bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic plasticity imparts erlotinib-resistance in pancreatic cancer by upregulating glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
Authors: Sharma Neha , Bhushan Alok , He Jun , Kaushal Gagan , Bhardwaj Vikas
Published: September 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most malignant forms of cancer. Lack of effective treatment options and drug resistance contributes to the low survival among PDAC patients. In this study, we investigated the metabolic alterations in pancreatic cancer cells that do not respond to the EGFR inhibitor erlotinib. We selected erlotinib-resistant pancreatic cancer cells from MiaPaCa2 and AsPC1 cell lines. Metabolic profiling of erlotinib-resistant cells revealed a significant downregulation of glycolytic activity and reduced level of glycolytic metabolites compared to the sensitive cells. The resistant cells displayed elevated expression of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) enzymes involved in ROS regulation and nucleotide biosynthesis. The enhanced PPP elevated cellular NADPH/NADP+ ratio and protected the cells from reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced damage. Inhibition of PPP using 6-aminonicotinamide (6AN) elevated ROS levels, induced G1 cell cycle arrest, and sensitized resistant cells to erlotinib. Genetic studies identified elevated PPP enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) as an important contributor to erlotinib resistance. Mechanistically, our data showed that upregulation of inhibitor of differentiation (ID1) regulates G6PD expression in resistant cells thus contributing to altered metabolic phenotype and reduced response to erlotinib. Together, our results highlight an underlying role of tumor metabolism in PDAC drug response and identify G6PD as a target to overcome drug resistance.
The conversion of formate into purines stimulates mTORC1 leading to CAD-dependent activation of pyrimidine synthesis
Authors: Tait-Mulder Jacqueline , Hodge Kelly , Sumpton David , Zanivan Sara , Vazquez Alexei
Published: September 2020

Background

Mitochondrial serine catabolism to formate induces a metabolic switch to a hypermetabolic state with high rates of glycolysis, purine synthesis and pyrimidine synthesis. While formate is a purine precursor, it is not clear how formate induces pyrimidine synthesis.

Methods

Here we combine phospho-proteome and metabolic profiling to determine how formate induces pyrimidine synthesis.

Results

We discover that formate induces phosphorylation of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase (CAD), which is known to increase CAD enzymatic activity. Mechanistically, formate induces mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) activity as quantified by phosphorylation of its targets S6, 4E-BP1, S6K1 and CAD. Treatment with the allosteric mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin abrogates CAD phosphorylation and pyrimidine synthesis induced by formate. Furthermore, we show that the formate-dependent induction of mTOR signalling and CAD phosphorylation is dependent on an increase in purine synthesis.

Conclusions

We conclude that formate activates mTORC1 and induces pyrimidine synthesis via the mTORC1-dependent phosphorylation of CAD.
Strongyloides stercoralis prevalence and diagnostics in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Chankongsin Somaphone , Wampfler Rahel , Ruf Marie-Therese , Odermatt Peter , Marti Hanspeter , Nickel Beatrice , Keoluangkhot Valy , Neumayr Andreas
Published: September 2020

Background

Despite the high prevalence of strongyloidiasis in the Laotian population, Laotian hospitals still lack diagnostic capacity to appropriately diagnose Strongyloides stercoralis infections. This cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted to assess the prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis infection among hospitalized patients treated at Mahosot Hospital, the primary reference hospital of Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), and to validate feasible methods for diagnosing S. stercoralis infection at hospital’s laboratory.

Methods

Between September and December 2018, stool samples of 104 inpatients were investigated for S. stercoralis infection by wet smear, Baermann technique, Koga Agar plate culture (KAPC), and real-time detection polymerase chain reaction (RTD-PCR) at the Infectious Diseases Ward of the Mahosot Hospital in Vientiane. The sensitivity, the specificity, the negative predictive value (NPV) of each diagnostic test, as well as their combination(s) was calculated using a composite reference standard (CRS). The correlation of the different test methods was assessed by chi-square or Fisher’s exact test. Cohen’s kappa coefficient was used to assess the diagnostic agreement of the different test methods.

Results

The overall prevalence of S. stercoralis infections among the study population was 33.4%. The cumulative infection prevalence statistically significantly increased from the lowest age group of 40 years and below (22.4%), to the medium (40.0%) and to the oldest age group of 61 year and above (72.7%)(P = 0.003). The cumulative infection prevalence of CRS was considerably higher in male (40.4%) compared to female patients (28.1%), but not statistically different (P = 0.184). The diagnostic sensitivity of Baermann technique, KAPC, RTD-PCR, and the combination of Baermann technique and KAPC were 60.0, 60.0, 74.3, and 77.1%, respectively. Only 13 patients (37.1%) of the total 35 S. stercoralis patients diagnosed with any technique had a simultaneously positive diagnostic test with Baermann, KAPC and RTD-PCR.

Conclusions

We identified Baermann technique and KAPC to be currently the most feasible and implementable standard methods for diagnosing S. stercoralis at a hospital setting such as Mahosot Hospital and provincial and district hospitals in Lao PDR and other low- and middle income countries in Southeast Asia.

Trial registration

This study was approved by the National Ethics Committee for Health Research in Lao PDR (reference no. 083/NECHR) and by the Ethics Committee Northwest and Central Switzerland (reference no. 2018–00594).
Identifying barriers and facilitators to implementing advance care planning in prisons: a rapid literature review
Authors: Macleod Ashley , Nair Divya , Ilbahar Ekin , Sellars Marcus , Nolte Linda
Published: September 2020

Background

Limited information is available describing advance care planning (ACP) within correctional facilities, despite its increasing relevance due to the ageing population in prisons and the high rates of complex medical comorbidities. In Western countries, self-determination with respect to making future medical decisions is a human right that prisoners do not lose when they are remanded into custody. ACP enables individuals to plan for their health and personal care so their values, beliefs and preferences are made known to inform future decision-making, for a time when they can no longer communicate their decisions. This paper examines the limited academic literature relating to ACP within prisons to identify barriers and facilitators that influence the uptake of ACP and advance care directive (ACD) documentation. Common themes related to ACP in a correctional setting were extracted and synthesised to produce a high-level analysis of barriers and facilitators influencing ACP uptake for prisoners within a correctional setting.

Results

Six articles met the selection criteria and reported on the experience of ACP and ACDs in prisons; five from the United States of America and one from Switzerland. Three dominant themes were identified, with related subthemes: system-level factors, attitudes and perceptions, and ACP knowledge and comprehension. Barriers to ACP and ACD implementation were more prominent in articles than facilitators.

Conclusions

Limited academic literature regarding the implementation and experience of ACP in prisons is available. The dominance of barriers identified in studies highlights key challenges for improving ACP uptake in correctional settings. Further research is required to understand the barriers, enablers, and attitudes to ACP in prisons.
Verifying the feasibility of using Hand-Held X-ray fluorescence spectrometer to analyze Linqing brick: evaluation of the influencing factors and assessing reliability
Authors: Chen Zexuan , Zhang Long , Hou Feng , Xie Jialiang
Published: September 2020

Linqing brick is quite popular in Chinese history. Currently, identifying the origin of Linqing brick is an important issue to be studied in the field of archeology and architectural history in China. Hand-Held X-ray fluorescence (HH-XRF) spectrometry enables the in situ determination of the main elements in Linqing brick in a rapid non-destructive manner. HH-XRF is important in identifying the origin of Linqing brick. However, HH-XRF could be influenced by certain factors and may be capable of measuring only the element contents of the surface for the bricks in situ. The present study aimed to verify the reliability of HH-XRF and to systematically evaluate the different factors influencing measurement precision and accuracy so that scientific advice could be provided regarding the usage of HH-XRF for this application. Four experiments were performed to determine the influencing factors and assess the reliability through cross-validation using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Finally, the influence of the different studied factors was studied, and the reliability of HH-XRF was ensured. The facts to consider about the measurement time, cross validation, criteria to select points, treat surface and getting final data and how to avoid the effect of rain, while using this method, are provided.
Understanding the factors influencing healthcare providers’ burnout during the outbreak of COVID-19 in Jordanian hospitals
Authors: Algunmeeyn Abdullah , El-Dahiyat Faris , Altakhineh Mohammad Mitib , Azab Mohammad , Babar Zaheer-Ud-Din
Published: September 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. The nature of healthcare providers’ occupation puts them at an increased risk of getting any contagious disease, including COVID-19. They are on the front line of the COVID-19 outbreak response and as such are at risk of contracting this virus. The infectious disease started from China in December 2019 and spread rapidly throughout countries, including Jordan. Especially, recent studies indicated that Jordanian healthcare providers’ work conditions and demographic are significant factors for healthcare providers’ burnout. Additionally, burnout has been increased among healthcare providers in Jordanian hospital.

Aim

The present investigation aims to better understand the factors affecting pharmacists’, physicians’, and nurses’ burnout during the outbreak of COVID-19 to provide basic information for lowering and preventing the level of burnout in Jordanian hospitals.

Method

This study is qualitative in nature, adopting face-to-face interviews as the key instrument of data collection in one hospital in Jordan. The sample interviewed consisted of 30 healthcare providers in total (10 nurses, 10 physicians. and 10 pharmacists).

Result

Three key factors to healthcare providers’ burnout were identified in the sampled hospitals: job stress, staff and resource adequacy, fear of COVID-19 infection, and interprofessional relationships in healthcare practice. The examination also offers recommendations for lowering and preventing healthcare providers' burnout in Jordanian hospitals.

Conclusion

This study explored the main factors of healthcare providers’ burnout during the outbreak of COVID-19 in Jordanian hospitals, thereby making an original contribution to existing knowledge, as it is the first empirical exploration of healthcare providers' burnout during the outbreak of COVID-19. As such, it has attempted to offer an in-depth understanding of the factors impacting this issue.
A candidate secular variation model for IGRF-13 based on MHD dynamo simulation and 4DEnVar data assimilation
Authors: Minami Takuto , Nakano Shin’ya , Lesur Vincent , Takahashi Futoshi , Matsushima Masaki , Shimizu Hisayoshi , Nakashima Ryosuke , Taniguchi Hinami , Toh Hiroaki
Published: September 2020

We have submitted a secular variation (SV) candidate model for the thirteenth generation of International Geomagnetic Reference Field model (IGRF-13) using a data assimilation scheme and a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) dynamo simulation code. This is the first contribution to the IGRF community from research groups in Japan. A geomagnetic field model derived from magnetic observatory hourly means, and CHAMP and Swarm-A satellite data, has been used as input data to the assimilation scheme. We adopt an ensemble-based assimilation scheme, called four-dimensional ensemble-based variational method (4DEnVar), which linearizes outputs of MHD dynamo simulation with respect to the deviation from a dynamo state vector at an initial condition. The data vector for the assimilation consists of the poloidal scalar potential of the geomagnetic field at the core surface and flow velocity field slightly below the core surface. Dimensionless time of numerical geodynamo is adjusted to the actual time by comparison of secular variation time scales. For SV prediction, we first generate an ensemble of dynamo simulation results from a free dynamo run. We then assimilate the ensemble to the data with a 10-year assimilation window through iterations, and finally forecast future SV by the weighted sum of the future extension parts of the ensemble members. Hindcast of the method for the assimilation window from 2004.50 to 2014.25 confirms that the linear approximation holds for 10-year assimilation window with our iterative ensemble renewal method. We demonstrate that the forecast performance of our data assimilation and forecast scheme is comparable with that of IGRF-12 by comparing data misfits 4.5 years after the release epoch. For estimation of our IGRF-13SV candidate model, we set assimilation window from 2009.50 to 2019.50. We generate our final SV candidate model by linear fitting for the weighted sum of the ensemble MHD dynamo simulation members from 2019.50 to 2025.00. We derive errors of our SV candidate model by one standard deviation of SV histograms based on all the ensemble members.
The endogenous capacity to produce proinflammatory mediators by the ex vivo human perfused lung
Authors: Leligdowicz Aleksandra , Ross James T. , Nesseler Nicolas , Matthay Michael A.
Published: September 2020

Background

The ex vivo human perfused lung model has enabled optimizing donor lungs for transplantation and delineating mechanisms of lung injury. Perfusate and airspace biomarkers are a proxy of the lung response to experimental conditions. However, there is a lack of studies evaluating biomarker kinetics during perfusion and after exposure to stimuli. In this study, we analyzed the ex vivo-perfused lung response to three key perturbations: exposure to the perfusion circuit, exogenous fresh whole blood, and bacteria.

Results

Ninety-nine lungs rejected for transplantation underwent ex vivo perfusion. One hour after reaching experimental conditions, fresh whole blood was added to the perfusate (n = 55). Two hours after reaching target temperature, Streptococcus pneumoniae was added to the perfusate (n = 42) or to the airspaces (n = 17). Perfusate and airspace samples were collected at baseline (once lungs were equilibrated for 1 h, but before blood or bacteria were added) and 4 h later. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, angiopoietin (Ang)-2, and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor (sTNFR)-1 were quantified. Baseline perfusate and airspace biomarker levels varied significantly, and this was not related to pre-procurement PaO2:FiO2 ratio, cold ischemia time, and baseline alveolar fluid clearance (AFC). After 4 h of ex vivo perfusion, the lung demonstrated a sustained production of proinflammatory mediators. The change in biomarker levels was not influenced by baseline donor lung characteristics (cold ischemia time, baseline AFC) nor was it associated with measures of experimental epithelial (final AFC) or endothelial (percent weight gain) injury. In the presence of exogenous blood, the rise in biomarkers was attenuated. Lungs exposed to intravenous (IV) bacteria relative to control lungs demonstrated a significantly higher rise in perfusate IL-6.

Conclusions

The ex vivo-perfused lung has a marked endogenous capacity to produce inflammatory mediators over the course of short-term perfusion that is not significantly influenced by donor lung characteristics or the presence of exogenous blood, and only minimally affected by the introduction of systemic bacteremia. The lack of association between biomarker change and donor lung cold ischemia time, final alveolar fluid clearance, and experimental percent weight gain suggests that the maintained ability of the human lung to produce biomarkers is not merely a marker of lung epithelial or endothelial injury, but may support the function of the lung as an immune cell reservoir.
New findings on submerged patch reefs and reefal carbonate rocks at water depths of 70–100 m on the insular shelf off Miyako-jima, southern Ryukyus, Japan
Authors: Inoue Takahiko , Arai Kohsaku
Published: September 2020

Sub-bottom profiling (SBP) surveys and bathymetric mapping conducted off the shore of Miyako-jima, which belongs to the southern Ryukyus in the Ryukyu Island Arc, have revealed the presence of mound-shaped structures 3–8 m high and 50–120 m wide at depths of 70–100 m. The SBP surveys showed that the mounds possess strong distinct, convex upward reflector shapes at the top, which we interpret as submerged reefs and reefal sediments. Additionally, modern stratified sediment layers that cover these mound-shaped structures indicate that those reefs began forming and advancing shoreward in a back-stepping fashion as a result of sea-level rise. An analysis of the mound distribution shown by SBP and multibeam echo sounding (MBES) surveys suggest that they might have been formed during the lowstand stage of sea-level change, which includes the Last Glacial Period, because the distribution of these mounds is limited to water depths of 70 to 100 m, deeper than where present-day reefs grow. The SBP images hint that such high-resolution seismic profiles, accompanied by detailed bathymetric mapping off the reefal area, have the potential to provide effective indicators of not only coral reef paleoenvironment development, but also the tectonic setting of this offshore area.
Mental health status in veterans residing in rural versus non-rural areas: results from the veterans’ health study
Authors: Boscarino Joseph J. , Figley Charles R. , Adams Richard E. , Urosevich Thomas G. , Kirchner H. Lester , Boscarino Joseph A.
Published: September 2020

Background

The majority of Veterans Affair (VA) hospitals are in urban areas. We examined whether veterans residing in rural areas have lower mental health service use and poorer mental health status.

Methods

Veterans with at least 1 warzone deployment in central and northeastern Pennsylvania were randomly selected for an interview. Mental health status, including PTSD, major depression, alcohol abuse and mental health global severity, were assessed using structured interviews. Psychiatric service use was based on self-reported utilization in the past 12 months. Results were compared between veterans residing in rural and non-rural areas. Data were also analyzed using multivariate logistic regression to minimize the influence by confounding factors.

Results

A total of 1730 subjects (55% of the eligible veterans) responded to the survey and 1692 of them had complete geocode information. Those that did not have this information (n = 38), were excluded from some analyses. Veterans residing in rural areas were older, more often of the white race, married, and experienced fewer stressful events. In comparison to those residing in non-rural areas, veterans residing in rural areas had lower global mental health severity scores; they also had fewer mental health visits. In multivariate logistic regression, rural residence was associated with lower service use, but not with PTSD, major depression, alcohol abuse, and global mental health severity score after adjusting confounding factors (e.g., age, gender, marital status and education).

Conclusions

Rural residence is associated with lower mental health service use, but not with poor mental health in veterans with former warzone deployment, suggesting rural residence is possibly protective.
Reducing Injuries in Soccer (Football): an Umbrella Review of Best Evidence Across the Epidemiological Framework for Prevention
Authors: Owoeye Oluwatoyosi B. A. , VanderWey Mitchell J. , Pike Ian
Published: September 2020

Soccer is the most popular sport in the world. Expectedly, the incidence of soccer-related injuries is high and these injuries exert a significant burden on individuals and families, including health and financial burdens, and on the socioeconomic and healthcare systems. Using established injury prevention frameworks, we present a concise synthesis of the most recent scientific evidence regarding injury rates, characteristics, mechanisms, risk and protective factors, interventions for prevention, and implementation of interventions in soccer. In this umbrella review, we elucidate the most recent available evidence gleaned primarily from systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Further, we express the exigent need to move current soccer injury prevention research evidence into action for improved player outcomes and widespread impact through increased attention to dissemination and implementation research. Additionally, we highlight the importance of an enabling context and effective implementation strategies for the successful integration of evidence-based injury prevention programs into real-world soccer settings. This narrative umbrella review provides guidance to inform future research, practice, and policy towards reducing injuries among soccer players.
The effect of structured versus unstructured collaborative pre-writing task on writing skills of the Iranian EFL students
Authors: Beiki Maryam , Gharagozloo Neda , Raissi Reza
Published: September 2020

Writing is considered a very complicated task for many EFL students and Iranian EFL learners have many problems in this regard. Present study through a mixed method design, attempted to investigate the effect of Structured Collaborative (SC) pre-writing task versus Unstructured Collaborative (USC) pre-writing task on the writing ability of Iranian EFL students. Among a population of 300 freshmen learners of English language translation of Islamic Azad University, 169 students were selected based on criterion sampling. The criteria for selecting the sample were English language proficiency of the learners, age of the participants and major of their study. On the other hand, 30 teachers were selected based on convenience sampling for the interview part of the study. Then the students were assigned to Unstructured Collaborative (USC), and Structured Collaborative (SC) pre-writing groups. These two clusters were considered as experimental group and as control group. The study was implemented over a period of 16 weeks and involved pre and post-tests. Results of the quantitative data analysis shows that students’ writing proficiency in both groups were improved. However, the outcomes of the study reveals that the (USC) group outperformed the (SC) group. The qualitative data analysis through classroom observation and teachers interview reveals that teachers of (IAU) practiced the collaborative tasks at the three stages of writing in their classes and they also favored and applied the five components of Cooperative Learning (CL). In this study, the researchers took the initiative to make a distinction between structured and unstructured collaborative pre-writing tasks. Consequently, the results of the current study are of benefit for several groups of people, namely language practitioners, university students and educational administrators.
Trends in fertility and fertility preferences in sub-Saharan Africa: the roles of education and family planning programs
Authors: Bongaarts John
Published: September 2020

A common explanation for the high fertility prevailing in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is a widespread desire for large families. This situation poses a challenge to population policy-makers in the continent. If the desired family size is high, then presumably family planning programs can only have a limited effect on fertility because these programs aim to assist women in achieving their reproductive goals. But this conclusion is based on the assumption that family planning programs do not affect the desired family size, which is questionable and is investigated here. This study examines the determinants of trends wanted and unwanted fertility in SSA using fixed-effects regressions of country-level data. The dependent variables include the total fertility rate, and its wanted and unwanted components. Explanatory variables include a family planning program score and four socioeconomic variables (women’s educational attainment, child mortality, GNI per capita, and percent urban). Data come from 103 DHS surveys in 25 countries in SSA with at least two DHS surveys between 1989 and 2019. Women’s education and family planning programs are found to be the dominant determinants of fertility decline and their effects operate by reducing both wanted and unwanted fertility. The effects of education are not surprising but the finding that family planning programs can reduce wanted fertility implies that their impact can be larger than conventional wisdom suggests. Indeed, in a few poor countries, the implementation of high-quality programs has been associated with substantial declines in wanted fertility (e.g., Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda). The mechanism through which this effect operates is unclear but likely involves media programs that diffuse knowledge about the benefits of smaller families.
Turnaround Time of Plasma Next-Generation Sequencing in Thoracic Oncology Patients: A Quality Improvement Analysis
Authors: Lee Yi , Clark Evan W. , Milan Marina S.D. , Champagne Christine , Michael Kesi S. , Awad Mark M. , Barbie David A. , Cheng Michael L. , Kehl Kenneth L. , Marcoux J. Paul , Rabin Michael S. , Rotow Julia K. , Sands Jacob M. , Jänne Pasi A. , Oxnard Geoffrey R.
Published: September 2020

PURPOSE

Genomic analysis of plasma cell-free DNA has become a widespread tool for advanced non–small-cell lung cancer care. Whereas accuracy has been reported on widely, its usefulness is also tied tightly to its turnaround time (TAT), which is not well studied.

METHODS

We studied the TAT of commercial plasma next-generation sequencing (NGS; Guardant360) for 533 results from 461 patients at our center between August 2016 and October 2019. The study received institutional review board approval as a quality improvement study; therefore, the results of the test and clinical setting were not analyzed.

RESULTS

TAT from blood draw to result (median of 9 days) was slightly longer than the TAT from laboratory receipt to result, a median of 7 days. Testing volume at our center increased three-fold over the time of the study. During this period, clinical TAT decreased from an initial median of 12 days to a median of 8 days in 2018, but more recently the median increased slightly to 9 days. During the most recent 12 months, 231 (95%) of 247 cases resulted within 14 days from blood draw, with delayed results usually because of billing, whereas 44 cases (18%) resulted within 7 days of blood draw. Studying 92 cases drawn in the most recent 3-month period, the median time of result receipt was 4:01 pm Eastern Time/1:01 pm Pacific Time; 39 results (43%) were returned after 5:00 pm Eastern Time.

CONCLUSION

In a large single-institution experience, we find that plasma NGS results can routinely be expected within 2 weeks, but uncommonly result within 1 week, supporting the need for new strategies to incorporate plasma NGS into the initial genotyping of advanced non–small-cell lung cancer.
Measurement of modular values and connection to the annihilation operator
Authors: Li Xiaogang , Gao Jiancun
Published: September 2020

Modular value of an observable of a pre- and postselected quantum system is a concept similar to weak value, but in contrast to describing only weak coupling, it can describe the coupling of any strength but only for qubit meters, so it may be used more widely in some scenarios. Besides, modular value has been proved to have advantages on measuring weak values of nonlocal joint observables and nonlocal entanglement states. In this paper, we extend the work of J. S. Lundeen and K. J. Reschb on connection between the measured values of multiparticle observables of a pre- and postselected quantum system and annihilation operator by modular value and give their relation. Based on the above, we propose a new method different from tomography to measure modular values, and we find that our annihilation operator measurement (AOM) method can significantly reduce the number of measurements from O(4
n
) to O(2
n
) compared with the original tomography method.
Weight Loss and Serum Lipids in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hasan Bashar , Nayfeh Tarek , Alzuabi Muayad , Wang Zhen , Kuchkuntla Aravind Reddy , Prokop Larry J , Newman Connie B , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Rajjo Tamim I
Published: September 2020

Background

Excess adipose tissue is associated with an abnormal lipid profile that may improve with weight reduction. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to estimate the magnitude of change in lipid parameters associated with weight loss in adults who are overweight or obese.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus from 2013 to September, 2018. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated interventions to treat adult obesity (lifestyle, pharmacologic and surgical) with follow-up of 6 months or more.

Results

We included 73 RCTs with moderate-to-low risk of bias, enrolling 32 496 patients (mean age, 48.1 years; weight, 101.6 kg; and body mass index [BMI], 36.3 kg/m2). Lifestyle interventions (diet, exercise, or both), pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery were associated with reduced triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) at 6 and 12 months. The following data are for changes in lipid parameters after 12 months of the intervention with 95% CI. Following lifestyle interventions, per 1 kg of weight lost, TGs were reduced by –4.0 mg/dL (95% CI, –5.24 to –2.77 mg/dL), LDL-C was reduced by –1.28 mg/dL (95% CI, –2.19 to –0.37 mg/dL), and HDL-C increased by 0.46 mg/dL (95% CI, 0.20 to 0.71 mg/dL). Following pharmacologic interventions, per 1 kg of weight lost, TGs were reduced by –1.25 mg/dL (95% CI, –2.94 to 0.43 mg/dL), LDL-C was reduced by –1.67 mg/dL (95% CI, –2.28 to –1.06 mg/dL), and HDL-C increased by 0.37 mg/dL (95% CI, 0.23 to 0.52 mg/dL). Following bariatric surgery, per 1 kg of weight lost, TGs were reduced by –2.47 mg/dL (95% CI, –3.14 to –1.80 mg/dL), LDL-C was reduced by –0.33 mg/dL (95% CI, –0.77 to 0.10 mg/dL), and HDL-C increased by 0.42 mg/dL (95% CI, 0.37 to 0.47 mg/dL). Low-carbohydrate diets resulted in reductions in TGs and increases in HDL-C, whereas low-fat diets resulted in reductions in TGs and LDL-C and increases in HDL-C. Results were consistent across malabsorptive and restrictive surgery.

Conclusions

Weight loss in adults is associated with statistically significant changes in serum lipids. The reported magnitude of improvement can help in setting expectations, inform shared decision making, and facilitate counseling.
Lingering Legacies: Public Attitudes about Medicaid Beneficiaries and Work Requirements
Authors: Haeder Simon F. , Sylvester Steven M. , Callaghan Timothy
Published: September 2020

Context: This article provides a detailed picture of the mindset of Americans about Medicaid work requirements and the important roles that perception of deservingness and racial bias play in public attitudes.

Methods: The authors conducted a large original survey to investigate public attitudes toward work requirements. They analyzed the predictors of overall support for work requirements, correlates of who should be exempt from them, and attitudes toward work supports that make compliance with work requirements easier.

Findings: The authors found that public opinion is split relatively evenly when it comes to Medicaid work requirements in the abstract. When Americans are confronted with the complexities of the issue, important nuances emerge. The authors also found consistent evidence that support for work requirements is higher among conservatives, those who see Medicaid as a short-term program, and racially resentful non-Hispanic whites. They show that groups that have historically been framed as deserving see high levels of support for their exemption (e.g., the disabled and senior citizens). Finally, the authors found that Americans are supportive of policies that provide individuals with help when transitioning into the workforce.

Conclusions: Americans' views of Medicaid and the populations it serves are complex and continue to be influenced by perceptions of deservingness and race.
Differential tissue stiffness of body column facilitates locomotion of Hydra on solid substrates
Authors: Naik Suyash , Unni Manu , Sinha Devanshu , Rajput Shatruhan Singh , Reddy P. Chandramouli , Kartvelishvily Elena , Solomonov Inna , Sagi Irit , Chatterji Apratim , Patil Shivprasad , Galande Sanjeev
Published: September 2020

The bell-shaped members of Cnidaria typically move around by swimming, whereas the Hydra polyp can perform locomotion on solid substrates in aquatic environment. To address the biomechanics of locomotion on rigid substrates, we studied the 'somersaulting' locomotion in Hydra. We applied atomic force microscopy to measure the local mechanical properties of Hydra's body column and identified the existence of differential Young's modulus between the shoulder region versus rest of the body column at 3:1 ratio. We show that somersault primarily depends on differential tissue stiffness of the body column and is explained by computational models that accurately recapitulate the mechanics involved in this process. We demonstrate that perturbation of the observed stiffness variation in the body column by modulating the extracellular matrix (ECM) polymerization impairs the ‘somersault' movement. These results provide mechanistic basis for the evolutionary significance of differential extracellular matrix properties and tissue stiffness.
Prostate cancer measurements on serial MRI during active surveillance: it’s time to be PRECISE
Authors: Giganti Francesco , Stavrinides Vasilis , Stabile Armando , Osinibi Elizabeth , Orczyk Clement , Radtke Jan Philipp , Freeman Alex , Haider Aiman , Punwani Shonit , Allen Clare , Emberton Mark , Kirkham Alex , Moore Caroline M
Published: September 2020

Objective:

The PRECISE criteria for reporting multiparametric MRI in patients on active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer (PCa) score the likelihood of clinically significant change over time using a 1–5 scale, where 4 or 5 indicates radiological progression. According to the PRECISE recommendations, the index lesion size can be reported using different definitions of volume (planimetry or ellipsoid formula) or by measuring one or two diameters. We compared different measurements using planimetry as the reference standard and stratified changes according to the PRECISE scores.

Methods:

We retrospectively analysed 196 patients on AS with PCa confirmed by targeted biopsy who had two MR scans (baseline and follow-up). Lesions were measured on T2 weighted imaging (T2WI) according to all definitions. A PRECISE score was assessed for each patient.

Results:

The ellipsoid formula exhibited the highest correlation with planimetry at baseline (ρ = 0.97) and follow-up (ρ = 0.98) imaging, compared to the biaxial measurement and single maximum diameter. There was a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the yearly percentage volume change between radiological regression/stability (PRECISE 2–3) and progression (PRECISE 4–5) for planimetry (39.64%) and for the ellipsoid formula (46.78%).

Conclusion:

The ellipsoid formula could be used to monitor tumour growth during AS. Evidence of a significant yearly percentage volume change between radiological regression/stability (PRECISE 2-3) and progression (PRECISE 4-5) has been also observed.

Advances in knowledge:

The ellipsoid formula is a reasonable surrogate for planimetry in capturing tumour volume changes on T2WI in patients on imaging-led AS. This is also associated with radiological changes using the PRECISE recommendations.
Ribosome profiling of HEK293T cells overexpressing codon optimized coagulation factor IX
Authors: Alexaki Aikaterini , Kames Jacob , Hettiarachchi Gaya K. , Athey John C. , Katneni Upendra K. , Hunt Ryan C. , Hamasaki-Katagiri Nobuko , Holcomb David D. , DiCuccio Michael , Bar Haim , Komar Anton A. , Kimchi-Sarfaty Chava
Published: September 2020

Ribosome profiling provides the opportunity to evaluate translation kinetics at codon level resolution. Here, we describe ribosome profiling data, generated from two HEK293T cell lines. The ribosome profiling data are composed of Ribo-seq (mRNA sequencing data from ribosome protected fragments) and RNA-seq data (total RNA sequencing). The two HEK293T cell lines each express a version of the F9 gene, both of which are translated into identical proteins in terms of their amino acid sequences. However, these F9 genes vary drastically in their codon usage and predicted mRNA structure. We also provide the pipeline that we used to analyze the data. Further analyzing this dataset holds great potential as it can be used i) to unveil insights into the composition and regulation of the transcriptome, ii) for comparison with other ribosome profiling datasets, iii) to measure the rate of protein synthesis across the proteome and identify differences in elongation rates, iv) to discover previously unidentified translation of peptides, v) to explore the effects of codon usage or codon context in translational kinetics and vi) to investigate cotranslational folding. Importantly, a unique feature of this dataset, compared to other available ribosome profiling data, is the presence of the F9 gene in two very distinct coding sequences.
Development of species-specific SCAR markers for identification and authentication of three rare Peninsular Malaysian endemic Coelogyne (Orchidaceae) orchids
Authors: Kok Hon Yoh , Yong Christina Seok-Yien , Abdullah Janna Ong , Go Rusea
Published: September 2020

Background: Coelogyne kaliana, Coelogyne stenochila and Coelogyne tiomanensis are three valuable rare orchid species endemic to Peninsular Malaysia, currently rampantly traded illegally via the internet and through local nurseries, which label them as hybrids to avoid enforcement detection. Drastic measures to ensure the continued existence of their populations in the wild should be introduced as they are rapidly diminishing into extinction, including the development of rapid and accurate species-specific identification tools. These three orchid species are highly similar morphologically and currently it is impossible to distinguish among them without their reproductive structures.

Methods:  RAPD-based species-specific SCAR markers were developed to distinguish and authenticate the identity of these three endemic Peninsular Malaysian Coelogyne species.

Results: Three SCAR markers were successfully developed in this study. SCAR marker primer pair, CKL_f / CKL_r was specific to C. kaliana as it produced a unique single band of 271 bp but not in C. stenochila and C. tiomanensis.  SCAR marker primer pair CST_f / CST_r amplified a single band of 854 bp in C. stenochila and two bands of different sizes (372 bp and 858 bp) in C. tiomanensis, but no amplification in C. kaliana. The third SCAR marker primer pair, CTI_f / CTI_r produced a single band (about 500 bp) for both C. stenochila and C. tiomanensis, but showed no amplification in C. kaliana.

Conclusions: Although not all these SCAR markers were species amplification specific, they could be used to discriminate among the three Coelogyne species effectively.  Accurate species identification is one of the most important steps to allow a proper management plan to be established in the effort to conserve these three endangered orchid species of Peninsular Malaysia. Besides, it could effectively put a stop to the illegal trading of these rare endangered orchid species worldwide.
MODELING OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES OF LOCKSMITH AND WELDING FUNCTIONING
Authors: Zvyaginceva Alla , Sazonova Svetlana , Kul'neva V.
Published: September 2020

A basic list of polluting components released into the air zone of production sites of the metalwork and welding division of the VASO facility has been established, with differentiation into 6 sectors with emission generators. It was found that the greatest contribution to the overall background of polluting components accumulation in terms of quantity is made by 2 sites: sandblasting and gas welding, the sector of plasma cutting and alloys based on it is distinguished by the variety of components allocated. Quantitative estimation of gross and maximum one-time emissions has been implemented. Analytical assessment recorded by: inorganic dust with SiO2 over 70 %, fixed at sandblasting sector, a slight excess of MPC and sector gas welding in the NO2 limit value with the MPC.
MODELING OF COMPLEX STRESS-STRAIN STATE AND TECHNICAL DIAGNOSTICS OF BRICK BUILDINGS
Authors: Grebennikova Natal'ya , Kuprienko Pavel , Nikolenko S. , Sazonova Svetlana
Published: September 2020

In carrying out research on the technical condition of brick buildings, there is a need to study the strength of load-bearing walls. The paper presents the results of determining the strength of silicate brick by a non-destructive diagnostic method, using the ONIX-2.6 shock impulse control device of bricks. Calculation results are presented to determine the cause of cracking in brick walls. Verification calculations of building constructions were performed by the finite element method using the NormFEM application of the licensed version of the NormCAD software package.
MODELING THE THERMAL STRESS STATE OF THE FOUNDATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MEASURES
Authors: Starcev Vladimir , Nikolenko S. , Sazonova Svetlana
Published: September 2020

The modeling of the thermal stress state of the foundation slab of the building of a general educational institution is considered. The performed calculations took into account the occurrence of stresses as a result of heating of the concrete mass during cement hydration. To simulate the thermal stress state, the specialized Midas Fea software package is used. At control points, diagrams of changes in temperatures, stresses, and crack formation coefficients depending on the periods of curing are obtained. The isopoles of temperature distribution and crack formation coefficients over the volume of the studied array were obtained. Measures have been developed to improve the operational properties of concrete, including engineering and technical recommendations to reduce the negative impact of temperature differences on the manufacturing process of concrete mixtures and foundations.
Occurrence and ecological data on an exotic solitary bee accidentally introduced in Brazil
Authors: Dos Santos Charles Fernando , De Barros Cristiane Andrade , Halinski Rosana , Blochtein Betina
Published: September 2020

Currently, there is a global concern regarding exotic species due to, among other factors, their great ability to reproduce and spread rapidly through the novel environment. As such, these species often compete for nesting places and food resources or convey pathogens. Anthidium manicatum (Linnaeus) (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) is a non-native solitary bee occurring in Brazil. This study aimed to collect data about the occurrence sites of this species to investigate the historical sequence of its spread throughout the country. Based on this, we estimated population data such as the number of males and females, phenology and bioclimatic niche overlap with native species. The occurrence records were retrieved from speciesLink and Global Biodiversity Information Facility. All analyses were performed in R. The collected data demonstrate that, except for the 1960s, the records of the occurrence of A. manicatum in Brazil are few and constant, being notified since the mid-1930s in at least nine Brazilian states. In total, 778 individuals were sampled, with males being recorded about 1.7 times more than females. This species seems to be bivoltine, with generations in May and November. Anthidium manicatum showed a low and moderate bioclimatic niche overlap with two native species, Anthidium sertanicola Moure & Urban and Anthidium latum Schrottky, respectively. These data provide relevant information on the biology and status of A. manicatum in Brazil. However, since most Brazilian scientific collections have not digitalized their data in the platforms consulted here, some ecological features described here may be underestimated.
Editorial
Authors: Mattos Amana , Jacó-Vilela Ana Maria , Mendes Deise Maria Fernandes , Ribeiro Heloisa Fernandes Caldas , Hernández Jimena De Garay , Quadros Laura Cristina de Toledo , Quitério Patrícia Lorena , Leme Vanessa Barbosa Romera
Published: September 2020

Amana Mattos, Ana Maria Jacó Vilela, Deise Maria Fernandes Mendes, Heloisa Fernandes Caldas Ribeiro, Jimena de Garay Hernández, Laura Cristina de Toledo Quadros, Patrícia Lorena Quitério, Vanessa Barbosa Romera Leme
Representações Sociais de Universitários com Deficiência Física sobre a Sexualidade das Pessoas com Deficiência
Authors: Carvalho Alana Nagai Lins de , Silva Joilson Pereira da
Published: September 2020

O principal objetivo deste estudo foi identificar e analisar as representações sociais de universitários com deficiência física, sobre a sexualidade das pessoas com deficiência. Participaram voluntariamente 10 acadêmicos com deficiência física, de ambos os sexos, com idade igual ou superior a 18 anos, que foram submetidos a um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado, associado a um questionário sociodemográfico. A análise foi desenvolvida através do software Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaire (IRAMUTEQ) por meio de uma Classificação Hierárquica Descendente (CHD) e da estatística descritiva com uso do pacote estatístico Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). O dendrograma apresentou como resultados o conceito e a vivência da sexualidade, a participação familiar, a importância dada ao corpo, a construção da identidade como pessoa com deficiência e os seus direitos. Sendo assim, as representações sociais sobre a sexualidade das pessoas com deficiência reportaram a duas perspectivas: subjetiva e social.
Kilohertz retinal FF-SS-OCT and flood imaging with hardware-based adaptive optics
Authors: Valente Denise , Vienola Kari V. , Zawadzki Robert J. , Jonnal Ravi S.
Published: September 2020

A retinal imaging system was designed for full-field (FF) swept-source (SS) optical coherence tomography (OCT) with cellular resolution. The system incorporates a real-time adaptive optics (AO) subsystem and a very high-speed CMOS sensor, and is capable of acquiring volumetric images of the retina at rates up to 1 kHz. While digital aberration correction (DAC) is an attractive potential alternative to AO, it has not yet been shown to provide resolution allowing visualization of cones in the fovea, where early detection of functional deficits is most critical. Here we demonstrate that FF-SS-OCT with hardware AO permits resolution of foveal cones, imaged at eccentricities of 1° and 2°, with volume rates adequate to measure light-evoked changes in photoreceptors. With the reference arm blocked, the system can operate as a kilohertz AO flood illumination fundus camera with adjustable temporal coherence and is expected to allow measurement of light-evoked changes caused by common path interference in photoreceptor outer segments (OS). In this paper, we describe the system’s optical design, characterize its performance, and demonstrate its ability to produce images of the human photoreceptor mosaic.