bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presence of heat shock protein 47-positive fibroblasts in cancer stroma is associated with increased risk of postoperative recurrence in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Miyamura Takuto , Sakamoto Noriho , Ishida Kaori , Kakugawa Tomoyuki , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Akiyama Yoshiko , Okuno Daisuke , Hara Atsuko , Kido Takashi , Ishimoto Hiroshi , Miyazaki Takuro , Matsumoto Keitaro , Tsuchiya Tomoshi , Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Miyazaki Taiga , Obase Yasushi , Ishimatsu Yuji , Nagayasu Takeshi , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

Background

Heat shock protein 47 (HSP47), a collagen-binding protein, has a specific role in the intracellular processing of procollagen production. HSP47 expression is associated with cancer growth and metastasis in several types of cancers. However, none of the studies have assessed whether HSP47 expression is associated with the risk of postoperative recurrence of lung cancer until now. Therefore, we aimed to assess this association.

Methods

The study population consisted of a cohort of consecutive patients who underwent surgery for lung cancer at Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan, from January 2009 to December 2010. Patient characteristics, survival and disease-free survival (DFS), and laboratory findings were compared between patients who tested positive and negative for HSP47 expression in lung cancer cells and between those who showed high and low numbers of HSP47-positive fibroblasts in cancer stroma.

Results

A total of 133 patients underwent surgery for lung cancer. Sixty-seven patients (50.4%) had HSP47-positive cancer cells, and 91 patients (68.4%) had a higher number of HSP47-positive fibroblasts. The patients with a high number of HSP47-positive fibroblasts had a shorter DFS than those with a low number of HSP47-positive fibroblasts. Multivariate analysis identified only the presence of a high number of HSP47-positive fibroblasts as an independent risk factor for recurrence of lung cancer after surgery (odds ratio, 4.371; 95% confidence interval, 1.054–29.83; P = 0.042).

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that the presence of a high number of HSP47-positive fibroblasts in the cancer stroma was a risk factor for recurrence of lung cancer after surgery.
A framework for explaining the role of values in health policy decision-making in Latin America: a critical interpretive synthesis
Authors: Vélez C. Marcela , Wilson Michael G. , Lavis John N. , Abelson Julia , Florez Ivan D.
Published: September 2020

Background

Although values underpin the goals pursued in health systems, including how health systems benefit the population, it is often not clear how values are incorporated into policy decision-making about health systems. The challenge is to encompass social/citizen values, health system goals, and financial realities and to incorporate them into the policy-making process. This is a challenge for all health systems and of particular importance for Latin American (LA) countries. Our objective was to understand how and under what conditions societal values inform decisions about health system financing in LA countries.

Methods

A critical interpretive synthesis approach was utilised for this work. We searched 17 databases in December 2016 to identify articles written in English, Spanish or Portuguese that focus on values that inform the policy process for health system financing in LA countries at the macro and meso levels. Two reviewers independently screened records and assessed them for inclusion. One researcher conceptually mapped the included articles, created structured summaries of key findings from each, and selected a purposive sample of articles to thematically synthesise the results across the domains of agenda-setting/prioritisation, policy development and implementation.

Results

We identified 5925 references, included 199 papers, and synthesised 68 papers. We identified 116 values and developed a framework to explain how values have been used to inform policy decisions about financing in LA countries. This framework has four categories – (1) goal-related values (i.e. guiding principles of the health system); (2) technical values (those incorporated into the instruments adopted by policy-makers to ensure a sustainable and efficient health system); (3) governance values (those applied in the policy process to ensure a transparent and accountable process of decision-making); and (4) situational values (a broad category of values that represent competing strategies to make decisions in the health systems, their influence varying according to the four factors).

Conclusions

It is an effort to consolidate and explain how different social values are considered and how they support policy decision-making about health system financing. This can help policy-makers to explicitly incorporate values into the policy process and understand how values are supporting the achievement of policy goals in health system financing.

Trial registration

The protocol was registered with PROSPERO,ID=CRD42017057049.
David S. Miller: Scientist, Mentor, Friend—a tribute and thank you
Authors: Bauer Björn , Renfro J. Larry , Karnaky Karl J. , Masereeuw Rosalinde , Fricker Gert , Cannon Ron E. , Hartz Anika M. S.
Published: September 2020

David S. Miller was Acting Scientific Director of the Division of Intramural Research at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, and Head of the Intracellular Regulation Group in the Laboratory of Toxicology and Pharmacology before he retired in 2016. David received his Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Maine in 1973. David was a Group Leader at the Michigan Cancer Foundation before joining the NIEHS in 1985. His research covered a wide range from renal excretory transport mechanisms to regulation of transporters at the blood–CSF and blood–brain barriers, from fish, amphibians and birds to mammals. David was an outstanding scientist with irresistible enthusiasm for science and an incredible ability to think outside the box while being an exceptional mentor and friend.
Taping for conditions of the musculoskeletal system: an evidence map review
Authors: Cupler Zachary A. , Alrwaily Muhammad , Polakowski Emily , Mathers Kevin S. , Schneider Michael J.
Published: September 2020

Background

Taping is a common treatment modality used by many rehabilitation providers. Several types of tapes and taping methods are used in the treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain.

Purpose

To summarize and map the evidence related to taping methods used for various joints and conditions of the musculoskeletal system, and to provide clinicians and researchers with a user-friendly reference with organized evidence tables.

Data sources

The PEDro, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials, PubMed, and PROSPERO databases were searched from inception through October 31, 2019.

Study selection

Eligible studies were selected by two independent reviewers and included either systematic reviews (SRs) or randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and included a musculoskeletal complaint using a clinical outcome measure.

Data extraction

Data was extracted by two investigators independently. Risk of bias and quality were assessed using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) for SRs or the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale for RCTs. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019122857).

Data synthesis

Twenty-five musculoskeletal conditions were summarized from forty-one SRs and 127 RCTs. There were 6 SRs and 49 RCTs for spinal conditions. Kinesio tape was the most common type of tape considered. Four evidence tables representing the synthesized SRs and RCTs were produced and organized by body region per condition.

Limitations

Inclusion of only English language studies. Also, the heterogeneous nature of the included studies prevented a meta-analysis.

Conclusions

There is mixed quality evidence of effectiveness for the different types of taping methods for different body regions and conditions. All of the SRs and RCTs found during our search of the taping literature have been organized into a series of appendices. A synthesis of the results have been placed in evidence tables that may serve as a useful guide to clinicians and researchers.
Computational comparison of different plating strategies in medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy with lateral hinge fractures
Authors: Chen Yen-Nien , Chuang Chang-Han , Yang Tai-Hua , Chang Chih-Wei , Li Chun-Ting , Chang Chia-Jung , Chang Chih-Han
Published: September 2020

Background

Lateral hinge fracture (LHF) is associated with nonunion and plate breakage in high tibial osteotomy (HTO). Mechanical studies investigating fixation strategies for LHFs to restore stability and avoid plate breakage are absent. This study used computer simulation to compare mechanical stabilities in HTO for different LHFs fixed with medial and bilateral locking plates.

Methods

A finite element knee model was created with HTO and three types of LHF, namely T1, T2, and T3 fractures, based on the Takeuchi classification. Either medial plating or bilateral plating was used to fix the HTO with LHFs. Furthermore, the significance of the locking screw at the combi hole (D-hole) of the medial TomoFix plate was evaluated.

Results

The osteotomy gap shortening distance increased from 0.53 to 0.76, 0.79, and 0.72 mm after T1, T2, and T3 LHFs, respectively, with medial plating only. Bilateral plating could efficiently restore stability and maintain the osteotomy gap. Furthermore, using the D-hole screw reduced the peak stress on the medial plate by 28.7% (from 495 to 353 MPa), 26.6% (from 470 to 345 MPa), and 32.6% (from 454 to 306 MPa) in T1, T2, and T3 LHFs, respectively.

Conclusion

Bilateral plating is a recommended strategy to restore HTO stability in LHFs. Furthermore, using a D-hole locking screw is strongly recommended to reduce the stress on the medial plate for lowering plate breakage risk.
A microscopy-based small molecule screen in primary neurons reveals neuroprotective properties of the FDA-approved anti-viral drug Elvitegravir
Authors: Merz Simon F. , Bengtson C. Peter , Tepohl Clara , Hagenston Anna M. , Bading Hilmar , Bas-Orth Carlos
Published: September 2020

Glutamate toxicity is a pathomechanism that contributes to neuronal cell death in a wide range of acute and chronic neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. Activation of theN-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptor and breakdown of the mitochondrial membrane potential are key events during glutamate toxicity. Due to its manifold functions in nervous system physiology, however, the NMDA receptor is not well suited as a drug target. To identify novel compounds that act downstream of toxic NMDA receptor signaling and can protect mitochondria from glutamate toxicity, we developed a cell viability screening assay in primary mouse cortical neurons. In a proof-of-principle screen we tested 146 natural products and 424 FDA-approved drugs for their ability to protect neurons against NMDA-induced cell death. We confirmed several known neuroprotective drugs that include Dutasteride, Enalapril, Finasteride, Haloperidol, and Oxybutynin, and we identified neuroprotective properties of Elvitegravir. Using live imaging of tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester-labelled primary cortical neurons, we found that Elvitegravir, Dutasteride, and Oxybutynin attenuated the NMDA-induced breakdown of the mitochondrial membrane potential. Patch clamp electrophysiological recordings in NMDA receptor-expressing HEK293 cell lines and primary mouse hippocampal neurons revealed that Elvitegravir does not act at the NMDA receptor and does not affect the function of glutamatergic synapses. In summary, we have developed a cost-effective and easy-to-implement screening assay in primary neurons and identified Elvitegravir as a neuro- and mitoprotective drug that acts downstream of the NMDA receptor.
Autonomous glucose metabolic reprogramming of tumour cells under hypoxia: opportunities for targeted therapy
Authors: Huang Mingyao , Yang Liang , Peng Xueqiang , Wei Shibo , Fan Qing , Yang Shuo , Li Xinyu , Li Bowen , Jin Hongyuan , Wu Bo , Liu Jingang , Li Hangyu
Published: September 2020

Molecular oxygen (O2) is a universal electron acceptor that is eventually synthesized into ATP in the mitochondrial respiratory chain of all metazoans. Therefore, hypoxia biology has become an organizational principle of cell evolution, metabolism and pathology. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) mediates tumour cells to produce a series of glucose metabolism adaptations including the regulation of glucose catabolism, glycogen metabolism and the biological oxidation of glucose to hypoxia. Since HIF can regulate the energy metabolism of cancer cells and promote the survival of cancer cells, targeting HIF or HIF mediated metabolic enzymes may become one of the potential treatment methods for cancer. In this review, we summarize the established and recently discovered autonomous molecular mechanisms that can induce cell reprogramming of hypoxic glucose metabolism in tumors and explore opportunities for targeted therapy.
Natural antisense transcripts in the biological hallmarks of cancer: powerful regulators hidden in the dark
Authors: Zhao Shanshan , Zhang Xue , Chen Shuo , Zhang Song
Published: September 2020

Natural antisense transcripts (NATs), which are transcribed from opposite strands of DNA with partial or complete overlap, affect multiple stages of gene expression, from epigenetic to post-translational modifications. NATs are dysregulated in various types of cancer, and an increasing number of studies focusing on NATs as pivotal regulators of the hallmarks of cancer and as promising candidates for cancer therapy are just beginning to unravel the mystery. Here, we summarize the existing knowledge on NATs to highlight their underlying mechanisms of functions in cancer biology, discuss their potential roles in therapeutic application, and explore future research directions.
A phase II randomized trial of sodium oligomannate in Alzheimer’s dementia
Authors: Wang Tao , Kuang Weihong , Chen Wei , Xu Wenwei , Zhang Liming , Li Yingjie , Li Hailin , Peng Ying , Chen Yangmei , Wang Baojun , Xiao Jinsong , Li Honghua , Yan Chuanzhu , Du Yifeng , Tang Mouni , He Zhiyi , Chen Haibo , Li Wei , Lin Hong , Shi Shugui , Bi Jianzhong , Zhou Huadong , Cheng Yan , Gao Xiaoping , Guan Yihui , Huang Qiu , Chen Kewei , Xin Xianliang , Ding Jian , Geng Meiyu , Xiao Shifu
Published: September 2020

Background

Sodium oligomannate (GV-971), a marine-derived oligosaccharide, is a novel agent that may improve cognition in AD patients.

Methods

The 24-week multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo parallel controlled clinical trial was conducted in AD in China between 24 October 2011 and 10 July 2013. The study included a 4-week screening/washout period, followed by a 24-week treatment period. Patients were randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive GV-971 900 mg, 600 mg, or placebo capsule in treatment period, respectively. The primary outcome was cognitive improvement as assessed by changes in Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale 12-item (ADAS-cog12) scores from baseline to week 24. The secondary efficacy outcomes included CIBIC-Plus, ADCS-ADL, and NPI at 24 weeks after treatment compared with baseline. A subgroup study was assessment of the change in cerebral glucose metabolism by fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography measurements.

Results

Comparing with the placebo group (n = 83, change − 1.45), the ADAS-cog12 score change in the GV-971 600-mg group (n = 76) was − 1.39 (p = 0.89) and the GV-971 900-mg group (n = 83) was − 2.58 (p = 0.30). The treatment responders according to CIBIC-Plus assessment were significantly higher in the GV-971 900-mg group than the placebo group (92.77% vs. 79.52%, p < 0.05). The GV-971 900-mg subgroup showed a lower decline of cerebral metabolic rate for glucose than the placebo subgroup at the left precuneus, right posterior cingulate, bilateral hippocampus, and bilateral inferior orbital frontal at uncorrected p = 0.05. The respective rates of treatment-related AEs were 5.9%, 14.3%, and 3.5%.

Conclusions

GV-971 was safe and well tolerated. GV-971 900 mg was chosen for phase III clinical study.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01453569. Registered on October 18, 2011.
Ethics of research on stem cells and regenerative medicine: ethical guidelines in the Islamic Republic of Iran
Authors: Afshar Leila , Aghayan Hamid-Reza , Sadighi Jila , Arjmand Babak , Hashemi Seyed-Mahmoud , Basiri Mohsen , Samani Reza Omani , Ashtiani Mohammad Kazemi , Azin Seyed-Ali , Hajizadeh-Saffar Ensiyeh , Gooshki Ehsan Shamsi , Hamidieh Amir-Ali , Rezania Moallem Mohammad-Reza , Azin Seyed-Mohammad , Shariatinasab Sadegh , Soleymani-Goloujeh Mehdi , Baharvand Hossein
Published: September 2020

Background

Regenerative medicine plays a major role in biomedicine, and given the ever-expanding boundaries of this knowledge, numerous ethical considerations have been raised.

Main text

Rapid advancement of regenerative medicine science and technology in Iran, emerged the Iranian National Committee for Ethics in Biomedical Research to develop a comprehensive national ethical guideline. Therefore, the present ethical guideline which comprises eleven chapters was developed in 2019 and approved in early 2020. The titles of these chapters were selected based on the ethical considerations of various aspects of the field of regenerative medicine: (1) ethical principles of research on stem cells and regenerative medicine; (2) ethical considerations for research on stem cells (embryonic stem cells, epiblast stem cells, tissue-specific stem cells, stem cells derived from transdifferentiation, induced pluripotent stem cells [iPSCs], germline pluripotent stem cells, germline stem cells, and somatic cell nuclear transfer [SCNT] stem cells); (3) ethical considerations for research on somatic cells in regenerative medicine (adult somatic cells, fetal tissue somatic cells, and somatic cells derived from pregnancy products [other than fetus]); (4) ethical considerations for research on gametes in regenerative medicine; (5) ethical considerations for research related to genetic manipulation (human and animal) in regenerative medicine; (6) ethical considerations for research on tissue engineering in regenerative medicine; (7) ethical considerations for pre-clinical studies in regenerative medicine; (8) ethical considerations for clinical trials in regenerative medicine; (9) ethical considerations for stem cells and regenerative medicine bio-banks; (10) ethical considerations for privacy and confidentiality; and (11) ethical considerations for obtaining informed consent.

Conclusion

This article discusses the process of developing the present ethical guidelines and its practical points. We hope that it can play an important worldwide role in advancing ethics of research on stem cells and regenerative medicine.
Functional enhancement strategies for immunomodulation of mesenchymal stem cells and their therapeutic application
Authors: Lee Byung-Chul , Kang Kyung-Sun
Published: September 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have recently been considered a promising alternative treatment for diverse immune disorders due to their unique biomedical potentials including the immunomodulatory property and ability to promote tissue regeneration. However, despite many years of pre-clinical studies in the research field, results from clinical trials using these cells have been diverse and conflicting. This discrepancy is caused by several factors such as poor engraftment, low survival rate, and donor-dependent variation of the cells. Enhancement of consistency and efficacy of MSCs remains a challenge to overcome the current obstacles to MSC-based therapy and subsequently achieve an improved therapeutic outcome. In this review, we investigated function enhancement strategies by categorizing as preconditioning, genetic manipulation, usage of supportive materials, and co-administration with currently used drugs. Preconditioning prior to MSC application makes up a large proportion of improvement strategies and preconditioning reagents include bioactive substances (cytokines, growth factors, and innate immune receptor agonists), hypoxia, and modification in culture method. With the piled results from previous studies using each method, disease- or patient-specific therapy has become more important than ever. On the other hand, genetic manipulation targeting therapeutic-associated factors or co-administration of biocompatible materials has also arisen as other therapeutic strategies. Thus, we summarized several specialized tactics by analyzing up-to-date results in the field and proposed some promising enhancement methods to improve the clinical outcomes for MSC therapy.
Pulsed focused ultrasound enhances the therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stromal cell-derived extracellular vesicles in acute kidney injury
Authors: Ullah Mujib , Liu Daniel D. , Rai Sravanthi , Razavi Mehdi , Concepcion Waldo , Thakor Avnesh S.
Published: September 2020

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by rapid failure of renal function and has no curative therapies. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are known to carry therapeutic factors, which have shown promise in regenerative medicine applications, including AKI. However, there remains an unmet need to optimize their therapeutic effect. One potential avenue of optimization lies in pulsed focused ultrasound (pFUS), where tissues-of-interest are treated with sound waves. pFUS has been shown to enhance MSC therapy via increased cell homing, but its effects on cell-free EV therapy remain largely unexplored.

Methods

We combine pFUS pretreatment of the kidney with MSC-derived EV therapy in a mouse model of cisplatin-induced AKI.

Results

EVs significantly improved kidney function, reduced injury markers, mediated increased proliferation, and reduced inflammation and apoptosis. While pFUS did not enhance EV homing to the kidney, the combined treatment resulted in a superior therapeutic effect compared to either treatment alone. We identified several molecular mechanisms underlying this synergistic therapeutic effect, including upregulation of proliferative signaling (MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt) and regenerative pathways (eNOS, SIRT3), as well as suppression of inflammation.

Conclusion

Taken together, pFUS may be a strategy for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of MSC-derived EV treatment for the treatment of AKI.
Exosomes from oral tissue stem cells: biological effects and applications
Authors: Shi Quan , Huo Na , Wang Xing , Yang Shuo , Wang Juncheng , Zhang Tong
Published: September 2020

As natural nanoparticles, exosomes are a type of extracellular vesicles that are enclosed by a lipid bilayer and contain various cargos, including miRNA, mRNA, DNA and proteins. Exosomes have rapidly gained attention as a highly promising cell-free therapy. Because the cargo of exosomes changes with the changes in parent cells and status, exosomes from different types of cells may exhibit different biological effects. Considering the particularity of oral tissue stem cells, their exosomes were isolated and used to examine their related biological functions and the possibility of replacing stem cells. A variety of exosomes of oral tissue stem cells were studied, and the results revealed many special biological characteristics of these exosomes and their parent cells, especially immunomodulation, osteogenesis, odontogenesis, neuroprotection, nerve regeneration, wound healing, skin regeneration and vascularization. The oral tissue stem cell exosomes may be loaded with drugs or genes and act as tools for tumor treatment. The relevant results showed that exosomes from oral tissue stem cells were potent therapeutic tools. The present review focuses on the biological function and application of oral tissue stem cell-derived exosomes.
Neuropsychological assessment in the Israeli healthcare system: a practitioners’ survey
Authors: Kavé Gitit , Bloch Ayala , Shabi Adi , Maril Sari
Published: September 2020

Background

The current study examines self-reported professional practices and attitudes of Israeli neuropsychologists, in an attempt to understand how they contribute to funding of neuropsychological assessment (NPA) through the Israeli healthcare system.

Methods

Two hundred seventy-nine neuropsychologists (176 board-certified experts and 103 interns) participated in an online survey that targeted characteristics of NPA practice in Israel, attitudes toward NPA, and familiarity with healthcare referral procedures.

Results

Overall, 68% of respondents conducted NPA, with a smaller proportion of experts (56%) doing so than interns (88%). The most common purpose of NPA was to provide treatment recommendations, and respondents listed indications for NPA that matched indications for neuropsychological rehabilitation. Almost two thirds of respondents reported that none of the NPAs that they performed received healthcare funding. While all practitioners believed that the healthcare system should fund NPA, the majority demonstrated lack of familiarity with referral procedures.

Conclusions

To increase referral rates and create effective neuropsychological services within the Israeli healthcare system, neuropsychologists should work more closely with physicians in integrated care teams. In addition, they should engage in greater advocacy activities that will emphasize the need for publicly funded NPA.
Respiratory virus-associated infections in HIV-infected adults admitted to the intensive care unit for acute respiratory failure: a 6-year bicenter retrospective study (HIV-VIR study)
Authors: Elabbadi Alexandre , Pichon Jérémie , Visseaux Benoit , Schnuriger Aurélie , Bouadma Lila , Philippot Quentin , Patrier Juliette , Labbé Vincent , Ruckly Stéphane , Fartoukh Muriel , Timsit Jean-François , Voiriot Guillaume
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Acute respiratory failure is the main reason for admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) in HIV-infected adults. There is little data about the epidemiology of respiratory viruses in this population.

Methods

HIV-infected adults admitted to two intensive care units over a 6-year period for an acute respiratory failure and explored for respiratory viruses with multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) were retrospectively selected. Objectives were to describe the prevalence of respiratory viruses, coinfections with non-viral pathogens, and hospital outcome.

Results

A total of 123 episodes were included. An HIV infection was newly diagnosed in 9% of cases and 72% of the population were on antiretroviral therapy. Real-time mPCR tests identified at least one respiratory virus in the respiratory tract of 33 (27%) patients, but with a non-viral copathogen in two-thirds of cases. Rhinovirus was predominant, documented in 15 patients, followed by Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Viruses (both n = 6). The prevalence of respiratory virus-associated infection did not vary along with the level of the CD4 T-cell deficiency, except for Rhinovirus which was more prevalent in patients with a CD4 lymphocyte count below 200 cells/µL (n = 13 (20%) vs. n = 2 (4%), p < 0.01). In multivariate analysis, respiratory virus-associated infection was not associated with a worse prognosis.

Conclusions

Viruses are frequently identified in the respiratory tract of HIV-infected patients with acute respiratory failure that requires ICU admission, but with a non-viral copathogen in two-thirds of cases. Rhinovirus is the predominant viral specie; its prevalence is highest in patients with a CD4 lymphocyte count below 200 cells/µL.
Computation efficiency optimization in UAV-enabled mobile edge computing system with multi-carrier non-orthogonal multiple access
Authors: Xu Fangcheng , Yu Xiangbin , Cai Jiali , Wang Guangying
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we study the issue of fair resource optimization for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-enabled mobile edge computing (MEC) system with multi-carrier non-orthogonal multiple access (MC-NOMA). A computation efficiency (CE) optimization problem based on the max-min fairness principle under the partial offloading mode is formulated by optimizing the subchannel assignment, the local CPU frequency, and the transmission power jointly. The formulated problem belongs to the non-convex mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP), that is NP-hard to find the global optimal solution. Therefore, we design a polynomial-time algorithm based on the big-M reformulation, the penalized sequential convex programming, and the general Dinkelbach’s method, which can choose an arbitrary point as the initial point and eventually converge to a feasible suboptimal solution. The proposed algorithm framework can be also applied to computation offloading only mode. Additionally, we derive the closed-form optimal solution under the local computing only mode. Simulation results validate the convergence performance of the proposed algorithm. Moreover, the proposed partial offloading mode with the CE maximization scheme outperforms that with the computation bits (CB) maximization scheme with respect to CE, and it can achieve higher CE than the benchmark computing modes. Furthermore, the proposed MC-NOMA scheme can attain better CE performance than the conventional OFDMA scheme.
Loneliness in pregnant and postpartum people and parents of children aged 5 years or younger: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Kent-Marvick Jacqueline , Simonsen Sara , Pentecost Ryoko , McFarland Mary M.
Published: September 2020

Background

The experience of loneliness during pregnancy and in new parenthood has not been targeted and developed as a program of research, despite evidence indicating that the incidence of loneliness is highest in those aged 16 to 24 and that loneliness rises during transitional periods. The scarcity of parenthood-loneliness inquiries leaves a gap in our understanding of new parenthood and its effects on the health and well-being of parents and their children. Here, a scoping review protocol will be presented to address this gap. The objective of this study will be to summarize the current knowledge of loneliness experienced during pregnancy and by parents during the postpartum period through the first 5 years of the child’s life.

Methods

A scoping review protocol was designed following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. We will include all types of literature in English, including all study designs, reviews, opinion articles, dissertations, reports, books, and grey literature. To be considered for inclusion, sources should focus on loneliness in pregnant persons, postpartum people, and parents of children 5 years or younger. We will search the following electronic databases (from inception onwards): MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Dissertations & Theses Global, Sociological Abstracts, Scopus, and Web of Science. Grey literature will be identified searching the British governmental website gov.uk, the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness, the Campaign to End Loneliness, and the British Red Cross’s Action on Loneliness websites. Two reviewers, working independently of each other, will screen the titles and abstracts of the articles returned by the searches, then screen the selected full-text articles, and extract data. A third reviewer will cast the deciding vote in case no consensus is reached. Results will be given in the narrative form, mapped, and illustrated.

Discussion

This scoping review will capture the state of the current literature on loneliness in pregnancy and new parenthood. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. We anticipate that the study will identify gaps and make recommendations for future areas of study and related interventions. The protocol is available on Open Science Framework at DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/BFVPZ.
What evidence exists related to soil retention of phosphorus from on-site wastewater treatment systems in boreal and temperate climate zones? A systematic map protocol
Authors: Envall Ida , Fagerlund Fritjof , Westholm Lena Johansson , Åberg Charlotte , Bring Arvid , Land Magnus , Gustafsson Jon Petter
Published: September 2020

Background

Soil-based on-site wastewater treatment systems (OWSs) are suspected to contribute to eutrophication of surface waters, due to the discharge of phosphorus (P). However, along the flow path between the facilities and surface waters, different processes contribute to delay the transport of phosphorus through the ground. This may reduce the unwanted impact on receiving water bodies. However, the strength and significance of this so-called soil retention remains unclear.

In Sweden, there are nearly one million OWSs. To protect surface waters, a high P removal rate (up to 90%) is often required by the local municipalities. However, since these requirements may have costly consequences to property owners, it is debated as to whether they are too strict. In this debate, it is often claimed that the retention of P occurring in natural environments may be underestimated by authorities. Accordingly, there is a need for a scrutiny of the available evidence related to soil retention of phosphorus from OWSs. This is the objective of the planned systematic map. Focus will be on boreal and temperate climate zones.

Methods

Searches will be made for peer-reviewed articles and grey literature using bibliographic databases, search engines, specialist websites and stakeholder contacts. The references will be screened for relevance according to a predefined set of eligibility criteria. At stage one, after testing and clarifying the eligibility criteria, the references will be single-screened based on title and abstract. At stage two, potentially relevant references will be screened in full-text independently by two reviewers. We will compile a detailed database of the relevant studies. Moreover, a narrative report will be produced, describing the research landscape in general terms. This will be carried out with a conceptual model, describing the processes involved in P retention in natural environments, as a foundation. It will be discussed where the respective studies/study types fit into the conceptual model, and also evaluated how each study/study type can be related to the overarching question of eutrophication. Moreover, we will describe identified knowledge gaps that warrant further primary research effort, as well as identified knowledge clusters that could be suitable for systematic reviews.
Advances in RNA cytosine-5 methylation: detection, regulatory mechanisms, biological functions and links to cancer
Authors: Xue Chen , Zhao Yalei , Li Lanjuan
Published: September 2020

As an important posttranscriptional modification of RNA, 5-methylcytosine (m5C) has attracted increasing interest recently, with accumulating evidence suggesting the involvement of RNA m5C modification in multiple cellular processes as well as tumorigenesis. Cooperatively, advances in m5C detection techniques have enabled transcriptome mapping of RNA methylation at single-nucleotide resolution, thus stimulating m5C-based investigations. In this review, we summarize currently available approaches for detecting m5C distribution in RNA as well as the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques. Moreover, we elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of RNA m5C modification by introducing the molecular structure, catalytic substrates, cellular distributions and biological functions of RNA m5C regulators. The functional consequences of m5C modification on mRNAs, tRNAs, rRNAs and other RNA species, including viral RNAs and vault RNAs, are also discussed. Finally, we review the role of RNA m5C modification in cancer pathogenesis and progression, in hopes of providing new insights into cancer treatment.
Aggregate-selective antibody attenuates seeded aggregation but not spontaneously evolving disease in SOD1 ALS model mice
Authors: Lehmann Manuela , Marklund Matthew , Bolender Anna-Lena , Bidhendi Elaheh E. , Zetterström Per , Andersen Peter M. , Brännström Thomas , Marklund Stefan L. , Gilthorpe Jonathan D. , Nordström Ulrika
Published: September 2020

Increasing evidence suggests that propagation of the motor neuron disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) involves the pathogenic aggregation of disease-associated proteins that spread in a prion-like manner. We have identified two aggregate strains of human superoxide dismutase 1 (hSOD1) that arise in the CNS of transgenic mouse models of SOD1-mediated ALS. Both strains transmit template-directed aggregation and premature fatal paralysis when inoculated into the spinal cord of adult hSOD1 transgenic mice. This spread of pathogenic aggregation could be a potential target for immunotherapeutic intervention. Here we generated mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed to exposed epitopes in hSOD1 aggregate strains and identified an aggregate selective mAb that targets the aa 143–153 C-terminal extremity of hSOD1 (αSOD1143–153). Both pre-incubation of seeds with αSOD1143–153 prior to inoculation, and weekly intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration attenuated transmission of pathogenic aggregation and prolonged the survival of seed-inoculated hSOD1G85R Tg mice. In contrast, administration of a mAb targeting aa 65–72 (αSOD165–72), which exhibits high affinity towards monomeric disordered hSOD1, had an adverse effect and aggravated seed induced premature ALS-like disease. Although the mAbs reached similar concentrations in CSF, only αSOD1143–153 was found in association with aggregated hSOD1 in spinal cord homogenates. Our results suggest that an aggregate-selective immunotherapeutic approach may suppress seeded transmission of pathogenic aggregation in ALS. However, long-term administration of αSOD1143–153 was unable to prolong the lifespan of non-inoculated hSOD1G85R Tg mice. Thus, spontaneously initiated hSOD1 aggregation in spinal motor neurons may be poorly accessible to therapeutic antibodies.
Thromboembolic disease in COVID-19 patients: A brief narrative review
Authors: Mondal Samhati , Quintili Ashley L. , Karamchandani Kunal , Bose Somnath
Published: September 2020

Corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV2/ Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2) infection has emerged as a global health crisis. Incidence of thromboembolic disease is reported to be high in SARS-CoV2 disease and is seen in a multitude of organ systems ranging from cutaneous thrombosis to pulmonary embolism, stroke or coronary thrombosis sometimes with catastrophic outcomes. Evidence points towards a key role of thromboembolism, hypercoagulability and over production of proinflammatory cytokines mimicking a “cytokine storm” which leads to multiorgan failure. This brief narrative review highlights the pathophysiology and risk factors of thromboembolic disease and provides a framework for management of anticoagulation based on the current evidence.
MOWLAS: NIED observation network for earthquake, tsunami and volcano
Authors: Aoi Shin , Asano Youichi , Kunugi Takashi , Kimura Takeshi , Uehira Kenji , Takahashi Narumi , Ueda Hideki , Shiomi Katsuhiko , Matsumoto Takumi , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: September 2020

National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience (NIED) integrated the land observation networks established since the 1995 Kobe earthquake with the seafloor observation networks established since the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami as MOWLAS (Monitoring of Waves on Land and Seafloor) in November 2017. The purpose of MOWLAS is to provide comprehensive, accurate, and rapid observation and monitoring of earthquake, tsunami, and volcano events throughout Japan and its offshore areas. MOWLAS data are widely utilized for long-term earthquake forecasting, the monitoring of current seismic activity, seismic and tsunami hazard assessments, earthquake early warning, tsunami warning, and earthquake engineering, as well as earthquake science. Ocean bottom observations provide an extension of observations to areas where no people are living and have the advantage of increasing lead time of earthquake early warning and tsunami warning. The application of recent technology advancements to real-time observations as well as the processing of MOWLAS data has contributed to the direct disaster mitigation of ongoing earthquakes. These observations are fundamental for both science and disaster resilience, and thus it is necessary to continue ceaseless operation and maintenance.
On data reduction methods for volcanic tremor characterization: the 2012 eruption of Copahue volcano, Southern Andes
Authors: Melchor Ivan , Almendros Javier , Carniel Roberto , Konstantinou Kostas I. , Hantusch Marcia , Caselli Alberto
Published: September 2020

Improving the ability to detect and characterize long-duration volcanic tremor is crucial to understand the long-term dynamics and unrest of volcanic systems. We have applied data reduction methods (permutation entropy and polarization degree, among others) to characterize the seismic wave field near Copahue volcano (Southern Andes) between June 2012 and January 2013, when phreatomagmatic episodes occurred. During the selected period, a total of 52 long-duration events with energy above the background occurred. Among them, 32 were classified as volcanic tremors and the remaining as noise bursts. Characterizing each event by averaging its reduced parameters, allowed us to study the range of variability of the different events types. We found that, compared to noise burst, tremors have lower permutation entropies and higher dominant polarization degrees. This characterization is a suitable tool for detecting long-duration volcanic tremors in the ambient seismic wave field, even if the SNR is low.
Association of lean body mass to menopausal symptoms: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation
Authors: Woods Rosanne , Hess Rebecca , Biddington Carol , Federico Marc
Published: September 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine the association of lean body mass (LBM) to the development of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) as women transition through menopause.

Methods

This study is a secondary use of data available for public use from follow up visits six through 10 for participants in the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation. The study examined 2533 women, between the ages 42–52 years, each year over a10-year period. Data was modeled for associations of lean body mass and VMS. Changes in LBM since prior visit and since baseline were also modeled along with differences in means using binary logistic regression, adjusting for covariates.

Results

LBM was significantly associated to concurrent VMS (p = .036), percent change in LBM since prior visit (p = .003), percent change since baseline (p < .001), and overall means associations (p = .023). LBM was not significant for VMS at individual visit measures. In mixed regression modeling, time was significant (p < .0001) at all visits. The estimated probability of developing VMS decreases significantly as LBM increases.

Conclusions

Lean body mass is negatively associated with incident VMS. Our data suggests that maintaining higher levels of LBM during the menopausal transition may be protective against the development of VMS. Every woman will experience menopause in her life and the ability to potentially prevent the onset of specific symptoms through basic interventions, such as resistance training to increase lean body mass, may positively impact this large population.
Online prenatal trial in mindfulness sleep management (OPTIMISM): protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kantrowitz-Gordon Ira , McCurry Susan M. , Landis Carol A. , Lee Rachel , Wi Dahee
Published: September 2020

Background

Sleep deficiency affects a majority of pregnant women with significant impact on daily function, mood, and pregnancy and birth outcomes. This ongoing study combines two evidence-based strategies for improving sleep and mood, mindfulness meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), in a unique online format to address the particular needs of pregnant women. The purpose of this study is to test the feasibility and estimate the efficacy of this novel 6-week online mindfulness meditation intervention to help pregnant women in remission from depression self-manage insomnia.

Methods

This is a two-arm, parallel group randomized controlled trial. A total of 50 pregnant women between 12 and 28 weeks gestation will be recruited from the community and randomly assigned to a mindfulness or education-only control group in a 1:1 ratio. During the study, all participants will complete six weekly online modules, daily sleep diaries, and optional participation in a treatment-specific online discussion forum. Feasibility outcome measures will include study recruitment, retention, intervention adherence (number of online modules completed, number of meditation days per week), and intervention acceptability (8-item questionnaire). The primary clinical outcome measure will be sleep quality measured with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Secondary outcome measures will include sleep measured with actigraphy and diaries (sleep efficiency, total sleep time, total wake time), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) measures (fatigue, sleep-related impairment, sleep disturbance); mood (depression, anxiety, positive affect, quality of life); and self-management and behavior change (potential self-efficacy, self-regulation, sleep problem acceptance, and trait mindfulness). Assessments will occur at baseline and post-intervention; an additional acceptability survey will be completed 4 weeks postpartum. Analyses will examine within-group differences in outcome change scores from baseline to post-intervention. Open-ended feedback will be analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Discussion

This research is innovative in addressing sleep in pregnancy using a self-management research design and methods that can be accessible and cost-effective for large numbers of pregnant women. The results from this study will inform intervention refinement and efficacy testing of the intervention in a larger randomized controlled trial.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04016428. Registered on 11 July 2019. Updated version registered on 26 July 2019.
Supine positioning after vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachments with inferior retinal breaks
Authors: Abdelkader Amr Mohammed Elsayed , Abouelkheir Hossam Youssef
Published: September 2020

Background

To evaluate the effectiveness of face up position (FUP) following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and silicone oil injection in cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with multiple peripheral and inferior breaks.

Method

Thirty-two eyes of 32 patients with RRD due to multiple peripheral breaks were managed with PPV and silicone oil as endotamponade. Postoperatively, all patients were instructed to assume face up (supine) position for at least 10 days. Silicone oil was removed 3 to 6 months postoperatively in eyes with attached retina and the patients were followed up for 6 months.

Results

Thirty eyes (94%) got a successful attachment of the retina and remained attached after silicone oil removal. One case showed lower redetachment under silicone oil while the other case showed recurrent RRD after silicone oil removal.

Conclusion

Although postoperative FUP is not a popular one, it is effective in the treatment of RRD with peripheral breaks whatever the number or the distribution of these breaks. This may in some way or another change the traditional trends of postoperative positioning after vitrectomy for RRD.