bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Privacy-preserving cloud-edge collaborative learning without trusted third-party coordinator
Authors: Yu Xiaopeng , Tang Dianhua , Zhao Wei
Published: February 2023

Cloud-edge collaborative learning has received considerable attention recently, which is an emerging distributed machine learning (ML) architecture for improving the performance of model training among cloud center and edge nodes. However, existing cloud-edge collaborative learning schemes cannot efficiently train high-performance models on large-scale sparse samples, and have the potential risk of revealing the privacy of sensitive data. In this paper, adopting homomorphic encryption (HE) cryptographic technique, we present a privacy-preserving cloud-edge collaborative learning over vertically partitioned data, which allows cloud center and edge node to securely train a shared model without a third-party coordinator, and thus greatly reduces the system complexity. Furthermore, the proposed scheme adopts the batching technique and single instruction multiple data (SIMD) to achieve parallel processing. Finally, the evaluation results show that the proposed scheme improves the model performance and reduces the training time compared with the existing methods; the security analysis indicates that our scheme can guarantee the security in semi-honest model.
SpliceAI-visual: a free online tool to improve SpliceAI splicing variant interpretation
Authors: de Sainte Agathe Jean-Madeleine , Filser Mathilde , Isidor Bertrand , Besnard Thomas , Gueguen Paul , Perrin Aurélien , Van Goethem Charles , Verebi Camille , Masingue Marion , Rendu John , Cossée Mireille , Bergougnoux Anne , Frobert Laurent , Buratti Julien , Lejeune Élodie , Le Guern Éric , Pasquier Florence , Clot Fabienne , Kalatzis Vasiliki , Roux Anne-Françoise , Cogné Benjamin , Baux David
Published: February 2023

SpliceAI is an open-source deep learning splicing prediction algorithm that has demonstrated in the past few years its high ability to predict splicing defects caused by DNA variations. However, its outputs present several drawbacks: (1) although the numerical values are very convenient for batch filtering, their precise interpretation can be difficult, (2) the outputs are delta scores which can sometimes mask a severe consequence, and (3) complex delins are most often not handled. We present here SpliceAI-visual, a free online tool based on the SpliceAI algorithm, and show how it complements the traditional SpliceAI analysis. First, SpliceAI-visual manipulates raw scores and not delta scores, as the latter can be misleading in certain circumstances. Second, the outcome of SpliceAI-visual is user-friendly thanks to the graphical presentation. Third, SpliceAI-visual is currently one of the only SpliceAI-derived implementations able to annotate complex variants (e.g., complex delins). We report here the benefits of using SpliceAI-visual and demonstrate its relevance in the assessment/modulation of the PVS1 classification criteria. We also show how SpliceAI-visual can elucidate several complex splicing defects taken from the literature but also from unpublished cases. SpliceAI-visual is available as a Google Colab notebook and has also been fully integrated in a free online variant interpretation tool, MobiDetails (https://mobidetails.iurc.montp.inserm.fr/MD).

Graphical abstract
A courtly brocade belt belonging to Qajar period (1789–1925), Iran
Authors: Koochakzaei Alireza , Oudbashi Omid
Published: February 2023

This paper identifies the materials used to make a brocade belt belonging to the Qajar courtiers in Iran. This belt consists of two fabric types: red support and golden brocade. Accordingly, this paper examined the skin and tannin type, fiber types, dyeing agents, mordant, and metal wrapping of brocade yarns and metal buckle. Technical imaging, ESI–MS, FORS, FTIR and SEM–EDS were used to identify the materials. Multi-band imaging methods included Vis, UVL, IRR, and UVR, in which UVFC and IRFC images were obtained after processing. The results showed that cotton yarn was used in both fabrics. The red fabric yarns were dyed using cochineal and alum mordant. Also, the yellow brocade yarns were dyed using catechins-rich plants, and in this dyeing process, polyphenols and alum have been as mordant. Madder-dyed yarns are also found in parts of the belt. Examination of the metal wrapping of brocade yarns suggests using strips of copper-nickel alloy with a thin layer of gold-silver alloy. This secondary coating protects the copper-nickel strips and increases their golden luster. The leather analysis of the leather parts also indicated the using cattle/calfskin tanned with gallotannins. Belt buckle analysis also shows the use of brass alloy with a high percentage of zinc, leading to a golden sheen and the buckle desired strength. The results show the use of low-cost materials in the manufacture of clothing for the lower levels of the Qajar court.
Liquid biopsy-based identification of prognostic and immunotherapeutically relevant gene signatures in lower grade glioma
Authors: Wu Changwu , Long Wenyong , Qin Chaoying , Wang Xiangyu , Li Yuzhe , Xiao Kai , Li Yue , Liu Qing
Published: February 2023

Background

Recent studies have shown that immunotherapies, including peptide vaccines, remain promising strategies for patients with lower grade glioma (LGG); however new biomarkers need to be developed to identify patients who may benefit from therapy. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of liquid biopsy-based gene signatures in predicting the prognosis of LGG patients, as well as the benefits of immunotherapy.

Methods

We evaluated the association between circulating immune cells and treatment response by analyzing peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples from LGG patients receiving peptide vaccine immunotherapy, identified response-related genes (RRGs), and constructed RRG-related Response Score. In addition, RRG-related RiskScore was constructed in LGG tumor samples based on RRGs; association analysis for RiskScore and characteristics of TME as well as patient prognosis were performed in two LGG tumor datasets. The predictive power of RiskScore for immunotherapy benefits was analyzed in an anti-PD-1 treatment cohort.

Results

This study demonstrated the importance of circulating immune cells, including monocytes, in the immunotherapeutic response and prognosis of patients with LGG. Overall, 43 significant RRGs were identified, and three clusters with different characteristics were identified in PBMC samples based on RRGs. The constructed RRG-related Response Score could identify patients who produced a complete response to peptide vaccine immunotherapy and could predict prognosis. Additionally, three subtypes were identified in LGG tumors based on RRGs, with subtype 2 being an immune “hot” phenotype suitable for immune checkpoint therapy. The constructed RRG-related RiskScore was significantly positively correlated with the level of tumor immune cell infiltration. Patients with high RiskScore had a worse prognosis and were more likely to respond to immune checkpoint therapy. The therapeutic advantage and clinical benefits of patients with a high RiskScore were confirmed in an anti-PD-1 treatment cohort.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the potential of liquid biopsy for individualized treatment selection in LGG patients and determined the feasibility of circulating immune cells as biomarkers for LGG. Scoring systems based on RRGs can predict the benefits of immunotherapy and prognosis in patients with LGG. This work would help to increase our understanding of the clinical significance of liquid biopsy and more effectively guide individualized immunotherapy strategies.
Design, development and performance analysis of cognitive assisting aid with multi sensor fused navigation for visually impaired people
Authors: Bala Myneni Madhu , Vasundhara D. N. , Haritha Akkineni , Moorthy CH. V. K. N. S. N.
Published: February 2023

The research and innovations in the field of wearable auxiliary devices for visually impaired and blind people are playing a vital role towards improving their quality of life. However, in spite of the promising research outcomes, the existing wearable aids has several weaknesses such as more weight, limitations in the number of features and cost. The main objective of this manuscript is to provide the detailed design of a novel lightweight wearable aid with higher number of features for visually impaired and blind people. The proposed research aims to design a cognitive assistant that will guide the blind people for walking by detecting the environment around them. The framework include a Multi-Sensor Fused Navigation system comprises of a sensor-based, vision-based, and cognitive (intelligent/smart) application. The visual features for the design include obstacle detection, uneven surface detection, slope and downward steps detection, pothole detection and hallow object detection; location tracking, walking guide, image capturing and video recording. This prototype is named as Blind’s Apron based on its appearance. The invention focusses on parameters like reduction on size (quite handy) and light weight (comfortable to wear), higher number of detection features, and minimum user intervention (high end operations like switching on and off). All user interactions are friendly and affordable to everyone. The results obtained in this research lead to a high end technical intervention with ease of use. Finally, the performance of the proposed cognitive assistant is tested with a user study in real-time. The feedback and corresponding results establish the effective outcome of the proposed invention which is a light weight and feature enhanced device with easily understandable instructions.
Geography, rurality, and community distress: deaths due to suicide, alcohol-use, and drug-use among Colorado Veterans
Authors: Spark Talia L. , Reid Colleen E. , Adams Rachel Sayko , Schneider Alexandra L. , Forster Jeri , Denneson Lauren M. , Bollinger Mary , Brenner Lisa A.
Published: February 2023

Background

In the USA, deaths due to suicide, alcohol, or drug-related causes (e.g., alcohol-related liver disease, overdose) have doubled since 2002. Veterans appear disproportionately impacted by growing trends. Limited research has been conducted regarding the relationship between community-level factors (e.g., rurality, community distress resulting from economic conditions) and the presence of spatial clustering of suicide, alcohol-related, or drug-related deaths. We explored community-level relationships in Colorado Veterans and compared suicide, alcohol-, and drug-related death rates between the Colorado adult population and Veterans.

Methods

2009–2020 suicide, alcohol-related, and/or drug-related deaths were identified using qualifying multiple cause-of-death International Classification of Disease (ICD)-10 codes in CDC WONDER for the general adult population and Colorado death data for Veteran populations. Age and race adjusted rates were calculated to compare risk overall and by mortality type (i.e., suicide, alcohol-related, drug-related). In Veteran decedents, age-adjusted rates were stratified by rurality and community distress, measured by the Distressed Communities Index. Standardized mortality ratios were calculated to measure spatial autocorrelation and identify clusters using global and local Moran’s I, respectively.

Results

6.4% of Colorado Veteran deaths (n = 6948) were identified as being related to suicide, alcohol, or drugs. Compared to rates in the general population of Colorado adults, Veterans had 1.8 times higher rates of such deaths overall (2.1 times higher for suicide, 1.8 times higher for alcohol-related, 1.3 times higher for drug-related). Among Veterans, community distress was associated with an increased risk of alcohol-related [age-adjusted rate per 100,000 (95% CI) = 129.6 (89.9–193.1)] and drug-related deaths [95.0 (48.6–172.0)]. This same significant association was not identified among those that died by suicide. Rurality was not associated with risk for any of the deaths of interest. There was significant spatial clustering for alcohol-related deaths in southeast Colorado.

Conclusions

Colorado Veterans have higher rates of deaths due to suicide, alcohol-related, and drug-related causes compared to members of the general adult population. Upstream prevention efforts, such as community-based interventions targeting alcohol-use and community economic distress, are warranted. More research is also needed to understand how community distress and other social determinants of health impact the community burden of suicide, alcohol-related, and drug-related mortality.
Unmet need for family planning and associated factors among currently married women in Hawella Tulla subcity, Hawassa, southern Ethiopia: community-based study
Authors: Assefa Abiyu Ayalew , Selassie Samson G. , Mesele Abebayehu , Kebede Henok Bekele , Fikrie Anteneh , Abera Geleta
Published: February 2023

Background

The unmet need for family planning remains a major public health concern in developing countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Similarly, in Ethiopia, the unmet need for family planning is considerably high. However information regarding associated factors of unmet need of family planning is limited, the study area in particular. Thus, this study was aimed at assessing unmet family planning and associated factors among currently married women in Hawella Tulla Subcity.

Methods

A community based cross-sectional study was employed on 436 currently married women. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression model were used and having P-value of < 0.05 was considered as independently associated factors. Strength of association of the variable was described using adjusted odd ratios with their 95% confidence interval.

Result

The overall unmet need for family planning among currently married women was found to be 18.1% (95% CI: 14.5%, 21.8%). Having age of below 18 years at first marriage AOR = 1.95 (95% CI: 1.14, 3.33), woman’s not attained formal education AOR = 2.23 (95% CI: 1.02, 4.84), women whose partner had non-supportive for family planning use AOR = 2.32 (95% CI: 1.35, 3.99) and women without media access AOR = 2.13 (95% CI: 1.19, 3.81) were significantly associated with increasing unmet need for family planning.

Conclusions

Despite the presence of high family planning services coverage in the study area, the magnitude of unmet need for family planning is still reasonably high. Having age of below 18 years at first marriage, woman’s not attained formal education, women whose partner had non-supportive for family planning use and inavailability of media access in the house were found to be associated with high unmet need for family planning. Therefore, efforts are needed to empower women through education, avoiding early marriage and encouraging couple-based family planning interventions. Increasing media access is also advisable intervention.
Exploration of the underlying comorbidity mechanism in psoriasis and periodontitis: a bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Lei Hao , Chen Xin , Wang Ziyang , Xing Zixuan , Du Wenqian , Bai Ruimin , He Ke , Zhang Wen , Wang Yan , Zheng Yan
Published: February 2023

Background

Increasing evidence indicates that psoriasis (PSO) and periodontitis (PD) are likely to occur together, however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Materials and methods

The expression profiles of PSO (lesion vs non-lesion, GSE30999, GSE14905) and PD (affected vs unaffected gingival tissue, GSE16134, GSE10334) were downloaded from the GEO database. First, we investigated the common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of PSO and PD. Then, GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, protein interaction network (PPI) construction, and hub gene identification analysis were carried out. Finally, GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, miRNA interaction analysis, and transcription factors (TFs) interaction analysis for hub genes were performed.

Results

Eighteen DEGs were identified for further analysis, including 15 up-regulated genes and 3 down-regulated genes. 9 hub genes were then identified via Cytohubba, including IL1B, CXCL1, CXCL8, MMP12, CCL18, SELL, CXCL13, FCGR3B, and SELE. Their functions are mainly enriched in two aspects: neutrophil chemotaxis and migration, chemokine activation and interaction. The enriched signaling pathways includes three categories: host defense, inflammation-related signaling pathways, and disease-related pathways. 9 common miRNAs based on experimental evidence and 10 common TFs were further identified in both PSO and PD.

Conclusion

Our study revealed possible comorbidity mechanisms in PSO and PD from the perspective of bioinformatics tentatively. The data can present new insight for joint prevention and treatment of in PSO and PD, as well as provide data support for further prospective studies.
Changes in body composition of patients undergoing hemodialysis during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: a retrospective longitudinal study
Authors: Fukuzaki Narumi , Suzuki Yuta , Uchida Juri , Nakajima Takuya , Yamamoto Shohei , Imamura Keigo , Yoshikoshi Shun , Harada Manae , Matsuzawa Ryota , Kamiya Kentaro , Matsunaga Atsuhiko
Published: February 2023

Background

The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has dramatically altered the lifestyles of many people worldwide. Several studies reported that body weight of young adults increased during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, weight loss has been observed in the elderly population. Therefore, trends in body composition due to the COVID-19 pandemic may vary depending on the characteristics of the population. This study aimed to investigate the changes in body mass index (BMI), muscle mass, and fat mass before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods

In this retrospective longitudinal study, we enrolled 115 clinically stable outpatients (mean age: 65.7 ± 11.2 years, 62.6% men) who underwent hemodialysis thrice a week. Baseline data were collected between April 2019 and March 2020, before the declaration of the COVID-19 emergency by the Japanese government. The follow-up measurements were performed between July 2020 and March 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patient characteristics, laboratory data, and BMI measurements were collected from the medical records. Muscle mass and fat mass were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Results

BMI and fat mass among the study participants were significantly higher during the COVID-19 pandemic than before the pandemic (p < 0.01), but no significant change in muscle mass was observed. A restricted cubic spline function showed that the increase in BMI appeared to correlate well with fat mass, but not with muscle mass.

Conclusions

BMI and fat mass of patients on hemodialysis significantly increased due to preventive measures against the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. These findings may provide useful information in making nutritional management decisions for patients undergoing hemodialysis during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
From good sleep to health and to quality of life – a path analysis of determinants of sleep quality of working adults in Abu Dhabi
Authors: Badri Masood , Alkhaili Mugheer , Aldhaheri Hamad , Yang Guang , Albahar Muna , Alrashdi Asma
Published: February 2023

Background

Sleep quality has significant impacts on many aspects of quality of life. Therefore, identifying the association of sleep quality with that quality of life domains could lead to deeper insights for social policymakers and professionals to enhance their understanding of the lives of Abu Dhabi working adults. This research focuses on sleep quality among working people in Abu Dhabi. The direct and indirect associations of sleep quality with various quality-of-life domains such as income and housing, physical and mental health, sport and activities, eating habits and obesity, work-life balance, online hours, and social connections are investigated and discussed.

Methods

Data were drawn from 36,515 full-time employees in both public, and private sectors, obtained from the third Abu Dhabi Quality of Life (QoL) survey aimed to cover all community members using online platforms. Informed by international research on sleep quality, preliminary investigation using correlation analysis and simple regression identified many well-being variables deemed necessary for inclusion in the path model. Path analysis was then performed.

Results

The final path model produced excellent fit measures. The significant variables directly associated with sleep quality included sleeping hours, social connection, satisfaction with income, satisfaction with residence, subjective physical and mental health, income satisfaction, satisfaction with the surrounding environment, frequency of eating healthy food, work-life balance, and online time. In addition, most variables recorded an indirect association to sleep quality through subjective health.

Conclusions

The importance of multidimensional linkages between many well-being factors influencing sleep quality and subjective health is underscored.
Retrograde venous invasion in renal cell carcinoma: a gross diagnosis ﻿
Authors: Athanazio Daniel Abensur , de Souza Maiara Ferreira , do Amaral Maria Estela Pompeu
Published: February 2023

Renal cell carcinoma, notably clear cell renal cell carcinoma in particular, show remarkable predisposition for intravenous growth. Retrograde venous invasion results in intravascular emboli in renal sinus and intrarenal veins, and nodules in renal parenchyma (after extravascular spread). In our experience, we observed this phenomenon in five cases out of 204 renal cell tumors: four in clear cell renal cell carcinomas (4/166 or 2.4%) and 12.5% of those clear cell carcinomas with major renal vein invasion (4/34 or 12.5%). Since it is a recently described phenomenon, easily identifiable a bisected specimen, we believe it would be valuable to show our experience in recognizing and reporting the frequency of this finding in our practice.
Is monkeypox going to be the next pandemic?
Authors: Adesola Ridwan Olamilekan , D’Souza Joanna Nicole , Bello Aisha Bisola , Mukwekwe Varaidzo Joyline
Published: February 2023

Background and aims

In the current global scenario, the monkeypox virus has infected over 3000 individuals from endemic countries like Nigeria, along with non-endemic countries like the UK, Canada, the USA, etc. Based on the current information, it has been observed that monkeypox cases have primarily, though not exclusively, been found among men who have sex with men (MSM) in countries such as the UK. This article discusses the recent outbreak of monkeypox, its causes, and the various approaches to combat monkeypox infections.

Methods

We evaluated the trends of recent outbreaks of monkeypox in different countries and compared them to how the COVID-19 pandemic started.

Results

At present, monkeypox has been reported to spread to over 58 countries via skin-to-skin contact, body fluids, contaminated bed sheets, clothing, or respiratory routes. Smallpox vaccines have been proven to have 85% efficacy against monkeypox. To mitigate this current outbreak, WHO urges people to practice good hygiene and safe sex. The documentation of more cases and further onward spread in the countries in member states are most likely to reoccur, and if not contained, we might experience another global pandemic. Therefore, more research is required to avert this problem.

Conclusion

Monkeypox virus is testing if we have complied with COVID-19 pandemic lessons and elucidates the urgency of research required to understand the monkeypox disease.
A review of bridge scour monitoring techniques and developments in vibration based scour monitoring for bridge foundations
Authors: Kazemian Alan , Yee Tien , Oguzmert Metin , Amirgholy Mahyar , Yang Jidong , Goff Dale
Published: February 2023

Scour is the gradual erosion of the sediment around a bridge foundation and is one of the leading causes of bridge failure. This erosion is caused by turbulence and sediment transport mechanisms and worsens during high-water flow, such as flooding. A severely scoured bridge is a safety concern for commuters. Monitoring systems are sometimes used to provide indications of the scour extent. Most scour monitoring systems require underwater installation, which is inherently difficult to implement for existing structures. Data obtained from such systems may not necessarily be accurate due to factors such as site temperature fluctuations, or the presence of large debris in the channel causing faulty readings during times of high flooding. Inaccuracy in this data is a problem because it could display erroneous results, leading to a false sense of security. Researchers worldwide are exploring vibration-based techniques to monitor scour to overcome this challenge. These techniques can possibly monitor scour without any underwater installation and may be more efficient than the traditional underwater technologies currently implemented. This review piece aims to present a summary of the several types of scour monitoring techniques traditionally used to monitor scour of bridge structures and the advancement in technology for existing monitoring techniques based on the vibration characteristics of bridges. The importance of monitoring scour progression focused on vibration-based techniques will be discussed as well as providing a fair appraisal of these techniques. This review piece shows evidence through laboratory and field experiments that monitoring a structure based on vibrational changes due to scour is possible, and with the advances in technology over the most recent decade, it is now possible to design cost-effective and accurate scour monitoring systems for future field implemented structural health monitoring projects. This evidence is relevant to future researchers for the implementation of prospective bridge vibration-based systems.
Semisupervised semantic segmentation for seismic interpretation
Authors: Wang Lijing , Joncour Frederic , Barrallon Pierre-Emmanuel , Harribey Thibault , Castanie Laurent , Yousfi Sonia , Guillion Sebastien
Published: February 2023

Seismic interpretation plays an essential role in locating subsurface horizons and understanding geologic formations. Traditionally, constructing facies models for the entire reservoir often requires domain experts’ manual interpretations of many seismic images, which is time-consuming. Although labeled horizons are limited, we have many unlabeled seismic images. Therefore, we develop a semisupervised segmentation framework that uses unlabeled seismic data through a reconstruction loss to learn a robust encoder and improve horizon label predictions. To further mitigate the limited data problem, we incorporate data augmentation using the time-shifting method to mimic similar deformations in a reservoir. Finally, we investigate the prediction uncertainty using deep ensembles. Results indicate that unlabeled seismic data help us learn a better latent representation and achieve a higher prediction accuracy and a lower prediction uncertainty than solely using labeled data sets. We also compare semisupervised and supervised semantic segmentation further and understand when semisupervised learning performs better in terms of the number of labels, facies, and locations of predicted sections. We develop an active learning framework to label the most valuable unlabeled sections given the uncertainty estimation. We believe our work helps geophysicists reduce the amount of labeling efforts and achieve a higher facies classification accuracy with the same amount of labeling work.
Deep learning to estimate the basement depth by gravity data using a feedforward neural network
Authors: Vitale Andrea , Gabbriellini Gianluca , Fedi Maurizio
Published: February 2023

We have developed a deep-learning method based on the neural network of the feedforward type to estimate the depth to the basement from potential fields. The data used to train and test the network are related to the Bishop synthetic model. A trial-and-error approach was used to find the hyperparameters that have the best compromise between performance and computation time. The training was organized by associating the depth values of the basement to the data through a moving window, running along profiles in the north–south and east–west directions. In this way, we generated a set of approximately 296,980 examples. We verified the robustness of the trained net by carrying out a test related to another synthetic model, extracted from the Himalaya digital elevation model. The inherent ambiguity of the problem led us to test two hypotheses for the estimation of the basement depth, the first related to a priori information on the density contrast and the shallowest depth and the second assuming the knowledge of the depth at least at two points, but not that of the density contrast. In these cases, our data-driven approach yielded interesting results leading to estimate the maximum depth in the first case and the density contrast in the second one. We finally applied the method to the isostatic anomaly of the Yucca Flat sedimentary basin, Nevada. The results are consistent with previous interpretations of the area, which were based on gravity inversion methods.
Harmonic oscillator problem in the background of a topologically charged Ellis-Bronnikov–type wormhole(a)
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we study the quantum dynamics of non-relativistic particles in the background of a topological chagred Ellis-Bronnikov–type wormhole space-time. We derived the radial wave equation and obtain the eigenvalue solution through the confluent Heun equation. Afterwards, we study the harmonic oscillator problem in the same wormhole background and solve the wave equation using the same technique. In both cases, the ground state energy level E
1,l
and the wave function

are presented. Finally, we analyze the results and show that the eigenvalue solutions are influenced by the topological defect parameter α and the wormhole throat radius

and get them modified.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials for Scalp Block in Craniotomy
Authors: Duda Taylor , Lannon Melissa , Gandhi Pranjan , Martyniuk Amanda , Farrokhyar Forough , Sharma Sunjay
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Scalp block is regional anesthetic injection along nerves innervating the cranium. Scalp blocks for craniotomy may decrease postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Benefits may extend beyond the anesthetic period.

OBJECTIVE:

To analyze evidence for scalp block on postoperative pain and opioid use.

METHODS:

This systematic review and meta-analysis, Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews registration (CRD42022308048), included Ovid Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials inception through February 9, 2022. Only randomized controlled trials were included. We excluded studies not reporting either main outcome. Duplicate reviewers performed study selection, risk of bias assessment, data extraction, and evidence certainty Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation appraisal. Main outcomes were postoperative pain by visual analog scale within 72 hours and opioid consumption as morphine milligram equivalent (MME) within 48 hours.

RESULTS:

Screening filtered 955 studies to 23 trials containing 1532 patients. Risk of bias was overall low. Scalp block reduced postoperative pain at 2 through 72 hours, visual analog scale mean differences of 0.79 to 1.40. Opioid requirements were reduced at 24 hours by 16.52 MME and 48 hours by 15.63 MME.

CONCLUSION:

Scalp block reduces postoperative pain at 2 through 48 hours and may reduce pain at 72 hours. Scalp block likely reduces opioid consumption within 24 hours and may reduce opioid consumption to 48 hours. The clinical utility of these differences should be interpreted within the context of modest absolute reductions, overall care optimization, and patient populations. This is the first level 1A evidence to evaluate scalp block efficacy in craniotomy.
Warm temperature-triggered developmental reprogramming requires VIL1-mediated, genome-wide H3K27me3 accumulation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kim Junghyun , Bordiya Yogendra , Xi Yanpeng , Zhao Bo , Kim Dong-Hwan , Pyo Youngjae , Zong Wei , Ricci William A. , Sung Sibum
Published: February 2023

Changes in ambient temperature immensely affect developmental programs in many species. Plants adapt to high ambient growth temperature in part by vegetative and reproductive developmental reprogramming, known as thermo-morphogenesis. Thermo-morphogenesis is accompanied by massive changes in the transcriptome upon temperature change. Here, we show that transcriptome changes induced by warm ambient temperature require VERNALIZATION INSENSITIVE 3-LIKE 1 (VIL1), a facultative component of the Polycomb repressive complex PRC2, in Arabidopsis. Warm growth temperature elicits genome-wide accumulation of H3K27me3 and VIL1 is necessary for the warm temperature-mediated accumulation of H3K27me3. Consistent with its role as a mediator of thermo-morphogenesis, loss of function of VIL1 results in hypo-responsiveness to warm ambient temperature. Our results show that VIL1 is a major chromatin regulator in responses to high ambient temperature.
The role of Evi/Wntless in exporting Wnt proteins
Authors: Wolf Lucie , Boutros Michael
Published: February 2023

Intercellular communication by Wnt proteins governs many essential processes during development, tissue homeostasis and disease in all metazoans. Many context-dependent effects are initiated in the Wnt-producing cells and depend on the export of lipidated Wnt proteins. Although much focus has been on understanding intracellular Wnt signal transduction, the cellular machinery responsible for Wnt secretion became better understood only recently. After lipid modification by the acyl-transferase Porcupine, Wnt proteins bind their dedicated cargo protein Evi/Wntless for transport and secretion. Evi/Wntless and Porcupine are conserved transmembrane proteins, and their 3D structures were recently determined. In this Review, we summarise studies and structural data highlighting how Wnts are transported from the ER to the plasma membrane, and the role of SNX3-retromer during the recycling of its cargo receptor Evi/Wntless. We also describe the regulation of Wnt export through a post-translational mechanism and review the importance of Wnt secretion for organ development and cancer, and as a future biomarker.
A CRISPR-del-based pipeline for complete gene knockout in human diploid cells
Authors: Komori Takuma , Hata Shoji , Mabuchi Akira , Genova Mariya , Harada Tomoki , Fukuyama Masamitsu , Chinen Takumi , Kitagawa Daiju
Published: February 2023

The advance of CRISPR/Cas9 technology has enabled us easily to generate gene knockout cell lines by introducing insertion–deletion mutations (indels) at the target site via the error-prone non-homologous end joining repair system. Frameshift-promoting indels can disrupt gene functions by generation of a premature stop codon. However, there is growing evidence that targeted genes are not always knocked out by the indel-based gene disruption. Here, we established a pipeline of CRISPR-del, which induces a large chromosomal deletion by cutting two different target sites, to perform ‘complete’ gene knockout efficiently in human diploid cells. Quantitative analyses show that the frequency of gene deletion with this approach is much higher than that of conventional CRISPR-del methods. The lengths of the deleted genomic regions demonstrated in this study are longer than those of 95% of the human protein-coding genes. Furthermore, the pipeline enabled the generation of a model cell line having a bi-allelic cancer-associated chromosomal deletion. Overall, these data lead us to propose that the CRISPR-del pipeline is an efficient and practical approach for producing ‘complete’ gene knockout cell lines in human diploid cells.
DRP1 mutations associated with EMPF1 encephalopathy alter mitochondrial membrane potential and metabolic programs
Authors: Robertson Gabriella L. , Riffle Stellan , Patel Mira , Bodnya Caroline , Marshall Andrea , Beasley Heather K. , Garza-Lopez Edgar , Shao Jianqiang , Vue Zer , Hinton Antentor , Stoll Maria S. , de Wet Sholto , Theart Rensu P. , Chakrabarty Ram Prosad , Loos Ben , Chandel Navdeep S. , Mears Jason A. , Gama Vivian
Published: February 2023

Mitochondria and peroxisomes are dynamic signaling organelles that constantly undergo fission, driven by the large GTPase dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1; encoded by DNM1L). Patients with de novo heterozygous missense mutations in DNM1L present with encephalopathy due to defective mitochondrial and peroxisomal fission (EMPF1) – a devastating neurodevelopmental disease with no effective treatment. To interrogate the mechanisms by which DRP1 mutations cause cellular dysfunction, we used human-derived fibroblasts from patients who present with EMPF1. In addition to elongated mitochondrial morphology and lack of fission, patient cells display lower coupling efficiency, increased proton leak and upregulation of glycolysis. Mitochondrial hyperfusion also results in aberrant cristae structure and hyperpolarized mitochondrial membrane potential. Peroxisomes show a severely elongated morphology in patient cells, which is associated with reduced respiration when cells are reliant on fatty acid oxidation. Metabolomic analyses revealed impaired methionine cycle and synthesis of pyrimidine nucleotides. Our study provides insight into the role of mitochondrial dynamics in cristae maintenance and the metabolic capacity of the cell, as well as the disease mechanism underlying EMPF1.
Vps9d1 regulates tubular endosome formation through specific activation of Rab22A
Authors: Nakashima Shumpei , Matsui Takahide , Fukuda Mitsunori
Published: February 2023

The small GTPase Rab22A is an important regulator of the formation of tubular endosomes, which are one of the types of recycling endosome compartments of the clathrin-independent endocytosis pathway. In order to regulate tubular endosome formation, Rab22A must be activated by a specific guanine-nucleotide-exchange factor (GEF); however, all of the GEFs that have been reported to exhibit Rab22A-GEF activity in vitro also activate Rab5A, an essential regulator of the clathrin-mediated endocytosis pathway, and no Rab22A-specific GEF has ever been identified. Here, we identified Vps9d1, a previously uncharacterized vacuolar protein sorting 9 (VPS9) domain-containing protein, as a novel Rab22A-GEF. The formation of tubular endosome structures was found to be severely impaired in Vps9d1-depleted HeLa cells, but Rab5A localization was unaffected. Expression of a constitutively active Rab22A mutant in Vps9d1-depleted HeLa cells restored tubular endosomes, but expression of a GEF-activity-deficient Vps9d1 mutant did not. Moreover, Vps9d1 depletion altered the distribution of clathrin-independent endocytosed cargos and impaired their recycling. Our findings indicate that Vps9d1 promotes tubular endosome formation by specifically activating Rab22A.
Effect of Functional Groups at N-Terminus on the Properties and Structures of Crystalline Nano-Cavities in Flexible Peptide Ni(II)-Macrocycles
Authors: Miyake Ryosuke , Minagawa Kao , Sato Yui
Published: February 2023

To clarify the design strategy for achieving functionality in crystalline multi-component systems comprising cyclic complexes of flexible short peptides, crystalline Ni(II) cyclic complexes were synthesized using two novel dipeptides (2 and 3) possessing different functional groups at the N-terminus of dipeptide 1. X-ray single-crystal structural analysis revealed that 2 and 3 formed tetranuclear cyclic complexes ([Ni4L4]8+), which were also observed for 1. The crystalline packing structure of the cyclic complexes of dipeptide 2 was almost the same as that of the cyclic complexes of dipeptide 1, whereas that of 3 had a different packing structure. The cooperative opening/closing of the crystalline heterogeneous cavity, which demonstrates humidity-responsive cooperative binding in the cyclic complexes of 1, was not observed for the complexes of 2, plausibly because of the decrease in crystalline voids of the latter. In contrast, the amounts for water and alcohol vapor adsorbed at room temperature were almost the same for the open forms of the cyclic complexes of 1 and 2, which was supported by the expansion of the flexible cavities in the crystalline cyclic complexes of 2.
Oncofertility awareness among primary care physicians in India
Authors: Tholeti Prathima , Uppangala Shubhashree , Jayaram Rajesh Kumar , Udupa Karthik S , Kalthur Guruprasad , Spears Norah , Woodruff Teresa , Adiga Satish K
Published: February 2023

Background:

Primary care physicians not only coordinate referrals to oncology services but can play a crucial role in successful fertility preservation referrals in cancer-diagnosed patients. Hence, it is important to assess their knowledge and attitudes towards fertility preservation.

Methods:

An eighteen-item oncofertility survey was administered to primary care physicians between May 2019 to September 2020. 

Results:

A total of forty-six responses were received and analysed. About 60% of primary care physicians did not have adequate knowledge about available fertility preservation options and only 26-32% were aware of international guidelines recommending fertility preservation in cancer patients. 

Conclusions:

Imparting awareness and knowledge of fertility preservation and its options to primary care physicians could enable an integrated cancer care model while also facilitating successful oncofertility referrals in countries like India.
Forgotten but not gone in rural South Africa: Urinary schistosomiasis and implications for chronic kidney disease screening in endemic countries
Authors: Craik Alison , Gondwe Mwawi , Mayindi Nokthula , Chipungu Shingirai , Khoza Bongekile , Gómez-Olivé Xavier , Tollman Stephen , Frean John , Tomlinson Laurie A. , Fabian June
Published: February 2023

Background: Urinary schistosomiasis caused by infection with Schistosoma haematobium (S. haematobium) remains endemic in Africa and is associated with haematuria and albuminuria/proteinuria. Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes clinical guidelines recommend evaluating proteinuria/albuminuria and glomerular filtration rate for chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis. The guidelines are informed by population data outside of Africa but have been adopted in many African countries with little validation. Our study aimed to characterise the burden of urinary schistosomiasis in rural South Africa (SA) and evaluate its relationship with markers of kidney dysfunction with implications for CKD screening.

Methods: In this population-based cohort study, we recruited 2021 adults aged 20 – 79 years in the Mpumalanga Province, SA. Sociodemographic data were recorded, urinalysis performed, and serum creatinine and urine albumin and creatinine measured. Kidney

dysfunction was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60ml/min/1.73m2 and/or urine albumin-creatinine ratio >3.0mg/mmol. S. haematobium infection was determined by urine microscopy. Multivariable analyses were performed to determine relationships between S. haematobium and markers of kidney dysfunction.

Results: Data were available for 1226 of 2021 participants. 717 (58.5%) were female and the median age was 35 years (IQR 27 – 47). Prevalence of kidney dysfunction and S. haematobium was 20.2% and 5.1% respectively. S. haematobium was strongly associated with kidney dysfunction (OR 8.66; 95% CI 4.10 – 18.3) and related to albuminuria alone (OR 8.69; 95% CI 4.11 – 18.8), with no evidence of an association with eGFR <90ml/min/1.73m2 (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.05 – 3.59).

Discussion: The strong association between urinary schistosomiasis and albuminuria requires careful consideration when screening for CKD. Screening for, and treatment of, schistosomiasis should be a routine part of initial work-up for CKD in S. haematobium endemic areas. Urinary schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease, remains a public health concern in the Mpumulanga province of SA.
First dose COVID-19 vaccine coverage amongst adolescents and children in England: an analysis of 3.21 million patients' primary care records in situ using OpenSAFELY
Authors: Hopcroft Lisa E. , Curtis Helen J. , Brown Andrew D. , Hulme William J. , Andrews Colm D. , Morton Caroline E. , Inglesby Peter , Morley Jessica , Mehrkar Amir , Bacon Sebastian C. , Eggo Rosalind M. , Mahalingasivam Viyaasan , Parker Edward P. K. , Tomlinson Laurie A. , Bates Christopher , Cockburn Jonathan , Parry John , Hester Frank , Harper Sam , Goldacre Ben , Walker Alex J. , MacKenna Brian
Published: February 2023

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination programme in England was extended to include all adolescents and children by April 2022. The aim of this paper is to describe trends and variation in vaccine coverage in different clinical and demographic groups amongst adolescents and children in England.

Methods: With the approval of NHS England, a cohort study was conducted of 3.21 million children and adolescents’ records in general practice in England, in situ and within the infrastructure of the electronic health record software vendor TPP using OpenSAFELY. Vaccine coverage across various demographic (sex, deprivation index and ethnicity) and clinical (risk status) populations is described.

Results: Coverage is higher amongst adolescents than it is amongst children, with 53.5% adolescents and 10.8% children having received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Within those groups, coverage varies by ethnicity, deprivation index and risk status; there is no evidence of variation by sex.

Conclusion: First dose COVID-19 vaccine coverage is shown to vary amongst various demographic and clinical groups of children and adolescents.
Labor law
Authors: Petrov Aleksey
Published: February 2023

The textbook examines conceptual theoretical and practical issues of modern labor law, substantiates non-traditional approaches to
solving problems of labor legislation. The work is based on Russian normative legal acts, international labor law, as well
as rulings and rulings of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation. The content of the textbook corresponds to the federal state educational standard
of higher education.
For students, postgraduates and teachers of higher legal educational organizations, law faculties of universities and academies.
The book will be useful for practicing lawyers, employers and their representatives, HR managers, specialists in the field of sociology and labor economics.
State financial control: federal institutions
Authors: Kozyrin Aleksandr , Yalbulganov Aleksandr , Artyuhin Roman
Published: February 2023

The textbook introduces the modern organization of state financial control in the Russian Federation at the federal level. The latest changes in Russian legislation clarifying the concept of external and internal state financial control, the legal status of control bodies — the Accounts Chamber of the Russian Federation and the Federal Treasury are shown.
For students and postgraduates studying law, economics, public administration. The manual can be used in the system of additional professional education