bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Most people don’t like a client group that tell you to get fucked”: Choice and control in Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme for formerly incarcerated people
Authors: Dickinson Helen , Yates Sophie , Dodd Shannon , Buick Fiona , Doyle Caroline
Published: October 2022

Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a substantial policy reform aiming to radically transform the design and delivery of disability services. Choice and control are key tenets of the scheme, however challenges and limitations exist with respect to inequities and difficulties posed by boundaries between the NDIS and mainstream services. People with disability who have been incarcerated are particularly at risk of experiencing these limitations. However there has been little academic exploration of these issues for this group. This paper explores whether NDIS services are readily accessible for people with disability who were formerly incarcerated, outlining some of the challenges this group encounters. The research is based on interviews with 28 stakeholders from government and non-government organisations that interact with and provide support or services to people with disability within the criminal justice system. Our findings confirm the importance of a functioning NDIS plan to help prevent some individuals encountering the criminal justice system, outlining several challenges that formerly incarcerated people with disability experience with the scheme. We conclude that ideas of choice and control are inhibited for some formerly incarcerated people with disability and highlight actions that can be taken regarding specialist support coordination, advocacy services and market stewardship to address these issues.
Defining the problem of low wage growth in Australia and Denmark: From the actors’ perspectives
Authors: Andersen Søren Kaj , Wright Chris F , Lansbury Russell D
Published: October 2022

Low wage growth is a challenge common to many OECD countries including countries with very different institutional systems. This paper utilises and extends Rochefort and Cobb’s (1993) ‘problem definition’ framework to analyse how employer and union representatives in Australia and Denmark explain the causes of low wage growth. Drawing on elite interviews, which allow us to assess the nuance of actors’ perceptions, we find disagreement among Australian actors about the role of the collective bargaining system in contributing to low wage growth. Despite disagreement over the extent of the low wage growth problem in Denmark, both unions and employers expressed confidence in the ability of the bargaining system to resolve it. We argue that the greater degree of consensus in Denmark compared with Australia reflects differences in national institutional systems and knowledge regimes, which have influenced the ways actors in these countries perceive low wage growth.
Before reliable near infrared spectroscopic analysis - the critical sampling proviso. Part 1: Generalised theory of sampling
Authors: Esbensen Kim H , Abu-Khalaf Nawaf
Published: October 2022

Non-representative sampling of materials, lots and processes intended for near infrared (NIR) analysis is often contributing hidden additions to the full Measurement Uncertainty (MUtotal = TSE + TAENIR). The Total Sampling Error (TSE) can dominate over the Total Analytical Error (TAENIR) by factors ranging from 5 to 10 to even 25 times, depending on material heterogeneity and the specific sampling procedures employed to produce the minuscule aliquot, which is the only material analysed. This review (Parts 1 and 2), extensively referenced with easily available complementing literature, presents a brief of all sampling uncertainty elements in the “lot-to-aliquot” pathway, which must be identified and correctly managed (eliminated or maximally reduced) in order to achieve, and to be able to document, fully minimised MUtotal. The more irregular and pervasive the heterogeneity, the higher the number of increments needed to reach ‘fit-for-purpose representativity’. A particular focus is necessary regarding the sampling bias, which is fundamentally different from the well-known analytical bias. Whereas the latter can easily be subjected to bias correction, the sampling bias is non-correctable by any posteori means, notably not by chemometrics, nor statistics. Instead, all sampling operations must be designed to exclude the so-called Incorrect Sampling Errors (ISE), which are the hidden bias-generating agents. The key element in this endeavour is representative sampling and sub-sampling before analysis, as laid out by the Theory of Sampling (TOS), which is presented here in a novel compact fashion along with a complement of selected examples and demonstrations. TOS includes a safeguard facility, termed the Replication Experiment (RE), which enables estimation of the total sampling- plus-analysis uncertainty level (MUtotal) associated with NIR analysis (the RE is, for practical and logistical reasons, found in Part 2). Neglecting the TSE effects from the before-analysis domain is lack of due diligence. TOS to the fore!
Nontype 1 Retinopathy of Prematurity: Disease Profile and Indications of Treatment
Authors: Phutela Parvi , Sethi Neha K. , Gupta Natharam , Kaur Gurmeet , Sethi Amanpreet , Prabha Archana
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

To study the features of “nontype 1” retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and indications of treatment.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Methods:

Medical records of inborn or outborn neonates screened for ROP from tertiary level special newborn care unit according to national screening guidelines were analyzed. Infants diagnosed with milder than type 1 ROP, not progressing to type 1 ROP, with complete medical records were included. Features, morphology, staging and indications of treatment were recorded. Preplus disease was studied as a risk factor for treatment.

Results:

464 eyes (232 infants) were screened. Thirty eyes of 16 infants with non-type 1 ROP were included. Twelve out of 30 such eyes (40.0%) underwent treatment. Three had type 2 ROP, all of which were treated, 27 had mild type ROP, 9 of which were treated. So, out of 12 eyes, 3 (25.0%) were treated due to structural abnormalities (anteroposterior traction on retina, flat retinal fibrosis, vitreous hemorrhage) and 9 out of 12 eyes (75.0%) due to persistent ROP. Eyes with preplus disease were 2.33 times more likely to be treated; presence of preplus disease came out to be a significant risk factor for treatment.

Conclusions:

Persistent ROP with increasing weight and structural abnormalities were the major indication of treatment in milder than type 1 ROP. Presence of preplus disease was also an important risk factor for treatment.
Use of Collaterals in Social Work: Ethical and Risk Management Issues
Authors: Reamer Frederic G.
Published: October 2022

Social workers in a wide range of settings collaborate with clients’ collaterals to plan and implement services. A collateral in social work is a spouse, partner, family member, friend, or other individual who participates in counseling and casework services to meet clients’ needs. Social workers who meet with collaterals can encounter complex ethical issues, especially related to confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and documentation. The purpose of this article is to identify ethical issues that arise in social work with collaterals; provide an overview of pertinent ethical standards; and discuss practical steps social workers can take to protect collaterals, clients, third-parties, and social workers themselves when complex ethics challenges emerge.
Do Healthy People Engage With Education About Death, Dying and Advance Care Planning? An Early Evaluation of the Omega Course
Authors: Davies Ieuan , Meystre Chantal , Dale Jeremy
Published: October 2022

Background: Death can be difficult to address personally, to discuss and to plan for. Since 2016 The Omega Course (Omega) has educated local people in Kenilworth, UK, about death and dying; broaching these issues and teaching communication skills whilst enabling social interaction. It aspires to produce practical outcomes with positive implications for end of life (EoL) planning and future neighbourhood care within the town. Aim: To investigate the impact of Omega on the attitudes and actions of participants. Method: Anonymous questionnaires, distributed by Qualtrics, or by post if preferred, were sent to 62 participants of Omega aged 22-94 two and a half years post course institution. Thematic analysis and inferential statistics were used. Results: 23 replies (37%) scored changes across 4 areas; barriers to discussion, ease discussing death, fears about death and future planning capability. All showed a significant beneficial change using a Paired Sample t-test ( P< .01). Respondents noted common fears of death and dying, barriers to discussing the topic and planning for it. The course helped to allay fear, enabled discussion and encouraged planning for death and EoL. Respondents rated the course as 9.1/10 for achieving its aims. They appreciated discussing death and dying in a supportive environment and found the approach effective in developing their skills and changing attitudes. Conclusion: Omega has the potential to change attitudes towards death; promoting discussion, planning, and tackling misconceptions.
Extent of smoking at a Danish hospital with a smoke-free policy
Authors: Mortensen Anne-Sofie M. , Kolstad Henrik A. , Hansen Karoline K.
Published: October 2022

Aim:

One-fifth of the Danish population smoke and exposure to second-hand smoke has well-documented adverse health effects. The smoking policy at hospital level prohibits hospital staff from smoking on the hospital grounds while patients and visitors may smoke in outdoor smoking cabins. This study aimed to quantify smoking at a Danish hospital and document any policy breaches.

Methods:

In April 2020, we collected cigarette butts and observed smokers at the outdoor grounds to document smoking behaviour.

Results:

In total, 7152 cigarette butts were collected during one week and 368 people were observed smoking at the outdoor grounds during four observation days. Of all collected cigarette butts, 55% were collected outside the smoking cabins and 62% of all smokers were observed smoking outside the smoking cabins. In addition, 31 staff were observed smoking.

Conclusions:

This study documents that smoking is prevalent at a smoke-free hospital and that the smoking policy is frequently violated. The frequency of smoking outside the cabins may at least partly be influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Smoking at a hospital can expose patients, visitors and staff to second-hand smoke with subsequent adverse health effects. Hospitals could play an exemplary role towards a smoke-free society (and not the exception), but the opportunity is not always seized.
Triglyceride glucose index is independently associated with aortic intima-media thickness in patients without known atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or diabetes
Authors: ÖZBİÇER Süleyman , YÜKSEL Gülhan , Deniz URGUN Örsan
Published: October 2022

Background: The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a reliable marker of insulin resistance. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the TyG index and aortic intima-media thickness (IMT) in individuals without diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease undergoing transoesophageal echocardiography due to suspected structural heart disease.

Methods: One hundred twenty-two patients enrolled in the study between January 2021 and June 2021. Patients were divided into two groups according to their median IMT; patients with an IMT equal to or less than 1.42 mm were low IMT group, and higher than 1.42 mm were high IMT group. Triglyceride-glucose index were higher in the high IMT group (8.69 ± 0.59 vs. 8.37 ± 0.53, p = .003).

Results: Triglyceride-glucose index was correlated with IMT ( r = 0.259, p = .005) and in binary logistic regression analysis age and TyG was independently associated with having high IMT ( β = 0.076, exp(B)=1.079 95%CI = 1.041–1.118, p < .001 and β = 0.847, exp( B)= 2.334 95%CI= 1.048–5.199, p = .038, respectively).

Conclusion: We found an independent relationship between TyG and IMT of the thoracic aorta, an early marker of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients without known atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Therefore, the TyG index can identify high-risk subjects in the general population.
The Battle between Commercial Marketing and Social Marketing
Authors: Kotler Philip
Published: October 2022

The purpose of commercial marketing is to sell products that satisfy customers’ needs at a profit, without judging the rightfulness of those needs. Social marketing’s purpose is to modify or change consumer needs when they are harmful to the person, other persons, or society. Social marketing therefore acts as a corrective to harmful commercial marketing practices. With the rise of sustainability concerns, social marketing takes on the additional objective of urging persons in advanced nations to reduce their consumption on the grounds of “less is more.” Social marketers will mount more campaigns to discourage water consumption, beef consumption, heavy packaging with plastics, and so on. To preserve the planet, an emerging goal of social marketing is Degrowth.
A Novel Mixed Methods Approach for Integrating Not-for-Profit Service Data via Qualitative Geographic Information System to Explore Authentic Experiences of Ill-Health: A Case Study of Rural Mental Health
Authors: Kamstra Peter , Farmer Jane , McCosker Anthony , Gardiner Fergus , Dalton Hazel , Perkins David , Salvador-Carulla Luis , Bagheri Nasser
Published: October 2022

Meeting the mental health needs of rural populations is challenging internationally, with few methods and scarce data available to inform site-specific planning. We developed a mixed methods approach that integrates Not-for-profit (NFP) organization data in a Geographic Information System (GIS) to explore interrelated understandings of mental health experiences in rural places. Integrating qualitative experience data from online forums with quantitative data from service search and emergency pickup locations via GIS demonstrates how NFP health service data can be ethically sourced, reused, integrated, analyzed, and ground-truthed to explore how mental health is experienced in rural places. This article contributes to the mixed methods literature an ethical approach that utilizes NFP health service datasets to inform research in contexts of data scarcity.
Antihypertensive Potential of Tartaric Acid and Exploration of Underlying Mechanistic Pathways
Authors: Kousar Mubeen , Salma Umme , Khan Taous , Shah Abdul Jabbar
Published: October 2022

Tartaric acid is capable of balancing blood pressure. It is the main constituent of antihypertensive agents (grapes and wine) and has not been scientifically explored as an antihypertensive remedy. This study aimed to investigate the antihypertensive effect of a low-dose tartaric acid in vivo and explore underlying mechanisms in vitro. Intravenous administration of tartaric acid at the dose of 50 µg/kg caused a % fall in mean arterial pressure (MAP) in normotensive and hypertensive rats [51.5 ± 1.7 and 63.5 ± 2.9% mmHg]. This hypotensive effect was partially inhibited by atropine (1 mg/kg) and L-NAME (100 µg/kg) pretreatment. In hypertensive rats, oral administration of tartaric acid (.1, .5, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg) for 2 weeks resulted in 65 ± 7.3 mmHg MAP at 10 mg/kg. This antihypertensive effect was comparable to the orally administered verapamil (10 mg/kg) for 2 weeks which caused a decrease in MAP 60.4 ± 3.8 mmHg. Tartaric acid relaxed phenylephrine (PE) and High K+-induced contractions with EC50 values of .157 (.043-.2) and 1.93 (.07-2) µg/mL in vitro. This endothelium-dependent relaxation was inhibited with atropine (1 µM) and L-NAME (10 µM) pretreatment. Tartaric acid also suppressed phenylephrine contractions in Ca+2 free/EGTA medium and on voltage-dependent calcium channels, causing the concentration–response curves toward right. Tartaric acid induced negative inotropic and chronotropic effects with EC50 values of .26 (.14-.4) and .60 (.2-.8) in rat atria. It showed its effect by complete blockade against atropine and partially in propranolol pretreatment. These findings provide scientific basis to low-dose tartaric acid as an antihypertensive and vasodilatory remedy through muscarinic receptor-linked nitric oxide (NO) pathway and Ca+2 channel antagonist.
Effect of thrombomodulin gene polymorphisms on venous thromboembolism: An analysis of evidence involving 6,629 patients
Authors: Wang Lang , Ran Luqin , Tian Yanzhen , Jin Yunrui , Yi Jinhua , He Xiaoyuan
Published: October 2022

Backgroud

The association between thrombomodulin gene (THBD) c.1418 C>T polymorphisms and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms and the risk of VTE.

Methods

Computer searches were performed on the CNKI, Wanfang database, VIP database, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. The retrieval time limit was from the establishment of the database to June 2022. Case-control studies and cohort studies of THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms associated with VTE were included. The literature was screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, data extraction and literature quality evaluation. Meta-analysis was performed using STATA 14.0 software.

Results

A total of 12 literature were included, including 2980 cases in the case group and 3649 cases in the control group. The meta-analysis results showed no significant association of the THBD c.1418 C> T polymorphisms with the occurrence of VTE (T vs C: OR = 1.17, 95%CI = 0.93–1.48; TT vs CT+CC: OR = 1.00, 95%CI = 0.75–1.33; TT+CT vs CC: OR = 1.22, 95%CI = 0.94–1.59). Subgroup analyses revealed an increased risk of VTE in Asian populations due to THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms (T vs C: OR = 1.48, 95%CI = 1.06–2.07; TT vs CT+CC: OR = 1.80, 95%CI = 1.13–2.85; TT+CT vs CC: OR = 1.58, 95%CI = 1.07–2.32). THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms increased the risk of DVT (T vs C: OR = 1.51, 95%CI = 1.24–1.85; TT vs CT+CC: OR = 1.85, 95%CI = 1.10–3.12; TT+CT vs CC: OR = 1.64, 95%CI = 1.28–2.11). THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms reduced the risk of VTE in non-Asian populations (TT vs CT+CC: OR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.45–0.98).

Conclusion

THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms is associated with VTE in Asian population, which may be a factor in the occurrence of VTE in Asian population. THBD c.1418 C>T polymorphisms increases the risk of DVT. Given the limitations of this meta-analysis, the conclusions require being further supported by large-scale and high-quality studies.
Increasing burden of stroke in China: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence, incidence, mortality, and case fatality
Authors: Zhao Yang , Hua Xing , Ren Xinwen , Ouyang Menglu , Chen Chen , Li Yunke , Yin Xiaoya , Song Peige , Chen Xiaoying , Wu Simiao , Song Lili , Anderson Craig S
Published: October 2022

Background:

The epidemiology of stroke is evolving in China as the population undergoes demographic, lifestyle, and economic transitions. An updated review is pertinent to providing feedback on current, and in planning future, prevention and management strategies.

Aims:

To identify high-quality epidemiological studies for quantifying the prevalence, incidence, mortality, and case fatality for stroke in China.

Methods:

A search was undertaken across a range of bibliographic databases on 30 November 2021 without time limitation. Assessments were made of the risk of bias of the included studies. The outcomes were synthesized using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression models were used to define the source of heterogeneity.

Results:

Of 9407 identified records, 26 population-based studies were included. Due to significant heterogeneity across the studies, the original range for crude rates of indices was wide. The pooled annual prevalence was 1329.5/100,000 (95% confidence interval (CI) 713.6–2131.9, p < 0.001), incidence 442.1/100,000 (327.6–573.8, p < 0.001), mortality 154.1/100,000 (52.6–308.8, I2 = 100%, p < 0.001), and case fatality 35.8% (26.1% to 46.1%, I2 = 97%, p < 0.001). The prevalence and incidence of stroke have increased, but stroke-related case fatality has declined in China over recent decades. There are significant regional and rural-urban differences in incidence rates.

Conclusion:

Despite improved public health policies and healthcare delivery, the burden of stroke remains high in China. Further coordinated efforts are required in prevention and community care to offset the likelihood of further expansion in the absolute number of stroke cases in this large population.
“Dark Participation” Without Representation: A Structural Approach to Journalism’s Social Media Crisis
Authors: Miller Kaitlin C. , Nelson Jacob L.
Published: October 2022

Social media platforms have become an integral part of journalistic work. These tools allow journalists to pursue stronger, more intimate connections with their audiences, to cultivate their own professional identities or “brands,” and to advocate for improved working conditions within their organizations. Yet, social media platforms have also created new risks and challenges for journalists, most notably in the form of dark participation, which refers to negative, selfish or even deeply sinister forms of online audience engagement. Although scholars have devoted considerable effort to exploring how this harassment unfolds and how it impacts journalists who face it, there is less research investigating the implications of this harassment for the future of journalism and its relationship with the public. To address this, this research uses interviews with a diverse group of 37 US journalists to propose larger structural changes to newsroom leadership and social media policy creation. The interview data suggest that newsroom leadership must become more diverse so that newsroom policy is assembled by a group of people that is representative of its staff—as well as the public at large. The authors conclude by observing that “dark participation” is not unique to journalism alone, and by discussing the implications of our findings for communication stakeholders invested in overcoming the current, global climate of populism that frequently results in hate, harassment, and hostility within social media.
Surgical Position of Lateral-Tilted Supine is Suitable for Proximal Humeral Fracture Operations in Geriatric Patients
Authors: Yang Yun-fa , Huang Jian-wen , Gao Xiao-sheng , Xu Zhong-he
Published: October 2022

Objective

To report a new surgical position of lateral-tilted supine (LTS) for geriatric proximal humeral fracture operations.

Methods

Between January 2016 and December 2020, we adopted the LTS position for operations in 65 geriatric patients with proximal humeral fractures.

Results

Sixty-five patients including 25 males and 40 females aged 80.3 ± 8.5 years. The LTS position could be used for almost all proximal humeral fracture surgeries, such as ORIF with plate, suture anchor, and other fixation in 4 patients, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with multiLoc nailing in 48, and shoulder hemiarthroplasty (SHA) in 13. Surgical position setting times were 11.47 ± 2.14 min. The systolic blood pressure changes before and after positioning were 15.07 ± 8.72 mmHg. All of the C-arm X-ray directions, including the cephalic side, contralateral side, and ipsilateral side, can be used in the LTS position surgeries. No surgical complications or no surgical position-related complications were found in these 65 cases.

Conclusion

The surgical position of LTS is suitable for geriatric proximal humeral fracture operations.
Poisoning the Well: How Astroturfing Harms Trust in Advocacy Organizations
Authors: Walker Edward T. , Le Andrew N.
Published: October 2022

Sociological research on social movements and politics holds that advocacy organizations are typically trusted to be authentic agents of their constituents. At the same time, however, businesses and other outside interests often engage in covert “astroturfing” strategies in which they ventriloquize claims through apparently independent grassroots associations (but which are entirely funded and staffed to benefit the sponsor). These widespread and deceptive strategies may harm trust in advocacy groups overall, extending beyond those revealed to be involved, through a mechanism of categorical stigmatization. This study is the first to test how revealed covert patronage may “poison the well” for all advocacy groups, with implications for how social movements and other advocacy causes suffer harm from illegitimate political practices by other organizations. The authors carried out two survey-experiments in which a local advocacy organization was revealed to be operating, respectively, as a “front” for either a corporation or think tank; in each experiment, conditions varied depending upon whether the sponsor was presented as highly reputable, low reputation, or with no specified reputation. In both experiments, astroturfing led to significant declines in trust in advocacy groups overall. We highlight implications for theory and research on social movements, organizational theory, and political processes.
Data-driven micromobility network planning for demand and safety
Authors: Folco Pietro , Gauvin Laetitia , Tizzoni Michele , Szell Michael
Published: October 2022

Developing safe infrastructure for micromobility like bicycles or e-scooters is an efficient pathway towards climate-friendly, sustainable, and livable cities. However, urban micromobility infrastructure is typically planned ad-hoc and at best informed by survey data. Here, we study how data of micromobility trips and crashes can shape and automatize such network planning processes. We introduce a parameter that tunes the focus between demand-based and safety-based development, and investigate systematically this tradeoff for the city of Turin. We find that a full focus on demand or safety generates different network extensions in the short term, with an optimal tradeoff in-between. In the long term, our framework improves overall network quality independent of short-term focus. Thus, we show how a data-driven process can provide urban planners with automated assistance for variable short-term scenario planning while maintaining the long-term goal of a sustainable, city-spanning micromobility network.
Laser Oscillating of Nickel Alloyed Welds on Press-Hardened Steel
Authors: Sun Qian , Zhang Zhenghui , Wang Xiaonan , Zhang Qingyu , Liu Zhenguang
Published: October 2022

Laser oscillating welding was employed to fabricate Al-Si coated press-hardened steel (PHS) to improve the element homogeneity in the fusion zone. Laser oscillating welding was employed with various oscillation amplitudes (0 mm, 0.5 mm and 1.3 mm) in this present. Ni foil of 0.06 mm thickness was used as an interlayer between two tailored PHS welded. The weld morphology, elemental profile, microstructure and tensile strength of welded joints were studied. The results showed that full penetration weld without any weld defects were achieved for any oscillation amplitudes, and weld width increased with increasing oscillation amplitudes. With the oscillation amplitudes increased, Ni and Al had an uneven elemental profile due to strong stirring force, but the Ni and Al content in the weld was decreased and Ni had a sharp descent compared to Al element. Only few δ-ferrite was presented in fusion line with the oscillation amplitudes increased to 1.3 mm. The oscillation amplitudes did not have an effect on the tensile properties, which was similar to that of base metal. But if keeping increasing the oscillation amplitudes or reducing the thickness of Ni interlayer, it has a potential risk to form more and more δ ferrite such that deteriorate the mechnical properties of welded joints.
circ_0025033 promotes ovarian cancer development via regulating the hsa_miR-370-3p/SLC1A5 axis
Authors: Ma Huiping , Qu Shuyun , Zhai Yao , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: October 2022

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) appear to be important modulators in ovarian cancer. We aimed to explore the role and mechanism of circ_0025033 in ovarian cancer.

Methods

qRT-PCR was conducted to determine circ_0025033, hsa_miR-370-3p, and SLC1A5 mRNA expression. Functional experiments were conducted, including Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, transwell, tube formation, xenograft tumor model assay, western blot analysis of protein levels, and analysis of glutamine metabolism using commercial kits. Their predicted interaction was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down.

Results

circ_0025033 was upregulated in ovarian cancer; its knockdown induced proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, glutamine metabolism, and apoptosis in vitro, and blocked tumor growth in vivo. circ_0025033 regulated ovarian cancer cellular behaviors via sponging hsa_miR-370-3p. In parallel, SLC1A5 might abolish the anti-ovarian cancer role of hsa_miR-370-3p. Furthermore, circ_0025033 affected SLC1A5 via regulating hsa_miR-370-3p.

Conclusion

circ_0025033 might promote ovarian cancer progression via hsa_miR-370-3p/SLC1A5, providing an interesting insight into ovarian cancer tumorigenesis.
Down-regulation of EVA1A by miR-103a-3p promotes hepatocellular carcinoma cells proliferation and migration
Authors: Xu Qian , Liao Zhaozhong , Gong Zunshuang , Liu Xiaokun , Yang Yuling , Wang Zhe , Yang Weiyan , Hou Lin , Yang Jiejie , Song Junying , Liu Wenjing , Wang Bin , Hua Junnan , Pu Mingyi , Li Ning
Published: October 2022

Background

EVA1A (Eva-1 homolog A), a novel protein involved in autophagy and apoptosis, functions as a tumor suppressor in some human primary cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). While it is consistently downregulated in several cancers, its involvement in hepatocarcinogenesis is still largely unknown.

Methods

We first detected the expression of EVA1A in HCC tissues and cell lines using RT‒qPCR, immunohistochemistry and western blotting and detected the expression of miR-103a-3p by RT‒qPCR. Then, bioinformatics prediction, dual-luciferase reporter gene assays and western blotting were used to screen and identify the upstream microRNA of EVA1A. After manipulating the expression of miR-103a-3p or EVA1A, wound healing, invasion, proliferation, colony formation, apoptosis, autophagy, mitosis and mitochondrial function assays, including mitochondrial membrane potential, ROS and ATP production assays, were performed to investigate the functions of miR-103a-3p targeting EVA1A in HCC cells. Apoptosis-related proteins were assessed by RT‒qPCR (TP53) or western blotting (TP53, BAX, Bcl-2 and caspase-3). Autophagy level was evaluated by observing LC3 puncta and examining the protein levels of p62, Beclin1 and LC3-II/I.

Results

We found that EVA1A expression was decreased while miR-103a-3p expression was increased in HCC tissues and cell lines and that their expression was inversely correlated in HCC patients. The expression of miR-103a-3p was associated with HCC tumor stage and poor prognosis. miR-103a-3p could target EVA1A through direct binding to its 3'-UTR and suppress its expression. Overexpression of miR-103a-3p significantly downregulated the expression of EVA1A, TP53 and BAX, upregulated the JAK2/STAT3 pathway and promoted HCC cell migration, invasion and proliferation, while repression of miR-103a-3p dramatically upregulated the expression of EVA1A, TP53, BAX and cleaved-caspase-3, inhibited HCC cell migration, invasion and proliferation, and caused mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. Overexpression of EVA1A significantly attenuated the cancer-promoting effects of miR-103a-3p in HCC cells, while knockdown of EVA1A alleviated the mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis caused by miR-103a-3p inhibition. Overexpression of EVA1A did not induce significant changes in autophagy levels, nor did it affect G2/M transition or mitosis.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that the downregulation of the tumor suppressor EVA1A by miR-103a-3p potentially acts as a key mediator in HCC progression, mainly by inhibiting apoptosis and promoting metastasis. The miR-103a/EVA1A/TP53 axis provides a new potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
Genetic parameters of colostrum and calf serum antibodies in Swedish dairy cattle
Authors: Cordero-Solorzano Juan , de Koning Dirk-Jan , Tråvén Madeleine , de Haan Therese , Jouffroy Mathilde , Larsson Andrea , Myrthe Aline , Arts Joop A. J. , Parmentier Henk K. , Bovenhuis Henk , Wensman Jonas Johansson
Published: October 2022

Background

A sufficient IgG content in the colostrum is essential for the newborn calf, as it provides passive immunity which substantially affects the probability of survival during rearing. Failure of passive transfer (FPT) occurs when a calf does not absorb enough antibodies from the colostrum and is defined by an IgG concentration in calf serum lower than 10 g/L. Apart from delayed access to colostrum, FPT can be due to a low production of IgG in the mother or poor IgG absorption by the calf. The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic background of antibody levels and indicator traits for antibodies in the colostrum and calf serum, and their correlation with milk production.

Results

Colostrum data were available for 1340 dairy cows with at least one calving and calf serum data were available for 886 calves from these cows. Indicator traits for antibody concentrations were estimated using refractometry (a digital Brix refractometer for colostrum and an optical refractometer for serum), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were used to determine the levels of total IgG and natural antibodies (NAb) of various antibody isotypes in the colostrum and calf serum. Colostrum traits had heritabilities ranging from 0.16 to 0.31 with repeatabilities ranging from 0.21 to 0.55. Brix percentages had positive genetic correlations with all colostrum antibody traits including total IgG (0.68). Calf serum antibody concentrations had heritabilities ranging from 0.25 to 0.59, with a significant maternal effect accounting for 17 to 27% of the variance. When later in life calves produced their first lactation, the lactation average somatic cell score was found to be negatively correlated with NAb levels in calf serum.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that antibody levels in the colostrum and calf serum can be increased by means of selection.
Impacts of additive, dominance, and inbreeding depression effects on genomic evaluation by combining two SNP chips in Canadian Yorkshire pigs bred in China
Authors: Mei Quanshun , Vitezica Zulma G. , Li Jielin , Zhao Shuhong , Legarra Andres , Xiang Tao
Published: October 2022

Background

At the beginning of genomic selection, some Chinese companies genotyped pigs with different single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays. The obtained genomic data are then combined and to do this, several imputation strategies have been developed. Usually, only additive genetic effects are considered in genetic evaluations. However, dominance effects that may be important for some traits can be fitted in a mixed linear model as either ‘classical’ or ‘genotypic’ dominance effects. Their influence on genomic evaluation has rarely been studied. Thus, the objectives of this study were to use a dataset from Canadian Yorkshire pigs to (1) compare different strategies to combine data from two SNP arrays (Affymetrix 55K and Illumina 42K) and identify the most appropriate strategy for genomic evaluation and (2) evaluate the impact of dominance effects (classical’ and ‘genotypic’) and inbreeding depression effects on genomic predictive abilities for average daily gain (ADG), backfat thickness (BF), loin muscle depth (LMD), days to 100 kg (AGE100), and the total number of piglets born (TNB) at first parity.

Results

The reliabilities obtained with the additive genomic models showed that the strategy used to combine data from two SNP arrays had little impact on genomic evaluations. Models with classical or genotypic dominance effect showed similar predictive abilities for all traits. For ADG, BF, LMD, and AGE100, dominance effects accounted for a small proportion (2 to 11%) of the total genetic variance, whereas for TNB, dominance effects accounted for 11 to 20%. For all traits, the predictive abilities of the models increased significantly when genomic inbreeding depression effects were included in the model. However, the inclusion of dominance effects did not change the predictive ability for any trait except for TNB.

Conclusions

Our study shows that it is feasible to combine data from different SNP arrays for genomic evaluation, and that all combination methods result in similar accuracies. Regardless of how dominance effects are fitted in the genomic model, there is no impact on genetic evaluation. Models including inbreeding depression effects outperform a model with only additive effects, even if the trait is not strongly affected by dominant genes.
Genome-scale analysis of Arabidopsis splicing-related protein kinase families reveals roles in abiotic stress adaptation
Authors: Rodriguez Gallo M. C. , Li Q. , Mehta D. , Uhrig R. G.
Published: October 2022

Nearly 60 – 80 % of intron-containing plant genes undergo alternative splicing in response to either stress or plant developmental cues. RNA splicing is performed by a large ribonucleoprotein complex called the spliceosome in conjunction with associated subunits such as serine arginine (SR) proteins, all of which undergo extensive phosphorylation. In plants, there are three main protein kinase families suggested to phosphorylate core spliceosome subunits and related splicing factors based on orthology to human splicing-related kinases: the SERINE/ARGININE PROTEIN KINASES (SRPK), ARABIDOPSIS FUS3 COMPLEMENT (AFC), and Pre-mRNA PROCESSING FACTOR 4 (PRP4K) protein kinases. To better define the conservation and role(s) of these kinases in plants, we performed a genome-scale analysis of the three families across photosynthetic eukaryotes, followed by extensive transcriptomic and bioinformatic analysis of all Arabidopsis thaliana SRPK, AFC, and PRP4K protein kinases to elucidate their biological functions. Unexpectedly, this revealed the existence of SRPK and AFC phylogenetic groups with distinct promoter elements and patterns of transcriptional response to abiotic stress, while PRP4Ks possess no phylogenetic sub-divisions, suggestive of functional redundancy. We also reveal splicing-related kinase families are both diel and photoperiod regulated, implicating different orthologs as discrete time-of-day RNA splicing regulators. This foundational work establishes a number of new hypotheses regarding how reversible spliceosome phosphorylation contributes to both diel plant cell regulation and abiotic stress adaptation in plants.
International depiction of the cost of functional independence limitations among older adults living in the community: a systematic review and cost-of-impairment study
Authors: Falck Ryan S. , Percival Alexis G. , Tai Daria , Davis Jennifer C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Functional independence limitations restrict older adult self-sufficiency and can reduce quality of life. This systematic review and cost of impairment study examined the costs of functional independence limitations among community dwelling older adults to society, the health care system, and the person.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines this systematic review included community dwelling older adults aged 60 years and older with functional independence limitations. Databases (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EconLit, NHS EED, Embase, CINAHL, AgeLine, and MEDLINE) were searched between 1990 and June 2020. Two reviewers extracted information on study characteristics and cost outcomes including mean annual costs of functional independence limitations per person for each cost perspective (2020 US prices). Quality was assessed using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist.

Results

85 studies were included. The mean annual total costs per person (2020 US prices) were: $27,380.74 (95% CI: [$4075.53, $50,685.96]) for societal, $24,195.52 (95% CI: [$9679.77, $38,711.27]) for health care system, and $7455.49 (95% CI: [$2271.45, $12,639.53]) for personal. Individuals with cognitive markers of functional independence limitations accounts for the largest mean costs per person across all perspectives. Variations across studies included: cost perspective, measures quantifying functional independence limitations, cost items reported, and time horizon.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the importance of targeting cognitive markers of functional independence limitations as they accounted for the greatest costs across all economic perspectives.
Functional status and caregiver burden of patients on maintenance haemodialysis in Cameroon: a two-centre cross-sectional study
Authors: Mambap Alex Tatang , Che Innocent Abong , Mahamat Maimouna , Ashuntantang Gloria Enow
Published: October 2022

Background

Data on the functional status (FS) of patients on maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) and their caregiver burden (CGB) in SSA where patients have fewer weekly dialysis sessions and pay out-of-pocket for dialysis-related costs is sparse. 

Objectives

To assess the functional status of Patients on MHD in Cameroon, and the burden of their Caregivers, and to determine the factors associated with functional status impairment (FSI), and high caregiver burden (HCGB). 

Methods

We consecutively enrolled patients on MHD at the Bamenda Regional, and Yaounde General Hospitals over a period of 3 months. We included patients on MHD for ≥ 3 months and their caregivers. Patients and/or caregivers with documented dementia were excluded. Through a face-to-face interview, FS was assessed by combining self-reports of 8 instrumental, and 5 basic activities of daily living using the Lawton-Brody and the Katz (LBKQ) scales, and CGB was assessed using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCGBS). We defined functional status impairment (FSI) as a score ≥ 1 on the LBKQ scale, and a high CGB as a ZCGBS score ≥ 41. Data were analysed using the IBM-SPSS version 26.0

Results

A total of 115 patients and 51 caregivers (CGs) were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 46.9 ± 15.0 years, and 54.8% (n = 63) were males, whereas the mean age of the CGs was 38.30 ± 13.10 years with 72.5% (n = 39) being females. A total of 90 (78.3%) patients had functional status impairment (FSI), while 78.4% (n = 40) of caregivers experienced a burden (41.2% classified as moderate, and 37.2% as high). Anaemia (aOR = 9.2, CI = 3.9–29.4, p < 0.001), and a high daily pill burden (aOR = 4.4, CI = 1.1–18.5, p = 0.043) were independently associated with FSI, while age of caregiver ≥ 45 years (aOR 9.9, CI = 1.7–56.8, P = 0.01) was independently associated with a high CGB. There was a strong positive correlation between FS and CGB.

Conclusion

There is a high prevalence of functional status impairment in patients on maintenance haemodialysis in Cameroon, resulting in high a physical and psychological burden on their caregivers.
A rare case report of recurrent atypical meningioma with multiple metastases treated with anti-PD-1 and anti-VEGF therapy
Authors: Zhao Jia-Li , Liu Jing , Fang Ming , Luo Chen , Gu Zhen-Bang , Huang Long
Published: October 2022

Background

Meningioma is the most common type of primary intracranial tumor with 0.1–1% of all primary meningiomas have been reported to develop into metastases. However, there is no proven therapeutic strategy for multiple metastases of meningiomas.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old female accepted total tumor resection of a right frontal lobe meningioma in September 2018, In October 2021, the patient was admitted to hospital because of cough and shortness of breath and diagnosed with metastatic meningiomas. The computed tomography (CT) scan revealed the presence of large masses in the right thoracic and abdominal cavity. After two cycles of anti-PD-1 and anti-VEGF treatment, the symptoms were relieved and the tumor was necrotic. Follow up to June 21, 2022, the patient has been given eleven cycles of the treatment every 3 weeks without tumor progression.

Conclusions

This case showed combined anti-PD-1 and anti-VEGF treatment stimulates peripheral blood immune cells to kill metastatic meningioma cells. Whether combined immunotherapy is more effective for metastatic meningioma needs further exploration.
Non-communicable diseases and maternal health: a scoping review
Authors: Firoz Tabassum , Pineles Beth , Navrange Nishika , Grimshaw Alyssa , Oladapo Olufemi , Chou Doris
Published: October 2022

Background

Non-communicable diseases [NCDs] are leading causes of ill health among women of reproductive age and an increasingly important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Reliable data on NCDs is necessary for accurate measurement and response. However, inconsistent definitions of NCDs make reliable data collection challenging. We aimed to map the current global literature to understand how NCDs are defined, operationalized and discussed during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period. 

Methods

For this scoping review, we conducted a comprehensive global literature search for NCDs and maternal health covering the years 2000 to 2020 in eleven electronic databases, five regional WHO databases and an exhaustive grey literature search without language restrictions. We used a charting approach to synthesize and interpret the data. 

Results

Only seven of the 172 included sources defined NCDs. NCDs are often defined as chronic but with varying temporality. There is a broad spectrum of conditions that is included under NCDs including pregnancy-specific conditions and infectious diseases. The most commonly included conditions are hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, mental health conditions and malignancy. Most publications are from academic institutions in high-income countries [HICs] and focus on the pre-conception period and pregnancy. Publications from HICs discuss NCDs in the context of pre-conception care, medications, contraception, health disparities and quality of care. In contrast, publications focused on low- and middle-income countries discuss NCDs in the context of NCD prevention. They take a life cycle approach and advocate for integration of NCD and maternal health services.

Conclusion

Standardising the definition and improving the articulation of care for NCDs in the maternal health setting would help to improve data collection and facilitate monitoring. It would inform the development of improved care for NCDs at the intersection with maternal health as well as through a woman's life course. Such an approach could lead to significant policy and programmatic changes with the potential corresponding impact on resource allocation.