bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MANP (M-Atrial Natriuretic Peptide) Reduces Blood Pressure and Furosemide-Induced Increase in Aldosterone in Hypertension
Authors: Dzhoyashvili Nina A. , Iyer Seethalakshmi R. , Chen Horng H. , Burnett John C.
Published: January 2022

Background:

cGMP MANP (M-atrial natriuretic peptide) is a best-in-class activator of the pGC-A (particulate guanylyl cyclase A) receptor. Furosemide increases the effectiveness of antihypertensive agents, but activates renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. We aimed to investigate for the first time cardiorenal and neurohumoral actions of MANP in a genetic model of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats. We also assessed how MANP would potentiate the blood pressure (BP)–lowering actions of furosemide while reducing the production of aldosterone.

Methods:

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (N=60) were randomized in vehicle, MANP, furosemide, or MANP+furosemide groups. Furosemide (1, 5, 10 mg/kg) was given as a single bolus which in MANP+furosemide groups was followed by a 60-minute infusion of MANP.

Results:

BP was reduced in MANP300 (300 pmol/[kg·min]) and MANP600 (600 pmol/[kg·min]) groups (
P
<0.05) and was accompanied by significant increase in plasma cyclic guanosine monophosphate. Furosemide alone reduced BP but less compared with MANP with no change in plasma cyclic guanosine monophosphate. MANP+furosemide resulted in the greatest BP reduction and significant increase in plasma cyclic guanosine monophosphate in Fs5+MANP300, Fs10+MANP300, and Fs10+MANP600. Plasma aldosterone increased in furosemide groups, which was significantly attenuated in MANP+furosemide groups. Natriuresis and diuresis increased in all treated groups (
P
<0.05) with no significant differences between furosemide and furosemide+MANP. In vitro, MANP increased cyclic guanosine monophosphate level in human vascular cells.

Conclusions:

We provide novel evidence that MANP potentiates the BP-lowering actions of furosemide, suppresses the activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and preserves renal function. These data are highly relevant to clinical needs in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure.
Associations Between Residential Segregation and Incident Hypertension: The Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Gao Xing , Kershaw Kiarri N. , Barber Sharrelle , Schreiner Pamela J. , Do D. Phuong , Diez Roux Ana V. , Mujahid Mahasin S.
Published: January 2022

Background

Residential segregation, a geospatial manifestation of structural racism, is a fundamental driver of racial and ethnic health inequities, and longitudinal studies examining segregation’s influence on cardiovascular health are limited. This study investigates the impact of segregation on hypertension in a multiracial and multiethnic cohort and explores whether neighborhood environment modifies this association.

Methods and Results

Leveraging data from a diverse cohort of adults recruited from 6 sites in the United States with 2 decades of follow‐up, we used race‐ and ethnicity‐stratified Cox models to examine the association between time‐varying segregation with incident hypertension in 1937 adults free of hypertension at baseline. Participants were categorized as residing in segregated and nonsegregated neighborhoods using a spatial‐weighted measure. We used a robust covariance matrix estimator to account for clustering within neighborhoods and assessed effect measure modification by neighborhood social or physical environment. Over an average follow‐up of 7.35 years, 65.5% non‐Hispanic Black, 48.1% Chinese, and 53.7% Hispanic participants developed hypertension. Net of confounders, Black and Hispanic residents in segregated neighborhoods were more likely to develop hypertension relative to residents in nonsegregated neighborhoods (Black residents: hazard ratio [HR], 1.33; 95% CI, 1.09–1.62; Hispanic residents: HR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.04–1.70). Results were similar but not significant among Chinese residents (HR, 1.20; 95% CI, 0.83–1.73). Among Black residents, neighborhood social environment significantly modified this association such that better social environment was associated with less pronounced impact of segregation on hypertension.

Conclusions

This study underscores the importance of continued investigations of groups affected by the health consequences of racial residential segregation while taking contextual neighborhood factors, such as social environment, into account.
Link Prediction based on Tensor Decomposition for the Knowledge Graph
of COVID-19 Antiviral Drug
Authors: Jia Ting , Yang Yuxia , Lu Xi , Zhu Qiang , Yang Kuo , Zhou Xuezhong
Published: January 2022

Due to the large-scale spread of COVID-19, which has a significant impact on human health and social economy, developing effective antiviral drugs for COVID-19 is vital to saving human lives. Various biomedical associations, e.g., drug-virus and viral protein-host protein interactions, can be used for building biomedical knowledge graphs. Based on these sources, large-scale knowledge reasoning algorithms can be used to predict new links between antiviral drugs and viruses. To utilize the various heterogeneous biomedical associations, we proposed a fusion strategy to integrate the results of two tensor decomposition-based models (i.e., CP-N3 and ComplEx-N3). Sufficient experiments indicated that our method obtained high performance (MRR=0.2328). Compared with CP-N3, the mean reciprocal rank (MRR) is increased by 3.3% and compared with ComplEx-N3, the MRR is increased by 3.5%. Meanwhile, we explored the relationship between the performance and relationship types, which indicated that there is a negative correlation (PCC=0.446, P-value=2.26e-194) between the performance of triples predicted by our method and edge betweenness.
A new genus and new species of Hymenosomatidae (Crustacea: Brachyura) from Indonesian Papua
Authors: NG PETER K. L. , RAHAYU DWI LISTYO
Published: January 2022

A new hymenosomatid crab, Chartocinus rarus n. gen. n. sp., is described from coastal waters in western Papua (formerly Irian Jaya) in Indonesia. The new genus superficially resembles Amarinus Lucas, 1980, but can easily be distinguished by its subquadrate third maxillipeds with the merus produced along the anteroexternal edge, elongate ambulatory legs, elongate male thoracic sternum, short male pleon without distinct intercalated plates on somite 5, and a short male first gonopod in which the inner margin is distinctly bilobed.
Leptin Aggravates Periodontitis by Promoting M1 Polarization via NLRP3
Authors: Han Y. , Huang Y. , Gao P. , Yang Q. , Jia L. , Zheng Y. , Li W.
Published: January 2022

Periodontitis is characterized by periodontal pocket formation, loss of attachment, and alveolar bone resorption. Both innate and adaptive immunity are involved in the pathogenesis of this oral chronic inflammatory disease. Accumulating evidence indicates a critical role of leptin in periodontal diseases. However, the mechanism by which leptin promotes periodontitis pathogenesis remains unclear. In the present study, we observed an elevated expression of leptin in the serum of periodontitis mice compared to that in healthy controls. There was a higher extent of M1 phenotype macrophage infiltration in mice periodontitis samples than in healthy controls. A positive correlation was observed between the serum leptin levels and M1 macrophages. Treatment with leptin increased M1 macrophage polarization and decreased M2 macrophage polarization in RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, leptin facilitated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)–induced M1 phenotype macrophage polarization in RAW 264.7 cells. In bone marrow–derived macrophages (BMDMs) generated from leptin-deficient obese ( ob/ob) mice, M1 macrophage polarization was significantly attenuated after LPS stimulation compared to the healthy controls. With regards to the molecular mechanism, we found that leptin activated the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and promoted M1 polarization via the NLRP3 inflammasome in vitro. In BMDMs generated from Nlrp3–/– mice, M1 macrophage polarization was significantly attenuated after synchronous stimulation with leptin and LPS compared with BMDMs produced by healthy controls. The NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 also prevented leptin-mediated M1 macrophage polarization in RAW 264.7 cells. Nlrp3–/– periodontitis models indicated that leptin aggravates the periodontal response to the ligature by promoting M1 macrophage polarization via the NLRP3 inflammasome. Taken together, we show that leptin promotes the progression of periodontitis via proinflammatory M1 macrophage skewing, and targeting leptin/NLRP3 signaling may be a feasible approach for treating periodontitis.
Sustainable sourcing and agility performance: The moderating effects of organizational ambidexterity and supply chain disruption
Authors: Li Lingjia , Shan Shuo , Shou Yongyi , Kang Mingu , Park Young Won
Published: January 2022

Sustainable sourcing is an important sustainability practice yet its impact on the firm’s agility performance remains unexamined. Combining the extended resource-based view and contingency theory, this study hypothesizes that sustainable sourcing improves agility performance and this effect is enhanced by organizational ambidexterity and supply chain disruption. Using a sample of 790 manufacturing firms, the regression results show the positive performance effect of sustainable sourcing and the moderating roles of both combined ambidextrous orientation and supply chain disruption. This study makes contributions to the relevant literature on sustainable supply chain management, organizational ambidexterity and agility, and offers insightful managerial implications.

JEL Classification: M10, M14
Generations in Family Business: A Multifield Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Magrelli Vittoria , Rovelli Paola , Benedetti Carlotta , Überbacher Ruth , De Massis Alfredo
Published: January 2022

The concept of generations has become increasingly important in the social science fields to explain diverse phenomena affecting organizations. This is especially true in the family business field where generations are considered a constitutive element. Nevertheless, there is still a limited understanding of generations and the implications of their involvement in family business. We review prior studies on generations by considering different social science fields, which we analyze according to a novel theoretical framework. Building on this framework, and placing particular emphasis on family firms, we identify important knowledge gaps that serve as a springboard for future research.
Maternal ADHD and Perinatal Prescription Stimulant Use
Authors: Murugappan Meena N. , Westberg Sarah M. , Contag Stephen , Melnik Tanya E. , Kumar Arun , Rajpurohit Abhijeet , Thorsness Katie , Farley Joel F.
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To describe patterns and predictors of perinatal prescription stimulant use.

Methods:

We used MarketScan® commercial claims data (2013–2018) and a repeated cross-sectional study design to assess perinatal use of prescription stimulants. Clinical/demographic characteristics were compared across cohorts of women who continued versus discontinued stimulant treatment at various stages of pregnancy. Associations were tested for significance using chi-square tests (categorical variables) and independent t-tests (continuous variables).

Results:

Out of 612,001 pregnancies, 15,413 involved pre-pregnancy stimulant use. Of these, stimulant treatment was discontinued prior to conception in 6,416 (42%), discontinued during trimester 1 in 5,977 (39%), and continued into later trimesters in 3,020 (19%). Compared with pregnancies involving stimulant discontinuation prior to conception, those that continued into pregnancy occurred in women who were older (29.9 vs. 28.9 years) and had more severe ADHD (3.1 vs. 1.8 ADHD-related billing claims).

Conclusions:

There is considerable heterogeneity in the management of ADHD during pregnancy.
The Role of Gut Microbiota-Brain Axis in Pathophysiology of ADHD: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shirvani-Rad Salman , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Ettehad Marvasti Fateme , Taghavi MinaSadat , Sharifi Farshad , Arzaghi Seyed Masoud , Larijani Bagher
Published: January 2022

Objective:

The main goal of this systematic review is to summarize evidences regarding alterations of microbial composition in ADHD cases and uncover underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases up to March 2021. All the observational studies including case-control, cross-sectional, and cohorts investigating the correlations between the gut microbiota and ADHD in both adults and children were included.

Results:

We found eight eligible studies. Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium, and Odoribacter were increased which may lead to impaired dopamine related functions in CNS. Moreover, decrease of Faecalibacterium frequency in ADHD could result in higher permeability and crossing of inflammatory cytokines. Regarding the short chain fatty acids-producing bacteria, Ruminococcaceae family decreased and Bacteroides uniformis and Bacteroides ovatus species increased.

Conclusion:

Gut microbiota correlation with ADHD and its underlying mechanisms could open new windows for developing novel therapies of ADHD by manipulating microbiota.
Feasibility and Possible Effects of Mindful Walking and Moderate Walking in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study With a Nested Qualitative Study Part
Authors: Schröder Maren Luise , Stöckigt Barbara , Binting Sylvia , Tissen-Diabaté Tatjana , Bangemann Nikola , Goerling Ute , Kröz Matthias , Blohmer Jens-Uwe , Ortiz Miriam , Brinkhaus Benno
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Breast cancer (BC) survivors often suffer from disease- and therapy-related long-term side-effects. The study aim was to explore the feasibility, adherence, and individual experiences as well as possible effects of 2 different walking interventions in BC patients.

Methods:

This randomized controlled, pragmatic pilot trial included a qualitative study component. BC patients were randomized to either mindful walking (MFW) with mindfulness exercises and walking or moderate walking (MW) alone in weekly group sessions over 8 weeks. After 8 and 16 weeks, satisfaction, and self-perceived effectiveness as well as different health-related outcomes including health-related (WHOQOL-BREF) and disease-specific quality of life (FACT-G), perceived stress (PSQ) and cancer-related fatigue (CFS-D) were assessed. ANCOVA was used to evaluate differences in study outcomes. Qualitative data included 4 focus group interviews including 20 patients and were analyzed using a directed qualitative content analysis approach.

Results:

Altogether, 51 women (mean age 55.8 years (SD 10.9)) were randomized (n = 24 MFW; n = 27 MW). Both groups would recommend the course to other BC patients (MFW 88.9%; MW 95.2%) and showed possible improvements from baseline to week 8, without statistically significant difference between groups: WHOQOL-BREF (MFW: adjusted mean 65.4 (95% confidence interval (CI), 57.1-73.7); MW: 61.6 (53.6-69.6)); FACT-G (MFW: 76.0 (71.5-80.5); MW: 73.0 (68.5-77.4)); PSQ (MFW: 45.3 (40.5-50.1); MW: 45.4 (40.8-50.0)); CFS-D (MFW: 24.3 (20.8-27.8); MW: 25.5 (22.1-28.8)). Improvements lasted until the 16-weeks follow-up. The qualitative analysis suggested that MFW primarily promoted mindfulness, self-care, and acceptability in BC patients, whereas MW activated and empowered the patients as a result of the physical exercise.

Conclusion:

Both study interventions were positively evaluated by patients and showed possible pre-post effects in disease-specific health-related outcomes without differences between groups. The qualitative analysis results indicate that different resources and coping strategies were addressed by the 2 study interventions.

Trial registration:

DKRS00011521; prospectively registered 21.12.2016; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011521 .
What Makes Users Continue to Want to Use the Digital Platform? Evidence From the Ride-Hailing Service Platform in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Do Giang , Ha Minh-Tri
Published: January 2022

This study investigates the relationship between belief structures (perceived compatibility, self-efficacy, and subjective norm), behavioral adaptation, satisfaction, and continuance intention of a platform-based ride-hailing service called “Grab” in Vietnam. After applying a questionnaire-based survey method and convenience sampling for data collection, the study collected 439 responses from the current users of Grab. A structural equation modeling procedure was used to verify the hypotheses. The results revealed that, except for the relationship between perceived compatibility and behavioral adaptation, all belief structures positively affect behavioral adaptation and satisfaction. Furthermore, both satisfaction and behavioral adaptation positively affect the continuance intention. Our study also demonstrated the partial and full mediating role of behavioral adaptation between self-efficacy and continuance intention, and between subjective norm and continuance intention, respectively. Our study broadens the current understanding of the relationship mechanism between belief structures, behavioral adaptation, and continuance intention. Theoretically, this study is the first research into the relationships between belief structure, behavioral adaptation and continuance intention, and it also identifies the mediating effects of behavioral adaptation on continuance intention in the platform-based context. Additionally, our study offers insightful implications for firm managers to retain users effectively by boosting the factors contributing to continuance intention.
What are the Drivers of Profitability of Broiler Farms in the North-central and South-west Geo-political Zones of Nigeria?
Authors: Adeyonu Abigail Gbemisola , Odozi John Chiwuzulum
Published: January 2022

This study analyzed the drivers of the profitability of broiler farms in the north-central and south-west geo-political zones of Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to choose a representative sample. A pre-tested, structured questionnaire was employed to gather cross-sectional data from 645 respondents between November 2017 and February 2018 for 2017 production year by trained enumerators. The data were analyzed with budgetary model, descriptive and inferential statistics. The results show that feed constitute about 75% of the total variable cost of producing 1 kg of the broiler. The cost implication of producing 1 kg of broiler stood at ₦583.20, while revenue realized from the sales of the same quantity of broiler was ₦734.69. The study further revealed that broiler farming is a profitable enterprise with profitability index of 39.85%. Furthermore, the positive drivers of profitability of broiler farms are years of experience of farmers, flock size, other means of livelihood, process broiler, and membership of the poultry association of Nigeria (PAN). Types of feed used and access to credit had a negative effect on the profitability of broiler farms. There will be a need to motivate farmers to increase their flock sizes by subsidizing high-quality day-old chicks, feed, and feed ingredients as well as other facilities. Research efforts should also focus on the development of efficient locally-made processing facilities to improve on the value addition activities of farmers thereby increasing the profitability of the farms. The enforcement of the policy on credit provision to farmers at a reasonable interest rate by commercial banks becomes crucial. In addition, it is suggested that farmers be encouraged to join PAN to increase the profitability of broiler farms.
A novel gene functional similarity calculation model by utilizing the specificity of terms and relationships in gene ontology
Authors: Tian Zhen , Fang Haichuan , Ye Yangdong , Zhu Zhenfeng
Published: January 2022

Background

Recently, with the foundation and development of gene ontology (GO) resources, numerous works have been proposed to compute functional similarity of genes and achieved series of successes in some research fields. Focusing on the calculation of the information content (IC) of terms is the main idea of these methods, which is essential for measuring functional similarity of genes. However, most approaches have some deficiencies, especially when measuring the IC of both GO terms and their corresponding annotated term sets. To this end, measuring functional similarity of genes accurately is still challenging.

Results

In this article, we proposed a novel gene functional similarity calculation method, which especially encapsulates the specificity of terms and edges (STE). The proposed method mainly contains three steps. Firstly, a novel computing model is put forward to compute the IC of terms. This model has the ability to exploit the specific structural information of GO terms. Secondly, the IC of term sets are computed by capturing the genetic structure between the terms contained in the set. Lastly, we measure the gene functional similarity according to the IC overlap ratio of the corresponding annotated genes sets. The proposed method accurately measures the IC of not only GO terms but also the annotated term sets by leveraging the specificity of edges in the GO graph.

Conclusions

We conduct experiments on gene functional classification in biological pathways, gene expression datasets, and protein-protein interaction datasets. Extensive experimental results show the better performances of our proposed STE against several baseline methods.
Mobility enhancement among older adults 75 + in rural areas: Study protocol of the MOBILE randomized controlled trial
Authors: Haeger Christine , Mümken Sandra A , O‘Sullivan Julie L , Spang Robert P , Voigt-Antons Jan-Niklas , Stockburger Martin , Dräger Dagmar , Gellert Paul
Published: January 2022

Background

Maintaining mobility in old age is crucial for healthy ageing including delaying the onset and progress of frailty. However, the extent of an individuals´ mobility relies largely on their personal, social, and environmental resources as outlined in the Life-Space Constriction Model. Recent studies mainly focus on facilitating habitual out-of-home mobility by fostering one type of resources only. The MOBILE trial aims at testing whether tablet-assisted motivational counselling enhances the mobility of community-dwelling older adults by addressing personal, social, and environmental resources.

Methods

In the MOBILE randomized controlled trial, we plan to enrol 254 community-dwelling older adults aged 75 and older from Havelland, a rural area in Germany. The intervention group will receive a tablet-assisted motivational counselling at the participant´s home and two follow-up telephone sessions. Main focus of the counselling sessions lays on setting and adapting individual mobility goals and applying action planning and habit formation strategies by incorporating the personal social network and regional opportunities for engaging in mobility related activities. The control group will receive postal general health information. The primary mobility outcome is time out-of-home assessed by GPS (GPS.Rec2.0-App) at three points in time (baseline, after one month, and after three months for seven consecutive days each). Secondary outcomes are the size of the GPS-derived life-space convex hull, self-reported life-space mobility (LSA-D), physical activity (IPAQ), depressive symptoms (GDS), frailty phenotype, and health status (SF-12).

Discussion

The MOBILE trial will test the effect of a motivational counselling intervention on out-of-home mobility in community-dwelling older adults. Novel aspects of the MOBILE trial include the preventive multi-level intervention approach in combination with easy-to-use technology. The ecological approach ensures low-threshold implementation, which increases the benefit for the people in the region.

Trial registration

The MOBILE trial is prospectively registered at DRKS (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien, German Registry of Clinical Trials) DRKS00025230. Registered 5 May 2021.
Whole genome deep sequencing analysis of cell-free DNA in samples with low tumour content
Authors: Ganesamoorthy Devika , Robertson Alan James , Chen Wenhan , Hall Michael B. , Cao Minh Duc , Ferguson Kaltin , Lakhani Sunil R. , Nones Katia , Simpson Peter T. , Coin Lachlan J. M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the plasma of cancer patients contains cell-free tumour DNA (ctDNA) derived from tumour cells and it has been widely recognized as a non-invasive source of tumour DNA for diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Molecular profiling of ctDNA is often performed using targeted sequencing or low-coverage whole genome sequencing (WGS) to identify tumour specific somatic mutations or somatic copy number aberrations (sCNAs). However, these approaches cannot efficiently detect all tumour-derived genomic changes in ctDNA.

Methods

We performed WGS analysis of cfDNA from 4 breast cancer patients and 2 patients with benign tumours. We sequenced matched germline DNA for all 6 patients and tumour samples from the breast cancer patients. All samples were sequenced on Illumina HiSeqXTen sequencing platform and achieved approximately 30x, 60x and 100x coverage on germline, tumour and plasma DNA samples, respectively.

Results

The mutational burden of the plasma samples (1.44 somatic mutations/Mb of genome) was higher than the matched tumour samples. However, 90% of high confidence somatic cfDNA variants were not detected in matched tumour samples and were found to comprise two background plasma mutational signatures. In contrast, cfDNA from the di-nucleosome fraction (300 bp–350 bp) had much higher proportion (30%) of variants shared with tumour. Despite high coverage sequencing we were unable to detect sCNAs in plasma samples.

Conclusions

Deep sequencing analysis of plasma samples revealed higher fraction of unique somatic mutations in plasma samples, which were not detected in matched tumour samples. Sequencing of di-nucleosome bound cfDNA fragments may increase recovery of tumour mutations from plasma.
Overexpression of PFKFB3 promotes cell glycolysis and proliferation in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Jun , Zhang Shiqiang , Liao Dingzhun , Zhang Qian , Chen Chujie , Yang Xiangwei , Jiang Donggen , Pang Jun
Published: January 2022

Background

Cancer cells prefer utilizing aerobic glycolysis in order to exacerbate tumor mass and maintain un-regulated proliferative rates. As a key glycolytic activator, phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) has been implicated in multiple tumor type progression. However, the specific function and clinical significance of PFKFB3 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are yet not clarified. This investigation assessed PFKFB3 roles in RCC.

Methods

PFKFB3 expression levels were analyzed in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) tissues, together with its relationship with clinical characteristics of ccRCC. Real-time PCR and Western blot assays were employed for determining PFKFB3 expression in different RCC cell lines. Furthermore, we determined the glycolytic activity by glucose uptake, lactate secretion assay and ECAR analysis. CCK-8 assay, clone formation, flow cytometry and EdU assessments were performed for monitoring tumor proliferative capacity and cell-cycle distribution. Furthermore, a murine xenograft model was employed for investigating the effect of PFKFB3 on tumor growth in vivo.

Results

PFKFB3 was significantly up-regulated in RCC specimens and cell lines in comparison to normal control. Overexpression of PFKFB3 was directly correlated to later TNM stages, thus becoming a robust prognostic biomarker for ccRCC cases. Furthermore, PFKFB3 knockdown suppressed cell glycolysis, proliferative rate and cell-cycle G1/S conversion in RCC cells. Importantly, in vivo experiments confirmed that PFKFB3 knockdown delayed tumor growth derived from the ACHN cell line.

Conclusions

Such results suggest that PFKFB3 is a key molecular player in RCC progression via mediating glycolysis / proliferation and provides a potential therapeutic target against RCC.
“Police shootings, now that seems to be the main issue” – Black pregnant women’s anticipation of police brutality towards their children
Authors: Mehra Renee , Alspaugh Amy , Franck Linda S. , McLemore Monica R. , Kershaw Trace S. , Ickovics Jeannette R. , Keene Danya E. , Sewell Alyasah A.
Published: January 2022

Background

A disproportionate number of people who are killed by police each year are Black. While much attention rightly remains on victims of police brutality, there is a sparse literature on police brutality and perinatal health outcomes. We aimed to explore how Black pregnant women perceive police brutality affects them during pregnancy and might affect their children.

Methods

This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews among 24 Black pregnant women in New Haven, Connecticut (January 2017 to August 2018). Interview questions explored neighborhood factors, safety, stressors during pregnancy, and anticipated stressors while parenting. Grounded theory informed the analysis.

Results

Participants, regardless of socioeconomic status, shared experiences with police and beliefs about anticipated police brutality, as summarized in the following themes: (1) experiences that lead to police distrust – “If this is the way that mommy’s treated [by police]”; (2) anticipating police brutality – “I’m always expecting that phone call”; (3) stress and fear during pregnancy – “It’s a boy, [I feel] absolutely petrified”; and (4) ‘the talk’ about avoiding police brutality – “How do you get prepared?” Even participants who reported positive experiences with police anticipated brutality towards their children.

Conclusions

Interactions between Black people and police on a personal, familial, community, and societal level influenced how Black pregnant women understand the potential for police brutality towards their children. Anticipated police brutality is a source of stress during pregnancy, which may adversely influence maternal and infant health outcomes. Police brutality must be addressed in all communities to prevent harming the health of birthing people and their children.
Holoprosencephalia, hypoplasia of corpus callosum and cerebral heterotopia in a male belted Galloway heifer with adipsia
Authors: Nessler Jasmin , Wunderlich Christian , Eikelberg Deborah , Beineke Andreas , Raue Jonathan , Runge Martin , Tipold Andrea , Ganter Martin , Rehage Jürgen
Published: January 2022

Background

Specialized neurons in the diencephalon detect blood hypernatremia in dehydrated animals. These neurons are connected with the pituitary gland, subsequently producing antidiuretic hormone to reabsorb water from urine in the kidneys, and to the forebrain to generate thirst and trigger drinking behavior.

Case presentation

This is the first case report describing clinical findings, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and necropsy results of a Belted Galloway heifer with severe clinical signs of dehydration and hypernatremia, but concurrent adipsia and isosthenuria. Due to insufficient recovery with symptomatic treatment, owners elected euthanasia. Postmortem MRI and necropsy revealed a complex forebrain malformation: mild abnormal gyrification of the forebrain cortex, lobar holoprosencephaly, and corpus callosum hypoplasia. The affected brain structures are well known to be involved in osmoregulation and generation of thirst in dogs, humans and rodents.

Conclusions

Complex forebrain malformation can be involved in the pathogenesis of hypernatremia and adipsia in bovines.
The distributional effects of tobacco tax increases across regions in Mexico: an extended cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Saenz-de-Miera Belen , Wu Daphne C. , Essue Beverly M. , Maldonado Norman , Jha Prabhat , Reynales-Shigematsu Luz Myriam
Published: January 2022

Background

Several studies have shown the beneficial effects of tobacco fiscal policy, but distributional effects have been less examined, especially at the subnational level. The objective of this study is to analyse the distributional effects of a one-peso tobacco tax increase (roughly equivalent to tripling the current excise tax) on health, poverty, and financial outcomes at the subnational level in Mexico.

Methods

We employ an extended cost-effectiveness analysis that estimates life-years gained, smoking attributable deaths averted, treatment costs averted, number of persons avoiding poverty and catastrophic health expenditures, and additional tax revenues by income group across five regions.

Results

With the one-peso tax increase (or 44% price increase), about 1.5 million smokers would quit smoking across the five regions, resulting in nearly 630 thousand premature deaths averted and 12.6 million life years gained. The bottom income quintile would gain three times more life years gains than the top quintile (ratio 3:1), and the largest gain for the most deprived would occur in the South (ratio 19:1), the region with the highest poverty incidence. Costs averted and additional tax revenues would reach 44.6 and 16.2 billion pesos, respectively. Moreover, 251 thousand individuals would avoid falling into poverty, including 53.2 in the lowest income quintile, and 563.9 thousand would avoid catastrophic health expenditures. Overall, the bottom income group would obtain 26% of the life years gained and 24% of the cost averted, while only paying 3% of the additional tax revenue.

Conclusions

The most significant gains from a substantial cigarette price increase would be for the poorest 20%, especially in the South, the most impoverished region of Mexico. Therefore, tobacco taxes are an opportunity for governments to advance in equity and towards the achievement of sustainable development goals on non-communicable diseases.
Modeling present and future climate risk of dengue outbreak, a case study in New Caledonia
Authors: Ochida Noé , Mangeas Morgan , Dupont-Rouzeyrol Myrielle , Dutheil Cyril , Forfait Carole , Peltier Alexandre , Descloux Elodie , Menkes Christophe
Published: January 2022

Background

Dengue dynamics result from the complex interactions between the virus, the host and the vector, all being under the influence of the environment. Several studies explored the link between weather and dengue dynamics and some investigated the impact of climate change on these dynamics. Most attempted to predict incidence rate at a country scale or assess the environmental suitability at a global or regional scale. Here, we propose a new approach which consists in modeling the risk of dengue outbreak at a local scale according to climate conditions and study the evolution of this risk taking climate change into account. We apply this approach in New Caledonia, where high quality data are available.

Methods

We used a statistical estimation of the effective reproduction number (Rt) based on case counts to create a categorical target variable : epidemic week/non-epidemic week. A machine learning classifier has been trained using relevant climate indicators in order to estimate the probability for a week to be epidemic under current climate data and this probability was then estimated under climate change scenarios.

Results

Weekly probability of dengue outbreak was best predicted with the number of days when maximal temperature exceeded 30.8°C and the mean of daily precipitation over 80 and 60 days prior to the predicted week respectively. According to scenario RCP8.5, climate will allow dengue outbreak every year in New Caledonia if the epidemiological and entomological contexts remain the same.

Conclusion

We identified locally relevant climatic factor driving dengue outbreaks in New Caledonia and assessed the inter-annual and seasonal risk of dengue outbreak under different climate change scenarios up to the year 2100. We introduced a new modeling approach to estimate the risk of dengue outbreak depending on climate conditions. This approach is easily reproducible in other countries provided that reliable epidemiological and climate data are available.
Using theories and frameworks to understand how to reduce low-value healthcare: a scoping review
Authors: Parker Gillian , Shahid Nida , Rappon Tim , Kastner Monika , Born Karen , Berta Whitney
Published: January 2022

Background

There is recognition that the overuse of procedures, testing, and medications constitutes low-value care which strains the healthcare system and, in some circumstances, can cause unnecessary stress and harm for patients. Initiatives across dozens of countries have raised awareness about the harms of low-value care but have had mixed success and the levels of reductions realized have been modest. Similar to the complex drivers of implementation processes, there is a limited understanding of the individual and social behavioral aspects of de-implementation. While researchers have begun to use theory to elucidate the dynamics of de-implementation, the research remains largely atheoretical. The use of theory supports the understanding of how and why interventions succeed or fail and what key factors predict success. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify and characterize the use of theoretical approaches used to understand and/or explain what influences efforts to reduce low-value care.

Methods

We conducted a review of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus databases from inception to June 2021. Building on previous research, 43 key terms were used to search the literature. The database searches identified 1998 unique articles for which titles and abstracts were screened for inclusion; 232 items were selected for full-text review.

Results

Forty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Over half of the included articles were published in the last 2 years. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was the most commonly used determinant framework (n= 22). Of studies that used classic theories, the majority used the Theory of Planned Behavior (n= 6). For implementation theories, Normalization Process Theory and COM-B were used (n= 7). Theories or frameworks were used primarily to identify determinants (n= 37) and inform data analysis (n= 31). Eleven types of low-value care were examined in the included studies, with prescribing practices (e.g., overuse, polypharmacy, and appropriate prescribing) targeted most frequently.

Conclusions

This scoping review provides a rigorous, comprehensive, and extensive synthesis of theoretical approaches used to understand and/or explain what factors influence efforts to reduce low-value care. The results of this review can provide direction and insight for future primary research to support de-implementation and the reduction of low-value care.
The effect of interventions anticipated to improve plantar intrinsic foot muscle strength on fall‐related dynamic function in adults: a systematic review
Authors: Willemse Lydia , Wouters Eveline J. M. , Bronts Henk M. , Pisters Martijn F. , Vanwanseele Benedicte
Published: January 2022

Background

The plantar intrinsic foot muscles (PIFMs) have a role in dynamic functions, such as balance and propulsion, which are vital to walking. These muscles atrophy in older adults and therefore this population, which is at high risk to falling, may benefit from strengthening these muscles in order to improve or retain their gait performance. Therefore, the aim was to provide insight in the evidence for the effect of interventions anticipated to improve PIFM strength on dynamic balance control and foot function during gait in adults.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in five electronic databases. The eligibility of peer‐reviewed papers, published between January 1, 2010 and July 8, 2020, reporting controlled trials and pre‐post interventional studies was assessed by two reviewers independently. Results from moderate‐ and high‐quality studies were extracted for data synthesis by summarizing the standardized mean differences (SMD). The GRADE approach was used to assess the certainty of evidence.

Results

Screening of 9199 records resulted in the inclusion of 11 articles of which five were included for data synthesis. Included studies were mainly performed in younger populations. Low‐certainty evidence revealed the beneficial effect of PIFM strengthening exercises on vertical ground reaction force (SMD: − 0.31‐0.37). Very low‐certainty evidence showed that PIFM strength training improved the performance on dynamic balance testing (SMD: 0.41–1.43). There was no evidence for the effect of PIFM strengthening exercises on medial longitudinal foot arch kinematics.

Conclusions

This review revealed at best low‐certainty evidence that PIFM strengthening exercises improve foot function during gait and very low‐certainty evidence for its favorable effect on dynamic balance control. There is a need for high‐quality studies that aim to investigate the effect of functional PIFM strengthening exercises in large samples of older adults. The outcome measures should be related to both fall risk and the role of the PIFMs such as propulsive forces and balance during locomotion in addition to PIFM strength measures.
Integrated clinical characteristics and omics analysis identifies a ferroptosis and iron-metabolism-related lncRNA signature for predicting prognosis and therapeutic responses in ovarian cancer
Authors: Feng Songwei , Yin Han , Zhang Ke , Shan Mei , Ji Xuan , Luo Shanhui , Shen Yang
Published: January 2022

Background

Ferroptosis and iron-metabolism are regulated by Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in ovarian cancer (OC). Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of ferroptosis and iron-metabolism related lncRNAs (FIRLs) in OC is crucial for proposing therapeutic strategies and survival prediction.

Methods

In multi-omics data from OC patients, FIRLs were identified by calculating Pearson correlation coefficients with ferroptosis and iron-metabolism related genes (FIRGs). Cox-Lasso regression analysis was performed on the FIRLs to screen further the lncRNAs participating in FIRLs signature. In addition, all patients were divided into two robust risk subtypes using the FIRLs signature. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve, Kaplan–Meier analysis, decision curve analysis (DCA), Cox regression analysis and calibration curve were used to confirm the clinical benefits of FIRLs signature. Meanwhile, two nomograms were constructed to facilitate clinical application. Moreover, the potential biological functions of the signature were investigated by genes function annotation. Finally, immune microenvironment, chemotherapeutic sensitivity, and the response of PARP inhibitors were compared in different risk groups using diversiform bioinformatics algorithms.

Results

The raw data were randomized into a training set (n = 264) and a testing set (n = 110). According to Pearson coefficients between FIRGs and lncRNAs, 1075 FIRLs were screened for univariate Cox regression analysis, and then LASSO regression analysis was used to construct 8-FIRLs signature. It is worth mentioning that a variety of analytical methods indicated excellent predictive performance for overall survival (OS) of FIRLs signature (p < 0.05). The multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that FIRLs signature was an independent prognostic factor for OS (p < 0.05). Moreover, significant differences in the abundance of immune cells, immune-related pathways, and drug response were excavated in different risk subtypes (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The FIRLs signature can independently predict overall survival and therapeutic effect in OC patients.
Dermanyssus gallinae: the long journey of the poultry red mite to become a vector
Authors: Schiavone Antonella , Pugliese Nicola , Otranto Domenico , Samarelli Rossella , Circella Elena , De Virgilio Caterina , Camarda Antonio
Published: January 2022

The possibility that Dermanyssus gallinae, the poultry red mite, could act as a vector of infectious disease-causing pathogens has always intrigued researchers and worried commercial chicken farmers, as has its ubiquitous distribution. For decades, studies have been carried out which suggest that there is an association between a wide range of pathogens and D. gallinae, with the transmission of some of these pathogens mediated by D. gallinae as vector. The latter include the avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis and Gallinarum and influenza virus. Several approaches have been adopted to investigate the relationship between D. gallinae and pathogens. In this comprehensive review, we critically describe available strategies and methods currently available for conducting trials, as well as outcomes, analyzing their possible strengths and weaknesses, with the aim to provide researchers with useful tools for correctly approach the study of the vectorial role of D. gallinae.

Graphical Abstract
The burden of the most common rheumatic disease in Colombia
Authors: Cuervo Francy-Milena , Santos Ana M. , Londono John , Angarita José-Ignacio , Rueda Juan C. , Giraldo-Bustos Rodrigo , Ballesteros-Muñoz Jesús Giovanny , Saldarriaga Eugenia-Lucia , Padilla-Ortiz Diana , Reyes-Martinez Viviana , Peláez-Ballestas Ingris , Diaz-Jiménez Diana , Santos-Moreno Pedro , Pinzón Carlos E. , Castañeda-Orjuela Carlos
Published: January 2022

Background

Estimating the burden of rheumatic diseases (RDs) requires proper evaluation of its lethal and nonlethal consequences. In Colombia, it is possible to find local data and Global Burden of Disease (GBD) reports that collect information from varied contexts and apply complex statistical models, but no on-site estimations are available.

Methods

This was a descriptive study on the burden of RD based on occurrence and mortality data in the general population during 2015, including information and prevalence estimations from the Community Oriented Program for the Control of Rheumatic Diseases (COPCORD) study. Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were estimated by combining measures of years of life lost (YLL) and years lived with disability (YLDs). For disability weight estimations among cases, different COPCORD responses were mapped using flowcharts to show the severity distribution according to GBD. All model parameters and results were validated through an expert consensus panel.

Results

Low back pain (LBP) was the RD with the greatest burden of disease, costing 606.05 (95% CI 502.76–716.58) DALYs per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by osteoarthritis (292.11; 95% CI 205.76–386.85) and rheumatoid arthritis (192.46, 95% CI 109.7–239.69).

Conclusions

The burden of RD is as high in Colombia as in other countries of the region. The results offer an interesting tool for optimizing healthcare system design as well as for planning the distribution of human and economic resources to achieve early diagnosis and adequate care of these diseases.