bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights for the future of health system partnerships in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic literature review
Authors: Fanelli Simone , Salvatore Fiorella Pia , De Pascale Gianluigi , Faccilongo Nicola
Published: June 2020

Background

Despite growing support for the private sector involvement in the provision of public health services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), a lack of clear information on the future of the provision of such services restricts the ability of managers and policy-makers to assess how feasible integration between public and private actors may be in these countries. This paper presents a systematic literature review which traces the dynamics and boundaries of public-private partnerships for the healthcare sector in LMICs.

Methods

A total of 723 articles indexed in Scopus were initially submitted to bibliometric analysis. Finally, 148 articles published in several academic journals were selected for independent full-text review by two researchers. Content analysis was made in order to minimise mistakes in interpreting the findings of studies in the sample.

Results

Public-private partnerships identified through the content analysis were categorised into four research areas: 1) Transfer of resources; 2) Co-production of health goods and services; 3) Governance networks; 4) Criteria for successful partnership development.

Conclusions

The four main research areas supply suggestions for a future research agenda, and managerial and policy implications for partnerships in LMICs.
Enhanced multi-stress tolerance and glucose utilization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae by overexpression of the SNF1 gene and varied beta isoform of Snf1 dominates in stresses
Authors: Meng Lu , Liu Hui-Ling , Lin Xue , Hu Xiao-Ping , Teng Kun-Ru , Liu Si-Xin
Published: June 2020

Background

TheSaccharomyces cerevisiaeSnf1 complex is a member of the AMP-activated protein kinase family and plays an important role in response to environmental stress. The α catalytic subunit Snf1 regulates the activity of the protein kinase, while the β regulatory subunits Sip1/Sip2/Gal83 specify substrate preferences and stress response capacities of Snf1. In this study, we aim to investigate the effects ofSNF1overexpression on the cell tolerance and glucose consumption ofS. cerevisiaein high glucose, ethanol, and heat stresses and to explore the valid Snf1 form in the light of β subunits in these stresses.

Results

The results suggest that overexpression ofSNF1is effective to improve cell resistance and glucose consumption ofS. cerevisiaein high glucose, ethanol, and heat stresses, which might be related to the changed accumulation of fatty acids and amino acids and altered expression levels of genes involved in glucose transport and glycolysis. However, different form of β regulatory subunits dominated in stresses with regard to cell tolerance and glucose utilization. The Sip1 isoform was more necessary to the growth and glucose consumption in ethanol stress. The glucose uptake largely depended on the Sip2 isoform in high sugar and ethanol stresses. The Gal83 isoform only contributed inferior effect on the growth in ethanol stress. Therefore, redundancy and synergistic effect of β subunits might occur in high glucose, ethanol, and heat stresses, but each subunit showed specificity under various stresses.

Conclusions

This study enriches the understanding of the function of Snf1 protein kinase and provides an insight to breed multi-stress tolerant yeast strains.
Co-expression network analysis identifies a gene signature as a predictive biomarker for energy metabolism in osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhu Naiqiang , Hou Jingyi , Ma Guiyun , Guo Shuai , Zhao Chengliang , Chen Bin
Published: June 2020

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a common malignant bone tumor originating in the interstitial tissues and occurring mostly in adolescents and young adults. Energy metabolism is a prerequisite for cancer cell growth, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. However, the gene signatures associated with energy metabolism and their underlying molecular mechanisms that drive them are unknown.

Methods

Energy metabolism-related genes were obtained from the TARGET database. We applied the “NFM” algorithm to classify putative signature gene into subtypes based on energy metabolism. Key genes related to progression were identified by weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Based on least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox proportional regression hazards model analyses, a gene signature for the predication of OS progression and prognosis was established. Robustness and estimation evaluations and comparison against other models were used to evaluate the prognostic performance of our model.

Results

Two subtypes associated with energy metabolism was determined using the “NFM” algorithm, and significant modules related to energy metabolism were identified by WGCNA. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) suggested that the genes in the significant modules were enriched in kinase, immune metabolism processes, and metabolism-related pathways. We constructed a seven-gene signature consisting of SLC18B1, RBMXL1, DOK3, HS3ST2, ATP6V0D1, CCAR1, and C1QTNF1 to be used for OS progression and prognosis. Upregulation of CCAR1, and C1QTNF1 was associated with augmented OS risk, whereas, increases in the expression SCL18B1, RBMXL1, DOK3, HS3ST2, and ATP6VOD1 was correlated with a diminished risk of OS. We confirmed that the seven-gene signature was robust, and was superior to the earlier models evaluated; therefore, it may be used for timely OS diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Conclusions

The seven-gene signature related to OS energy metabolism developed here could be used in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of OS.
Tumor cells derived-exosomes as angiogenenic agents: possible therapeutic implications
Authors: Ahmadi Mahdi , Rezaie Jafar
Published: June 2020

Angiogenesis is a multistep process and various molecules are involved in regulating it. Extracellular vesicles are cell-derived particles, secreted from several types of cells and are known to mediate cell-to-cell communication. These vesicles contain different bio-molecules including nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids, which are transported between cells and regulate physiological and pathological conditions in the recipient cell. Exosomes, 30–150 nm extracellular vesicles, and their key roles in tumorigenesis via promoting angiogenesis are of great recent interest. In solid tumors, the suitable blood supply is the hallmark of their progression, growth, and metastasis, so it can be supported by angiogenesis. Tumor cells abundantly release exosomes containing different kinds of biomolecules such as angiogenic molecules that contribute to inducing angiogenesis. These exosomes can be trafficked between tumor cells or between tumor cells and endothelial cells. The protein and nucleic acid cargo of tumor derived-exosomes can deliver to endothelial cells mostly by endocytosis, and then induce angiogenesis. Tumor derived-exosomes can be used as biomarker for cancer diagnosis. Targeting exosome-induced angiogenesis may serve as a promising tool for cancer therapy. Taken together, tumor derived-exosomes are the major contributors in tumor angiogenesis and a supposed target for antiangiogenic therapies. However, further scrutiny is essential to investigate the function of exosomes in tumor angiogenesis and clinical relevance of targeting exosomes for suppressing angiogenesis.
Morphological parameters of fourth lumbar spinous process palpation: a three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomography
Authors: Feng Qi , Zhang Lei , Zhang Mengyao , Wen Youliang , Zhang Ping , Wang Yi , Zeng Yan , Wang Junqiu
Published: June 2020

Background

The localization of lumbar fourth spinous process (L4-SP) is an important anatomical landmark, and identifying its accurate position is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of waist diseases.

Methods

Five hundred participants were scanned with positive and lateral computed tomography (CT), which aimed to clarify anatomic characteristics of L4-SP. Anatomical parameters of the surface localization of L4-SP were measured and recorded through a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction.

Results

Five hundred participants were classified into three types according to the position of BC with the iliac spine. There are just 266 that the line between the highest point of the iliac spine on both sides located on L4-SP (type I, 53.20%), 16 above L4-SP (type II, 3.20%), and 218 below L4-SP (type III, 43.60%). BC in type I (15.92 ± 1.30 mm) is longer than type III (15.56 ± 1.32 mm). While the angle combined with AB and BC is different in the three groups, the angle in type I (173.00 ± 4.83°) is larger than that in type II (164.69 ± 5.50°) and type III (159.45 ± 8.39°). Other measurements were not found any significant differences between above.

Conclusion

The traditional palpation for L4-SP is not absolutely exact. The accuracy rate is only 53.20%, and the errors may cause serious consequences.
Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for stage 1 hypertension: protocol for a randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Tian Zhong-Xue , Liu Cun-Zhi , Qi You-Sheng , Tu Jian-Feng , Lin Ying , Wang Yu , Yang Jing-Wen , Shi Guang-Xia , Liu Jun-Hong , Wang Li-Qiong
Published: June 2020

Background

Hypertension is a major pathogenic factor of cardiovascular diseases. Insufficient blood pressure control rate and sub-optimal medication adherence remain challenges for effective management of hypertension. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) has been used to treat various diseases, including hypertension, but the scientific evidence for its benefit remains insufficient. Therefore, we will perform a randomized, controlled clinical trial in patients with stage 1 hypertension to evaluate the effect of TEAS.

Methods/design

The study will be a two-arm parallel, randomized controlled trial. Sixty patients with stage 1 hypertension will be randomly assigned to the TEAS group and the control group in a 1:1 ratio. The participants in the TEAS group will receive non-invasive acupoint electrical stimulation for 30 min at four acupoints in the upper and lower extremities at home, 4 times weekly for 12 weeks for a total of 48 sessions. Participants in the control group will not receive any form of acupoint stimulation. All participants in both groups will receive lifestyle education on how to control high blood pressure, including diet, weight control, and exercise. The primary outcome measure will be the change of the mean systolic blood pressure from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes include the change of mean diastolic blood pressure, quality of life, body mass index, and physical activity level.

Discussion

This pilot, randomized, controlled trial will explore the feasibility of TEAS. It will also provide potential clinical evidence for the efficacy and safety of TEAS in the treatment of patients with stage 1 hypertension. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, this pilot trial as the precursor of a large scale randomized controlled trial will inform the sample size of the subsequent trial.

Trial registration

Chinese clinical trial registry, ChiCTR1900025042, Registered on 8 August 2019 (http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=41496).
Development of a multiplex qPCR-based approach for the diagnosis of Dirofilaria immitis, D. repens and Acanthocheilonema reconditum
Authors: Laidoudi Younes , Davoust Bernard , Varloud Marie , Niang El Hadji Amadou , Fenollar Florence , Mediannikov Oleg
Published: June 2020

Background

Dirofilaria immitis,D. repensandAcanthocheilonema reconditumare the main causative agents of zoonotic canine filariosis.

Methods

We developed a combined multiplex approach for filaria andWolbachiadetection using the28S-based pan-filarial and16S-based pan-WolbachiaqPCRs, respectively, involving a fast typing method of positive samples using triplex qPCR targetingA. reconditum,D. immitisandD. repens, and a duplex qPCR targetingWolbachiaofD. immitisandD. repens. The approach was complemented by a duplex qPCR for the differential diagnosis of heartworms (D. immitisandAngiostrongylus vasorum) and pan-filarialcox1 and pan-Wolbachia ftsZ PCRs to identify other filarial parasites and theirWolbachia, respectively. A total of 168 canine blood and sera samples were used to validate the approach. Spearmanʼs correlation was used to assess the association between filarial species and the strain ofWolbachia. Positive samples for both the heartworm antigen-test after heating sera and at least one DNA-positive forD. immitisand itsWolbachiawere considered true positive for heartworm infection. Indeed, the presence ofD. repensDNA or that of itsWolbachiaas well asA. reconditumDNA indicates true positive infections.

Results

The detection limit forWolbachiaand filariae qPCRs ranged from 5 × 10−1to 1.5 × 10−4 mf/ml of blood. When tested on clinical samples, 29.2% (49/168) tested positive for filariae orWolbachiaDNA. Filarial species andWolbachiagenotypes were identified by the combined multiplex approach from all positive samples. Each species ofDirofilariawas significantly associated with a specific genotype ofWolbachia. Compared to the true positives, the approach showed excellent agreement (k = 0.98–1). UnlikeD. immitisDNA, noA. vasorumDNA was detected by the duplex qPCR. The immunochromatographic test for heartworm antigen showed a substantial (k = 0.6) and a weak (k = 0.15) agreements before and after thermal pre-treatment of sera, respectively.

Conclusions

The proposed approach is a reliable tool for the exploration and diagnosis of occult and non-occult canine filariosis. The current diagnosis of heartworm disease based on antigen detection should always be confirmed by qPCR essays. Sera heat pre-treatment is not effective and strongly discouraged.
Exploring the impact of cattle on human exposure to malaria mosquitoes in the Arba Minch area district of southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Zeru Melkam Abiye , Shibru Simon , Massebo Fekadu
Published: June 2020

Background

The success of indoor interventions that target mosquitoes for malaria control is partially dependent on early evening and outdoor biting behaviours of mosquito vectors. In southwest Ethiopia, people and cattle live in proximity, which calls to investigate whether the presence of cattle increase or decrease bites from malaria mosquito vectors. This study assessed both host-seeking and overnight activity of malaria mosquito vectors given the presence or absence of cattle in Chano Mille village, Arba Minch district, Ethiopia.

Methods

Anopheles species density and activity time was compared when a calf was: (i) placed inside; (ii) 1 m away from; or (iii) absent from a tent with a human volunteer resting insides using hourly human landing catches (HLC) conducted from 18:00–0:00 h for 3 months. This trial was performed close to the shore of the Lake Abaya to minimize the interference of other animals on mosquito movement. The overnight activity of malaria vectors was assessed within a Chano village from 18:00–6:00 h with collections carried out both indoors and outdoors by HLC. Generalized estimating equations were used to statistically assess differences.

Results

Anopheles pharoensis was significantly more prevalent when a calf was present either inside (42%, P < 0.001), or adjacent to (46%, P = 0.002) a tent relative to a tent without a calf present. The presence of a calf did not affect densities of the primarily anthropophilic species A. gambiae (s.l.), or An. tenebrosus. Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) (P < 0.001) and An. pharoensis (P = 0.015) both had a tendency for early evening biting between 19:00 h and 20:00 h. Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) was mainly biting humans outdoors in the village.

Conclusions

The presence of calves within and close to human dwellings acts to draw malaria mosquitoes toward the human occupant with the potential to increase their risk of malaria. Hence, deployment of cattle far from human residence could be recommended to reduce human exposure. Outdoor and early evening biting could threaten the success of current indoor-based interventions. Hence, tools could be designed to reduce this threat.
The short-term effects of sedentary behaviour on cerebral hemodynamics and cognitive performance in older adults: a cross-over design on the potential impact of mental and/or physical activity
Authors: Maasakkers Carlijn M. , Melis René J. F. , Kessels Roy P. C. , Gardiner Paul A. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Thijssen Dick H. J. , Claassen Jurgen A. H. R.
Published: June 2020

Background

Sedentary behaviour might be a potential risk factor for cognitive decline. However, the short-term effects of sedentary behaviour on (cerebro) vascular and cognitive performance in older people are unknown.

Methods

We used a cross-over design with 22 older adults (78 years, 9 females) to assess the short-term hemodynamic and cognitive effects of three hours uninterrupted sitting and explored if these effects can be counteracted with regular (every 30 min) two-minute walking breaks. In addition, we investigated if low versus high mental activity during the three hours of sitting modified these effects. Before and after each condition, alertness, executive functioning, and working memory were assessed with the Test of Attentional Performance battery. Additionally, cerebral blood flow velocity (Transcranial Doppler) and blood pressure (Finapres) were measured in rest, and during sit-to-stand and CO2 challenges to assess baroreflex sensitivity, cerebral autoregulation, and cerebral vasomotor reactivity.

Results

No short-term differences were observed in cognitive performance, cerebral blood flow velocity, baroreflex sensitivity, cerebral autoregulation, or cerebral vasomotor reactivity across time, or between conditions. Blood pressure and cerebrovascular resistance increased over time (8.6 mmHg (5.0;12.1), p < 0.001), and 0.23 in resistance (0.01;0.45), p = 0.04). However, these effects were not mitigated by mental activity or by short walking breaks to interrupt sitting.

Conclusions

In older individuals, three hours of sitting did not influence cognitive performance or cerebral perfusion. However, the sitting period increased blood pressure and cerebrovascular resistance, which are known to negatively impact brain health in the long-term. Importantly, we found that these effects in older individuals cannot be mitigated by higher mental activity and/or regular walking breaks.

Trial registration

Clinical trial registration URL: https://www.toetsingonline.nl/. Unique identifier: NL64309.091.17. Date of registration: 06–02–2018.
Role of albumin in the preservation of endothelial glycocalyx integrity and the microcirculation: a review
Authors: Aldecoa Cesar , Llau Juan V. , Nuvials Xavier , Artigas Antonio
Published: June 2020

The endothelial glycocalyx comprises a complex layer of membrane-bound proteoglycans, secreted glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins, glycolipids and bound plasma proteins such as albumin and antithrombin associated with the endothelial surface. The glycocalyx plays an important role in vascular homeostasis, regulating vascular permeability and cell adhesion, and acts as a mechanosensor for hemodynamic shear stresses; it also has antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory functions. Plasma proteins such as albumin are physiologically bound within the glycocalyx, thus contributing to stability of the layer. Albumin is the major determinant of plasma colloid osmotic pressure. In addition, albumin transports sphingosine-1-phosphate which has protective endothelial effects, acts as a free radical scavenger, and has immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. This review examines the physiological function of the endothelial glycocalyx and the role of human albumin in preserving glycocalyx integrity and the microcirculation.
Evaluating infection prevention and control programs in Austrian acute care hospitals using the WHO Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework
Authors: Aghdassi Seven Johannes Sam , Grisold Andrea , Wechsler-Fördös Agnes , Hansen Sonja , Bischoff Peter , Behnke Michael , Gastmeier Petra
Published: June 2020

Background

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is crucial for patient safety. The World Health Organization (WHO) has released various tools to promote IPC. In 2018, the WHO released the Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework (IPCAF) that enables acute care healthcare facilities to evaluate IPC structures and practices. Data regarding IPC implementation in Austria are scarce. To deliver insights into this topic and promote the IPCAF within the Austrian IPC community, we decided to invite all Austrian hospitals participating in the German nosocomial infection surveillance system to conduct a self-assessment using the WHO IPCAF.

Methods

The IPCAF follows the eight WHO core components of IPC. A German translation of the IPCAF was sent to 127 Austrian acute care hospitals. The survey period was from October to December 2018. Participation in the survey, data entry and transfer to the German national reference center for surveillance of healthcare-associated infections was on a voluntary basis.

Results

Altogether, 65 Austrian hospitals provided a complete dataset. The overall median IPCAF score of all hospitals was 620 (of a possible maximum score of 800), which corresponded to an advanced level of IPC. Of the 65 hospitals, 38 achieved an advanced IPC level. Deeper analysis of the different core components yielded diverse results. Scores were lowest for core components on multimodal strategies for implementation of IPC interventions, and IPC education and training. Around 26% (n = 17) of hospitals reported that the local IPC team was not steadily supported by an IPC committee. Senior clinical staff was not present in the IPC committee in 23% (n = 15) of hospitals. Only 26% (n = 17) of hospitals reported employing at least one IPC professional per ≤250 beds. Surveillance for multidrug-resistant pathogens was not conducted in 26% (n = 17) of hospitals.

Conclusions

Implementation of IPC key aspects is generally at a high level in Austria. However, potentials for improvement were demonstrated, most prominently with regard to staffing, IPC education and training, effective implementation of multimodal strategies, and involvement of professional groups. Our survey demonstrated that the IPCAF is a useful tool for IPC self-assessment and can uncover deficits even in a high-income setting like Austria.
The impact of a quality management program for patients undergoing head and neck resection with free-flap reconstruction: Longitudinal study examining sustainability
Authors: Dort Joseph C. , Sauro Khara M. , Chandarana Shamir , Schrag Christiaan , Matthews Jennifer , Nakoneshny Steven , Manoloto Vida , Miller Tanya , McKenzie C. David , Hart Robert D. , Matthews T. Wayne
Published: June 2020

Background

Care pathways (CPs) are helpful in reducing unwanted variation in clinical care. Most studies of CPs show they improve clinical outcomes but there is little known about the long-term impact of CPs as part of a sustained quality management program. Head and neck (HN) surgery with free flap reconstruction is complex, time-consuming and expensive. Complications are common and therefore CPs applied to this patient population are the focus of this paper. In this paper we report outcomes from a 9 year experience designing and using CPs in the management of patients undergoing major head and neck resection with free flap reconstruction.

Methods

The Calgary quality management program and CP design is described the accompanying article. Data from CP managed patients undergoing major HN surgery were prospectively collected and compared to a baseline cohort of patients managed with standard care. Data were retrospectively analyzed and intergroup comparisons were made.

Results

Mobilization, decannulation time and hospital length of stay were significantly improved in pathway-managed patients ( p = 0.001). Trend analysis showed sustained improvement in key performance indicators including complications. Return to the OR, primarily to assess a compromised flap, is increasing.

Conclusions

Care pathways when deployed as part of an ongoing quality management program are associated with improved clinical outcomes in this complex group of patients.
Imaging using radiolabelled targeted proteins: radioimmunodetection and beyond
Authors: Garousi Javad , Orlova Anna , Frejd Fredrik Y. , Tolmachev Vladimir
Published: June 2020

The use of radiolabelled antibodies was proposed in 1970s for staging of malignant tumours. Intensive research established chemistry for radiolabelling of proteins and understanding of factors determining biodistribution and targeting properties. The use of radioimmunodetection for staging of cancer was not established as common practice due to approval and widespread use of [18F]-FDG, which provided a more general diagnostic use than antibodies or their fragments. Expanded application of antibody-based therapeutics renewed the interest in radiolabelled antibodies. RadioimmunoPET emerged as a powerful tool for evaluation of pharmacokinetics of and target engagement by biotherapeutics. In addition to monoclonal antibodies, new radiolabelled engineered proteins have recently appeared, offering high-contrast imaging of expression of therapeutic molecular targets in tumours shortly after injection. This creates preconditions for noninvasive determination of a target expression level and stratification of patients for targeted therapies. Radiolabelled proteins hold great promise to play an important role in development and implementation of personalised targeted treatment of malignant tumours. This article provides an overview of biodistribution and tumour-seeking features of major classes of targeting proteins currently utilized for molecular imaging. Such information might be useful for researchers entering the field of the protein-based radionuclide molecular imaging.
Therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes in severe novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases
Authors: Tsuchiya Atsunori , Takeuchi Suguru , Iwasawa Takahiro , Kumagai Masaru , Sato Takeki , Motegi Satoko , Ishii Yui , Koseki Youhei , Tomiyoshi Kei , Natsui Kazuki , Takeda Nobutaka , Yoshida Yuki , Yamazaki Fusako , Kojima Yuichi , Watanabe Yusuke , Kimura Naruhiro , Tominaga Kentaro , Kamimura Hiroteru , Takamura Masaaki , Terai Shuji
Published: June 2020

The novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the ensuing worldwide pandemic. The spread of the virus has had global effects such as activity restriction, economic stagnation, and collapse of healthcare infrastructure. Severe SARS-CoV-2 infection induces a cytokine storm, leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiple organ failure, which are very serious health conditions and must be mitigated or resolved as soon as possible. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes can affect immune cells by inducing anti-inflammatory macrophages, regulatory T and B cells, and regulatory dendritic cells, and can inactivate T cells. Hence, they are potential candidate agents for treatment of severe cases of COVID-19. In this review, we report the background of severe cases of COVID-19, basic aspects and mechanisms of action of MSCs and their exosomes, and discuss basic and clinical studies based on MSCs and exosomes for influenza-induced ARDS. Finally, we report the potential of MSC and exosome therapy in severe cases of COVID-19 in recently initiated or planned clinical trials of MSCs (33 trials) and exosomes (1 trial) registered in 13 countries on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Small RNA derived from Tobacco mosaic virus targets a host C2-domain abscisic acid-related (CAR) 7-like protein gene
Authors: Guo Song , Wong Sek-Man
Published: June 2020

Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus. The 3′ end of TMV genome is consisted of an upstream pseudoknot domain (UPD) and a tRNA-like structure (TLS), both of which are important RNA elements to enhance TMV replication and translation. Deep-sequencing analysis revealed that TMV-specific viral small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs) were generated in TMV-infected Nicotiana benthamiana plants. A vsiRNA derived from the juxtaposition between UPD and TLS, named TMV-vsiRNA 22 nt (6285–6306), possessed high sequence complementarity to a host gene which encodes a C2-domain abscisic acid (ABA)-related (CAR) 7-like protein. CAR proteins play a critical role in ABA signaling pathway. The CAR protein-encoding gene was amplified from N. benthamiana leaves and termed as Nb-CAR7. In TMV-infected plants, accumulation of Nb-CAR7 transcripts was significantly decreased, as compared with that of mock-inoculated and TMV-43A-infected plants. TMV-43A is a mutant without the UPD sequence in its genome. Overexpression of Nb-CAR7 led to decreased TMV RNA accumulation in the TMV-inoculated leaves. Silencing of Nb-CAR7 enhanced TMV replication and resulted in a higher viral RNA accumulation. In addition, the expression level of Nb-CAR7 was positively correlated to that of a low-temperature-induced ABA responsive gene (LTI65). The effect of Nb-CAR7 on TMV RNA accumulation in host plants was linked to ABA signaling pathway. In conclusion, a vsiRNA derived from the juxtaposition between UPD and TLS at the 3′UTR of TMV targets a host CAR7 gene.
Critical issues in treating COVID-19-positive psychiatric patients in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: De Sousa Avinash , Mohandas Edakkunni , Javed Afzal
Published: June 2020

This paper considers certain specific issues that will be faced by low- and middle-income countries when treating psychiatric patients who test positive for COVID-19. The need for both medical and psychiatric units to do the same and challenges in the treatment and management of positive-testing patients are discussed.
Site-1 protease ablation in the osterix-lineage in mice results in bone marrow neutrophilia and hematopoietic stem cell alterations
Authors: Patra Debabrata , Kim Joongho , Zhang Qiang , Tycksen Eric , Sandell Linda J.
Published: June 2020

Site-1 protease (S1P) ablation in the osterix-lineage in mice drastically reduces bone development and downregulates bone marrow-derived skeletal stem cells. Here we show that these mice also suffer from spina bifida occulta with a characteristic lack of bone fusion in the posterior neural arches. Molecular analysis of bone marrow-derived non-red blood cell cells, via single-cell RNA-Seq and protein mass spectrometry, demonstrate that these mice have a much-altered bone marrow with a significant increase in neutrophils and Ly6C-expressing leukocytes. The molecular composition of bone marrow neutrophils is also different as they express more and additional members of the stefin A (Stfa) family of proteins. In vitro, recombinant Stfa1 and Stfa2 proteins have the ability to drastically inhibit osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells, with no effect on adipogenic differentiation. FACS analysis of hematopoietic stem cells show that despite a decrease in hematopoietic stem cells, S1P ablation results in an increased production of granulocyte-macrophage progenitors, the precursors to neutrophils. These observations indicate that S1P has a role in the lineage specification of hematopoietic stem cells and/or their progenitors for development of a normal hematopoietic niche. Our study designates a fundamental requirement of S1P for maintaining a balanced regenerative capacity of the bone marrow niche.
BENEFITS OF INCORPORATING HIIT PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DOWN SYNDROME
Authors: Ware Megan E. , McCully Kevin K. , Feito Yuri
Published: June 2020

Apply It!

• Health and fitness professionals will be able to use the information in this article to design exercise prescription programs for people with Down syndrome.

• Health and fitness professionals will be able to approach a client with Down syndrome with more background knowledge of the condition itself.
Pearls and pitfalls in lung cancer staging
Authors: Beer Lucian , Jajodia Ankush , Prosch Helmut
Published: June 2020

Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK and is the leading cause of death. Radiology plays a central role in the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected and known lung cancer. Tumour assessment includes both local staging, as well as distant staging. Local staging objectives include the assessment of technical resectability with regard to the evaluation of tumour size and invasion of surrounding structures. Distant staging objectives aim to identify distant metastasis in lymphatic and extra lymphatic tissues. CT, positron emission tomography/CT, MRI, and ultrasound are routinely used imaging techniques for staging in patients with lung cancer. In this review, we will consider the pitfalls of these examinations that radiologists potentially face during the work-up of patients with lung cancer.
QUARTIC: QUick pArallel algoRithms for high-Throughput sequencIng data proCessing
Authors: Jarlier Frédéric , Joly Nicolas , Fedy Nicolas , Magalhaes Thomas , Sirotti Leonor , Paganiban Paul , Martin Firmin , McManus Michael , Hupé Philippe
Published: June 2020

Life science has entered the so-called 'big data era' where biologists, clinicians and bioinformaticians are overwhelmed with high-throughput sequencing data. While they offer new insights to decipher the genome structure they also raise major challenges to use them for daily clinical practice care and diagnosis purposes as they are bigger and bigger. Therefore, we implemented a software to reduce the time to delivery for the alignment and the sorting of high-throughput sequencing data.  Our solution is implemented using Message Passing Interface and is intended for high-performance computing architecture. The software scales linearly with respect to the size of the data and ensures a total reproducibility with the traditional tools. For example, a 300X whole genome can be aligned and sorted within less than 9 hours with 128 cores. The software offers significant speed-up using multi-cores and multi-nodes parallelization.
Case Report: Acute effect of benralizumab on asthma exacerbation without concomitant corticosteroid use
Authors: Nolasco Santi , Campisi Raffaele , Intravaia Rossella , Porto Morena , Pelaia Corrado , Crimi Nunzio , Crimi Claudia
Published: June 2020

Background: Monoclonal antibodies are a relatively new therapeutic option for patients with severe refractory asthma, which can be used as an add-on to maintenance therapy, reducing the need for systemic corticosteroid usage, improving asthma symptom control and reducing exacerbations. We report a case of a patient with severe refractory eosinophilic asthma, reluctant to take systemic steroids, who was successfully treated with benralizumab alone during an acute asthma attack.

Case presentation: A 59-year-old Caucasian woman with a history of allergic asthma since childhood showed a progressive decline in lung function with difficult to control symptoms and an increased number of hospitalizations despite maximal maintenance treatment, and was diagnosed with severe refractory asthma. She was reluctant to take systemic corticosteroids during exacerbations due to severe urinary retention; therefore, she started omalizumab with a partial reduction of symptoms and exacerbations over time. During a follow-up visit, she showed signs of acute exacerbation and she was switched to benralizumab during her acute phase with a rapid, dramatic amelioration of respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function, without concomitant systemic corticosteroid administration. During the treatment and at follow-up after one month, good tolerance and no side effects were observed.

Conclusions: The use of benralizumab seems to be feasible, rapid, and safe in treating acute exacerbation of severe eosinophilic asthma without the use of systemic corticosteroids.
Cell plasticity in cancer cell populations
Authors: Shen Shensi , Clairambault Jean
Published: June 2020

In this review, we propose a recension of biological observations on plasticity in cancer cell populations and discuss theoretical considerations about their mechanisms.
Nierząd i inne „grzechy ohydne” w tłumaczeniach Biblii: eufemizacje i retusze w Mt 5,32, Mt 9,19 i Kpł 20,10-21
Authors: Brzozowski Jerzy
Published: June 2020

Fornication and Other “Awful Sins” in the Bible Translations. Euphemisms and Alterations on Matt 5:32, 9:19 and Lev 20:10-21

The paper shows confusion of theologians – both catholic and protestant – in all Polish and many other translations of fragments related to sexual relations, especially these contacts which were recognised uniquely as a cause of divorce. The considered translations tend to use archaic, euphemistic or imprecise vocabulary in the main text, adding often confusing and linguistically unacceptable footnotes. On the contrary, the analysed Italian and French translations are clear and intelligible. The Author shows, nevertheless, that the existing translations – not only in Polish, but also in Italian and French – of the Greek word porneia used in the Gospels are incoherent with those in the Old Testament, which is unacceptable. The Author also claims, on the basis of analysed texts, that even the best footnotes cannot replace a clear and intelligible translation in the main text.
EP Elections as a Tool for Migrant Political Participation
Authors: Kułakowska Małgorzata
Published: June 2020

The paper focuses on the European Parliament (EP) elections seen as a tool for migrant political participation. When migrating for work, EU migrants do not always consider naturalization as an optimal arrangement, being satisfied with rights connected with their EU citizenship. Therefore, in terms of voting strategies, they often limit their voting rights to those connected with the institutions of their country of birth. However, the particular political context might create additional motivation for participation in EP elections. I would argue that such a particular situation did occur in the United Kingdom in May 2019, when many EU migrants decided to exercise their right to vote in EP elections. Furthermore, many of them were then denied this right, which has been attributed by some to the lack of efficiency on part of British institutions. The paper will look at the institution of the European Parliament elections, analyzing both the normative justification of the formal arrangements and the empirical dimension of 2019 EP Elections in the United Kingdom in the context of the ongoing processes of Brexit.
The “Debate” about Poland
Authors: Sofizade Jessica
Published: June 2020

This paper examines two speeches made by Janusz Lewandowski and Ryszard Antoni Legutko in the European Parliamentary debate entitled “The situationof the rule of law and democracy in Poland” on 15/11/2017.  In particular, it analyses their representations of Poland and the EU, and aims to determine whether they can be considered as “populist” according to J.-W. Müller’s criteria of populism. It is suggested that Legutko’s speech can be labelled populist according to Müller’s criteria, whilst Lewandowski does not face this charge to the same extent, even though his speech uses similar linguistic methods.
Efficient Move Evaluations for Time-Dependent Vehicle Routing Problems
Authors: Visser Thomas R. , Spliet Remy
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we introduce several new methods for efficiently evaluating moves in neighborhood search heuristics for routing problems with time-dependent travel times. We consider both the case that route duration is constrained and the case that route duration appears in the objective. We observe that the composition of piecewise linear functions can be evaluated in various orders when computing the route duration. We use this to develop a new tree-based data structure to improve the complexity of computations and memory usage. This approach also allows us to present methods that have the best known computational complexity but that do not require a lexicographic order of search. Our numerical experiments illustrate the trade-off between computation time and memory usage among the various methods. For 1,000 customer instances, our methods are able to speed up a construction heuristic by up to 8.89 times and an exchange neighborhood improvement heuristic by up to 3.94 times, without requiring excessive amounts of memory.
The Convergence of Crowd Funding and Zakat System in India: An Integrated Approach for Human Welfare
Authors: Ashiq Muhammed , Mushtaq Ubaid
Published: June 2020

The impact of the Zakat system on human welfare is well established. In India, there is a significant development in terms of localised management of zakat system. However, the targeted delivery of zakat funds, unorganised collections and lack of transparency remain a matter of concern. There is no formal institutional mechanism for efficient Zakat distribution, and problems of circularity are at mostly affecting the progress of welfare mechanisms. Problems of circularity of Zakat funds are still, largely, incoherent and practically disconnected with the mechanics of philanthropic institutions. In our theoretical model, crowdfunding for welfare scheme is being treated as the determinant, which could mediate and alter the performance of zakat welfare. Further, make it more accessible and catering to more comprehensive economic benefits for the community. In this exploratory theoretical paper, we also examine the nature of a common platform for the Zakat distribution. In addition to this, how it could reduce the scrutiny of Government intervention and proper channelisation of Islamic philanthropic activities.
CSR Contribution to Socio-Economic Development: Evidence from Indonesian Islamic Banks
Authors: Muneeza Aishath , Ma'ruf Aminudin , Alam Shahbaz
Published: June 2020

Islamic banks play a significant role in social and environmental responsibility. It is known that Islamic finance is not merely profit-oriented but also looking at the prosperity of the society, as an ethical financial system Islamic finance give a massive contribution towards social responsibility. This exploratory study examines the relations between corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices of Indonesian Islamic banks and socio-economic development. The evidence presented is based on the published annual reports of 13 Islamic commercial banks in 2017. The findings of this research suggests that CSR is a priority of Indonesian Islamic banks and has correlation to the socio-economic development. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the robust guiding principles on CSR need to be developed and it has potential of Islamic banks credibility and profitability.
Canine degenerative myelopathy
Authors: Corral Cheryl
Published: June 2020

Canine degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, debilitating condition of older, often large breed dogs, and is seen on a fairly frequent basis in practice. This article discusses the background of the condition including clinical signs to be expected at different stages in the disease process, how the condition is diagnosed, and looks at how best the condition can be managed using rehabilitation therapies with no curative treatment currently available. It also includes a case study describing a rehabilitation protocol for a patient referred for rehabilitation by the referring veterinary surgeon following diagnosis of degenerative myelopathy.
Editorial: The Power of Safety Professionals to Effect Change
Authors: Myers Melvin L.
Published: June 2020

In 2006, Cole et al. (2006) reported on tractor overturn-related injuries in Kentucky from a random sample of farmers that numbered 6,063 respondents. The highest number of people who experienced tractor overturns were operators 16 to 20 years old. In 2007, at a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Tractor Safety Initiative meeting in Colorado, John Myers of NIOSH presented a map of the states with the highest overturn fatality rates: Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. Significantly, four of these states, including Kentucky, overlap the Appalachian region (Cole, 2007; Hard and Myers, 2001). In Kentucky, this region involves farming on slopes, as examined by Saman et al. (2012), who found a high-risk cluster of tractor overturns among ten Kentucky counties in the Appalachian region, with a 97% increased risk of overturn as compared to other Kentucky counties.

In 1971, James Arndt of Deere & Company presented a 50-year review of rollover protective structures (ROPS) at a Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) conference. Arndt (1971) estimated that, over the previous 50 years, 30,000 operators had been killed when crushed by tractor overturns in agriculture and construction work. Since then, ROPS have been recognized as an effective device to prevent death in the event of a tractor overturn (Reynolds and Groves, 2000). Nevertheless, the epidemic of tractor-related deaths has continued into the modern era, and the cost of ROPS has been found to be a significant barrier to retrofitting tractors that lack ROPS (Myers et al., 1998). To provide a low-cost alternative, NIOSH safety engineers have designed, tested, and provided instructions for building and fitting cost-effective ROPS (CROPS) onto pre-ROPS tractors (i.e., tractors built before 1968) (Hard et al., 2016). Keywords: NIOSH, ROPS, Tractor overturns, Tractor safety.
El busker visto por la ciudadanía: actitudes hacia la música callejera en España
Authors: Martínez Gil Alicia
Published: June 2020

En este artículo examinaremos los resultados de un breve estudio de actitud a los ciudadanos, a la par que desarrollaremos el grado de intercambio y satisfacción que existe de la música callejera en España.Las continuas regulaciones y el nuevo uso de los espacios urbanos han puesto en conocimiento a la música callejera, poniendo en valor su categoría artística y cultural. El público, además de establecer los criterios entorno a esta práctica, expone las problemáticas de convivencia social que genera esta actividad.
Light and Color in Nature 2020: introduction to the feature issue
Authors: Adler Charles L. , Bagge Laura , Haussmann Alexander
Published: June 2020

This feature issue on Light and Color in Nature focuses on the interplay of light with the landscape and other naked-eye phenomena and describes a wide range of natural optical phenomena that can be seen in our natural environment. Results are reported on the experimental and theoretical investigations undertaken to improve understanding of these phenomena.
Waveguide gratings with metamaterial films
Authors: Kakoolaki Nazanin , Hassanzadeh Abdollah
Published: June 2020

The propagation of waves in waveguide gratings with a double-negative film but double-positive cover and substrate is studied. Perturbation theory is used to derive expressions that approximate the transverse and longitudinal coupling coefficients for coupling between various transverse-magnetic guided modes in a three-layer waveguide with a rectangular grating profile at the film–cover interface. An analytical method is then used to draw the coupling coefficients’ curves as functions of the film thickness. The curves of the waveguide gratings with double-negative material film differ significantly from that of the conventional waveguide gratings and those with a double-negative cover. Numerical results show that the obtained coupling coefficients are much higher than those of conventional waveguide gratings. Waveguide gratings with double-negative film possess a number of unusual properties. We show that the fundamental mode does not exist and the first-order mode is confined within a narrow film thickness range and cannot couple to any other modes. The coexistence of both the longitudinal and transverse coupling coefficients with the same order of magnitude, double degeneracy of the modes, and double degeneracy of the coupling coefficients near the cutoff are other unusual properties of the proposed structure.