bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene expression pattern and molecular mechanisms involved in Shal and Sangsari sheep fertility using RNA‐Seq
Authors: Shariati Gazgazareh Parvin , Masoudi Ali Akbar , Vaez Torshizi Rasoul , Ehsani Alireza , Mosavian Zaynab
Published: February 2023

Ovulation rate and litter size are the main reproductive traits with high economic value in the sheep breeding industry. In this study, three Shal ewes (multiparous) and three Sangsari ewes (uniparous) at the age of 5 were used. The live weight was between 45 and 50 kg at an extremely body condition score of 3. These breeds are marked seasonal reproduction activity and are often bred in semi‐closed breeding systems. Total RNAs were extracted from the ovarian tissues, and RNA sequencing was carried out. The DAVID (Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery) database was then used to annotate genes, and the string database and the Cytoscape software were used to investigate their interactions. Then path–act network analysis and gene–act network analysis were investigated. The results indicated that 19,932 genes were differentially expressed. The 5968 differentially expressed genes were identified in Shal ewe's ovarian tissue compared to Sangsari ewes (FDR < 0.05), of which 2921 genes were up‐regulated and 3047 genes were down‐regulated. Bioinformatics analysis exhibited that most of the biological processes and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways associated with significant DEGs (Differentially Expressed Genes) in the two studied breeds are associated with oocyte maturation and metabolism. MAPK signalling pathways and Ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis are the most important biological pathways associated with reproductive and fertility traits in the Shal breed. AKT3, MAPK8, MAPK9 and RELA genes are also important genes related to the fertility of multiparous sheep. Analysis of ovarian RNA‐seq data identified that most of the differentially expressed genes were involved in various reproductive processes including folliculogenesis, ovulation, ovarian and embryonic development. The MAPK signalling pathway had the most interaction with other pathways, and the AKT3 gene could be a powerful candidate gene in the reproduction and fertility of Shal sheep. These results could pave the way for future efforts to address sheep prolificacy barriers.
Effects of periodontal treatment on the C‐reactive protein levels in hemodialysis patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bezerra Priscila Lima , de Carvalho Júnior Ari Dantas , da Silva Adriano Flores , Pereira Nilson Emmanuel Gomes , da Costa Suellen Rabelo Rocha , de Sousa João Nilton Lopes , Bernardino Ítalo de Macedo
Published: February 2023

Aim

This systematic review provides a summary of the scientific evidence concerning effects of periodontal treatment on the C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels in hemodialysis patients.

Material and methods

Eight databases were accessed until May 2020 for interventional studies which evaluated CRP levels in hemodialysis patients before and after periodontal treatment. Inclusion criteria were studies involving hemodialysis patients with gingivitis or periodontitis, without restriction of year, language, and publication status. Random effects meta‐analysis was performed. The risk of bias in eligible studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's Critical Appraisal tools for use in systematic reviews. Certainty of evidence was also evaluated using GRADE approach.

Results

The search in the databases resulted in 326 records, from which only seven met the eligibility criteria and therefore were submitted to qualitative evaluation. The meta‐analysis revealed that, in general, the reduction in CRP levels had moderate and statistically significant effect size (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.45; confidence interval [CI] 95% = 0.25, 0.65; p < .001). Statistical heterogeneity was low (I2 = 0.0%; p = .771). Most studies showed moderate risk of bias.

Conclusion

Based on low certainty of evidence, the results suggest that periodontal treatment can significantly contribute to reduce CRP levels among hemodialysis patients. However, more randomized clinical studies, with follow‐up longer than 12 months, using standardized diagnostic methods and controlling confounding factors, should be performed to strengthen the evidence.
Improvement of platelet preservation by inhibition ofTRPC6
Authors: Tan Yuanjia , Lu Wei , Yi Xiaomei , Cai Huili , Yuan Yurong , Zhang Shizhong
Published: February 2023

Background

The preservation of platelets (PLTs) by room temperature (RT) oscillation limits their shelf life to between 4 and 7 days because of the decrease in PLT function. TRPC6 is a non‐selective mechanically sensitive cation channel that has been shown to mediate Ca2+signalling, implying a role in PLT activation during preservation by RT oscillation.

Objectives

This study was designed to investigate whether inhibition of TRPC6 can improve the RT preservation of PLTs and the possible underlying mechanism.

Methods

Human PLTs from whole blood were stored at 22 ± 2°C with oscillation in plasma or M‐sol (mixture of solutions). BI‐749327, a specific TRPC6 inhibitor, was administered throughout the preservation period. PLT distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), maximum platelet aggregation rate (MAR) and average aggregation rate (AAR) were measured. The MTT method was used to assess the relative viability of PLTs. Flow cytometry was used to measure the changes of Ca2+concentration in PLTs and phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure on the PLT surface, and western blotting was used to assess the expression changes of platelet TRPC6 and CD62P proteins.

Results

Compared with the control group, inhibition of TRPC6 with BI‐749327 significantly reduced the PDW, MPV and Ca2+concentration, the MAR and AAR were significantly increased, the expression of TRPC6 and CD62P protein was significantly down‐regulated in PLTs, and the PS exposure was significantly reduced on the PLT surface. However, these effects were all reversed by activation of TRPC6.

Conclusion

Inhibition of TRPC6 improves the quality of PLT preservation by inhibiting the Ca2+signal mediated by TRPC6.
Sample stability and heparin interference in ionized calcium and ionized magnesium measurements in horses using the Stat Profile Prime Plus co‐oximetry electrolyte analyzer
Authors: Sanmartí Júlia , Robles‐Guirado José Angel , Jose‐Cunilleras Eduard , Bassols Anna
Published: February 2023

Background

The determination of iCa and iMg is important in veterinary medicine, but their immediate determination in whole blood is not always possible. Their stability in other sample types and the existence of interferences must be evaluated before its use.

Objectives

We aimed to analyze the effects of storage time on the stability of iCa, iMg, and other analytes in whole blood, plasma, and serum samples in horses and assess the interference of heparin in these measurements.

Methods

Whole blood, heparin‐plasma, and serum samples from 10 horses were stored at 4°C and analyzed 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 24, 48, and 168 hours after sample collection using the Stat Profile Prime Plus Vet equipment (Nova Biomedical, Waltham, MA, USA). Results were analyzed by ANOVA or mixed‐effect models.

Results

The concentration of iCa, iMg, total calcium (tCa), total magnesium (tMg), and the ratios iCa/tCa and iMg/tMg did not differ up to 168 hours when compared to the initial time. Total Ca, iMg, and tMg were not significantly different among sample types, but iCa concentrations were slightly but significantly lower in plasma. Freezing at −20°C did not affect iCa, iMg, tCa, and tMg. The pH increased in serum and plasma after 8 hours, and a mild negative correlation existed between plasma iCa concentration and pH. A negative correlation was observed also between the ratios iCa/tCa or iMg/tMg and pH in plasma and serum. A significant decrease in iCa and iMg was detected when comparing homemade syringes at high heparin concentration (~200–300 U heparin/mL) and commercial lithium‐heparin tubes (20–30 U/mL).

Conclusions

Samples stored at 4°C can be used to determine iCa and iMg concentrations up to 7 days after collection. Other metabolites are stable for up to 8 hours; heparin interference should be taken into account if using homemade heparin syringes.
Average shadowing and gluing property
Authors: Blank Michael
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this work is threefold: (i) extend shadowing theory for discontinuous and non‐invertible systems, (ii) consider more general classes of perturbations (for example, small only on average), (iii) establish a general theory based on the property that the shadowing holds for the case of a single perturbation. The “gluing” construction used in the analysis of the last property turns out to be the key point of this theory.
Vega de Tera. Tragedia, patrimonio, leyenda y memoria en el fondo de un pantano
Authors: Fernández Rodriguez Begoña , Monterroso Montero Juan Manuel
Published: February 2023

En enero de 1959 se produce la rotura de la presa de Vega de Tera (Zamora), construida por la empresa Moncabril, y con ello una de las mayores tragedias españolas no solo por el número de muertos sino también por las pérdidas materiales ocasionadas en Ribadelago, en el que a consecuencia de la riada, desapareció prácticamente la totalidad de la población. Ante la magnitud de la catástrofe se produjo un importante movimiento de solidaridad a nivel nacional e internacional, y la respuesta de auxilio oficial, que llevó a Franco a adoptar la población zamorana, generando con ello una población nueva que hoy se convierte en testimonio de la catástrofe y en un patrimonio que solo se entiende en relación con ella
Novel Kinematics of an Anthropomorphic Prosthetic Hand Allowing Lateral and Opposite Grasp With a Single Actuator
Authors: Butin Côme , Chablat Damien , Aoustin Yannick , Gouaillier David
Published: February 2023

This work introduced a new hand prosthesis architecture able to achieve an opposite and lateral grasp by using a single actuator. An analysis of the hand prostheses, as well as the movements classically performed in daily life and at work allows us to focus our work on these two types of grasp. A lockable passive joint is moved by the user to switch between the opposite and lateral grasp. The location of the thumb was defined thanks to 3D scans in four extreme positions. The movement of the thumb is analyzed to determine the location of the joints to be created. Then, a four-bar linkage was optimized to realize this motion with good force transmission. A sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the performance index variation based on design parameters.
Can the Vesical Imaging Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) score be applied in conventional ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound to differentiate muscle-invasive bladder cancer?
Authors: Zhu Ju , Huang Xiao , Liu Luping , Wang Nan , Nie Fang
Published: February 2023

Aim: To investigate the value of vesical imaging reporting and data system (VI-RADS) score based on conventional ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in differentiating muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).Material and methods: Thirty-eight patients who underwent conventional ultrasound and CEUS examinations at our ultrasound department between March 2021 and June 2022 were retrospectively included in this study. Two sonographers analyzed the conventional ultrasound and CEUS images of each patient separately and scored them in strict accordance with VI-RADS scoring system based on conventional ultrasound and CEUS. The VI-RADS score of each lesion was compared with the pathological findings to assess the diagnostic performance of VI-RADS. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the VI-RADS score in the diagnosis of MIBC were analyzed when the cutoff values were 3 and 4, respectively. Interobserver agreement was evaluated using the weighted-kappa coefficient (κ).Results: The final pathological results evidenced 25 (65.8%) non-muscle-invasive bladder cancers (NMIBCs) and 13 (34.2%) MIBCs. When the VI-RADSscore ≥ 4, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the VI-RADS score for predicting muscle-invasive bladder cancer were 92.3%, 84.0%, 75.0%, 95.5%, and 86.8%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating curve for the VI-RADS score was 0.882 (95%CI:0.761-1). Inter-reader agreement for VI-RADS scoreswas good.Conclusion: The VI-RADS score based on conventional ultrasound and CEUS is useful in differentiating muscleinvasive bladder cancer.
The Relevance of Muscle Fiber Type to Physical Characteristics and Performance in Team-Sport Athletes
Authors: Hopwood Henry J. , Bellinger Phillip M. , Compton Heidi R. , Bourne Matthew N. , Minahan Clare
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The aim of this systematic review was to (1) determine the muscle fiber-type composition (or muscle fiber typology [MFT]) of team-sport athletes and (2) examine associations between MFT and the physical characteristics and performance tasks in team-sport athletes. Methods: Searches were conducted across numerous databases—PubMed, SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar—using consistent search terms. Studies were included if they examined the MFT of team-sport athletes. Included studies underwent critical appraisal using the McMasters University critical appraisal tool for quantitative research. Results: A total of 10 studies were included in the present review, wherein the MFT of athletes was measured from 5 different team sports (soccer, rugby union, rugby league, handball, and volleyball). There was large variability in the MFT of team-sport athletes both within (up to 27.5%) and between sports (24.0% relative difference). Male football players with a higher proportion of type II fibers had faster 10- and 30-m sprint times, achieved a greater total distance sprinting (distance at >6.67 m·s−1), and a greater peak 1-minute sprint distance. Conclusions: MFT varies considerably between athletes both within and between different team sports. The results from some studies suggest that variation in MFT is associated with high-intensity running performance in a football match, as well as 10- and 30-m sprint times. Further experimental studies should focus on how determination of the MFT of team-sport athletes could be utilized to influence talent identification, team selection, and the individualization of training.
Amino Acid Variation at Hemagglutinin Position 193 Impacts the Properties of H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: Wan Zhimin , Zhao Zhehong , Sang Jianjun , Jiang Wenjie , Chen Jian , Tang Ting , Li Yafeng , Kan Qiuqi , Shao Hongxia , Zhang Jianjun , Xie Quan , Li Tuofan , Qin Aijian , Ye Jianqiang
Published: February 2023

H9N2 are widespread and have sporadically caused clinical diseases in humans. Extensive vaccinations in poultry helped constrain H9N2; however, they might have facilitated the evolution of the virus.
Sirt1 Negatively Regulates Cellular Antiviral Responses by Preventing the Cytoplasmic Translocation of Interferon-Inducible Protein 16 in Human Cells
Authors: Wang Jie , Qin Xiao , Huang Yulu , Zhang Ge , Liu Yue , Cui Yuhan , Wang Yi , Pei Jinyong , Ma Shujun , Song Zhishan , Zhu Xiaofei , Wang Hui , Yang Bo
Published: February 2023

DNA viruses, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), human papillomavirus (HPV), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV), can cause a wide range of diseases and are considered a global threat to human health. Interferon-inducible protein 16 (IFI16) binds virus DNA and triggers antiviral innate immune responses to restrict viral infection.
mSphere of Influence: Deterministic and Stochastic Processes Drive Microbial Evolution
Authors: Gerstein Aleeza C.
Published: February 2023

Aleeza C. Gerstein works in the field of microbial evolutionary genetics in human fungal pathogens.
Interaction between Microbes and Host in Sow Vaginas in Early Pregnancy
Authors: Zang Xupeng , Wang Wenjing , Gu Shengchen , Gu Ting , Yang Huaqiang , Zheng Enqin , Xu Zheng , Huang Sixiu , Li Zicong , Cai Gengyuan , Hong Linjun , Wu Zhenfang
Published: February 2023

This work sheds light on the dynamics of the sow vaginal microbiotas in early pregnancy and its roles in pregnancy development. Furthermore, this study provides insight into the functional mechanisms of reproductive tract microbes by outlining vaginal microbe-host interactions, which might identify new research and intervention targets for improving pregnancy development by modulating lower reproductive tract microbiota.
Identification of Three Campylobacter Lysins and Enhancement of Their Anti-Escherichia coli Efficacy Using Colicin-Based Translocation and Receptor-Binding Domain Fusion
Authors: Liu Peiqi , Dong Xinying , Cao Xuewei , Xie Qianmei , Huang Xiuqin , Jiang Jinfei , Dai Huilin , Tang Zheng , Lin Yizhen , Feng Saixiang , Luo Kaijian
Published: February 2023

Three lysins from
Campylobacter
, namely, Clysins, were investigated, and their antibacterial activities against
E. coli
were determined for the first time. To overcome the restriction of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, we combined the TRB domains of colicins with these Clysins.
Provenance and evolution of East Asian large rivers recorded in the East and South China Seas: A review
Authors: Cao Licheng , Shao Lei , van Hinsbergen Douwe J.J. , Jiang Tao , Xu Di , Cui Yuchi
Published: February 2023

Large rivers are the arteries of continents. Those originating from the Tibetan Plateau and traversing East Asia have a relatively young history due to continuous Cenozoic perturbations. However, it has been a long journey to reconstruct their genesis and dynamic evolution, in which many puzzles and challenges remain. The river history is documented by provenance information in the ultimate sediment sinks in the East and South China Seas, but a regional-scale correlation of provenance data is still developing. Here, we explore the promise of this provenance perspective by reconstructing the evolution of three large rivers in China (the Yangtze, Pearl, and Red Rivers) by compiling and reevaluating a large volume of published provenance data (zircon U-Pb geochronology, K-feldspar Pb isotopes, and whole-rock Nd isotopes) from both Cenozoic strata and modern sediments from the East and South China Seas and the large river basins. Unlike traditional approaches that average provenance signatures, intersample variability was carefully evaluated. The general inheritance of zircon age spectral patterns and small fluctuations of Nd isotopes in the Neogene strata suggest provenance stabilization in the East and South China Seas and the establishment of near-modern drainage configurations. The paleodrainage basins before the Miocene are interpreted to have been smaller than their modern sizes, and drainage expansion likely occurred over the Oligocene. Our analysis suggests that the widely accepted models that link drainage between the ancient Yangtze and Red Rivers may be unlikely. The compiled provenance signatures and prior paleocurrent measurements of Paleogene strata distributed in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau margin show sediment supplied from local terranes instead of through-flowing river systems.
Vaginal bleeding in a newborn as initial presentation of uterus didelphys
Authors: Saleh Farrah , Gaeta Mary Lou , Rost Ilona , Vash-Margita Alla
Published: February 2023

Vaginal bleeding of the newborn is described as a normal phenomenon, occurring physiologically in a subset of baby girls as a response to decreased oestrogen levels in the postnatal period compared with in utero exposure. Here, we present the case of heavy vaginal bleeding prompting an evaluation via transabdominal ultrasound, which was ultimately diagnostic for uterus didelphys. We suggest that neonates with uterus didelphys are predisposed to heavy bleeding due to relatively larger amount of the endometrial tissue in two cavities. While diagnosis of Müllerian anomalies is typically made in adulthood, an earlier diagnosis facilitates timely medical and surgical intervention and prompts screening for concurrent and associated conditions. In summary, we recommend routine consideration of transabdominal ultrasound to investigate abnormal vaginal bleeding in the newborn.
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-induced aortitis with temporal arteritis and monoarthritis
Authors: Iida Keisuke , Honda Yuki , Homma Yoichiro
Published: February 2023

We present the case of a patient in his 80s receiving gemcitabine-cisplatin therapy for bladder cancer who developed neutropenia and was treated with filgrastim. In 10 days, the patient developed a mild fever with left jaw claudication and right knee arthritis. Contrast-enhanced CT findings indicated aortitis. Prednisolone was started for granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-induced aortitis, and symptoms and elevated serum inflammatory markers resolved rapidly, allowing early discontinuation of prednisolone. Right knee arthritis relapsed at the initial follow-up. Contrast-enhanced CT revealed aortitis had disappeared. Therefore, recurrence of G-CSF-induced arthritis was suspected; prednisolone was resumed for 29 days without relapse. Most previous reports of G-CSF-induced aortitis have described inflammation of the aorta, carotid arteries and subclavian arteries; however, G-CSF-induced aortitis may present with more peripheral symptoms, such as temporal arteritis and knee arthritis. Furthermore, G-CSF-induced aortitis reportedly responds well and rapidly to prednisolone, although early discontinuation may lead to relapse.
Congenital dyserythropoietic anaemia type II in a teenager presenting with severe anaemia
Authors: Pinto Christopher Jude , Narayanaswamy Mohith H , Khatawkar Ameet Vasantrao , Poornima Jana
Published: February 2023

Congenital dyserythropoietic anaemia (CDA) type II is a rare disease characterised by inefficient erythropoiesis and mononuclear cytopenia. Patients generally present with extravascular haemolytic anaemia, jaundice and splenomegaly. A female patient in her mid-teens presented with severe anaemia and abdominal distention. Medical history was significant for the diagnosis of β-thalassaemia intermedia made in her infancy. However, subsequent investigations showed normal reticulocyte counts that were disproportionate to the severity of her anaemia and a negative β-thalassemia mutation analysis, leading to concerns about a specific lineage disorder. A bone marrow trephine showed features typical of CDA type II-erythroid hyperplasia with multiple binucleate erythrocytes. CDA type II has often been mistaken for other congenital or acquired forms of anaemia; this case report intends to raise awareness among clinicians to consider CDA type II as a rare but possible cause of severe anaemia in a teenager with a previous presumptive diagnosis of β-thalassaemia .
How sweet is your love? Disentangling the role of marital status and quality on average glycemic levels among adults 50 years and older in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Ford Katherine J , Robitaille Annie
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The health benefits of marriage have been widely documented and, to a lesser extent, the effects of marital quality. Marital relationships may be particularly relevant to the health of older adults. This study explores the associations of marital status and marital quality with average glycemic levels in older adults using longitudinal data.

Research design and methods

Our sample consisted of adults aged 50–89 years without previously diagnosed diabetes from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (n=3335). We used biomarker data from waves 2 (2004/2005), 4 (2008/2009) and 6 (2012/2013) to analyze changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels within individuals in relation to their marital indicators (marital status, social support from spouse, and social strain from spouse) over time using linear fixed effect models.

Results

We found that being married was associated with lower HbA1c values (β: −0.21%; 95% CI −0.31% to −0.10%) among adults without pre-existing diabetes. Spousal support and spousal strain were generally not associated with HbA1c values.

Conclusions

It seems that marital relationships, regardless of the quality of the relationship, are associated with lower HbA1c values for male and female adults aged over 50 years.
What’s in a name? Unpacking ‘CommunityBlank’ terminology in reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health: a scoping review
Authors: Dada Sara , Cocoman Olive , Portela Anayda , De Brún Aoife , Bhattacharyya Sanghita , Tunçalp Özge , Jackson Debra , Gilmore Brynne
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Engaging the community as actors within reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH) programmes (referred to as ‘communityblank’) has seen increased implementation in recent years. While evidence suggests these approaches are effective, terminology (such as ‘communityengagement,’‘communityparticipation,’‘communitymobilisation,’and ‘social accountability’) is often used interchangeably across published literature, contributing to a lack of conceptual clarity in practice. The purpose of this review was to describe and clarify varying uses of these terms in the literature by documenting what authors and implementers report they are doing when they use these terms.

Methods

Seven academic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, Global Health), two grey literature databases (OAIster, OpenGrey) and relevant organisation websites were searched for documents that described ‘communityblank’ terms in RMNCH interventions. Eligibility criteria included being published between 1975 and 1 October 2021 and reports or studies detailing the activities used in ‘communityblank.’

Results

A total of 9779 unique documents were retrieved and screened, with 173 included for analysis. Twenty-four distinct ‘communityblank’ terms were used across the documents, falling into 11 broader terms. Use of these terms was distributed across time and all six WHO regions, with ‘communitymobilisation’, ‘communityengagement’and ‘communityparticipation’ being the most frequently used terms. While 48 unique activities were described, only 25 activities were mentioned more than twice and 19 of these were attributed to at least three different ‘communityblank’ terms.

Conclusion

Across the literature, there is inconsistency in the usage of ‘communityblank’ terms for RMNCH. There is an observed interchangeable use of terms and a lack of descriptions of these terms provided in the literature. There is a need for RMNCH researchers and practitioners to clarify the descriptions reported and improve the documentation of ‘communityblank’implementation. This can contribute to a better sharing of learning within and across communities and to bringing evidence-based practices to scale. Efforts to improve reporting can be supported with the use of standardised monitoring and evaluation processes and indicators. Therefore, it is recommended that future research endeavours clarify the operational definitions of ‘communityblank’ and improve the documentation of its implementation.
Health and economic benefits of achieving contraceptive and maternal health targets in Small Island Developing States in the Pacific and Caribbean
Authors: Kelly Sherrie L , Walsh Tom , Delport Dominic , ten Brink Debra , Martin-Hughes Rowan , Homer Caroline SE , Butler Jennifer , Adedeji Olanike , De Beni Davide , Maurizio Federica , Friedman Howard S , Di Marco Doretta , Tobar Federico , de la Corte Molina Maria Pilar , Richards Andre S , Scott Nick
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Reducing unmet need for modern contraception and expanding access to quality maternal health (MH) services are priorities for improving women’s health and economic empowerment. To support investment decisions, we estimated the additional cost and expected health and economic benefits of achieving the United Nations targets of zero unmet need for modern contraceptive choices and 95% coverage of MH services by 2030 in select Small Island Developing States.

Methods

Five Pacific (Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu) and four Caribbean (Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Saint Lucia) countries were considered based on population survey data availability. For each country, the Lives Saved Tool was used to model costs, health outcomes and economic benefits for two scenarios: business-as-usual (BAU) (coverage maintained) and coverage-targets-achieved, which scaled linearly from 2022 (following COVID-19 disruptions) coverage of evidence-based family planning and MH interventions to reach United Nations targets, including modern contraceptive methods and access to complete antenatal, delivery and emergency care. Unintended pregnancies, maternal deaths, stillbirths and newborn deaths averted by the coverage-targets-achieved scenario were converted to workforce, education and social economic benefits; and benefit–cost ratios were calculated.

Results

The coverage-targets-achieved scenario required an additional US$12.6M (US$10.8M−US$15.9M) over 2020–2030 for the five Pacific countries (15% more than US$82.4M to maintain BAU). This additional investment was estimated to avert 126 000 (40%) unintended pregnancies, 2200 (28%) stillbirths and 121 (29%) maternal deaths and lead to a 15-fold economic benefit of US$190.6M (US$67.0M−US$304.5M) by 2050. For the four Caribbean countries, an additional US$17.8M (US$15.3M−US$22.4M) was needed to reach the targets (4% more than US$405.4M to maintain BAU). This was estimated to avert 127 000 (23%) unintended pregnancies, 3600 (23%) stillbirths and 221 (25%) maternal deaths and lead to a 24-fold economic benefit of US$426.2M (US$138.6M−US$745.7M) by 2050.

Conclusion

Achieving full coverage of contraceptive and MH services in the Pacific and Caribbean is likely to have a high return on investment.
Advance consent for participation in randomised controlled trials for emergency conditions: a scoping review
Authors: Niznick Naomi , Lun Ronda , Dewar Brian , Perry Jeffrey , Dowlatshahi Dar , Shamy Michel
Published: February 2023

Objective

Advance consent is a recognised method of obtaining informed consent for participation in research, whereby a potential participant provides consent for future involvement in a study contingent on qualifying for the study’s inclusion criteria on a later date. The goal of this study is to map the existing literature on the use of advance consent for enrolment in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for emergency conditions.

Design

Scoping review designed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses–Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines.

Data sources

We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials from inception to 10 February 2020.

Eligibility criteria

Eligible studies included articles that discussed or employed the use of advance consent for enrolment in RCTs related to emergency conditions. There were no restrictions on the type of eligible study. Data were extracted directly from included papers using a standardised data charting form. We produced a narrative review including article type and authors’ dispositions towards advance consent.

Results

Our search yielded 1039 titles with duplicates removed. Six articles met inclusion criteria. Three articles discussed the theoretical use of research advance directives in emergency conditions; one article evaluated stakeholders’ perceptions of advance consent; and one article described a method for patients to document their preferences for participation in future research. Only one study employed advance consent to enrol participants into a clinical trial for an emergency condition.

Conclusion

Our review demonstrates that there has been minimal exploration of advance consent for enrolment in RCTs for emergency conditions. Future studies could aim to assess the acceptability of advance consent to participants, along with the feasibility of enrolling research participants using this method of consent.

Protocol

The protocol for this scoping review was published a priori.
Effects of self-disclosure and resilience on reproductive concern in patients of childbearing age with breast cancer: a cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Zhu Hong , Tao Lin , Hu Xiaoxia , Jiang Xiaolian
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To assess reproductive concerns in patients of childbearing age with breast cancer and examine the relationship between self-disclosure, resilience and reproductive concerns.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Five tertiary first-class general hospitals in Sichuan Province, Southwest China.

Participants

A total of 319 patients with breast cancer of reproductive age who were hospitalised in the breast oncology department participated in this study.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes were the relationship between resilience, self-disclosure and reproductive concerns, and mediating effect analyses. Secondary outcomes included the status of reproductive concerns.

Results

The model accounted for 39.1% of the variance in reproductive concerns. Self-disclosure had a direct negative effect on reproductive concerns (β= −0.371, p=0.001). Resilience had a direct negative effect on reproductive concerns (β= −0.349, p=0.001) and a direct positive effect on self-disclosure (β=0.507, p=0.001). Furthermore, self-disclosure partially mediated the relation between resilience and reproductive concerns (β= −0.177; SE=0.041; 95% CI −0.261 to –0.104; p<0.050), with a bootstrap of 10 000 samples.

Conclusions

The ﬁndings suggest that self-disclosure and resilience may ease reproductive concern. Therefore, self-disclosure education and resilience-oriented interventions should be provided to patients of childbearing age with breast cancer, to reduce reproductive concerns.
Immunotherapy reverses glioma-driven dysfunction of immune system homeostasis
Authors: DiVita Dean Bayli , Wildes Tyler , Dean Joseph , Yegorov Oleg , Yang Changlin , Shin David , Francis Connor , Figg John W , Sebastian Mathew , Font Laura Falceto , Jin Dan , Reid Alexandra , Moore Ginger , Fernandez Brandon , Wummer Brandon , Kuizon Carmelle , Mitchell Duane , Flores Catherine T
Published: February 2023

Background

Glioma-induced immune dysregulation of the hematopoietic system has been described in a limited number of studies. In this study, our group further demonstrates that gliomas interrupt the cellular differentiation programming and outcomes of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in the bone marrow. HSPCs from glioma-bearing mice are reprogrammed and driven towards expansion of myeloid lineage precursors and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in secondary lymphoid organs. However, we found this expansion is reversed by immunotherapy. Adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) has been demonstrably efficacious in multiple preclinical models of central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, and here we describe how glioma-induced dysfunction is reversed by this immunotherapeutic platform.

Methods

The impact of orthotopic KR158B-luc glioma on HSPCs was evaluated in an unbiased fashion using single cell RNAseq (scRNAseq) of lineage−cells and phenotypically using flow cytometry. Mature myeloid cell frequencies and function were also evaluated using flow cytometry. Finally, ACT containing total body irradiation, tumor RNA-pulsed dendritic cells, tumor-reactive T cells and HSPCs isolated from glioma-bearing or non-tumor-bearing mice were used to evaluate cell fate differentiation and survival.

Results

Using scRNAseq, we observed an altered HSPC landscape in glioma-bearing versus non-tumor-bearing mice . In addition, an expansion of myeloid lineage subsets, including granulocyte macrophage precursors (GMPs) and MDSCs, were observed in glioma-bearing mice relative to non-tumor-bearing controls. Furthermore, MDSCs from glioma-bearing mice demonstrated increased suppressive capacity toward tumor-specific T cells as compared with MDSCs from non-tumor-bearing hosts. Interestingly, treatment with ACT overcame these suppressive properties. When HSPCs from glioma-bearing mice were transferred in the context of ACT, we observed significant survival benefit and long-term cures in orthotopic glioma models compared with mice treated with ACT using non-glioma-bearing HSPCs.
Suitability of tumor-associated antibodies as predictive biomarker for response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with melanoma: a short report
Authors: de Joode Karlijn , Veenbergen Sharon , Kransse Claudia , Kortleve Dian , Debets Reno , Mathijssen Ron H J , Joosse Arjen , Schreurs Marco W J , Van der Veldt Astrid A M
Published: February 2023

In 2019, Fässleret alshowed in this journal that the presence of tumor-associated antibodies correlated with response to immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment in patients with metastatic melanoma. The results of this study suggested that tumor-associated antibodies directed against melanocyte-differentiation antigens and the cancer-germline antigen NY-ESO-1 should be further investigated as candidate biomarkers for response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. The aim of the current study was to validate and extend these previous findings. Therefore, we examined the correlation between serum levels of tumor-associated antibodies and tumor response after treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with metastatic melanoma.

All patients included in this prospective study were diagnosed with advanced stage melanoma and treated with nivolumab or pembrolizumab monotherapy. Blood samples were collected before and during treatment. Serum levels of tumor-associated antibodies against the melanocyte differentiation antigen Melan-A and the cancer germline antigens NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C2, MAGE-A6 and ROPN1B were measured at baseline and during treatment. Differences between responders and non-responders were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U-test, and differences between different overall survival categories with the Kruskal-Wallis test. P values ≤0.05 were considered significant.

Serum samples of 58 patients with advanced melanoma with long-term follow-up (>3 years) were collected. In contrast to the findings of Fässleret al, for all antibodies tested, we found no significant differences between serum levels of responders and non-responders before or during treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In addition, no significant differences were found in serum levels of tumor-associated antibodies for different overall survival groups.

Although our study included a larger and more mature cohort of patients with longer follow-up, we could not externally validate the findings of Fässleret al. In addition, we were not able to identify other cancer germline antigens as predictive biomarkers of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients advanced melanoma. Based on the results of the present study, clinical applicability of tumor-associated antibodies directed against tumor antigens as predictive biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with advanced melanoma is not feasible.
First-principle calculation of birefringence effects for in-ice radio detection of neutrinos
Authors: Heyer Nils , Glaser Christian
Published: February 2023

The detection of high-energy neutrinos in the EeV range requires new detection techniques to cope with the small expected flux. The radio detection method, utilizing Askaryan emission, can be used to detect these neutrinos in polar ice. The propagation of the radio pulses has to be modeled carefully to reconstruct the energy, direction, and flavor of the neutrino from the detected radio flashes. Here, we study the effect of birefringence in ice, which splits up the radio pulse into two orthogonal polarization components with slightly different propagation speeds. This provides useful signatures to determine the neutrino energy and is potentially important to determine the neutrino direction to degree precision. We calculated the effect of birefringence from first principles where the only free parameter is the dielectric tensor as a function of position. Our code, for the first time, can propagate full RF waveforms, taking interference due to changing polarization eigenvectors during propagation into account. The model is available open-source through the NuRadioMC framework. We compare our results to in-situ calibration data from the ARA and ARIANNA experiments and find good agreement for the available time delay measurements. This indicates a significant improvement of the prediction power of birefringence effects compared to previous models. Finally, the implications and opportunities for neutrino detection are discussed.
Deep Data Mining of the Characteristics of Enterprise’s Technology Development Trend
Authors: Wang Changliang
Published: February 2023

This paper studies a deep-seated data mining method for the development trend of enterprise technology. Technical distance, technical personnel and R & D investment are selected as the enterprise’s technical characteristics mined by the deep data mining method. The deep mining of enterprise’s technical characteristics is realised by defining mining objectives, data sampling, data exploration, data preprocessing, pattern discovery and prediction modelling of restricted Boltzmann machine. The mining results are used to analyse the impact of enterprise’s technical characteristics on the development trend. Ten science and technology enterprises are selected as the empirical analysis object. The empirical research results show that the three enterprise’s technical characteristics of technical distance, technicians and R & D investment have a great impact on the enterprise development trend. The results show that the method in this paper has certain practical application significance, and also provides a theoretical basis for enterprises to use technological innovation to occupy the market.
Social Determinants of Health and ER Utilization: Role of Information Integration during COVID-19
Authors: Guo Tianjian , Bardhan Indranil , Khurshid Anjum
Published: February 2023

Emergency room (ER) admissions are the front door for the utilization of a community's health resources and serve as a valuable proxy for a community health system's capacity. While recent research suggests that social determinants of health (SDOH) are important predictors of patient health outcomes, their impact on ER utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic is not well understood. Further, the role of hospital information integration in moderating the impact of SDOH on ER utilization has not received adequate attention. Utilizing longitudinal claims data from a regional health information exchange spanning 6 years including the COVID-19 period, we study how SDOH affects ER utilization and whether effective integration of patient health information across hospitals can moderate its impact. Our results suggest that a patient's economic well-being significantly reduces future ER utilization. The magnitude of this relationship is significant when patients are treated at hospitals with high information integration but is weaker when patients receive care at hospitals with lower levels of information integration. Instead, patients' family and social support can reduce ER utilization when they are treated at hospitals with low information integration. In other words, different dimensions of SDOH are important in low versus high information integration conditions. Furthermore, predictive modeling shows that patient visit type and prior visit history can significantly improve the predictive accuracy of ER utilization. Our research implications support efforts to develop national standards for the collection and sharing of SDOH data and their use and interpretation for clinical decision making by healthcare providers and policy makers.
Exploring Teams' Temporal Factors for Determining Process Tailoring that Promotes the Evolution of Agilebased Software Development
Authors: Chen Chung-Yang , Lee Jung-Chieh
Published: February 2023

In contemporary software development, software process tailoring (SPT) refers to the continual planning and adjustment of the development process, which evolves to better accommodate dynamics and meet customer needs. SPT is a critical teamwork involving the differences in time-related perceptions among team members when tailoring to adjust and refine the development. This is particularly true in agile-based projects that promote iterative development over shorter cycle times for early release; thus, temporality is critical to efficiently and effectively determine a process solution for the next iteration of time-bound development. In this regard, this study theorizes a temporal model to explore how teams' temporal leadership, temporal reflexivity and shared temporal cognitions (STC) collectively determine SPT performance in agile environments. Based on an empirical examination, we suggest facilitating the role of temporal leadership in agile development, as the results demonstrate that it not only directly increases SPT performance but also stimulates both temporal reflexivity and STC in their collateral influences on effectual development planning. Notably, the results also show that team reflexivity does not exert the same favorable effect in SPT as in the distributed team environment. Theoretical implications are considered, and practical applications of the findings are provided.
How to Compensate After a Data Breach?
Authors: Mohammed Zareef A. , Tejay Gurvirender P.
Published: February 2023

Data breach recovery is often likened to service failure recovery. Like service failure recovery, compensation is a major factor toward data breach recovery. However, compensation involves different types, which may have varying effects on data breach recovery. This study investigates the effect of compensation types on customer's repatronage intentions to organizations that have suffered a data breach. Three compensation types were identified in this study: monetary, service, and psychological compensation. The findings of this study indicate that only service and psychological compensation have a significant effect on customers' perceptions of being treated fairly by the organization following a data breach. Furthermore, service compensation impacts the trust a customer regains in the company. Monetary compensation did not play a statistically significant role in the data breach recovery process. In turn, both perceived fairness and regained trust influences customer repatronage intentions. This study contributes to the information privacy field by identifying the types of compensation that are impactful to re-engage individuals who suffered PII related data breach.