Vulnerabilities in social anxiety: Integrating intra- and interpersonal perspectives

What are the major vulnerabilities in people with social anxiety? What are the most promising directions for translational research pertaining to this condition? The present paper provides an integrative summary of basic and applied translational research on social anxiety, emphasizing vulnerability factors. It is divided into two subsections: intrapersonal and interpersonal. The intrapersonal section synthesizes research relating to (a) self-representations and self-referential processes; (b) emotions and their regulation; and (c) cognitive biases: attention, interpretation and judgment, and memory. The interpersonal section summarizes findings regarding the systems of (a) approach and avoidance, (b) affiliation and social rank, and their implications for interpersonal impairments. Our review suggests that the science of social anxiety and, more generally, psychopathology may be advanced by examining processes and their underlying content within broad psychological systems. Increased interaction between basic and applied researchers to diversify and elaborate different perspectives on social anxiety is necessary for progress.

A Sustainable Translational Sheep Model for Planned Cesarean Delivery of Contraction-Free Ewes

We evaluated whether the sheep constitutes a useful translational model to evaluate anatomical and surgical aspects of cesarean delivery (CD) from a human medical perspective with the aim of both maternal and neonatal well-being. Our hypothesis was that CD in contraction-free ewes is not associated with major complications. Primary endpoint was the transferability of anatomical conditions and surgical techniques of CD from the ewe to the human. Secondary endpoints were maternal and fetal survival, occurrence of retained fetal membranes, metritis, mastitis, or wound infections. Forty-eight Merino ewes were delivered by CD after 95% gestation (142-144 days). Both ewes and newborn lambs were cared for intensively after the delivery. Ovine uterine anatomy during CD appeared slightly different but comparable to the human uterus. Uterine incisions were mostly performed in the uterine horns, not in the uterine corpus. The ovine uterine wall is thinner than in humans. All ewes survived without any major complications. Seventy-seven (88.5%) out of 87 live-born lambs survived without any complications. The contraction-free ewe constitutes an appropriate and safe model to evaluate anatomical and surgical aspects of CD from a human medical perspective. We present a step-by-step manual for successfully planned cesarean delivery for sheep including the perioperative management illustrated with photographs and a five-minute video. With adequate planning and a reasonable number of staff, it is possible to safeguard both maternal and neonatal survival. This sustainable translational medicine model offers additional potential for the offspring to be used for further research studies (e.g., transgenerational inheritance research).

Current understanding of comparative pathology and prospective research approaches for canine hemangiosarcoma

Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a malignant tumor originating from endothelial cells. HSA typically develops in dogs, but is rare in other animals, including humans. Although surgery and chemotherapy are conventional treatments for HSA, neither treatment can significantly improve patient prognosis. To develop novel and effective therapeutics, a deeper understanding of HSA pathogenesis must be acquired. However, the limited research tools for HSA have been unable to make a breakthrough; therefore, it is crucial to widely utilize or establish novel research tools such as patient-derived xenograft models, organoids, and chicken embryo xenograft models. The pathogenesis of the human counterpart of HSA, angiosarcoma (AS), also remains incompletely understood, preventing the extrapolation of findings from humans to dogs, unlike other diseases. In this review, we summarize the clinicopathological and morphological features of HSA, and then we discuss the current understanding of the molecular pathology of HSA. Finally, we highlight promising research tools that may accelerate HSA basic research toward developing novel therapeutics. We also briefly summarize AS to help researchers comprehend HSA from the perspective of comparative pathology.

Interleukin-18 Binding Protein (IL-18BP): A Long Journey From Discovery to Clinical Application

IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP) was originally discovered in 1999 while attempting to identify an IL-18 receptor ligand binding chain (also known as IL-18Rα) by subjecting concentrated human urine to an IL-18 ligand affinity column. The IL-18 ligand chromatography purified molecule was analyzed by protein microsequencing. The result revealed a novel 40 amino acid polypeptide. To isolate the complete open reading frame (ORF), various human and mouse cDNA libraries were screened using cDNA probe derived from the novel IL-18 affinity column bound molecule. The identified entire ORF gene was thought to be an IL-18Rα gene. However, IL-18BP has been proven to be a unique soluble antagonist that shares homology with a variety of viral proteins that are distinct from the IL-18Rα and IL-18Rβ chains. The IL-18BP cDNA was used to generate recombinant IL-18BP (rIL-18BP), which was indispensable for characterizing the role of IL-18BP in vitro and in vivo. Mammalian cell lines were used to produce rIL-18BP due to its glycosylation-dependent activity of IL-18BP (approximately 20 kDa). Various forms of rIL-18BP, intact, C-terminal his-tag, and Fc fusion proteins were produced for in vitro and in vivo experiments. Data showed potent neutralization of IL-18 activity, which seems promising for clinical application in immune diseases involving IL-18. However, it was a long journey from discovery to clinical use although there have been various clinical trials since IL-18BP was discovered in 1999. This review primarily covers the discovery of IL-18BP along with how basic research influences the clinical development of IL-18BP.

Lab Meets World: the Case for Use-Inspired Basic Research in Affective Science

We join others in envisioning a future for affective science that addresses society's most pressing needs. To move toward this vision, we consider a research paradigm that emerged in other disciplines: use-inspired basic research. This paradigm transcends the traditional basic-applied dichotomy, which pits the basic goal of fundamental scientific understanding against the applied goal of use in solving social problems. In reality, these goals are complementary, and use-inspired basic research advances them simultaneously. Here, we build a case for use-inspired basic research-how it differs from traditional basic science and why affective scientists should engage in it. We first examine how use-inspired basic research challenges problematic assumptions of a strict basic-applied dichotomy. We then discuss how it is consistent with advances in affective science that recognize context specificity as the norm and consider ethical issues of use being a complementary goal. Following this theoretical discussion, we differentiate the implementation of use-inspired basic research from that of traditional basic science. We draw on examples from recent research to illustrate differences: social problems as a starting point, stakeholder and community engagement, and integration of research and service. In conclusion, we invite affective scientists to embrace the "lab meets world" perspective of use-inspired basic research as a promising pathway to real-world impact.

Report on Cardiovascular Health and Diseases in China 2022: an Updated Summary

In the past 30 years, the accessibility and quality index of medical care have made remarkable progress in China, ranking the first among middle-income countries. Many cardiovascular technologies are at or near the world's leading level, and significant progress has been achieved in China solving the problem of "treatment difficulty" of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, due to the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles among Chinese residents, a huge population with CVD risk factors, accelerated population aging, and other reasons, the incidence and mortality rate of CVD are still increasing, and the turning point of the decline in disease burden has not appeared yet in China. In terms of proportions of disease mortality among urban and rural residents, CVD still ranks the first. In 2020, CVD accounted for 48.00% and 45.86% of the causes of death in rural and urban areas, respectively; two out of every five deaths were due to CVD. It is estimated that the number of current CVD patients in China is around 330 million, including 13 million stroke, 11.39 million coronary heart disease, 8.9 million heart failure, 5 million pulmonary heart disease, 4.87 million atrial fibrillation, 2.5 million rheumatic heart disease, 2 million congenital heart disease, 45.3 million peripheral artery disease, and 245 million hypertension cases. China has entered a new stage of transformation from high-speed development to high-quality development, and the prevention and control of CVD in China should also shift from previous emphasis on scale growth to strategies focusing more on strategic and key technological development in order to curb the trend of increasing incidence and mortality rates of CVD.

Machine learning in cardiology: Clinical application and basic research

Machine learning is a subfield of artificial intelligence. The quality and versatility of machine learning have been rapidly improving and playing a critical role in many aspects of social life. This trend is also observed in the medical field. Generally, there are three main types of machine learning: supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning. Each type of learning is adequately selected for the purpose and type of data. In the field of medicine, various types of information are collected and used, and research using machine learning is becoming increasingly relevant. Many clinical studies are conducted using electronic health and medical records, including in the cardiovascular area. Machine learning has also been applied in basic research. Machine learning has been widely used for several types of data analysis, such as clustering of microarray analysis and RNA sequence analysis. Machine learning is essential for genome and multi-omics analyses. This review summarizes the recent advancements in the use of machine learning in clinical applications and basic cardiovascular research.

[Sex-specific differences in gastroenterological diseases]

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract present with substantial sex differences that have a potential impact on patient outcome. This fact is not sufficiently addressed either in basic research or in clinical studies. For example, most animal studies utilize male animals. Despite differences in incidence, sex may affect complication rates, prognosis, or therapeutic response. The incidence of gastrointestinal cancers is frequently higher in males, but this observation cannot solely rely on a distinct risk behaviour. Here, differences in immune response and p53 signalling may be factors responsible for this finding. Nevertheless, taking sex differences into account and improving our understanding of relevant mechanisms is crucial and will most likely have a substantial impact on disease outcome. This overview aims to highlight sex differences in the context of various gastroenterological diseases, primarily to enhance awareness. Attention to sex-specific differences is essential to improve individualized treatment.

A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Procedures and Analyses Used in Basic and Preclinical Studies of Resurgence, 1970-2020

Resurgence is the return of a previously reinforced response as conditions worsen for an alternative response, such as the introduction of extinction, reductions in reinforcement, or punishment. As a procedure, resurgence has been used to model behavioral treatments and understand behavioral processes contributing both to relapse of problem behavior and flexibility during problem-solving. Identifying existing procedural and analytic methods arranged in basic/preclinical research could be used by basic and preclinical researchers to develop novel approaches to study resurgence, whereas translational and clinical researchers could identify potential approaches to combating relapse during behavioral interventions. Despite the study of resurgence for over half a century, there have been no systematic reviews of the basic/preclinical research on resurgence. To characterize the procedural and analytic methods used in basic/preclinical research on resurgence, we performed a systematic review consistent with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). We identified 120 articles consisting of 200 experiments that presented novel empirical research, examined operant behavior, and included standard elements of a resurgence procedure. We reported prevalence and trends in over 60 categories, including participant characteristics (e.g., species, sample size, disability), designs (e.g., single subject, group), procedural characteristics (e.g., responses, reinforcer types, control conditions), criteria defining resurgence (e.g., single test, multiple tests, relative to control), and analytic strategies (e.g., inferential statistics, quantitative analysis, visual inspection). We make some recommendations for future basic, preclinical, and clinical research based on our findings of this expanding literature.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40614-022-00361-y.

Emerging topics on basic research in hypertension: interorgan communication and the need for interresearcher collaboration

The pathogenesis of hypertension is multifactorial and highly complex. Basic research plays critical roles in elucidating the complex pathogenesis of hypertension and developing its treatment. This review covers recent topics in basic research related to hypertension in the following six parts: brain/autonomic nervous system, kidney, vascular system, potential treatments, extracellular vesicles, and gut microbiota. The brain receives afferent nerve inputs from peripheral organs, including the heart, kidneys, and adipose tissue, and humoral inputs from circulating factors such as proinflammatory cytokines and leptin, which are involved in the regulation of central sympathetic outflow. In the kidneys, changes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling have been reported in several hypertensive models. New findings on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the kidneys have also been reported. Sirtuin 6, which participates in various cellular functions, including DNA repair, has been shown to have protective effects on the vascular system. Skin water conservation, mediated by skin vasoconstriction and the accumulation of osmolytes such as sodium, has been found to contribute to hypertension. Studies of rivaroxaban and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors as drug repositioning candidates have been performed. Extracellular vesicles have been shown to be involved in novel diagnostic approaches and treatments for hypertension as well as other diseases. In gut microbiota studies, interactions between microbiota and antihypertensive drugs and potential pathophysiology linking microbiota and COVID-19 have been reported. It can be seen that inter-organ communication has received particular attention from these recent research topics. To truly understand the pathogenesis of hypertension and to develop treatments for conquering hypertension, interresearcher communication and collaboration should be further facilitated. This mini-review focuses on recent topics on basic research in hypertension from the several points of view. The recent topics indicate that inter-organ communication has received particular attention. Interresearcher communication and collaboration should also be further facilitated to truly understand the complex pathogenesis of hypertension and to develop the treatments.

[Translational medicine research on literature theory of acupuncture and moxibustion]

The development of translational medicine is on the rise, and its advocated relationship between preclinical research and clinical application and two-way translational research mode inspire and promote us to think about solving the corresponding problems faced by acupuncture and moxibustion medicine. The theoretical research of basic research should be closely connected with the practice and application due to the characteristics of the subject, but seems to be seriously disjointed at pre-sent. Therefore, four aspects as "the relationship between acupuncture theory and clinical practice" "correctly interpreting the connotation of traditional theory of acupuncture and moxibustion" "distinguishing which is based on the practice and which is the influence of cultural concepts" and "distinguishing what are the ancient medical discoveries and inventions and what are the theoretical explanations of such discoveries and inventions" should be grasped. In addition, the importance of concept consciousness and two research levels (uncovering unrecognized or buried medical discoveries and techniques and expounding valuable medical ideas) in the transformation research should be emphasized, and the evaluation mechanism for the transformation of research achievements should be established.

Patient involvement in basic rheumatology research at Nijmegen: a three year's responsive evaluation of added value, pitfalls and conditions for success

Background

Empirical evidence for effective patient-researcher collaboration in basic research is lacking. This study aims to explore good working models and impact of patient involvement in basic rheumatology research and to identify barriers and facilitators.

Method

A responsive evaluation of a three years’ participatory research project in a basic and translational laboratory research setting. Several working models for patient involvement were piloted and adapted if considered necessary. The study comprised surveys, interviews, training days, meeting reports, Q-sort exercises and field notes, and regular reflective team sessions with participant involvement. A qualitative analysis using thematic coding focused on impact, barriers and facilitators.

Results

Thirteen patient research partners (PRPs) and fifteen basic researchers participated. PRPs experienced basic research as fascinating though complex to understand. Their initial role was mostly listening and asking questions. After several meetings equal and more meaningful relationships emerged. Researchers’ motivation increased by listening to patient stories. They learned about disease impact on daily life and to speak in understandable language. This enabled PRPs to learn about research and the pathogenesis of their disease. It inspired them to stay involved over a longer period. After three years, both parties preferred 1:1 contacts over collaboration in team meetings. A common language and respectful communication were important facilitators. Limitations were the complexity of disease processes for patients and the time commitment for researchers. Impact was reported as a sincere dialogue with multiple advantages for patients and researchers, and to a lesser extent than expected on the research process and outcomes.

Conclusion

Patient involvement contributes to motivating young scientists in performing basic research projects. Patients and researchers valued the benefits of long-term one-on-one collaboration. These benefits outweigh the lack of direct impact on basic research goals and performance.

A plain language summary of the abstract is available (as) online Additional file 1.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41927-022-00296-6.

writing committee of the report on cardiovascular health and diseases in china. Report on Cardiovascular Health and Diseases in China 2021: An Updated Summary

In 2019, cardiovascular disease (CVD) accounted for 46.74% and 44.26% of all deaths in rural and urban areas, respectively. Two out of every five deaths were due to CVD. It is estimated that about 330 million patients suffer from CVD in China. The number of patients suffering from stroke, coronary heart disease, heart failure, pulmonary heart disease, atrial fibrillation, rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart disease, lower extremity artery disease and hypertension are 13.00 million, 11.39 million, 8.90 million, 5.00 million, 4.87 million, 2.50 million, 2.00 million, 45.30 million, and 245.00 million, respectively. Given that China is challenged by the dual pressures of population aging and steady rise in the prevalence of metabolic risk factors, the burden caused by CVD will continue to increase, which has set new requirements for CVD prevention and treatment and the allocation of medical resources in China. It is important to reduce the prevalence through primary prevention, increase the allocation of medical resources for CVD emergency and critical care, and provide rehabilitation services and secondary prevention to reduce the risk of recurrence, re-hospitalization and disability in CVD survivors. The number of people suffering from hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes in China has reached hundreds of millions. Since blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood glucose levels rise mostly insidiously, vascular disease or even serious events such as myocardial infarction and stroke often already occured at the time of detection in this population. Hence, more strategies and tasks should be taken to prevent risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, obesity, and smoking, and more efforts should be made in the assessment of cardiovascular health status and the prevention, treatment, and research of early pathological changes.

"CRISPR for Disabilities: How to Self-Regulate" or Something?

The development of the CRISPR gene editing technique has been hyped as a technique that could fundamentally change scientific research and its clinical application. Unrecognized is the fact that it joins other technologies that have tried and failed under the same discourse of scientific hype. These technologies, like gene therapy and stem cell research, have moved quickly passed basic research into clinical application with dire consequences. Before hastily moving to clinical applications, it is necessary to consider basic research and determine how CRISPR/Cas systems should be applied. In the case of single gene diseases, that application is expected to have positive impacts, but as we shift to more complex diseases, the impact could be unintentionally negative. In the context of common disabilities, the level of genetic complexity may render this technology useless but potentially toxic, aggravating a social discourse that devalues those with disabilities. This paper intends to define the issues related to disability that are associated with using the CRIPSR/Cas system in basic research. It also aims to provide a decision tree to help determine whether the technology should be utilized or if alternative approaches beyond scientific research could lead to a better use of limited funding resources.

Does the Arc of Science Bend Towards Impact? Four Decades of Empirical Research Published in JADD Since the DSM-III

The present study explored the shift from understanding to intervention to population impact in the empirical research published in this journal at five points of time over 40 years since the release of DSM-III. Two-thirds of the more than 600 original studies identified involved basic research, a pattern that is consistent with previous analyses of research funding allocations and that did not change over time. One of every eight studies involved intervention research, which occurred in community-based programs only about one-quarter of the time. These gaps in intervention research and community impact did not improve over time. The findings underscore the need to broaden the training and experience of researchers, and to re-consider priorities for research funding and publication.

[Strategic thinking to improve the basic research in liver transplantation in the new era]

Liver transplantation(LT) is the "crown" of surgery and is also an important manifestation of national medical standards. In the past half century, China has made remarkable progress in LT. Currently, China is the second largest country of LT world widely and presents an international advanced level in the efficacy of LT. However, it is notable that there are still many bottlenecks to be solved in China. In the era of precision medicine and big data, the basic research of LT is largely lagging behind and unable to meet the rapid development of clinical needs. Strengthen the basic research of LT is a breakthrough strategy in rejuvenating the country through science and technology in the new era. A high-quality professional research team should be built through multi-disciplinary cooperation and superior resources gathering. Researcher's innovative thinking and strategic vision should be cultivated via the learning of new technologies (e.g., single-cell exploration and multi-omics analysis) and new courses (e.g., transplant oncology and transplant immunology). Government investment also needs to be increased to speed up the nurturing of high-level talents and get great achievements. Basic research is the driving force for China to become a leading country in LT.

Expression of Nogo-A in dorsal root ganglion in rats with cauda equina injury

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of Nogo-A in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in rats with cauda equina injury and the therapeutic effects of blocking Nogo-A and its receptor.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Fifty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into either the sham operation group (n = 24) or the cauda equina compression (CEC) control group (n = 34). Behavioral, histological, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analyses were conducted to assess the establishment of the model. The dynamic expression change of Nogo-A was evaluated using real time-qPCR. Immunofluorescence was used to evaluate the expression of Nogo-A in the DRG and cauda equina. Furthermore, 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into 4 groups, including the sham group, the CEC group, the NEP1-40 (the NgR antagonist peptide) treatment group, and the JTE-013 (the S1PR2 antagonist) treatment group. Behavioral assessments and western blotting were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of cauda equina injury via blocking Nogo-A and its receptor.

RESULTS

Tactile allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in the CEC model developed as soon as 1 day after surgery and recovered to normal at 7 days, which was followed by the downregulation of Nogo-A in DRG neurons. However, the locomotor function impairment in the CEC model showed a different prognosis from the sensory function, which was consistent with the expression change of Nogo-A in the spinal cord. Immunofluorescence results also demonstrated that Nogo A-positive/NF200-negative neurons and axons increased in the DRG and cauda equina 7 days after surgery. Surprisingly, Schwann cells, which myelinate axons in the PNS, also expressed considerable amounts of Nogo-A. Then, after blocking the Nogo-A/NgR signaling pathway by NEP1-40, significant improvement of mechanical allodynia was identified in the first 2 days after the surgery. Western blotting suggested the NEP1-40 treatment group had lower expression of cleaved caspase-3 than the CEC and JTE-013 treatment group.

CONCLUSION

Neuronal Nogo-A in the DRG may be involved in regeneration and play a protective role in the CEC model. Whereas Nogo-A, released from the injured axons or expressed by Schwann cells, may act as an inhibiting factor in the process of CEC repairment. Thus, blocking the Nogo-A/NgR signaling pathway can alleviate mechanical allodynia by apoptosis inhibition.

Recent progress in drug delivery

Drug delivery systems (DDS) are defined as methods by which drugs are delivered to desired tissues, organs, cells and subcellular organs for drug release and absorption through a variety of drug carriers. Its usual purpose to improve the pharmacological activities of therapeutic drugs and to overcome problems such as limited solubility, drug aggregation, low bioavailability, poor biodistribution, lack of selectivity, or to reduce the side effects of therapeutic drugs. During 2015-2018, significant progress in the research on drug delivery systems has been achieved along with advances in related fields, such as pharmaceutical sciences, material sciences and biomedical sciences. This review provides a concise overview of current progress in this research area through its focus on the delivery strategies, construction techniques and specific examples. It is a valuable reference for pharmaceutical scientists who want to learn more about the design of drug delivery systems.

Stem cell-based regenerative medicine for neurological disorders: A special tribute to Dr. Teng Ma

This special issue of Brain Circulation presents cutting-edge research discoveries in stem cell-based regenerative medicine. Each article highlights recent advances in the fields of neurodegeneration and regenerative medicine. The selected contributions offer the groundwork for translating stem cell therapy to the clinic for treating central nervous system disorders. This issue is dedicated to Dr. Teng Ma, who passed away on May 18, 2019. Dr. Ma devoted a significant portion of his life in advancing biomedical engineering, including the utility of 3-dimensional bioreactor and magnetic resonance imaging, as a key element of the biological and therapeutic applications of stem cells for neurological disorders. Dr. Ma's research vision is celebrated in this compilation of ten articles on stem cell-based regenerative medicine.

The impact of urinary stone disease and their treatment on patients' quality of life: a qualitative study

Urinary stone disease is a common, often recurrent disease, that can have a negative impact on patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL), often effecting working, productive members of society. The literature lacks data from structured, qualitative research which could give unique insight into patients’ HRQoL. The objective is to understand the impact of urinary stone disease and treatments on patients’ HRQoL, from patients’ and their relatives’ perspective using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Semi-structured interviews and a focus group were used to understand the HRQoL issues of patients with urinary stones disease, covering the American Urology Association index stone categories. Thematic analysis was performed (using qualitative data analysis software). Familial impact was assessed using the family-related outcome measure (FROM-16©). 62 patients with stone disease and interventions (mean age 51, range 19–92) participated. Data collection stopped when data saturation was achieved. Analysis revealed negative impact of stone disease and interventions on the patients’ HRQoL, affecting domains of pain, physical symptoms, outlook on life, work/career, change in lifestyle/diet, social life, difficulties of daily living, travel/holiday problems, relationships and family member impact (106 themes grouped under ten broad headings). Sub-group analyses revealed similar impact in either sex, ureteric and renal stone groups. Recurrent stones were associated with work/financial concerns and treatment preferences varied accordingly. Our qualitative study presents detailed insights into the multidimensional impact of urinary calculi and their treatments on various domains of the HRQoL, confirming previous findings and adding new observations. The findings are expected to help in the development of patient-centric measures and communication tools.

Progress in basic and clinical research on molecular targeted therapy for primary hepatic carcinoma

As the second most common cancer in the world, primary liver cancer has become one of the most common causes of cancer-related death in China, causing great pain and financial burden to patients and their families. Traditional treatment methods have not achieved satisfactory results so far, and people are gradually turning their attention to targeted drug therapy, which has many advantages, such as accuracy and little adverse reactions. Previous studies have shown that the introduction of targeted drug sorafenib can improve the survival of patients with primary liver cancer and open a new era of tumor targeted therapy. In recent years, molecular targeted therapy for liver cancer has become a research hotspot. A variety of new molecular targeted drugs have been found to be able to improve the prognosis of patients with advanced liver cancer. The purpose of this article is to review the progress in basic and clinical research on molecular targeted therapy for primary hepatic carcinoma.

Multimodal Treatment Strategies in Esophagogastric Junction Cancer: a Western Perspective

Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) cancer is a solid tumor entity with rapidly increasing incidence in the Western countries. Given the high proportion of advanced cancers in the West, treatment strategies routinely employed include surgery and chemotherapy perioperatively, and chemoradiation in neoadjuvant settings. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation and perioperative chemotherapy are mostly performed in esophageal cancer that extends to the EGJ and gastric as well as EGJ cancers, respectively. Recent trials have tried to combine both strategies in a perioperative context, which might have beneficial outcomes, especially in patients with EGJ cancer. However, it is difficult to recruit patients for trials, exclusively for EGJ cancers; therefore, the results have to be carefully reviewed before establishing a standard protocol. Trastuzumab was the first drug for targeted therapy that was positively evaluated for this tumor entity, and there are several ongoing trials investigating more targeted drugs in order to customize effective therapies based on tissue characteristics. The current study reviews the multimodal treatment concept for EGJ cancers in the West and summarizes the latest reports.

New horizons in bladder cancer research

The 16th Meeting of the International Bladder Cancer Network (IBCN) took place from October 11 to 13, 2018 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. As in the previous year, muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) was the main topic of the congress based upon the rapid evolution in this field over the last several years. This year´s meeting was dominated by presentations focusing on genomic subtyping in MIBC and identification of novel therapeutic targets. These topics were complemented by submissions on immunotherapy, a variety of clinical topics, and biomarker research. Based upon the presentations, it may be concluded that the IBCN increasingly serves as an interdisciplinary forum not only for the presentation of work-in-progress covering all facets of bladder cancer research, but also for catalyzing the discussion of discrepant research findings in an effort to find consensus. The 16th Meeting of the IBCN took place from October 11 to 13th, 2018 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, hosted by Ellen Zwarthoff and Joost Boormans. Approximately 120 participants gathered for another fully packed program displaying recent achievements in basic and clinical research covering the entire spectrum of bladder cancer. This year's meeting was dominated by presentations focusing on genomic subtyping and identification of novel therapeutic targets. These topics were complemented by submissions on immunotherapy, clinical topics, and biomarker research. Keynote lectures were delivered by G. Robertson (Canada) on MIBC genomics and the organizational challenges of the PanCancerAtlas project. Comprehensive information was provided on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project including the structure of the consortium and the development and validation of molecular classification of MIBC. Results from the project suggest that regulons (groups of genes controlled by a common regulator) appear to be correlated with prognosis and may replace gene expression analysis in the future. M. Thelen (Switzerland) discussed the role of chemokines in cancer metastasization reporting on his research on the atypical chemokine receptor 3. The inaugural IBCN lecture was presented by M. Ingersoll (France) discussing gender disparities in development of adaptive immunity following Bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy. In addition to the traditional "Industry meets IBCN" sessions, a format for discussion between industry representatives, researchers, and physicians in break-out groups, new formats were introduced-in the Oxford style of debate, P.J. Goebell (Germany) and W. Stadler (USA) delivered animated discussion on the appropriateness of urologists administering systemic immune checkpoint inhibitors. There was consensus that practice may differ between different health systems and countries, and educational/training background. In a second interesting discussion, D. McConkey (USA) and H. Al-Ahmadie (USA) debated if traditional histology will be replaced by molecular classification of bladder tumors. It was concluded that molecular classification offers valuable additional information but cannot yet replace traditional histology. Furthermore, the growing evidence of tumor heterogeneity in bladder cancer was discussed in a separate topic session. L. Dyrskjot discussed genomic and transcriptomic heterogeneity and their impact on clinical decision making. G. Sjödahl presented data on heterogeneity of molecular subtypes within the primary tumor and between the primary tumor and metastases, that is surprisingly limited. Y. Allory discussed spatial and temporal heterogeneity of bladder cancers particularly focusing on the basal-like phenotype. Due to the continued increase in the number of participants and abstract submissions, a poster session was implemented at this year´s meeting for the first time. Posters were briefly presented in the forum. Two travel awards were presented to H. Yamashita (USA) for his submission on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma-mediated repression of transcription factor activating protein 2 alfa expression identifying a transcriptional circuit in basal-squamous bladder cancer in a cell line model. S.B. Williams (USA) received his award for his registry-based analysis of outcome and costs in patients with localized MIBC undergoing either bladder sparing trimodal therapy or radical cystectomy. The latter was found to generate improved survival outcomes at lower costs as compared with trimodal therapy. The best presentation awards were presented to A. Kamoun (France) who discussed a consensus molecular classification for MIBC. The international demand for a consensus classification, already raised at previous meetings, has resonated with important players in this field. A potential consensus comprising 6 classes was proposed based upon a thorough analysis of the existing classifications. As an extension of the IBCN meeting a consensus conference on genomic classification of MIBC was held that included all major groups in this field. M. Garige (USA) received his award for a detailed examination of inhibitors of metabolic processes in bladder cancer cells before and after therapy. A take home message of the meeting was that the IBCN increasingly serves as an interdisciplinary forum not for the presentation of work-in-progress covering all facets of bladder cancer research, but also for catalyzing the discussion of discrepant research findings in an effort to find consensus. Exemplified may this also be by the fact that the efforts to unify the subclassification of MIBC had its nidus on the preceding meetings of the IBCN on this topic and brought together the various disciplines which ultimately were able to finalize their consensus work in a last concluding meeting directly following the IBCN. Thus, the IBCN meetings and the close cooperation of IBCN with its official journal, Urological Oncology, continue to provide a unique platform for exchange, discussing and intensifying multidimensional collaborations, thus finally satisfying the increasing need for answers regarding the management of bladder cancer patients. The 17th meeting of the IBCN will take place in Aarhus, Denmark, October 3 to 5, 2019.

3rd IBCN seminars series1

This editorial highlights submissions to part II of the 3rd IBCN Seminars Series particularly focusing on the tools required for conduction of translational research in bladder cancer. One of the submissions describe the ex vivo culture of primary tumor cells from N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced bladder tumors in rats and subsequent establishment of an immortalized cell line. In a next step the authors thoroughly characterize this cell line. They conclude that differentiation marker expression patterns observed in the original tumors are largely retained in the spheroids. Although new cancer models, such as organoid tissue cultures, hold great promise for studying cancer progression and might have a potential for development and selection of an optimal treatment, their limitations must be kept in mind. The second submission, therefore, critically questions the current role of organoid tissue culture as a predictive tool in urothelial cancer patients. The third manuscript of this series provides a broader overview of post-translational modification in bladder cancer is presented and how PTMs can be exploited as potential therapeutic targets. The 3 manuscripts featured in this issue demonstrate especially how basic research is being channeled to inform clinically actionable discoveries.

New Frontiers in Our Understanding of Lymphatic Malformations of the Head and Neck: Natural History and Basic Research

The future of head and neck lymphatic malformation (HNLM) evaluation and treatment is changing because of 2 decades of clinical research and recent basic science investigation. Basic science investigation using cellular biology and molecular genetics has revealed the genetic cause of some HNLMs, which has created the possibility of medical treatment specific to HNLM. This article summarizes the clinical and basic science research that will likely influence the future of HNLM assessment and treatment.

Sex in basic research: concepts in the cardiovascular field

Women and men, female and male animals and cells are biologically different, and acknowledgement of this fact is critical to advancing medicine. However, incorporating concepts of sex-specific analysis in basic research is largely neglected, introducing bias into translational findings, clinical concepts and drug development. Research funding agencies recently approached these issues but implementation of policy changes in the scientific community is still limited, probably due to deficits in concepts, knowledge and proper methodology. This expert review is based on the EUGenMed project (www.eugenmed.eu) developing a roadmap for implementing sex and gender in biomedical and health research. For sake of clarity and conciseness, examples are mainly taken from the cardiovascular field that may serve as a paradigm for others, since a significant amount of knowledge how sex and oestrogen determine the manifestation of many cardiovascular diseases (CVD) has been accumulated. As main concepts for implementation of sex in basic research, the study of primary cell and animals of both sexes, the study of the influence of genetic vs. hormonal factors and the analysis of sex chromosomes and sex specific statistics in genome wide association studies (GWAS) are discussed. The review also discusses methodological issues, and analyses strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in implementing sex-sensitive aspects into basic research.

Cystic fibrosis research topics featured at the 14th ECFS Basic Science Conference: Chairman's summary

In recent years, tremendous progress has been made in the development of novel drugs targeting the basic defect in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This breakthrough is based on a solid foundation of knowledge on CFTR's function in health and how mutations in CFTR cause CF multi-organ disease. This knowledge has been collected and continuously expanded by an active and persistent CF research community and has paved the way for precision medicine for CF. Since 2004, the European Cystic Fibrosis Society (ECFS) has held an annual Basic Science Conference that has evolved as an international forum for interdisciplinary discussion of hot topics and unsolved questions related to CF research. This Special Issue reviews CF research topics featured at the 14th ECFS Basic Science Conference and provides an up-to-date overview of recent progress in our understanding of CFTR structure and function, disease mechanisms implicated in airway mucus plugging, inflammation and abnormal host-pathogen interactions, and advancements with enhanced cell and animal model systems and breakthrough therapies directed at mutant CFTR or alternative targets. In addition, this Special Issue also identifies a number of fundamental questions and hurdles that still have to be overcome to realize the full potential of precision medicine and develop transformative therapies for all patients with CF.

[Advances in the research of basic study and clinical application of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells]

Since the discovery of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADSC) in more than ten years, a great progress has been made from its basic research to clinical application. Compared with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, ADSCs are more abundant in reserve, easier to obtain with fewer injuries and less complications. These cells have multiple differentiation potential and can differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes and osteoblasts with the influence of different inducing factors. Early studies of ADSCs mainly focused on the ability of multi-directional differentiation, espe-cially on the regeneration of bone defects and cartilage tissue. At present, the researches mainly focus on immunoregulation and paracrine function of ADSCs. Although ADSCs have made a great progress in clinical application, the cell preparation, use pattern, and mechanisms in clinical treatment are not clear. This paper elaborates on these issues.

Role of gender in basic cough research

Cough hypersensitivity affects mainly postmenopausal women. Pathogenesis remains unknown in their case; therefore, an optimal treatment is unavailable. Only male guinea pigs are used in basic cough research and exclusion of females leads to gender bias. Nowadays, the efforts of grant agencies aim to support projects which take gender into account and involve both sexes to reduce gender bias. The aim of our pilot study is to assess the suitability of female guinea pig model in cough research. Cough response to citric acid (0.4M) was obtained in female and male guinea pigs (n=12 each). Reproducibility of cough response was tested four times a week apart. The cough was detected from the airflow traces and cough sound analysis. Our initial results show that cough response of female guinea pigs is higher than in males. Variability of females is also higher than in males. Further investigations are necessary to validate this model in different conditions to achieve gender equality in cough studies.

[What's new in dermatological research?]

Many research studies dedicated to skin have been published in 2016 in high impact factor journals. This article summarises a selection of research works published between December 2015 and September 2016. New insights into the understanding of the mechanisms involved in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis can lead to better management of these chronic inflammatory disorders. Moreover, a better understanding of the relation between the host and the environment could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Finally, new devices first dedicated to skin inflammatory diseases have been developed with success that could be extended to other chronic inflammatory disorders.

Effect of hyaluronidase on tissue-engineered human septal cartilage

OBJECTIVES

Structural properties of tissue-engineered cartilage can be optimized by altering its collagen to sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) ratio with hyaluronidase. The objective was to determine if treatment of neocartilage constructs with hyaluronidase leads to increased collagen:sGAG ratios, as seen in native tissue, and improved tensile properties.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, basic science.

METHODS

Engineered human septal cartilage from 12 patients was treated with hyaluronidase prior to culture. Control and treated constructs were analyzed at 3, 6, or 9 weeks for their biochemical, biomechanical, and histological properties.

RESULTS

Levels of sGAG were significantly reduced in treated constructs when compared with control constructs at 3, 6, and 9 weeks. Treated constructs had higher collagen:sGAG ratios when compared with control constructs at 3, 6, and 9 weeks. Treated constructs had greater tensile strength, strain at failure, and increased stiffness as measured by the equilibrium and ramp tensile moduli when compared with the untreated control constructs. Continued time in culture improved tensile strength in both treated and control constructs.

CONCLUSION

Hyaluronidase treatment of engineered septal cartilage decreased total sGAG content without inhibiting expansive growth of the constructs. Decreased sGAG in treated constructs resulted in increased collagen to sGAG ratios and was associated with an increase in tensile strength and stiffness. With additional culture time, sGAG increased modestly in depleted constructs, and some initial gains in tensile properties were dampened. Alterations in the dosage of hyalurondiase during neocartilage fabrication can create constructs that have improved biomechanical properties for eventual surgical implantation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA. Laryngoscope, 126:1984-1989, 2016.

9th Hatter Biannual Meeting: position document on ischaemia/reperfusion injury, conditioning and the ten commandments of cardioprotection

In the 30 years since the original description of ischaemic preconditioning, understanding of the pathophysiology of ischaemia/reperfusion injury and concepts of cardioprotection have been revolutionised. In the same period of time, management of patients with coronary artery disease has also been transformed: coronary artery and valve surgery are now deemed routine with generally excellent outcomes, and the management of acute coronary syndromes has seen decade on decade reductions in cardiovascular mortality. Nonetheless, despite these improvements, cardiovascular disease and ischaemic heart disease in particular, remain the leading cause of death and a significant cause of long-term morbidity (with a concomitant increase in the incidence of heart failure) worldwide. The need for effective cardioprotective strategies has never been so pressing. However, despite unequivocal evidence of the existence of ischaemia/reperfusion in animal models providing a robust rationale for study in man, recent phase 3 clinical trials studying a variety of cardioprotective strategies in cardiac surgery and acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction have provided mixed results. The investigators meeting at the Hatter Cardiovascular Institute workshop describe the challenge of translating strong pre-clinical data into effective clinical intervention strategies in patients in whom effective medical therapy is already altering the pathophysiology of ischaemia/reperfusion injury—and lay out a clearly defined framework for future basic and clinical research to improve the chances of successful translation of strong pre-clinical interventions in man.

Clinical implications of basic research in hepatocellular carcinoma

A 58-year old Caucasian female has compensated hepatitis C related cirrhosis. Her surveillance ultrasound showed hypodense liver nodules and subsequent triple phase CT scan showed five tumor nodules with diameters ranging from 3-5cms involving both hepatic lobes. The nodules showed characteristic radiologic findings on the CT scan and she was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) based on non-invasive criteria. There was also associated right portal vein tumor thrombosis. Her functional capacity at diagnosis was slightly limited, but she was capable of performing all activities of daily living and self-care. Her laboratory tests at diagnosis were as follows: sodium 129mmol/L, potassium 3.6mmol/L, blood urea nitrogen 22mg/dL, creatinine 1.0mg/dL, albumin 2.9g/dl, bilirubin 1.8mg/dl, alanine aminotransferase 87U/L, aspartate aminotransferase 68U/L, alkaline phosphatase 139U/L, white blood cell 3.5x10(9)/L, hemoglobin 10.4, platelet count 73x10(9)/L, international normalized ratio 1.9 and alpha-fetoprotein 5200ng/ml. An upper endoscopy was negative for esophageal or gastric varices. Based on the tumor burden, presence of macrovascular invasion, ECOG performance status of 1 and Child-Pugh class A she was classified to have BCLC stage C HCC. She was started on sorafenib therapy at 400mg oral twice daily but unfortunately this had to be discontinued since she experienced severe diarrhea and skin rash. She now returns for follow-up and requests information on the available therapeutic options. This particular case scenario is not uncommon and does raise several clinically relevant questions: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of HCC management and also examines the clinical implications of recent basic research in HCC.

Cutting Edge Research in Homeopathy: HRI's second international research conference in Rome

Rome, 3rd-5th June 2015, was the setting for the Homeopathy Research Institute's (HRI) second conference with the theme 'Cutting Edge Research in Homeopathy'. Attended by over 250 delegates from 39 countries, this event provided an intense two and a half day programme of presentations and a forum for the sharing of ideas and the creation of international scientific collaborations. With 35 oral presentations from leaders in the field, the scientific calibre of the programme was high and the content diverse. This report summarises the key themes underpinning the cutting edge data presented by the speakers, including six key-note presentations, covering advancements in both basic and clinical research. Given the clear commitment of the global homeopathic community to high quality research, the resounding success of both Barcelona 2013 and Rome 2015 HRI conferences, and the dedicated support of colleagues, the HRI moves confidently forward towards the next biennial conference.

An international survey of bio-scientists

Basic scientific research generates knowledge that has intrinsic value which is independent of future applications. Basic research may also lead to practical benefits, such as a new drug or diagnostic method. Building on our previous study of basic biomedical and biological researchers at Harvard, we present findings from a new survey of similar scientists from three countries. The goal of this study was to design policies to enhance both the public health potential and the work satisfaction and test scientists' attitudes towards these factors. The present survey asked about the scientists' motivations, goals and perspectives along with their attitudes concerning  policies designed to increase both the practical (i.e. public health) benefits of basic research as well as their own personal satisfaction. Close to 900 basic investigators responded to the survey; results corroborate the main findings from the previous survey of Harvard scientists. In addition, we find that most bioscientists disfavor present policies that require a discussion of the public health potential of their proposals in grants but generally favor softer policies aimed at increasing the quality of work and the potential practical benefits of basic research. In particular, bioscientists are generally supportive of those policies entailing the organization of more meetings between scientists and the general public, the organization of more academic discussion about the role of scientists in the society, and the implementation of a "basic bibliography" for each new approved drug.

The use of plant-based bioassays in homeopathic basic research

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to evaluate homeopathic basic research studies that use plant-based bioassays. With this in view, a compilation was made of the findings of three systematic literature reviews covering plant-based bioassays in the three fields of healthy, abiotically, or biotically stressed plants. This compilation focused on investigations using advanced experimental methods and detailed descriptions, also with the aim of supporting the design of future experiments.

METHODS

Publications included had to report on studies into the effects of homeopathic preparations on whole plants, seeds, plant parts and cells. Outcomes had to be measured by established procedures and statistically evaluated. A Manuscript Information Score (MIS) was applied using predefined criteria to identify publications with sufficient information for adequate interpretation (MIS ≥ 5). Additional evaluation focused on the use of adequate controls to investigate specific effects of homeopathic preparations, and on the use of systematic negative control (SNC) experiments to ensure the stability of the bioassay. Only a fraction of the studies reported here were performed with 'ultra high' dilutions, whereas other studies were performed with moderate or high dilutions.

RESULTS

A total of 157 publications were identified, describing a total of 167 experimental studies. 84 studies included statistics and 48 had a MIS ≥ 5, thus allowing adequate interpretation. 29 studies had adequate controls to identify specific effects of homeopathic preparations, and reported significant effects of decimal and centesimal homeopathic potencies, including dilution levels beyond Avogadro's number. 10 studies reported use of SNC experiments, yielding evidence for the stability of the experimental set-up.

CONCLUSION

Plant models appear to be a useful approach for investigating basic research questions relating to homeopathic preparations, but more independent replication trials are needed in order to verify the results found in single experiments. Adequate controls and SNC experiments should be implemented on a routine basis to exclude false-positive results.

Replications of fundamental research models in ultra high dilutions 1994 and 2015--update on a bibliometric study

INTRODUCTION

This paper focuses exclusively on experimental models with ultra high dilutions (i.e. beyond 10(-23)) that have been submitted to replication scrutiny. It updates previous surveys, considers suggestions made by the research community and compares the state of replication in 1994 with that in 2015.

METHODS

Following literature research, biochemical, immunological, botanical, cell biological and zoological studies on ultra high dilutions (potencies) were included. Reports were grouped into initial studies, laboratory-internal, multicentre and external replications. Repetition could yield either comparable, or zero, or opposite results. The null-hypothesis was that test and control groups would not be distinguishable (zero effect).

RESULTS

A total of 126 studies were found. From these, 28 were initial studies. When all 98 replicative studies were considered, 70.4% (i.e. 69) reported a result comparable to that of the initial study, 20.4% (20) zero effect and 9.2% (9) an opposite result. Both for the studies until 1994 and the studies 1995-2015 the null-hypothesis (dominance of zero results) should be rejected. Furthermore, the odds of finding a comparable result are generally higher than of finding an opposite result. Although this is true for all three types of replication studies, the fraction of comparable studies diminishes from laboratory-internal (total 82.9%) to multicentre (total 75%) to external (total 48.3%), while the fraction of opposite results was 4.9%, 10.7% and 13.8%. Furthermore, it became obvious that the probability of an external replication producing comparable results is bigger for models that had already been further scrutinized by the initial researchers.

CONCLUSIONS

We found 28 experimental models which underwent replication. In total, 24 models were replicated with comparable results, 12 models with zero effect, and 6 models with opposite results. Five models were externally reproduced with comparable results. We encourage further replications of studies in order to learn more about the model systems used.

Experimental Study of the Effects of EIPA, Losartan, and BQ-123 on Electrophysiological Changes Induced by Myocardial Stretch

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Mechanical response to myocardial stretch has been explained by various mechanisms, which include Na(+)/H(+) exchanger activation by autocrine-paracrine system activity. Drug-induced changes were analyzed to investigate the role of these mechanisms in the electrophysiological responses to acute myocardial stretch.

METHODS

Multiple epicardial electrodes and mapping techniques were used to analyze changes in ventricular fibrillation induced by acute myocardial stretch in isolated perfused rabbit hearts. Four series were studied: control (n = 9); during perfusion with the angiotensin receptor blocker losartan (1 μM, n = 8); during perfusion with the endothelin A receptor blocker BQ-123 (0.1 μM, n = 9), and during perfusion with the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger inhibitor EIPA (5-[N-ethyl-N-isopropyl]-amiloride) (1 μM, n = 9).

RESULTS

EIPA attenuated the increase in the dominant frequency of stretch-induced fibrillation (control=40.4%; losartan=36% [not significant]; BQ-123=46% [not significant]; and EIPA=22% [P<.001]). During stretch, the activation maps were less complex (P<.0001) and the spectral concentration of the arrhythmia was greater (greater regularity) in the EIPA series: control=18 (3%); EIPA = 26 (9%) (P < .02); losartan=18 (5%) (not significant); and BQ-123=18 (4%) (not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

The Na(+)/H(+) exchanger inhibitor EIPA attenuated the electrophysiological effects responsible for the acceleration and increased complexity of ventricular fibrillation induced by acute myocardial stretch. The angiotensin II receptor antagonist losartan and the endothelin A receptor blocker BQ-123 did not modify these effects.

Basic Study and Clinical Implications of Left Ventricular False Tendon. Is it Associated With Innocent Murmur in Children or Heart Disease?

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Left ventricular false tendon is a structure of unknown function in cardiac physiology that was first described anatomically by Turner. This condition may be related to various electrical or functional abnormalities, but no consensus has ever been reached. The purpose of this study was to determine the time of appearance, prevalence and histologic composition of false tendon, as well as its association with innocent murmur in children and with heart disease.

METHODS

The basic research was performed by anatomic dissection of hearts from adult human cadavers to describe false tendon and its histology. The clinical research consisted of echocardiographic study in a pediatric population to identify any relationship with heart disease, innocent murmur in children, or other abnormalities. Fetal echocardiography was performed prenatally at different gestational ages.

RESULTS

False tendon was a normal finding in cardiac dissection and was composed of muscle and connective tissue fibers. In the pediatric population, false tendon was present in 83% on echocardiography and showed a statistically significant association only with innocent murmur in children and slower aortic acceleration. The presence of false tendon was first observed on fetal echocardiography from week 20 of pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Left ventricular false tendon is a normal finding visualized by fetal echocardiography from week 20 and is present until adulthood with no pathologic effects except for innocent murmur during childhood. It remains to be determined if false tendon is the cause of the murmurs or if its absence or structural anomalies are related to disease.

Assessment of the function and resistance of sternoclavicular ligaments: A biomechanical study in cadavers

BACKGROUND

Few biomechanical studies have assessed the resistance of the ligamentous structures of the sternoclavicular joint, and none have reproduced the physiological movements of the joint. Determining the structures that are injured in sternoclavicular dislocations is important for the surgical planning of acute or chronic ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

Forty-eight joints from 24 human cadavers were studied, and they were divided into 4 groups of 12 joints each (retraction, protraction, depression and elevation). Biomechanical testing assessed primary and secondary failures. The mechanical resistance parameters between movements that occurred on the same plane (depression versus elevation, protraction versus retraction) were compared.

RESULTS

The posterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most injured structure during the protraction test, but it was not injured during retraction. The anterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during retraction and depression. The costoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during elevation. Joint resistance was significantly greater during protraction movements when compared to retraction (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The anterior sternoclavicular ligament was the most affected structure during retraction and depression movements. During protraction, lesions of the posterior sternoclavicular ligament were most frequent during elevation, and the costoclavicular ligament was the most frequently injured ligament. The resistance of the sternoclavicular joint was significantly greater during protraction movement when compared to retraction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, basic science, biomechanics, cadaver model.

Geographical and temporal distribution of basic research experiments in homeopathy

The database HomBRex (Homeopathy Basic Research experiments) was established in 2002 to provide an overview of the basic research already done on homeopathy (http://www.carstens-stiftung.de/hombrex). By this means, it facilitates the exploration of the Similia Principle and the working mechanism of homeopathy. Since 2002, the total number of experiments listed has almost doubled. The current review reports the history of basic research in homeopathy as evidenced by publication dates and origin of publications. In July 2013, the database held 1868 entries. Most publications were reported from France (n = 267), followed by Germany (n = 246) and India (n = 237). In the last ten years, the number of publications from Brazil dramatically increased from n = 13 (before 2004) to n = 164 (compared to n = 251 published in France before 2004, and n = 16 between 2004 and 2013). The oldest database entry was from Germany (1832).

What is Basic Research? Insights from Historical Semantics

For some years now, the concept of basic research has been under attack. Yet although the significance of the concept is in doubt, basic research continues to be used as an analytical category in science studies. But what exactly is basic research? What is the difference between basic and applied research? This article seeks to answer these questions by applying historical semantics. I argue that the concept of basic research did not arise out of the tradition of pure science. On the contrary, this new concept emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time when scientists were being confronted with rising expectations regarding the societal utility of science. Scientists used the concept in order to try to bridge the gap between the promise of utility and the uncertainty of scientific endeavour. Only after 1945, when United States science policy shaped the notion of basic research, did the concept revert to the older ideals of pure science. This revival of the purity discourse was caused by the specific historical situation in the US at that time: the need to reform federal research policy after the Second World War, the new dimension of ethical dilemmas in science and technology during the atomic era, and the tense political climate during the Cold War.

[What's new in dermatological research?]

In 2013, news from research has clearly shown that dermatology is bound to occupy a more important place in fundamental research. Among these evidences are an increasing number of papers devoted to "Skin" in journals with the highest impact factors and the excellence of the scientific program of the International Investigative Dermatology Meeting held in May in Edinburgh. This paper outlines a selection of scientific works published between September 2012 and August 2013 or presented as communications at the IID Meeting. This selection was made based on the quality of methods used by the authors to obtain results, and on the impact of these scientific results in terms of pathophysiological and therapeutical advances.

We may not have it all together, but together we have it all. The importance of intra- and interdisciplinary collaboration

The tremendous development of knowledge, the accumulation of clinical experience, and the enriching of everyday practice with the results of basic and clinical research created the need for splitting medicine in specialities and sub-specialities. Although this evolution is inevitable in order to meet the complex needs and demands of patients, we have to be aware of the risk of neglecting the holistic approach of a person in distress. Indeed, the organ-focused and pathology-centred approach of a patient may not exempt us of the rudiments of care such as the notion that a human being is more than the sum of its parts. This involves the absolute obligation for intra and inter-disciplinary cooperation. Recently, the European leading societies in Gynaecology, the European Board Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (EBCOG), the European Society of Human reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) and the European Academy for Gynaecological Surgery (+he Academy), have established some common impressive initiatives to improve women's health care. As a result of an intensive research programme coordinated by +he Academy with a multidisciplinary team of gynaecologists and surgeons a unique structured training and certification programme in endoscopic surgery is established. This project is a fine example making the dream of multidisciplinary approach reality and achieving some most impressive results. It is without any doubt a major step forwards in the improvement of the quality -assurance in endoscopic surgery in benefit of the patients care and has been accepted by our leading European and national societies. Recently, ESGE and ESHRE developed a new classification on female genital anomalies. An evidence-based -updated new classification published in the official journal of both societies was the ended result. THIS CREATIVE, SUCCESSFUL AND UNEVENTFUL COLLABORATION UNDERLINES THE NEED FOR RESPECTING SOME CRUCIAL POINTS: to clearly outline the topic of common action, to find the working platform, to define the method and to respect -independence of each society by clarifying the borders and the responsibilities. Keeping the window of the collaboration open is crucial for keeping the window to medicine of the future unlocked.

Basic research in gastroenterology by integrated Chinese and Western medicine: a review of literature

In recent years, great achievements have been made in basic research in gastroenterology by integrated Chinese and Western medicine. In this article, we will review the recent advances in basic research in gastroenterology by integrated Chinese and Western medicine in three aspects: objectification of syndrome differentiation in Chinese medicine, application of animal models in Chinese medicine studies, and action mechanisms of Chinese medicines. Besides, we suggest that the combination of the theory and practice of Chinese medicine with modern life science technology will provide a possible avenue to develop a new gastroenterology.

Liver alveolar echinococcosis in China: Clinical aspect with relative basic research

This paper deals with all aspects of liver alveolar echin-ococcosis (AE) including epidemiology, pathology, clinical manifestations, imaging examinations, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, surgical treatment and chemotherapy. The review is not only based on personal clinical experiences but also in combination with relative basic research such as proliferation and growth of alveococcus, preclinical studies of a novel compound extracted from TCM for treatment of liver AE, and molecular immunology used for specific AE diagnosis, etc.