bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corneal tomographic changes during corneal rigid gas-permeable contact lens wear in keratoconic eyes
Authors: Koh Shizuka , Inoue Ryota , Maeda Naoyuki , Oie Yoshinori , Jhanji Vishal , Miki Atsuya , Nishida Kohji
Published: November 2020

Background/Aims

We aimed to investigate the refractive changes in the posterior corneal surface in keratoconus (KC) associated with wearing spherical corneal rigid gas-permeable contact lenses (corneal GPs) with apical touch or three-point touch fitting and the effect of spherical corneal GPs on corneal biomechanics.

Methods

Patients with KC wearing corneal GPs every day without facing complications were enrolled as a single group. Corneal tomographic data were obtained using a three-dimensional anterior segment optical coherence tomography from the same eye with and without corneal GPs. Dioptric data from the central 3-mm zone of the posterior corneal surface were decomposed into spherical, regular astigmatism, asymmetry and higher-order irregularity components using Fourier harmonic analysis. The corneal biomechanical indices were deformation amplitude ratio within 2 mm, integrated radius, stiffness parameter at first applanation and linear Corvis Biomechanical Index. Correlations between the difference in Fourier indices with and without corneal GPs and the corneal biomechanical parameters were analysed.

Results

Thirty-two eyes of 32 patients with KC were enrolled. Spherical, regular astigmatism and asymmetry components were significantly smaller with corneal GP wear than without the wear (all p<0.001). All biomechanical indices were significantly correlated with the difference in the spherical components with and without corneal GPs.

Conclusion

Corneal biomechanical properties of KC were correlated with posterior corneal surface flattening induced by wearing corneal GPs on the spherical components. This effect is greater in biomechanically weaker corneas.
Geographical disparities in the prognosis of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy: a large institution-based cohort study from an endemic area
Authors: Lin Si-Ting , Meng Dong-Fang , Yang Qi , Wang Wei , Peng Li-Xia , Zheng Li-Sheng , Qiang Yuan-Yuan , Mei Yan , Xu Liang , Li Chang-Zhi , Peng Xing-Si , Hu Hao , Lang Yan-Hong , Liu Zhi-Jie , Wang Ming-Dian , Li Hai-Feng , Huang Bi-Jun , Qian Chao-Nan , Sun Rui
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Geographical disparities have been identified as a specific barrier to cancer screening and a cause of worse outcomes for patients with cancer. In the present study, our aim was to assess the influence of geographical disparities on the survival outcomes of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Guangzhou, China.

Participants

A total of 1002 adult patients with NPC (724 males and 278 females) who were classified by area of residence (rural or urban) received IMRT from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2014, at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center. Following propensity score matching (PSM), 812 patients remained in the analysis.

Main outcome measures

We used PSM to reduce the bias of variables associated with treatment effects and outcome prediction. Survival outcomes were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by the log-rank test. Multivariate Cox regression was used to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results

In the matched cohort, 812 patients remained in the analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the rural group was significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS, p<0.001), disease-free survival (DFS, p<0.001), locoregional relapse-free survival (LRRFS, p=0.003) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS, p<0.001). Multivariate Cox regression showed worse OS (HR=3.126; 95% CI 1.902 to 5.138; p<0.001), DFS (HR=2.579; 95% CI 1.815 to 3.665; p<0.001), LRRFS (HR=2.742; 95% CI 1.359 to 5.533; p=0.005) and DMFS (HR=2.461; 95% CI 1.574 to 3.850; p<0.001) for patients residing in rural areas.

Conclusions

The survival outcomes of patients with NPC who received the same standardised treatment were significantly better in urban regions than in rural regions. By analysing the geographic disparities in outcomes for NPC, we can guide the formulation of healthcare policies.
Prevalence and predictors of gestational diabetes mellitus in rural Assam: a cross-sectional study using mobile medical units
Authors: Chanda Subrata , Dogra Vishal , Hazarika Najeeb , Bambrah Hardeep , Sudke Ajit Kisanrao , Vig Anupa , Hegde Shailendra Kumar
Published: November 2020

Objective

To determine the prevalence and predictors of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in rural Assam, India using a network of Mobile Medical Units.

Study design

A field-based cross-sectional study.

Settings

Rural areas of Assam state, India.

Participants

A total of 1410 pregnant women in gestational age of 24–28 weeks

Intervention

Identification of pregnant women in 24–28 weeks of pregnancy from villages and administering them Government of India recommended oral glucose tolerance test for GDM confirmation.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Presence of gestational diabetes among pregnant women, risk factors and predictors of GDM.

Results

A total of 1212 pregnant women underwent the oral glucose tolerance test. One hundred and ninety-eight women were ineligible due to existing chronic diseases or very high blood glucose level before the test. The overall GDM prevalence in Assam was 16.67% (95% CI 14.61% to 18.89%). Women aged 26–30 years (adjusted odds ratio, aOR 1.70; CI 1.14 to 2.52), who passed 10th class (aOR 1.58; CI 1.05 to 2.37), belonging to Muslim religion (aOR 1.52; 95% CI 1.05 to 2.21) and above poverty line (aOR 1.38; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.91) had significantly increased likelihood of developing GDM compared with respective baseline groups (p<0.05). Body mass index, gravida and being non-anaemic were non-significant risk factors for GDM. Family history of diabetes (aOR 1.82; 95% CI 1.08 to 3.06) and smoking (aOR 1.61; 95% CI 1.10 to 2.35) were significant and independent predictors of GDM.

Conclusion

The prevalence of GDM in rural Assam is high. The mobile medical units may play a significant role in the implementation of GDM screening, diagnosis, treatment to ensure better maternal and foetal health outcomes in rural Assam.
Use of technology in supporting goal setting in rehabilitation for adults: a scoping review
Authors: Strubbia Carla , Levack William Mark Magnus , Grainger Rebecca , Takahashi Kayoko , Tomori Kounosuke
Published: November 2020

Objective

To map the extant literature evaluating the use of technology for goal setting in adult rehabilitation and the impact of technology for patient outcomes.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

MEDLINE (via Ovid), CINAHL (via EBSCO), AMED and Scopus were searched for articles describing observational or interventional studies. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database were searched for grey literature. Two review authors independently screened all titles and abstracts for potentially relevant articles. We included articles describing studies that had evaluated the development or application of technology to facilitate goal setting in rehabilitation for adults. Articles were excluded if the technology described did not include features to facilitate goal setting or were not in English. Narrative reviews, opinion pieces and editorials were also excluded.

Results

After screening 1640 publications of potential interest, we identified 27 studies for inclusion. These 27 articles described studies involving a total of 16 different technologies including, seven mobile apps, three websites, two mobile apps/website hybrids, two apps and two websites connected to a pedometer. We found that most technologies described were designed to facilitate self-management with goal setting as a feature and that only five included a shared decision moment around goal setting. Only six of the 16 technologies had research providing evidence of effectiveness in terms of improved patient outcomes, with the best evidence of beneficial effects associated with technologies that linked goal setting to pedometer use.

Conclusions

The identified technologies for use in adult rehabilitation that included goal setting as a feature were largely accepted and valued by patients and health professionals. The limited data suggest that there is a need for further research; specific foci may include the impact of incorporation of a shared decision-making moment and evaluation of effectiveness on patient outcomes.
Treating sleep problems in young people at ultra-high-risk of psychosis: study protocol for a single-blind parallel group randomised controlled feasibility trial (SleepWell)
Authors: Waite Felicity , Kabir Thomas , Johns Louise , Mollison Jill , Tsiachristas Apostolos , Petit Ariane , Černis Emma , Maughan Daniel , Freeman Daniel
Published: November 2020

Background

Effective interventions, targeting key contributory causal factors, are needed to prevent the emergence of severe mental health problems in young people. Insomnia is a common clinical issue that is problematic in its own right but that also leads to the development and persistence of psychotic experiences. The implication is that treating sleep problems may prevent the onset of psychosis. We collected initial case series data with 12 young people at ultra-high-risk of psychosis. Post-intervention, there were improvements in sleep, depression and psychotic experiences. Now we test the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial, with a clinical aim to treat sleep problems and hence reduce depression, psychotic experiences, and prevent transition to psychosis.

Methods and analysis

A randomised controlled feasibility trial will be conducted. Forty patients aged 14 to 25 years who are at ultra-high-risk of psychosis and have sleep disturbance will be recruited from National Health Service (NHS) mental health services. Participants will be randomised to receive either a novel, targeted, youth-focussed sleep intervention in addition to usual care or usual care alone. Assessor-blinded assessments will be conducted at baseline, 3 months (post-intervention) and 9 months (follow-up). The eight-session psychological intervention will target the key mechanisms which disrupt sleep: circadian rhythm irregularities, low sleep pressure, and hyperarousal. To gain an in-depth understanding of participants’ views on the acceptability of the intervention and study procedures, 16 participants (n=10 intervention, n=6 control) will take part in qualitative interviews. Analyses will focus on feasibility outcomes (recruitment, retention, and treatment uptake rates) and provide initial CI estimates of intervention effects. Thematic analysis of the qualitative interviews will assess the acceptability of the intervention and trial procedures.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has received ethical approval from the NHS Health Research Authority. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and lay networks.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN85601537.
Injury surveillance in elite field hockey: a pilot study of three different recording techniques
Authors: Levi Anna , Theilen Till-Martin , Rolle Udo
Published: November 2020

Objective

In field hockey, injuries are assessed by various recording techniques leading to a heterogenic collection of poorly comparable injury data.

Methods

Injury data were prospectively collected at the 2016 Men’s Hockey Junior World Cup using the match injury reports (MIRs), video injury clips provided by the Fédération Internationale de Hockey, and daily medical reports (DMRs). A pilot study comparing injury type, mechanism, location on the field, injured body part and overall injury incidence among the different injury recording techniques was performed.

Results

MIRs and video injury clips were completely available for analysis. DMRs were returned from 11 out of 16 teams (69%). In total, MIRs yielded 28, video analysis 36, and DMRs 56 injuries. Overall injury rate varied between 24.8 and 57.9 injuries per 1000 player match hours. The majority of injuries affected the lower limbs by all three methods (41.7–61.2%) and were mainly caused by having been hit by the ball (20.4–50%) or stick (11.1–28.6%). Reports of concussions during competition were incoherent between MIR (2 cases) and DMR (no cases). The DMR was the only method to record overuse injuries (16.1%), injuries in training (12.5%), and time-loss injuries of one or two days (12.5%) or of three or more days (14.3%).

Conclusion

Injury data vary substantially between the MIR, DMR and injury video recording technique. Each recording technique revealed specific strengths and limitations. To further advance injury research in field hockey, the strengths of each recording technique should be brought together for a synergistic injury assessment model.
Piecemeal cold snare polypectomy versus conventional endoscopic mucosal resection for large sessile serrated lesions: a retrospective comparison across two successive periods
Authors: van Hattem W Arnout , Shahidi Neal , Vosko Sergei , Hartley Imogen , Britto Kaushali , Sidhu Mayenaaz , Bar-Yishay Iddo , Schoeman Scott , Tate David James , Byth Karen , Hewett David G , Pellisé María , Hourigan Luke F , Moss Alan , Tutticci Nicholas , Bourke Michael J
Published: November 2020

Objective

Large (≥20 mm) sessile serrated lesions (L-SSL) are premalignant lesions that require endoscopic removal. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is the existing standard of care but carries some risk of adverse events including clinically significant post-EMR bleeding and deep mural injury (DMI). The respective risk-effectiveness ratio of piecemeal cold snare polypectomy (p-CSP) in L-SSL management is not fully known.

Design

Consecutive patients referred for L-SSL management were treated by p-CSP from April 2016 to January 2020 or by conventional EMR in the preceding period between July 2008 and March 2016 at four Australian tertiary centres. Surveillance colonoscopies were conducted at 6 months (SC1) and 18 months (SC2). Outcomes on technical success, adverse events and recurrence were documented prospectively and then compared retrospectively between the subsequent time periods.

Results

A total of 562 L-SSL in 474 patients were evaluated of which 156 L-SSL in 121 patients were treated by p-CSP and 406 L-SSL in 353 patients by EMR. Technical success was equal in both periods (100.0% (n=156) vs 99.0% (n=402)). No adverse events occurred in p-CSP, whereas delayed bleeding and DMI were encountered in 5.1% (n=18) and 3.4% (n=12) of L-SSL treated by EMR, respectively. Recurrence rates following p-CSP were similar to EMR at 4.3% (n=4) versus 4.6% (n=14) and 2.0% (n=1) versus 1.2% (n=3) for surveillance colonoscopy (SC)1 and SC2, respectively.

Conclusions

In a historical comparison on the endoscopic management of L-SSL, p-CSP is technically equally efficacious to EMR but virtually eliminates the risk of delayed bleeding and perforation. p-CSP should therefore be considered as the new standard of care for L-SSL treatment.
Adolescent mental health, COVID-19, and the value of school-community partnerships
Authors: Hertz Marci F , Barrios Lisa Cohen
Published: November 2020

Newly released 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System data and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC)’2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary and Trends Report show that US adolescents continue to suffer from poor mental health and suicidality at alarming rates. These data alone would be cause for concern, but the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to further erode adolescent mental health, particularly for those whose mental health was poor prior to the pandemic. Given the status of adolescent mental health prior to COVID-19 and the impact of COVID-19, health professionals and schools must partner together now to mitigate potentially deleterious health, mental health and education impacts for children and adolescents.
Inhibition of G-protein signalling in cardiac dysfunction of intellectual developmental disorder with cardiac arrhythmia (IDDCA) syndrome
Authors: De Nittis Pasquelena , Efthymiou Stephanie , Sarre Alexandre , Guex Nicolas , Chrast Jacqueline , Putoux Audrey , Sultan Tipu , Raza Alvi Javeria , ur Rahman Zia , Zafar Faisal , Rana Nuzhat , Rahman Fatima , Anwar Najwa , Maqbool Shazia , Zaki Maha S , Gleeson Joseph G , Murphy David , Galehdari Hamid , Shariati Gholamreza , Mazaheri Neda , Sedaghat Alireza ,   SYNAPS Study Group, Lesca Gaetan , Chatron Nicolas , Salpietro Vincenzo , Christoforou Marilena , Houlden Henry , Simonds William F , Pedrazzini Thierry , Maroofian Reza , Reymond Alexandre
Published: November 2020

Background

Pathogenic variants ofGNB5encoding the β5subunit of the guanine nucleotide-binding protein cause IDDCA syndrome, an autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder associated with cognitive disability and cardiac arrhythmia, particularly severe bradycardia.

Methods

We used echocardiography and telemetric ECG recordings to investigate consequences ofGnb5loss in mouse.

Results

We delineated a key role ofGnb5in heart sinus conduction and showed thatGnb5-inhibitory signalling is essential for parasympathetic control of heart rate (HR) and maintenance of the sympathovagal balance.Gnb5−/−mice were smaller and had a smaller heart thanGnb5+/+andGnb5+/−, but exhibited better cardiac function. Lower autonomic nervous system modulation through diminished parasympathetic control and greater sympathetic regulation resulted in a higher baseline HR inGnb5−/−mice. In contrast,Gnb5−/−mice exhibited profound bradycardia on treatment with carbachol, while sympathetic modulation of the cardiac stimulation was not altered. Concordantly, transcriptome study pinpointed altered expression of genes involved in cardiac muscle contractility in atria and ventricles of knocked-out mice. HomozygousGnb5loss resulted in significantly higher frequencies of sinus arrhythmias. Moreover, we described 13 affected individuals, increasing the IDDCA cohort to 44 patients.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that loss of negative regulation of the inhibitory G-protein signalling causes HR perturbations inGnb5−/−mice, an effect mainly driven by impaired parasympathetic activity. We anticipate that unravelling the mechanism ofGnb5signalling in the autonomic control of the heart will pave the way for future drug screening.
Fine-tuning the impairment argument
Authors: Blackshaw Bruce Philip , Hendricks Perry
Published: November 2020

Perry Hendricks’ original impairment argument for the immorality of abortion is based on the impairment principle: if impairing an organism to some degree is immoral, thenceteris paribus, impairing it to a higher degree is also immoral. Since abortion impairs a fetus to a higher degree than fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and giving a fetus FAS is immoral, it follows that abortion is immoral. Critics have argued that theceteris paribusis not met for FAS and abortion, and so we proposed the modified impairment principle (MIP) to avoid these difficulties. Dustin Crummett has responded, arguing that MIP is open to various counterexamples which show it to be false. He also shows that MIP can generate moral dilemmas. Here, we propose a modification to MIP that resolves the issues Crummett raises. Additionally, Alex Gillham has criticised our appropriation of Don Marquis’ ‘future like ours’ reasoning about the wrongness of impairment. We show that his objections have minimal implications for our argument.
Pump, person and Parfit: why the constitutive heart matters
Authors: McIntyre Hugh Farrell
Published: November 2020

The historical view of the heart as a source and repository of characteristics of individual persons remains prevalent in speech and literature. A more recent scientific view regards the heart as just a replaceable mechanical device, supporting a hydraulic system (the pump-view). To accept the pump-view is to reduce the historical view of the heart, and reference to it, to metaphor. To address whether this conclusion is justified, this paper investigates what constitutes an individual person over time and whether the heart has any role in that constitution. While some physical continuity may be necessary, most philosophers agree that our ‘personal identity’ is conferred through the persistence of ‘psychological’ characteristics predominantly through memory. Memory is constituted through the interplay of external and internal sensory experience—to which the heart is a major contributor. On scientific grounds alone this sensory role for the heart makes the pump-view incomplete. If our persistence as a person reflects the totality of experience codified through memory, and the heart is a central source of the internal component of that experience, then the pump-view is also misleading since the heart plays some constitutive role. More widely, if what fundamentally matters for our survival as persons is just psychological continuity, then the pump-view is irrelevant. While a ‘supportive heart’ may be necessary for continued embodiment, it is on the constitutive role of the heart, as part of a unique internal experience, that our individuation as persons depends.
Neoureterocystostomy for the management of a ureteral‐uterine stump fistula as a complication post ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Coghill Fiona Jane , Tipler Abbie , Moses Philip
Published: November 2020

An adult female dachshund presented with urinary incontinence and chronic intermittent urinary tract infections present since time of ovariohysterectomy two years prior. Ultrasonic examination and CT imaging diagnosed unilateral hydronephrosis, hydroureter and suspected communication between the right ureter and the uterine stump. There was no detectable renal dysfunction on serum biochemistry and urinalysis. A neoureterocystostomy was performed using an intravesical technique. The dog was discharged 48 hours postoperatively with complete resolution of clinical signs.
Proca tubes with the flux of the longitudinal chromoelectric field and the energy flux/momentum density
Authors: Dzhunushaliev Vladimir , Folomeev Vladimir
Published: November 2020

We consider non-Abelian SU(3) Proca theory with a Higgs scalar field included. Cylindrically symmetric solutions describing classical tubes either with the flux of a longitudinal electric field or with the energy flux (and hence with nonzero momentum density) are obtained. It is shown that, in quantum Proca theory, there can exist tubes both with the flux of the longitudinal electric field and with the energy flux/momentum density simultaneously. An imaginary particle – Proca proton – in which ‘quarks’ are connected by tubes with nonzero momentum density is considered. It is shown that this results in the appearance of the angular momentum related to the presence of the non-Abelian electric and magnetic fields in the tube, and this angular momentum is a part of the Proca proton spin.
Putting People Down and Pushing Them Out: Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Authors: Cortina Lilia M. , Areguin Maira A.
Published: November 2020

Sexual harassment was once conceptualized solely as a sexual problem: coercive sexual advances that spring from natural feelings of sexual desire or romance. Research has since shown that by far the most common manifestation of sexual harassment is gender harassment, which has contempt at its core; this conduct aims to put people down and push them out, not pull them into sexual activity. With findings such as these, we have made many strides in the scientific study of sexual harassment. That body of scholarship is the focus of this article, which is organized around the following questions: What is sexual harassment, both behaviorally and legally? How common is this conduct in work organizations, and what are its consequences? What features of the social/organizational context raise the risk for sexual harassment? What are some promising (and not-so-promising) solutions to this pervasive problem? And finally, what are important directions for this area of research moving forward?
Compression Characteristics and Constitutive Model of Low‐Exotherm Modified Polyurethane Grouting Materials
Authors: Xu Shengjie , Wang Shuangjie , Zhong Yanhui , Zhang Bei , Zhang Juan , Wang Yanjun , Zhao Liguo
Published: November 2020

In permafrost regions, ordinary polyurethane grouting materials are not suitable for the repair and reinforcement of road engineering due to the release of a large amount of heat during the reaction process. In this study, the polyurethane grouting material is modified by changing the catalyst, blowing agent, and reaction scheme to reduce the heat released during the reaction. The stress‐strain curves of low‐exotherm polyurethane grouting material specimens possessing various densities are investigated by means of unconfined uniaxial compression experiments, and the stress‐strain relationships and failure mode of low‐ and high‐density specimens are analysed. The characteristics of three stages in the compression process of the materials, namely, the elasticity stage, platform stage, and densification stage, are studied. The compressive strength increases with the increase in density, and the brittle failure of materials with higher density is more obvious. From the microscopic point of view, combined with the experimental results, the constitutive model of low‐exotherm modified polyurethane grouting material was established. The established model is in good agreement with the experimentally measured stress‐strain curves and effectively predicted the stress‐strain characteristics for a specimen possessing a different density.
Extended Gumbel Type-2 Distribution: Properties and Applications
Authors: Ogunde A. A. , Fayose S. T. , Ajayi B. , Omosigho D. O.
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we proposed a new four-parameter Extended Gumbel type-2 distribution which can further be split into the Lehman type I and type II Gumbel type-2 distribution by using a generalized exponentiatedGdistribution. The distributional properties of the proposed distribution have been studied. We derive thepth moment; thus, we generalize some results in the literature. Expressions for the density, moment-generating function, andrth moment of the order statistics are also obtained. We discuss estimation of the parameters by maximum likelihood and provide the information matrix of the developed distribution. Two life data, which consist of data on cancer remission times and survival times of pigs, were used to show the applicability of the Extended Gumbel type-2 distribution in modelling real life data, and we found out that the new model is more flexible than its submodels.
An Effective Computational Algorithm for the Global Solution of a Class of Linear Fractional Programming
Authors: Huang XiaoLi , Gao YueLin , Zhang Bo , Liu Xia
Published: November 2020

For the minimization of the sum of linear fractions on polyhedra, it is likewise a class of linear fractional programming (LFP). In this paper, we mainly propose a new linear relaxation technique and combine the branch-and-bound algorithm framework to solve the LFP globally. It is worthwhile to mention that the branching operation of the algorithm occurs in the relatively small output space of the dimension rather than the space where the decision variable is located. When the number of linear fractions in the objective function is much lower than the dimension of the decision variable, the performance of the algorithm is better. After that, we also explain the effectiveness, feasibility, and other performances of the algorithm through numerical experiments.
GC-FID and Olfactometry-Assisted Assessment of Odors from Polymeric Foams under Normal and Repeated-Use Conditions
Authors: Capíková Alena , Tesařová Daniela , Hlavaty Josef , Ekielski Adam , Mishra Pawan Kumar
Published: November 2020

Polymeric foams are the primary components of upholstered furniture, and their emissions play a decisive role in the acceptability of the final furniture product. This study is focused on passive emissions and odors from commercial foams under normal and repeated-use conditions. Six different types of foams, viz., highly elastic foam K5040, standard PU foam N5063, bonded polyurethane foam R100, viscoelastic foam V5020, self-extinguishing foam KF5560, and foam rubber, were used. The samples were collected at the intervals of 72 hours and 672 hours (28 days) to identify the odors due to chemical reactions in the material or slowly released due to its porous structure. Additionally, repeated-use studies were done to understand the effect of prolonged usage/natural ageing on emitted odors from the foams. The samples were tested as per ČSN EN 13 725 (2005) and ISO 16000-6 (2011) criteria using GC-FID (gas chromatography-flame ionization detector) and olfactometry. The most unpleasant substance was found to be nonanal, with an average score of -4 (unpleasant). A total of 23 compounds were identified (5 unidentified) using olfactometry; however, only 11 of them were confirmed by GC-FID-based testing. Any new compound or increase in odor intensity was not observed in long-term measurements and simulated repeated-use conditions.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Heart Failure with Midrange and Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Focus on Serum Biomarkers of Fibrosis
Authors: Lebedev D. A. , Lyasnikova E. A. , Vasilyeva E. Yu , Babenko A. Yu , Shlyakhto E. V.
Published: November 2020

As myocardial fibrosis might be an important contributor to the association of diabetes mellitus with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and chronic heart failure (HF), we investigated the profile of some proinflammatory, profibrotic biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at various stages of the cardiovascular disease continuum from absence of clinic since and symptoms to HF with preserved (HFpEF) and midrange ejection fraction (HFmrEF). Material and Methods. Sixty-two patients with T2DM (age 60 [55; 61]), 20 patients without clinical manifestations of HF and 2 groups with clinical manifestations of stable HF, 29 patients with HFpEF, and 13 patients with HFmrEF, were included in the study. The control group consisted of 13 healthy subjects and normal BMI. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography, laboratory assessment of N-terminal fragment of the brain natriuretic peptide (Nt-proBNP), highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 (sST2), galectin-3, C-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I (PICP), N-terminal propeptide of procollagen type III (PIIINP), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and tissue inhibitor of matrix proteinase-1 (TIMP-1). Results. Patients with HFmrEF had higher values of LV volumetric parameters, indexed parameters of LV myocardial mass (LVMM), and higher concentrations of Nt-proBNP (all

p
<
0.05

). The concentrations of galectin-3 were greater in patients with HFpEF and HFmrEF compared to patients without HF (

p
=
0.01

and

p
=
0.03

, respectively). PICP and PICP/PIIINP ratio were greater in patients with HFmrEF compared to patients with HFpEF (

p
=
0.043

and

p
=
0.033

, respectively). In patients with T2DM and HF, a relationship was found between galectin-3 and LVMM/body surface area (

r
=
−
0.58

,

p
=
0.001

), PIIINP, TIMP-1, and LV end-diastolic volume (

r
=
−
0.68

and

p
=
0.042

and

r
=
0.38

and

p
=
0.02

, respectively). Conclusion. The dynamics at various stages of the cardiovascular disease continuum in the serum fibrosis markers may reflect an increase in fibrotic and decrease in antifibrotic processes already at the preclinical stage of HF. At the same time, the changes found in the circulating procollagen levels may indicate a shift in balance towards type I collagen synthesis in HFmrEF compared with HFpEF.
Safety Evaluation of High Concrete‐Faced Rockfill Dam Based on Site‐Related Response Spectrum Using Scenario Earthquake
Authors: Zhu Kai-bin , Li Hong-jun , Wang Xiao-gang , Liu Xiao-sheng , Zhao Jian-ming
Published: November 2020

To clarify how to arrive at earthquake ground motion parameters for use in evaluating the high rockfill dams during seismic loading conditions, as well as to evaluate reasonably the seismic response of dams subjected to strong earthquake, the differences of design response spectra determined by scenario earthquake and uniform hazard spectra theory are investigated in detail. Coupled with the safety evaluation of the Houziyan concrete‐faced rockfill dam (CFRD) with a height of 200 m located in meizoseismal regions, comprehensive comparisons of key safety evaluation indices are performed using input motions determined from the abovementioned two design response spectra. The key safety evaluation indices include dynamic response acceleration, permanent deformation, safety of the impervious body, safety factor, and sliding displacement of the potential failure sliding body. Additionally, the ultimate seismic capability of the high CFRD is discussed based on the two response spectra. More considerable results can be achieved and offered to the engineers for the seismic design. It is obvious that the uniform hazard spectra, which are used to adopt in the safety evaluation of high CFRD, typically result in conservative evaluations and unnecessary economic cost for seismic design and reinforcements.
The Influence of Long-Term and Short-Term Institutional Investors on Complicated Mispricing of Stocks
Authors: Liu Bing
Published: November 2020

Taking Chinese listed companies from 2009 to 2017 as the research objects, this paper aims at exploring the heterogeneous effect of short-term and long-term institutional investors on stock mispricing. The empirical study finds that long-term institutional investors have an inhibiting effect on stock mispricing, while short-term institutional investors have an opposite effect. When the company information opacity is high, long-term institutional investors have a more obvious inhibiting effect on stock mispricing while short-term institutional investors have a more obvious promoting effect on stock mispricing. When the attention of analysts is enhanced, long-term institutional investors further restrain the stock mispricing while short-term institutional investors further promote the stock mispricing.
So-Ochim-Tang-Gamibang, a Traditional Herbal Formula, Ameliorates Depression by Regulating Hyperactive Glucocorticoid Signaling In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Jin Mirim , Park Sun Young , Choi Hye Jin , Shin Younmin , Chun Eunho , Jung In Chul , Choi Jeong June
Published: November 2020

So-ochim-tang-gamibang (SOCG) is a Korean traditional medicine; it has previously been shown to be safe and effective against depression. Persistently increased levels of circulating glucocorticoids have been considered as a pathological mechanism for depression and associated with decreased neurotrophic factors in the hippocampus. This study investigated whether SOCG controls the hyperactivity of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis and the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects in vivo and in vitro. Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were subjected to restraint stress, where SOCG was orally administered to the animals for 2 weeks. An open field test (OFT), forced swimming test (FST), and sucrose preference test (SPT) were performed to explore the antidepressant activity of SOCG in WKY rats. Plasma levels of HPA axis hormones were measured by ELISA or western blotting analysis. The expression levels or activation of HPA axis‐related signaling molecules such as brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB), extracellular regulated kinase (ERK), and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) in the brain were determined by real‐time PCR and western blotting analysis. Furthermore, a corticosterone‐ (CORT‐) induced cell injury model was established using SH‐SY5Y cells to explore the antidepressive effects of SOCG in vitro. The results of the OFT, FST, and SPT revealed that SOCG ameliorated depressive‐like behaviors in the WKY rats. The blood plasma levels of HPA axis hormones such as CORT, CORT‐releasing hormone (CRH), and adrenocorticotrophic hormone were downregulated by SOCG. On the other hand, SOCG upregulated the phosphorylation of CREB and ERK in both the rat hippocampus and CORT‐treated SH‐SY5Y cells. Moreover, it also increased the GR expression. These results suggested that SOCG may improve depression by controlling hyperactive glucocorticoid signaling via the downregulation of HPA axis hormones and upregulation of GR.
Depth Migration Based on Two-Way Wave Equation to Image OBS Multiples: A Case Study in the South Shetland Margin (Antarctica)
Authors: Song Sha , You Jiachun , Cao Qing , Chen Bin , Cao Xiaomeng
Published: November 2020

With the development of marine seismic exploration, the ocean bottom seismometer (OBS) as a new seismic acquisition technology has been widely concerned. Although multiple waves are frequently viewed as noises, they may carry a wealth of subsurface information and produce a broader illumination than primary waves. To perform multiple wave imaging, we propose to utilize a two-way wave equation depth wavefield extrapolation method which is rarely used in this field. A simple dipping model is imaged by using primary and multiple waves, which proves the superiority of multiple waves in imaging over the primary waves and lays a foundation for practical application. Moreover, the comparison of multiple imaging results by reverse time migration and those by our proposed method demonstrates that our proposed method requires less storage space. In this study, we apply this migration method to actual OBS data collected in the South Shetland margin (Antarctica), where gas hydrates have been well documented. Firstly, the wavefield separation method is adopted to process the OBS data, so as to produce reliable primary and multiples waves; secondly, the ray-tracing method is used to derive the velocity field; and finally, the depth wavefield extrapolation method based on the two-way wave equation is applied to image primary and multiple waves. Migration results show that multiple waves provide a broader illumination and a clearer sediment structure than primary waves, especially for the highly shallow reflections.
Autophagy and Redox Homeostasis in Parkinson’s: A Crucial Balancing Act
Authors: Jimenez-Moreno Natalia , Lane Jon D.
Published: November 2020

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are generated primarily from endogenous biochemical reactions in mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and peroxisomes. Typically, ROS/RNS correlate with oxidative damage and cell death; however, free radicals are also crucial for normal cellular functions, including supporting neuronal homeostasis. ROS/RNS levels influence and are influenced by antioxidant systems, including the catabolic autophagy pathways. Autophagy is an intracellular lysosomal degradation process by which invasive, damaged, or redundant cytoplasmic components, including microorganisms and defunct organelles, are removed to maintain cellular homeostasis. This process is particularly important in neurons that are required to cope with prolonged and sustained operational stress. Consequently, autophagy is a primary line of protection against neurodegenerative diseases. Parkinson’s is caused by the loss of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDANs), resulting in progressive disruption of the nigrostriatal pathway, leading to motor, behavioural, and cognitive impairments. Mitochondrial dysfunction, with associated increases in oxidative stress, and declining proteostasis control, are key contributors during mDAN demise in Parkinson’s. In this review, we analyse the crosstalk between autophagy and redoxtasis, including the molecular mechanisms involved and the detrimental effect of an imbalance in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s.
Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture against Chemotherapy‐Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Jin Yuxia , Wang Yunxia , Zhang Jiayuan , Xiao Xiao , Zhang Qi
Published: November 2020

Objective. To determine the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy. The review has been registered on the “PROSPERO” website; the registration number is CRD42020151654. Methods. A comprehensive literature search was performed on 7 electronic databases from the time of inception to March 2020. RCTs studies on acupuncture for CIPN compared with medication or sham acupuncture were included. Statistical analysis was carried out using RevMan 5.3. Results. In total, 19 RCTs covering 1174 patients were enrolled. The results showed that acupuncture significantly increased the effective rate of CIPN compared with medicine and sham acupuncture. And acupuncture had a good effect on the recovery of nerve conduction velocity and improving pain. Among the acupoints involved in the treatment of CIPN, LI4, LI11, ST36, EX10 (Bafeng), and EX‐UE 9 (Baxie) were the most commonly used. Conclusion. The use of acupuncture in the management of CIPN is safe and effective. The most used acupoints for CIPN are LI4, LI11, ST36, EX10 (Bafeng), and EX‐UE 9 (Baxie).
Improving Obstetric Provider Congenital Cytomegalovirus Knowledge and Practices
Authors: Pesch Megan H. , Anderson Carter , Mowers Erika
Published: November 2020

Background. Congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) is the most common congenital infection. Antenatal education is proven to reduce cCMV risk. Little is known about obstetric provider knowledge and practice patterns around cCMV. Objectives. To evaluate obstetric provider knowledge and practice patterns regarding cCMV at baseline and again after a brief educational intervention. Methods. Obstetric providers (

N
=
53

) at a US academic community hospital were invited to complete a survey regarding their knowledge and practice patterns around cCMV. Providers attended a brief presentation about cCMV and later were invited to repeat the same survey. Univariate statistics were calculated for baseline data, and prepost intervention comparison analyses were conducted. Results. Baseline cCMV knowledge was low at 49% (

M
=
17.54

out of a possible 36, SD 6.4), with most providers (51%) reporting never counseling pregnant patients about cCMV. Post intervention, overall cCMV knowledge increased to 80% (

M
=
29.33

, SD 4.1,

p
<
.001

); provider intention to counsel about cCMV prevention increased to 100%. Conclusions. Obstetric provider knowledge about cCMV is low, which likely impacts their antenatal counseling. Educational initiatives to increase awareness about cCMV may increase antenatal education and thereby decrease the risk of cCMV.
SCIRT lncRNA Restrains Tumorigenesis by Opposing Transcriptional Programs of Tumor-Initiating Cells
Authors: Zagorac Sladjana , de Giorgio Alex , Dabrowska Aleksandra , Kalisz Mark , Casas-Vila Nuria , Cathcart Paul , Yiu Angela , Ottaviani Silvia , Degani Neta , Lombardo Ylenia , Tweedie Alistair , Nissan Tracy , Vance Keith W. , Ulitsky Igor , Stebbing Justin , Castellano Leandro
Published: November 2020

In many tumors, cells transition reversibly between slow-proliferating tumor-initiating cells (TIC) and their differentiated, faster-growing progeny. Yet, how transcriptional regulation of cell-cycle and self-renewal genes is orchestrated during these conversions remains unclear. In this study, we show that as breast TIC form, a decrease in cell-cycle gene expression and increase in self-renewal gene expression are coregulated by SOX2 and EZH2, which colocalize at CpG islands. This pattern was negatively controlled by a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) that we named Stem Cell Inhibitory RNA Transcript (SCIRT), which was markedly upregulated in tumorspheres but colocalized with and counteracted EZH2 and SOX2 during cell-cycle and self-renewal regulation to restrain tumorigenesis. SCIRT specifically interacted with EZH2 to increase EZH2 affinity to FOXM1 without binding the latter. In this manner, SCIRT induced transcription at cell-cycle gene promoters by recruiting FOXM1 through EZH2 to antagonize EZH2-mediated effects at target genes. Conversely, on stemness genes, FOXM1 was absent and SCIRT antagonized EZH2 and SOX2 activity, balancing toward repression. These data suggest that the interaction of an lncRNA with EZH2 can alter the affinity of EZH2 for its protein-binding partners to regulate cancer cell state transitions.

Significance:

These findings show that a novel lncRNA SCIRT counteracts breast tumorigenesis by opposing transcriptional networks associated with cell cycle and self-renewal.

See related commentary by Pardini and Dragomir, p. 535
Adding Rigor to Biomarker Evaluations—EDRN Experience
Authors: Feng Ziding , Pepe Margaret S.
Published: November 2020

The cancer early-detection biomarker field was, compared with the therapeutic arena, in its infancy when the Early Detection Research Network (EDRN) was initiated in 2000. The EDRN has played a crucial role in changing the culture and the ways people conduct biomarker studies. The EDRN proposed biomarker developmental guidelines and biomarker pivotal trial study design standards, created biomarker reference sets and functioned as an unbiased broker for the field, implemented the most rigorous blinding policy in the biomarker field, developed an array of statistical and computational tools for early-detection biomarker evaluations, and developed a multidisciplinary team-science approach. We reviewed these contributions made by the EDRN and their impacts on maturing the field. Future challenges and opportunities in cancer early-detection biomarker translational research are discussed, particularly in strengthening biomarker discovery pipeline and conducting more efficient biomarker validation studies.

See all articles in this CEBP Focus section, “NCI Early Detection Research Network: Making Cancer Detection Possible.”
Phase II Study of Avelumab in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Previously Treated with Sorafenib
Authors: Lee Dae-Won , Cho Eun Ju , Lee Jeong-Hoon , Yu Su Jong , Kim Yoon Jun , Yoon Jung-Hwan , Kim Tae-Yong , Han Sae-Won , Oh Do-Youn , Im Seock-Ah , Kim Tae-You , Lee Youngeun , Kim Haeryoung , Lee Kyung-Hun
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

This study investigated the efficacy and safety of avelumab, an anti-programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody, in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma previously treated with sorafenib (NCT03389126).

Patients and Methods:

This is a single-arm, single center, phase II trial. Patients with Child-Pugh A score who had at least one measurable lesion were enrolled. Intravenous avelumab 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks was given until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR) according to RECIST v1.1. Secondary endpoints included time to progression (TTP), overall survival (OS), disease control rate (DCR), and safety.

Results:

A total of 30 patients were enrolled. After a median follow-up of 13.9 months, 27 progression events and 20 death events occurred. There was no complete response, three (10.0%) partial responses, and 19 patients (63.3%) with stable disease. ORR was 10.0% and DCR was 73.3%. The median TTP and OS was 4.4 and 14.2 months, respectively. PD-L1 expression did not affect avelumab response. Prior duration of sorafenib treatment, when dichotomized by the median 2.7 months, was associated with treatment outcome. TTP (6.5 vs. 1.8 months, P = 0.007) and OS (19.0 vs. 7.8 months, P = 0.006) were superior in patients with longer sorafenib duration. There was tendency of higher ORR (20.0% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.22) in those with longer sorafenib duration. Avelumab was well tolerated with seven grade 3 adverse events and no grade 4 adverse events.

Conclusions:

Avelumab showed moderate efficacy and was well tolerated in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma previously treated with sorafenib.