|
Gaur|A|A|

ultrasound
Cadaver
serratus anterior plane


Combined experience of six independent laboratories attempting to create an Ewing sarcoma mouse model.

Abstract: Ewing sarcoma (ES) involves a tumor-specific chromosomal translocation that produces the EWS-FLI1 protein, which is required for the growth of ES cells both in vitro and in vivo. However, an EWS-FLI1-driven transgenic mouse model is not currently available. Here, we present data from six independent laboratories seeking an alternative approach to express EWS-FLI1 in different murine tissues. We used the Runx2, Col1a2.3, Col1a3.6, Prx1, CAG, Nse, NEFL, Dermo1, P0, Sox9 and Osterix promoters to target EWS-FLI1 or Cre expression. Additional approaches included the induction of an endogenous chromosomal translocation, in utero knock-in, and the injection of Cre-expressing adenovirus to induce EWS-FLI1 expression locally in multiple lineages. Most models resulted in embryonic lethality or developmental defects. EWS-FLI1-induced apoptosis, promoter leakiness, the lack of potential cofactors, and the difficulty of expressing EWS-FLI1 in specific sites were considered the primary reasons for the failed attempts to create a transgenic mouse model of ES.

Minas|Tsion Zewdu|TZ|
Surdez|Didier|D|
Javaheri|Tahereh|T|
Tanaka|Miwa|M|
Howarth|Michelle|M|
Kang|Hong-Jun|HJ|
Han|Jenny|J|
Han|Zhi-Yan|ZY|
Sax|Barbara|B|
Kream|Barbara E|BE|
Hong|Sung-Hyeok|SH|
Çelik|Haydar|H|
Tirode|Franck|F|
Tuckermann|Jan|J|
Toretsky|Jeffrey A|JA|
Kenner|Lukas|L|
Kovar|Heinrich|H|
Lee|Sean|S|
Sweet-Cordero|E Alejandro|EA|
Nakamura|Takuro|T|
Moriggl|Richard|R|
Delattre|Olivier|O|
Üren|Aykut|A|

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

Ewing sarcoma
EWS-FLI1
EWS-FLI1 driven transgenic mouse model


Micronucleus Frequency in Exfoliated Buccal Cells of Children Living in an Industrialized Area of Apulia (Italy).

Abstract: Micronuclei (MN) are biomarkers of early biological effect often used for detecting DNA damage in human population exposed to genotoxic agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of MN in exfoliated buccal cells of children living in an industrialized (impacted) area compared with that found in children living in a control area without significant anthropogenic impacts. A total of 462 6-8-year-old children (206 in the impacted area, 256 in the control area) attending primary school were enrolled. A questionnaire was administered to the parents of the recruited children to obtain information about personal data, lifestyles, and food habits of their children. Atmospheric particulate fractions were collected near the involved schools to assess the level of environmental exposure of the children. The presence of MN was highlighted in 68.4% of children living in the impacted area with a mean MN frequency of 0.66‱ ± 0.61‱. MN positivity and frequency were significantly lower in the control area (37.1% and 0.27‱ ± 0.43‱, respectively). The frequency of MN was positively associated with quasi-ultrafine particulate matter (PM0.5), traffic near the home, and consuming barbecued food; while adherence to the Mediterranean diet and practicing sport were negatively associated.

Panico|Alessandra|A|
Grassi|Tiziana|T|
Bagordo|Francesco|F|
Idolo|Adele|A|
Serio|Francesca|F|
Tumolo|Maria Rosaria|MR|
De Giorgi|Mattia|M|
Guido|Marcello|M|0000-0002-7907-2677
Tutino|Maria|M|
De Donno|Antonella|A|

children
micronuclei
lifestyle
environmental exposure
PJS Study
air pollution
buccal micronucleus cytome assay
quasi-ultrafine particles


Evaluation of the Metastatic Spine Disease Multidisciplinary Working Group Algorithms as Part of a Multidisciplinary Spine Tumor Conference.

Abstract:
STUDY DESIGN
Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE
The Metastatic Spine Disease Multidisciplinary Working Group Algorithms are evidence and expert opinion-based strategies for utilizing radiation therapy, interventional radiology procedures, and surgery to treat 5 types of spine metastases: asymptomatic spinal metastases, uncomplicated spinal metastases, stable vertebral compression fractures (VCF), unstable VCF, and metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC). Evaluation of this set of algorithms in a clinical setting is lacking. The authors aimed to identify rate of treatment adherence to the Working Group Algorithms and, subsequently, update these algorithms based on actual patient management decisions made at a single-institution, multidisciplinary, spine tumor conference.

METHODS
Patients with metastatic spine disease from primary non-hematologic malignancies discussed at an institutional spine tumor conference from 2013 to 2016 were evaluated. Rates of Working Group Algorithms adherence were calculated for each type of metastasis. Based on the reasons for algorithm nonadherence, and patient outcomes in such cases, updated Working Group Algorithms recommendations were proposed.

RESULTS
In total, 154 eligible patients with 171 spine metastases were evaluated. Rates of algorithm adherence were as follows: asymptomatic (67%), uncomplicated (73%), stable VCF (20%), unstable VCF (32%), and MESCC (41%). The most common deviation from the Working Group Algorithms was surgery for MESCC despite poor prognostic factors, but this treatment strategy was supported based on median survival surpassing 6 months in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS
Adherence to the Working Group Algorithm was lowest for MESCC and VCF patients, but many nonadherent treatments were supported by patient survival outcomes. We proposed updates to the Working Group Algorithm based on these findings.

radiation therapy
interventional radiology
spinal metastases
vertebral compression fractures
spinal cord compression
spine surgery


Pulmonary oxidative stress in wild bats exposed to coal dust: A model to evaluate the impact of coal mining on health.

Abstract: This study aimed to verify possible alterations involving histological and oxidative stress parameters in the lungs of wild bats in the Carboniferous Basin of Santa Catarina (CBSC) state, Southern Brazil, as a means to evaluate the impact of coal dust on the health of wildlife. Specimens of frugivorous bat species Artibeus lituratus and Sturnira lilium were collected from an area free of coal dust contamination and from coal mining areas. Chemical composition, histological parameters, synthesis of oxidants and antioxidant enzymes, and oxidative damage in the lungs of bats were analyzed. Levels of Na, Cl, Cu, and Br were higher in both species collected in the CBSC than in the controls. Levels of K and Rb were higher in A. lituratus, and levels of Si, Ca, and Fe were higher in S. lilium collected in the carboniferous basin. Both bat species inhabiting the CBSC areas exhibited an increase in the degree of pulmonary emphysema compared to their counterparts collected from control areas. Sturnira lilium showed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein (DCF) levels, while A. lituratus showed a significant decrease in nitrite levels in the CBSC samples. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity did not change significantly; however, the activity of catalase (CAT) and levels of glutathione (GSH) decreased in the A. lituratus group from CBSC compared to those in the controls. There were no differences in NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 protein (NQO1) abundance or nitrotyrosine expression among the different groups of bats. Total thiol levels showed a significant reduction in A. lituratus from CBSC, while the amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) was higher in both A. lituratus and S. lilium groups from coal mining areas. Our results suggested that bats, especially A. lituratus, living in the CBSC could be used as sentinel species for harmful effects of coal dust on the lungs.

Pedroso-Fidelis|Giulia Dos Santos|GDS|
Farias|Hémelin Resende|HR|
Mastella|Gustavo Antunes|GA|
Boufleur-Niekraszewicz|Liana Appel|LA|
Dias|Johnny Ferraz|JF|
Alves|Marcio Correa|MC|
Silveira|Paulo Cesar Lock|PCL|
Nesi|Renata Tiscoski|RT|
Carvalho|Fernando|F|
Zocche|Jairo José|JJ|
Pinho|Ricardo Aurino|RA|

Sentinel species
Air particles
Biomarker
Chiroptera
Heavy metals
Mineral coal


Nonsense suppression in archaea.

Abstract: Bacterial strains carrying nonsense suppressor tRNA genes played a crucial role in early work on bacterial and bacterial viral genetics. In eukaryotes as well, suppressor tRNAs have played important roles in the genetic analysis of yeast and worms. Surprisingly, little is known about genetic suppression in archaea, and there has been no characterization of suppressor tRNAs or identification of nonsense mutations in any of the archaeal genes. Here, we show, using the β-gal gene as a reporter, that amber, ochre, and opal suppressors derived from the serine and tyrosine tRNAs of the archaeon Haloferax volcanii are active in suppression of their corresponding stop codons. Using a promoter for tRNA expression regulated by tryptophan, we also show inducible and regulatable suppression of all three stop codons in H. volcanii. Additionally, transformation of a ΔpyrE2 H. volcanii strain with plasmids carrying the genes for a pyrE2 amber mutant and the serine amber suppressor tRNA yielded transformants that grow on agar plates lacking uracil. Thus, an auxotrophic amber mutation in the pyrE2 gene can be complemented by expression of the amber suppressor tRNA. These results pave the way for generating archaeal strains carrying inducible suppressor tRNA genes on the chromosome and their use in archaeal and archaeviral genetics. We also provide possible explanations for why suppressor tRNAs have not been identified in archaea.

Bhattacharya|Arpita|A|
Köhrer|Caroline|C|
Mandal|Debabrata|D|
RajBhandary|Uttam L|UL|

nonsense suppression
suppressor tRNA
Haloferax volcanii
haloarchaea
inducible tRNA expression


Quantification of Right Atrial-Indexed End-Systolic Volumes and Emptying Fraction in Children Undergoing Cardiac Surgery With Two-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography: A Prospective Observational Study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
The primary objective of this study was to establish "normal" right atrial (RA)-indexed end-systolic volumes (ESVs) and emptying fraction (EF) in children undergoing ventricular septal defect (VSD) repair using two-dimensional (2D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Secondary objectives were to obtain RA-indexed ESV and EF in children with RA/right ventricular (RV) volume overload (atrial septal defect [ASD]) and RV pressure overload (tetralogy of Fallot [TOF]) and to determine whether baseline differences existed in these indices among the three lesions.

DESIGN
A prospective observational study.

SETTING
Tertiary referral center and a university level teaching hospital.

PARTICIPANTS
The study comprised 90 children (30 in each cohort) >3 kg and <14 years old admitted for elective repair of either VSD, TOF, or ASD.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS
RA ESV and EF were measured in the midesophageal four-chamber view using the area-length and the modified Simpson's methods with 2D TEE in the prebypass period. Mean RA- indexed ESV (area-length method) in the VSD cohort was 24.2 ± 6.7 mL/m2, whereas it was significantly greater in the TOF (31.9 ± 9.8 mL/m2; p = 0.0008) and ASD (52 ± 12.9 mL/m2; p < 0.0001) cohorts. RA EF in the TOF cohort was 48.4% ± 7.6%, which was significantly more than in the VSD (41.5% ± 11.8%; p = 0.0093) and ASD (39.1% ± 12.3%; p = 0.0008) cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS
This was the first study using 2D TEE to measure RA indices in children with and without right-sided heart dilation undergoing cardiac surgery. In this study, RA, ESV, and EF were considerably different in children with congenital heart disease causing RV pressure or volume overload. Additional studies can examine how these values can be used for risk stratification in this cohort of patients or how they correlate with measures of ventricular performances.

Kiran|Molli|M| Misra|Satyajeet|S| Pr|Suneel|S| Babu|Saravana|S| Anand|Asha|A| Koshy|Thomas|T|

echocardiography
congenital heart disease
right atrial emptying fraction
right atrial volume


High School Physical Education Teachers' Perceptions of Blended Learning One Year after the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the educational landscape worldwide. One year after the disease outbreak, blended learning, which combines distance and face-to-face learning, became an alternative to fully online learning to address the demands of ensuring students' health and education. Physical education teachers faced an additional challenge, given the experiential nature of their subject, but research on teachers' perspectives is scarce. This study aims to explore high school physical education teachers' perceptions of the potential, advantages, and disadvantages of the blended learning model of instruction. An online survey was used to register the views of 174 Spanish high school physical education teachers (120 men and 54 women). The main findings revealed that physical education teachers considered that blended learning, compared with full face-to-face learning, implied a work overload, worsened social relationships, and did not help to increase students' motivation. Likewise, most teachers considered the physical activity performed by students during the blended learning period as being lower than usual. Furthermore, teachers reported that the students from lower-income families were the ones that experienced a lack of technological means the most. These results may guide both present and future policies and procedures for blended physical education. More research is needed to analyze the usefulness of blended learning in high school physical education.

physical education
COVID-19
physical activity
adolescents
hybrid education
online teaching
secondary school
sport pedagogy


Fetal sheep cerebral electrical activity: A new technique to record EEG.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Sheep models are commonly used to study fetal cortical activity, including response to hypoxia. The standard technique consists of recording electrocorticogram (ECOG) in utero using electrodes placed on the dura mater.

NEW METHOD
We propose a new method for recording the electroencephalogram (EEG) of fetal sheep, using electrodes placed above the skull bone and fixed to the cranial periosteum.

RESULTS
Twelve animals were instrumented with this new technique. The EEG signal recorded in utero was of sufficient quality for visual and quantitative analysis of the fetal cortical activity.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD
This new method is less invasive than the standard method commonly used to record cerebral activity in fetal sheep, because it avoids drilling the skull by hand. The EEG signal recorded in utero had visual and quantitative characteristics comparable to ECOG.

CONCLUSIONS
We present a new method of EEG recording that appears to be an acceptable alternative to the standard ECOG recording method. Fetal sheep EEG can be used to better understand the physiological mechanisms involved in the cerebral response to hypoxia.

Lacan|Laure|L|
Hamoud|Yasmine|Y|
Nguyen|Sylvie|S|
De Jonckheere|Julien|J|
Storme|Laurent|L|
Houfflin-Debarge|Véronique|V|
Auvin|Stéphane|S|
Sharma|Dyuti|D|
Garabedian|Charles|C|
Ghesquière|Louise|L|

D009424:Nervous System Physiological Phenomena

Fetal sheep
EEG technique
Perinatal hypoxia


Optimization of Tissue Microarrays from Banked Human Formalin-Fixed Paraffin Embedded Tissues in the Cancer Research Setting.

Abstract: The tissue microarray (TMA) is a powerful tool for cancer biomarker discovery and validation. Tens to hundreds of samples can be evaluated simultaneously for molecular marker status at the protein or nucleic acid level. Although fully automated or semiautomated technologies for TMA creation provide excellent precision with respect to core transfer, they do not obviate the need for technical expertise to successfully generate high-quality TMA blocks and derivative sections. We have leveraged our expanding bank of formalin-fixed paraffin embedded paired tumor and normal tissues in our academic cancer center to provide a rich source of input material for cancer research TMAs. In this study, we report a stepwise optimization of TMA generation parameters, including paraffin wax selection, tempering protocol, and sectioning conditions, to achieve the best ribbon sectioning.

Sexton|Tammy|T|
Kucera|Gregory L|GL|
Levine|Edward A|EA|
Watabe|Kounosuke|K|
O'Neill|Stacey S|SS|

optimization
tissue microarrays
TMA
FFPE


Prognostic markers in well differentiated papillary and follicular thyroid cancer (WDTC).

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
WDTC (papillary and follicular thyroid cancer) make up around 90% of all thyroid tumours. Overall, the prognosis in patients with WDTC is excellent. However, there are small cohorts of patients who experience a more aggressive form of disease which is often associated with certain poor prognostic factors. Identifying these patients at an early stage is imperative for guiding treatment decisions. With recent developments in this area we plan to discuss the current evidence surrounding prognostic markers.

METHODS
The literature regarding prognostic factors in WDTC was reviewed using an electronic database Medline - Pubmed. Using the MeSH search engine specific prognostic factors including age, size, grade, lymph node involvement, distant metastasis, extension/invasion, ethnic background, radioactive iodine avidity, and thyroglobulin level and their association with WDTC were evaluated. A broader search of prognostic markers in thyroid cancer was also carried out to avoid missing other pertinent markers.

RESULTS
Multiple clinical and pathologic variables have been shown to be poor prognostic factors in WDTC with statistical significance. Extensive extrathyroidal extension and age may be the most important factors when predicting clinical outcomes in WDTC, although the age threshold may be increased from 45 to 55 years in due course.

CONCLUSIONS
Management of WDTC has changed considerably over the last two years as reflected in evolving British and American Thyroid Guidelines. In all cases a combined multi-disciplinary approach, with consideration of the available guidelines and stratification systems should be utilised when planning an individualised treatment program to offer the best contemporary care to WDTC patients.

D018263:Adenocarcinoma, Follicular
D000367:Age Factors
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor
D002291:Carcinoma, Papillary
D006801:Humans
D060787:Neoplasm Grading
D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness
D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis
D011379:Prognosis
D018570:Risk Assessment
D012307:Risk Factors
D013964:Thyroid Neoplasms
D047368:Tumor Burden

Prognostic markers
Age
Size
Grade
Metastasis
Invasion
Ethnic background
Radioactive iodine avidity
Thyroglobulin
Extrathyroid extension
Stratification
Differentiated thyroid cancer
Lymph node metastasis


Cardiac function and lipid distribution in rats fed a high-fat diet: in vivo magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy.

Abstract: Obesity is a major risk factor in the development of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and its pathophysiological precondition insulin resistance. Very little is known about the metabolic changes that occur in the myocardium and consequent changes in cardiac function that are associated with high-fat accumulation. Therefore, cardiac function and metabolism were evaluated in control rats and those fed a high-fat diet, using magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mRNA analysis, histology, and plasma biochemistry. Analysis of blood plasma from rats fed the high-fat diet showed that they were insulin resistant (P < 0.001). Our high-fat diet model had higher heart weight (P = 0.005) and also increasing trend in septal wall thickness (P = 0.07) compared with control diet rats. Our results from biochemistry, magnetic resonance imaging, and mRNA analysis confirmed that rats on the high-fat diet had moderate diabetes along with mild cardiac hypertrophy. The magnetic resonance spectroscopy results showed the extramyocellular lipid signal only in the spectra from high-fat diet rats, which was absent in the control diet rats. The intramyocellular lipids in high-fat diet rats was higher (8.7%) compared with rats on the control diet (6.1%). This was confirmed by electron microscope and light microscopy studies. Our results indicate that lipid accumulation in the myocardium might be an early indication of the cardiovascular pathophysiology associated with type 2 diabetes.

Nagarajan|Vijayasarathi|V|
Gopalan|Venkatesh|V|
Kaneko|Manami|M|
Angeli|Veronique|V|
Gluckman|Peter|P|
Richards|Arthur Mark|AM|
Kuchel|Philip W|PW|
Velan|S Sendhil|SS|

D060888:Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

cardiac function
EMCL
IMCL
cardiac metabolism


Ankle motion in common yoga poses.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Motion of the ankle is essential for many yoga poses. An understanding of range of ankle motion during typical yoga poses may help the clinician to understand expected outcomes of patients when returning from ankle surgery or injury to yoga.

METHODS
The biomechanics of twenty healthy active yogis were collected during seven yoga poses that are common within their practices. Motion capture and force plates were used to assess the range of motion and joint moments of the ankle for each pose.

RESULTS
All poses resulted in plantarflexion and external rotation moments at the ankle joints. Joint loading was highest in single leg poses. The arc of motion used by the study participants in the poses was 29° of sagittal motion, 20° of frontal motion and 35° of transverse motion.

DISCUSSION
Ankle motion was evaluated when healthy yogis perform standard poses. These results may help in discussion with patients regarding expected outcomes after ankle injury or surgery.

Mears|Simon C|SC|
Tackett|S Andrew|SA|
Elkins|Michael C|MC|
Severin|Anna C|AC|
Barnes|Sally G|SG|
Mannen|Erin M|EM|
Martin|Robert D|RD|


Shame and avoidance as barriers in midwives' communication about body weight with pregnant women: A qualitative interview study.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Excessive gestational weight gain, regardless of initial BMI, is associated with perinatal risks for both mother and offspring and contributes to obesity in women. Studies report that healthcare professionals find it difficult to communicate about weight and pregnant women perceive healthcare professionals as unconcerned, leaving many women uninformed about weight recommendations and risks. We aimed to explore how midwives approach communication about gestational weight gain recommendations, and to characterize communication barriers and facilitators.

METHODS
Seventeen midwives from different areas in Sweden were interviewed by a therapist using semi-structured interviews. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed by three researchers using latent content analysis. Recurrent themes were identified and formulated.

RESULTS
The main theme identified in the latent part of the analysis was "midwives use avoidant behaviours to cope with fear of inflicting worries, shame or feelings of guilt in pregnant women". Avoidant behaviours include: adjusting weight recommendations, toning down risks and avoid talking about weight. Subthemes identified were (I) Conflicting responsibilities in midwives' professional identity (II) Perceived deficiencies in the working situation.

CONCLUSION
Midwives' empathy and awareness of weight stigma strongly affects communication about weight with pregnant women, and midwives' use of avoidant behaviours constitutes salient information barriers. More research is needed on whether gestational weight guidelines and weighing routines for all women, resources for extra visits, training in specific communication skills and backup access to other professions can facilitate for midwives to initiate and communicate about healthy gestational weight development, enabling more pregnant women to make well-informed lifestyle choices.

Christenson|Anne|A| Johansson|Eva|E| Reynisdottir|Signy|S| Torgerson|Jarl|J| Hemmingsson|Erik|E|

Shame
Obesity
Communication barriers
Stigma
Midwife
Pregnancy


Characterization and Applications of Extracellular Vesicle Proteome with Post-Translational Modifications.

Abstract: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a diverse population of complex membrane-encapsulated vesicles released by a variety of cell types and exist in most of body fluids. Continuously growing number of reports revealed that EVs participate in multiple biological processes, such as intercellular communication, immune regulation, and dissemination of cancer cells. Accordingly, recent attention has been given to the characterization of extracellular vesicles and their components. This review focuses on state-of-the-art proteomic technologies to analyze proteomes of EVs, especially their post-translational modifications (PTMs). With their strong biological relevance and the relatively noninvasive accessibility from body fluids, the promising potential and early applications of EV proteome and its PTMs as attracting biomarker sources are also evaluated.

Zhang|Ying|Y|
Wu|Xiaofeng|X|
Andy Tao|W|W|

Extracellular vesicles
Proteomics
Post-translational modifications
Mass Spectrometry


Helical Centerline Stent Improves Patency: Two-Year Results From the Randomized Mimics Trial.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Reintervention in the femoropopliteal artery is frequent and a major driver of cost-effectiveness. High wall shear generated by swirling blood flow is associated with reduced occurrence of atherosclerosis and restenosis. This trial investigated the clinical and hemodynamic outcomes of the BioMimics 3D self-expanding tubular nitinol stent with helical centerline geometry compared with a straight stent in the femoropopliteal artery.

METHODS AND RESULTS
In a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial, 76 patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease were randomized 2:1 to receive a helical or a straight stent. An independent core laboratory adjudicated angiographic and ultrasound parameters. The primary safety end point was freedom from a composite of all death, target limb amputation, and target lesion revascularization at 30 days. The primary effectiveness end point was freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization at 6 months. Patency was a secondary end point. Subjects were followed up for 2 years from intervention. The primary safety (1-sided P<0.01) and efficacy (1-sided P<0.001) end points for the helical stent were met. The proportion of patients treated with the helical stent who maintained patency at 12 and 24 months was 80% and 72%, respectively, compared with 71% and 55% for the control group. The difference was significant through 24 months (P=0.05). Freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization for the helical compared with straight stent was 91% versus 92% at 12 months and 91% versus 76% at 24 months.

CONCLUSIONS
Both groups had similar safety outcomes and clinically driven target lesion revascularization to 2 years. However, after placement of a BioMimics 3D helical stent, there was improved patency to 2 years.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION
URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02163863.

Zeller|Thomas|T|
Gaines|Peter A|PA|
Ansel|Gary M|GM|
Caro|Colin G|CG|

stents
nitinol
peripheral arterial disease
peripheral vascular diseases
prospective studies


Preparation and characterization of nanostarch-based green hard capsules reinforced by cellulose nanocrystals.

Abstract: The green hard capsules were prepared with corn nano-starch (CNS) and cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) in this study, the glycerol and carrageenan were used as plasticizer and gelling agent in the CNS/CNC gel solution, respectively. The capsule-films with different CNC content were prepared by casting method, and the dipping method was used in preparation of the corresponding capsules. The compatibility of CNS/CNC capsules was analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and the morphology of the capsules was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the tensile strength of the CNS based capsule-film was significantly improved with the addition of CNC. When the content of CNC was 6.0%, the tensile strength increased by 238.10%. The transparency of the capsule with different CNC contents was slightly reduced, but was greater than 87.0%. The loss on drying of CNS/CNC capsule was between 12.87% and 15.03%, and it could be completely dissolved in the artificial gastric juice within 6.0 min, which was in accordance with the provisions of Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2015).

Chen|QiJie|Q| Zong|ZhangYang|Z| Gao|Xin|X| Zhao|YaLan|Y| Wang|JianHui|J|

D017550:Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared

Hard capsule
Cellulose nanocrystals
Corn nano-starch
Disintegration time


Uneven state distribution of homicides in Brazil and their effect on life expectancy, 2000-2015: a cross-sectional mortality study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To determine cause-specific and age-specific contributions to life expectancy changes between 2000 and 2015, separately by state and sex in Brazil, with a focus on homicides.

DESIGN
Retrospective cross-sectional demographic analysis of mortality.

SETTING AND POPULATION
Brazilian population by age, sex and state from 2000 to 2015.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE
Using mortality data from the Brazilian Mortality Information System and population estimates from the National Statistics Office, we used death distribution methods and the linear integral decomposition model to estimate levels and changes in life expectancy. We also examine how multiple causes of death, including those attributable to homicides and amenable/avoidable mortality, contributed to these changes from 2000 to 2015.

RESULTS
Between 2000 and 2015, life expectancy in Brazil increased from 71.5 to 75.1 years. Despite state-level variation in gains, life expectancy increased in almost all states over this period. However across Brazil, homicide mortality contributed, to varying degrees, to either attenuated or decreased male life expectancy gains. In Alagoas in 2000-2007 and Sergipe in 2007-2015, homicides contributed to a reduction in life expectancy of 1.5 years, offsetting gains achieved through improvements due to medically amenable causes. In the period 2007-2015, male life expectancy could have been improved by more than half a year in 12 of Brazil's states if homicide mortality had remained at the levels of 2007.

CONCLUSIONS
Homicide mortality appears to offset life expectancy gains made through recent improvements to mortality amenable to medical services and public health interventions, with considerable subnational heterogeneity in the extent of this phenomenon. Efforts combating the causes of homicides can increase life expectancy beyond what has been achieved in recent decades.


Progression and projection for shoulder surgery in France, 2012-2070: Epidemiologic study with trend and projection analysis.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Shoulder surgery has been rapidly expanding over the past 20 years and now makes up a large share of orthopedic surgery practice. Data on how this activity has changed is not available in France due to a lack of registries. The study objectives were to: (1) quantify the number of shoulder surgeries in France, (2) predict how this activity will change over the next 50 years based on extreme scenarios.

METHODS
This study involved an analysis of shoulder surgery data taken from the French hospital discharge database (PMSI). Two mathematical scenarios were applied to define the change over time: the first only considered the evolution in the population and changes in the age brackets over time; the second extrapolated the trends observed over the past few years (2012 to 2018).

RESULTS
In 2018, there were 234,612 procedures coded as primary shoulder surgery procedures in France. This activity increased 24.5% between 2012 and 2018 and is projected to increase 18% to 161% from now to 2050, depending on the scenario (p<0.0001). Rotator cuff surgery procedures were done 173,799 times - of which 61,055 were tendon repair - representing 74% of all shoulder procedures. The scenarios point to an increase of 13.6% to more than 300% (p<0.0001). Primary shoulder arthroplasty corresponded to 17,043 procedures in 2018 (7.3% of all procedures), with a 47% increase between 2012 and 2018. Between 2018 and 2050, the number of total shoulder arthroplasty procedures is expected to increase 31% to 322% (p<0.0001). The total number of revision arthroplasty procedures was 1508, increasing by 39% from 2012 to 2018. There were 14,229 procedures done for anterior or posterior instability in 2018 (6% of total). Bone block procedures made up 53% of these cases. This increased 17% between 2012 and 2018, with a projected increase of 5% to 82% up to 2050 (p<0.01).

DISCUSSION
Shoulder surgery is the third largest activity in the orthopedic realm after hip and knee surgery, although it has seen the largest increases in recent years. This growth in shoulder procedures should continue over the next decades.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
IV, descriptive epidemiology study.

Villatte|Guillaume|G| Erivan|Roger|R| Barth|Johannes|J| Bonnevialle|Nicolas|N| Descamps|Stéphane|S| Boisgard|Stéphane|S|

Shoulder
Epidemiology
Prediction
Evolution
Instability
Cuff tear
National data
Prosthesis


Culex pipiens forms and urbanization: effects on blood feeding sources and transmission of avian Plasmodium.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The wide spread mosquito Culex pipiens pipiens have two forms molestus and pipiens which frequently hybridize. The two forms have behavioural and physiological differences affecting habitat requirements and host selection, which may affect the transmission dynamic of Cx. p. pipiens-borne diseases.

METHODS
During 2013, blood engorged Cx. p. pipiens mosquitoes were captured in urban, rural and natural areas from Southern Spain. In 120 mosquitoes, we identified the blood meal origin at vertebrate species/genus level and the mosquito form. The presence and molecular lineage identity of avian malaria parasites in the head-thorax of each mosquito was also analysed.

RESULTS
Mosquitoes of the form pipiens were more frequently found in natural than in urban areas. The proportion of Cx. pipiens form molestus and hybrids of the two forms did not differ between habitat categories. Any significant difference in the proportion of blood meals on birds between forms was found. Birds were the most common feeding source for the two forms and their hybrids. Among mammals, dogs and humans were the most common hosts. Two Plasmodium and one Haemoproteus lineages were found in mosquitoes, with non-significant differences between forms.

CONCLUSION
This study supports a differential distribution of Cx. p. pipiens form pipiens between urban and natural areas. Probably due to the similar feeding sources of both mosquito forms and their hybrids here, all of them may frequently interact with avian malaria parasites playing a role in the transmission of Plasmodium.

Mosquitoes
Diseases
Avian malaria
Birds
Humans
Haemoproteus
Pathogens
Vector-borne diseases
Wildlife


Effects of climate change on the toxicity of soils polluted by metal mine wastes to Enchytraeus crypticus.

Abstract: The present study aimed to assess the effects of climate change on the toxicity of metal-polluted soils. Bioassays with Enchytraeus crypticus were performed in soils polluted by mine wastes (mine tailing, forest, and watercourse) and under different combinations of temperature (20 °C and 25 °C) and soil moisture content (50% and 30% of the soil water-holding capacity). Survival and reproduction were set as endpoints. No effect was observed on survival (average survival ≥ 80%). Reproduction was the most sensitive endpoint, and it was reduced between 65% and 98% compared with control after exposure to watercourse soil (lower pH, higher salinity, and higher available metal(loid) concentrations). In this soil, effective concentrations at 50% and 10% (EC50 and EC10) significantly decreased with decreasing soil moisture content. In general, the worst-case scenario was found in the driest soil, but the toxicity under a climate change scenario differed among soil types in relation to soil properties (e.g., pH, salinity) and available metal(loid) concentrations.

González-Alcaraz|M Nazaret|MN|
Tsitsiou|Eleni|E|
Wieldraaijer|Rosalie|R|
Verweij|Rudo A|RA|
van Gestel|Cornelis A M|CA|

Climate change
Temperature
Soil moisture
Risk assessment
Soil invertebrates


DigBody®: A new 3D modeling tool for nasal virtual surgery.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Recent studies have demonstrated that a significant number of surgical procedures for nasal airway obstruction (NAO) have a high rate of surgical failure. In part, this problem is due to the lack of reliable objective clinical parameters to aid surgeons during preoperative planning. Modeling tools that allow virtual surgery to be performed do exist, but all require direct manipulation of computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. Specialists in Rhinology have criticized these tools for their complex user interface, and have requested more intuitive, user-friendly and powerful software to make virtual surgery more accessible and realistic. In this paper we present a new virtual surgery software tool, DigBody®.

METHODS
This new surgery module is integrated into the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) program MeComLand®, which was developed exclusively to analyze nasal airflow. DigBody® works directly with a 3D nasal model that mimics real surgery. Furthermore, this surgery module permits direct assessment of the operated cavity following virtual surgery by CFD simulation.

RESULTS
The effectiveness of DigBody® has been demonstrated by real surgery on two patients based on prior virtual operation results. Both subjects experienced excellent surgical outcomes with no residual nasal obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS
This tool has great potential to aid surgeons in modeling potential surgical maneuvers, minimizing complications, and being confident that patients will receive optimal postoperative outcomes, validated by personalized CFD testing.

Burgos|M A|MA|
Sanmiguel-Rojas|E|E|
Singh|Narinder|N|
Esteban-Ortega|F|F|

Computational fluid dynamics
Nasal airflow
Virtual nasal surgery


The Story of MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line: 40 years of Experience in Research.

Abstract: Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy in females. Due to its major impact on population, this disease represents a critical public health problem that requires further research at the molecular level in order to define its prognosis and specific treatment. Basic research is required to accomplish this task and this involves cell lines as they can be widely used in many aspects of laboratory research and, particularly, as in vitro models in cancer research. MCF-7 is a commonly used breast cancer cell line, that has been promoted for more than 40 years by multiple research groups but its characteristics have never been gathered in a consistent review article. The current paper provides a broad description of the MCF-7 cell line, including the molecular profile, proliferation, migration, invasion, spheroid formation, its involvement in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and its interaction with the mesenchymal stem cells.

Comşa|Şerban|Ş|
Cîmpean|Anca Maria|AM|
Raica|Marius|M|

MCF-7
breast cancer
review
angiogenesis
lymphangiogenesis
mesenchymal stem cells


Food Web Designer: a flexible tool to visualize interaction networks.

Abstract: Species are embedded in complex networks of ecological interactions and assessing these networks provides a powerful approach to understand what the consequences of these interactions are for ecosystem functioning and services. This is mandatory to develop and evaluate strategies for the management and control of pests. Graphical representations of networks can help recognize patterns that might be overlooked otherwise. However, there is a lack of software which allows visualizing these complex interaction networks. Food Web Designer is a stand-alone, highly flexible and user friendly software tool to quantitatively visualize trophic and other types of bipartite and tripartite interaction networks. It is offered free of charge for use on Microsoft Windows platforms. Food Web Designer is easy to use without the need to learn a specific syntax due to its graphical user interface. Up to three (trophic) levels can be connected using links cascading from or pointing towards the taxa within each level to illustrate top-down and bottom-up connections. Link width/strength and abundance of taxa can be quantified, allowing generating fully quantitative networks. Network datasets can be imported, saved for later adjustment and the interaction webs can be exported as pictures for graphical display in different file formats. We show how Food Web Designer can be used to draw predator-prey and host-parasitoid food webs, demonstrating that this software is a simple and straightforward tool to graphically display interaction networks for assessing pest control or any other type of interaction in both managed and natural ecosystems from an ecological network perspective.

Ecological network
Connectedness web
Graphical software
Network illustration
Pollination network
Quantitative food web
Trophic chain


New insights into liquid chromatography for more eco-friendly analysis of pharmaceuticals.

Abstract: Greening the analytical methods used for analysis of pharmaceuticals has been receiving great interest aimed at eliminating or minimizing the amount of organic solvents consumed daily worldwide without loss in chromatographic performance. Traditional analytical LC techniques employed in pharmaceutical analysis consume tremendous amounts of hazardous solvents and consequently generate large amounts of waste. The monetary and ecological impact of using large amounts of solvents and waste disposal motivated the analytical community to search for alternatives to replace polluting analytical methodologies with clean ones. In this context, implementing the principles of green analytical chemistry (GAC) in analytical laboratories is highly desired. This review gives a comprehensive overview on different green LC pathways for implementing GAC principles in analytical laboratories and focuses on evaluating the greenness of LC analytical procedures. This review presents green LC approaches for eco-friendly analysis of pharmaceuticals in industrial, biological, and environmental matrices. Graphical Abstract Green pathways of liquid chromatography for more eco-friendly analysis of pharmaceuticals.

D057927:Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions

Eco-friendly analysis
Pharmaceutical analysis
Green analytical chemistry
GAC principles
Environment friendly LC
Green chromatography


Development of inapparent dengue associated with increased antibody levels to Aedes aegypti salivary proteins: a longitudinal dengue cohort in Cambodia.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
We established the first prospective cohort to understand how infection with dengue virus is influenced by vector-specific determinants like humoral immunity to Aedes aegypti salivary proteins.

METHODS
Children aged two to nine years old enrolled in the PAGODAS (Pediatric Assessment Group of Dengue and Aedes Saliva) cohort with informed consent by their guardians. Children were followed semi-annually for antibodies to dengue and to proteins in Ae. aegypti salivary gland homogenate using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and dengue-specific neutralization titers. Children presented with fever at any time for dengue testing.

RESULTS
From July 13 to August 30, 2018, we enrolled 771 children. At baseline, 22% (173/770) had evidence of neutralizing antibodies to one or more dengue serotypes. By April 2020, 51 children had symptomatic dengue while 148 dengue-naïve children had inapparent dengue defined by neutralization assays. In a multivariate model, individuals with higher antibodies to Ae. aegypti salivary proteins were 1.5x more likely to have dengue infection (HR 1.47 95% CI 1.05-2.06; p=0.02), particularly individuals with inapparent dengue (HR 1.64 95% CI 1.12-2.41; p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS
High levels of seropositivity to Ae. aegypti salivary proteins are associated with future development of dengue infection, primarily inapparent, in dengue-naïve Cambodian children.

dengue
Aedes aegypti
Cambodia
mosquito saliva
pediatric cohort


Multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules masquerading as pulmonary metastasis; a case of nodular sarcoidosis.

Abstract: Sarcoidosis is a multi-system inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology that is manifested by the presence of non-caseating granulomas. Multiple pulmonary nodules are rare presentations of sarcoidosis. We report a case of nodular sarcoidosis in a young male of Middle-East origin who had initially presented with bilateral painful ankle edema. His chest X-ray showed multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules. A high resolution computed tomography scan of the chest demonstrated multiple pulmonary nodular lesions and also mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy. Subsequent biopsies revealed non-necrotizing granuloma with multi-nucleated giant cells indicative of sarcoidosis. An appropriate work-up was done to confirm the true nature of the nodules and facilitate treatment.

Sarcoidosis
Multiple Pulmonary Nodules
Neoplasm Metastasis


Transcriptomic Response to Selective Breeding for Fast Growth in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Abstract: Genetic improvement for faster growth is a conventional approach to increase growth rates in aquaculture species; however, the genetic and physiological factors regulating growth performance in fish are not fully characterized. The objective of this study was to identify physiological mechanisms associated with faster growth rates by comparing the liver and muscle transcriptome of a rainbow trout line selectively bred for fast growth (growth line, GL) and a contemporary randomly mated control line (synthetic control, SC) from the same selective breeding program. A third genetic line from a commercial egg supplier (commercial A, CA) was also included to characterize differences in gene expression profiles between populations. Body weight of the GL at harvest was approximately 20% and 8% heavier (p < 0.05) than SC and CA, respectively. There were 145 and 36 differentially expressed genes (DEG) in liver and white muscle, respectively, between the GL and SC that were enriched for the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor axis (GH/IGF) and PI3K-Akt, JAK-STAT, MAPK, and cAMP signal transduction pathways. A greater concentration of plasma IGF-I was detected in the GL compared with SC (p < 0.05). A unique gene profile was detected in CA, with 11 and 210 DEG in liver and white muscle; these genes associated with innate immunity, complement systems, and metabolic pathways. Collectively, these findings provide a more extensive characterization of the fast-growth phenotype in fish that furthers knowledge of the physiological basis for genetic variation in growth performance in selectively bred rainbow trout.

Transcriptomics
Selective breeding
Rainbow trout
Functional genomics
RNA-seq


Oilseed crop sunflower (Helianthus annuus) as a source of food: Nutritional and health benefits.

Abstract: The use of biofertilizers in developing environmentally friendly agriculture as an alternative to chemical-based fertilizers in enhancing food production is promising in sustainable agriculture for the improvement in the yield of some commercial crops such as sunflowers and other oilseed crops in terms of quality and quantity. Sunflower is an important oilseed crop native to South America and currently cultivated throughout the world. Generally, the sunflower is considered important based on its nutritional and medicinal value. Due to its beneficial health effects, sunflower has been recognized as functional foods or nutraceutical, although not yet fully harnessed. Sunflower contains mineral elements and phytochemicals such as dietary fiber, manganese, vitamins, tocopherols, phytosterols, triterpene glycosides, α-tocopherol, glutathione reductase, flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, peptides, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, alkaloids, tannins, and saponins; and these compounds contribute to their functional and nutraceutical development. The extract from sunflower is known to be a potential source of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antioxidants agents that protect human cells against harmful reactive oxygen molecules and pathogenic microorganisms. Also, the pharmacological survey on sunflower had revealed its curative power to different kinds of diseases. The health benefits of sunflower include blood pressure and diabetic control, skin protection, and lowering cholesterol and other functions. This review is written with appropriate referencing to previously published work and provides updated information regarding the new method of organic farming for sunflower production, nutritional and health benefits, and its by-products as human diet and livestock feed. Also, the constraints of sunflower production are elucidated.

oilseeds
sustainable agriculture
food security
human nutrition
sunfoil