bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of mesenchymal stem cells for cartilage-targeted therapy
Authors: Huang Jianghong , Liu Qisong , Xia Jiang , Chen Xi , Xiong Jianyi , Yang Lei , Liang Yujie
Published: November 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by the destruction of the articular cartilage, sclerosis of the subchondral bone, and joint dysfunction. Its pathogenesis is attributed to direct damage and mechanical destruction of joint tissues. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), suggested as a potential strategy for the treatment of OA, have shown therapeutic effects on OA. However, the specific fate of MSCs after intraarticular injection, including cell attachment, proliferation, differentiation, and death, is still unclear, and there is no guarantee that stem cells can be retained in the cartilage tissue to enact repair. Direct homing of MSCs is an important determinant of the efficacy of MSC-based cartilage repair. Recent studies have revealed that the unique homing capacity of MSCs and targeted modification can improve their ability to promote tissue regeneration. Here, we comprehensively review the homing effect of stem cells in joints and highlight progress toward the targeted modification of MSCs. In the future, developments of this targeting system that accelerate tissue regeneration will benefit targeted tissue repair.

Graphical Abstract
Cladribine treatment improves cortical network functionality in a mouse model of autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Schroeter Christina B. , Rolfes Leoni , Gothan K. S. Sophie , Gruchot Joel , Herrmann Alexander M. , Bock Stefanie , Fazio Luca , Henes Antonia , Narayanan Venu , Pfeuffer Steffen , Nelke Christopher , Räuber Saskia , Huntemann Niklas , Duarte-Silva Eduardo , Dobelmann Vera , Hundehege Petra , Wiendl Heinz , Raba Katharina , Küry Patrick , Kremer David , Ruck Tobias , Müntefering Thomas , Budde Thomas , Cerina Manuela , Meuth Sven G.
Published: November 2022

Background

Cladribine is a synthetic purine analogue that interferes with DNA synthesis and repair next to disrupting cellular proliferation in actively dividing lymphocytes. The compound is approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Cladribine can cross the blood–brain barrier, suggesting a potential effect on central nervous system (CNS) resident cells. Here, we explored compartment-specific immunosuppressive as well as potential direct neuroprotective effects of oral cladribine treatment in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice.

Methods

In the current study, we compare immune cell frequencies and phenotypes in the periphery and CNS of EAE mice with distinct grey and white matter lesions (combined active and focal EAE) either orally treated with cladribine or vehicle, using flow cytometry. To evaluate potential direct neuroprotective effects, we assessed the integrity of the primary auditory cortex neuronal network by studying neuronal activity and spontaneous synaptic activity with electrophysiological techniques ex vivo.

Results

Oral cladribine treatment significantly attenuated clinical deficits in EAE mice. Ex vivo flow cytometry showed that cladribine administration led to peripheral immune cell depletion in a compartment-specific manner and reduced immune cell infiltration into the CNS. Histological evaluations revealed no significant differences for inflammatory lesion load following cladribine treatment compared to vehicle control. Single cell electrophysiology in acute brain slices was performed and showed an impact of cladribine treatment on intrinsic cellular firing patterns and spontaneous synaptic transmission in neurons of the primary auditory cortex. Here, cladribine administration in vivo partially restored cortical neuronal network function, reducing action potential firing. Both, the effect on immune cells and neuronal activity were transient.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that cladribine exerts a neuroprotective effect after crossing the blood–brain barrier independently of its peripheral immunosuppressant action.
Whole-genome sequence analysis reveals the circulation of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in Nairobi and neighboring counties, Kenya between March and July 2021
Authors: Khamadi Samoel Ashimosi , Opanda Silvanos , Symekher Samwel Lifumo , Limbaso Samson Konongoi , Langat Solomon , Cirindi Josyline Kaburi , Mwangi Milkah , Mwikwabe Nicholas , Okeyo Seth , Koskei Edith , Mutisya James , Owaka Samwel , Nyunja Albert , Koka Hellen , Wadegu Meshack , Chitechi Esther , Achilla Rachel , Majanja Janet Masitsa , Kanyara Lucy , Amukoye Evans , Bulimo Wallace
Published: November 2022

The emergence and rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) have been linked to new waves of COVID-19 epidemics occurring in different regions of the world. The VOC have acquired adaptive mutations that have enhanced virus transmissibility, increased virulence, and reduced response to neutralizing antibodies. Kenya has experienced six waves of COVID-19 epidemics. In this study, we analyzed 64 genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 strains that circulated in Nairobi and neighboring counties, Kenya between March 2021 and July 2021. Viral RNA was extracted from RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 cases, followed by sequencing using the ARTIC network protocol and Oxford Nanopore Technologies. Analysis of the sequence data was performed using different bioinformatics methods. Our analyses revealed that during the study period, three SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) circulated in Nairobi and nearby counties in Kenya. The Alpha (B.1.1.7) lineage predominated (62.7%), followed by Delta (B.1.617.2, 35.8%) and Beta (B.1.351, 1.5%). Notably, the Alpha (B.1.1.7) VOC were most frequent from March 2021 to May 2021, while the Delta (B.1.617.2) dominated beginning June 2021 through July 2021. Sequence comparisons revealed that all the Kenyan viruses were genetically similar to those that circulated in other regions. Although the majority of Kenyan viruses clustered together in their respective phylogenetic lineages/clades, a significant number were interspersed among foreign strains. Between March and July 2021, our study's findings indicate the prevalence of multiple lineages of SAR-CoV-2 VOC in Nairobi and nearby counties in Kenya. The data suggest that the recent increase in SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in Nairobi and Kenya as a whole, is attributable to the introduction and community transmission of SARS-CoV-2 VOC among the populace. In conclusion, the findings provide a snapshot of the SARS-CoV-2 variants that circulated in Kenya during the study period.
Clinical correlates of women endorsing premenstrual suicidal ideation: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Carlini Sara V. , Weiss Sandra J. , Mordukhaev Lauren , Jacob Sunu , Flynn Heather A. , Deligiannidis Kristina M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may be as high as 13-18%, but it remains under-recognized and is associated with increased suicidal ideation (SI), plans, and attempts in epidemiological studies. The present study reports on women endorsing premenstrual SI (PMSI) and characterizes this at-risk group and its clinical correlates.

Methods

A cross-sectional study assessed demographics, anxiety and depression severity, psychiatric diagnoses, menstrual symptoms, SI, and trauma in adult women at a major medical center over 11 months.

Results

Three hundred two women were assessed. Of 153 participants endorsing premenstrual symptoms, 41 (27%) reported new or worsening concurrent premenstrual passive or active SI. Women who reported PMSI were significantly more likely to be single, unemployed, and childless as well as significantly more likely to report interference from premenstrual symptoms, histories of psychiatric hospitalization, adverse childhood events, suicide attempts, and current and past depression and anxiety compared to women without PMSI. The final regression model indicated the most significant predictors of PMSI were history of a depression diagnosis, severity of current depressive symptoms, and having experienced 3 or more childhood adverse events.

Conclusion

Nearly one-third of women reporting premenstrual symptoms endorsed concurrent SI, a clinically valuable demonstration of the importance of this predictable cyclic risk factor.
Lineage abundance estimation for SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater using transcriptome quantification techniques
Authors: Baaijens Jasmijn A. , Zulli Alessandro , Ott Isabel M. , Nika Ioanna , van der Lugt Mart J. , Petrone Mary E. , Alpert Tara , Fauver Joseph R. , Kalinich Chaney C. , Vogels Chantal B. F. , Breban Mallery I. , Duvallet Claire , McElroy Kyle A. , Ghaeli Newsha , Imakaev Maxim , Mckenzie-Bennett Malaika F. , Robison Keith , Plocik Alex , Schilling Rebecca , Pierson Martha , Littlefield Rebecca , Spencer Michelle L. , Simen Birgitte B. ,   Yale SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Surveillance Initiative, Altajar Ahmad , Brito Anderson F. , Watkins Anne E. , Muyombwe Anthony , Neal Caleb , Liu Chen , Castaldi Christopher , Pearson Claire , Peaper David R. , Laszlo Eva , Tikhonova Irina R. , Razeq Jafar , Rothman Jessica E. , Wang Jianhui , Bilguvar Kaya , Niccolai Linda , Wilson Madeline S. , Anderson Margaret L. , Landry Marie L. , Adams Mark D. , Hui Pei , Downing Randy , Earnest Rebecca , Mane Shrikant , Murphy Steven , Hanage William P. , Grubaugh Nathan D. , Peccia Jordan , Baym Michael
Published: November 2022

Effectively monitoring the spread of SARS-CoV-2 mutants is essential to efforts to counter the ongoing pandemic. Predicting lineage abundance from wastewater, however, is technically challenging. We show that by sequencing SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater and applying algorithms initially used for transcriptome quantification, we can estimate lineage abundance in wastewater samples. We find high variability in signal among individual samples, but the overall trends match those observed from sequencing clinical samples. Thus, while clinical sequencing remains a more sensitive technique for population surveillance, wastewater sequencing can be used to monitor trends in mutant prevalence in situations where clinical sequencing is unavailable.
AGI grade-guided chaiqin chengqi decoction treatment for predicted moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis (CAP trial): study protocol of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, pragmatic clinical trial
Authors: Chen Zhiyao , Yang Xiaonan , Guo Jia , Jin Tao , Lin Ziqi , Zhu Ping , Li Jing , Li Ling , Sun Xin , Du Dan , Jiang Kun , He Yanqiu , Cai Fei , Li Lan , Hu Cheng , Tan Qingyuan , Huang Wei , Deng Lihui , Xia Qing
Published: November 2022

Background

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common digestive disease with increased incidence globally but without internationally licenced pharmacological therapy. Moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis (MSAP/SAP) contributes predominately for its morbidities and mortality and has been managed in West China Hospital for decades using the traditional Chinese medicinal formula chaiqin chengqi decoction (CQCQD). The current study tests whether the early administration of CQCQD will result in improved clinical outcomes in predicted MSAP/SAP patients.

Methods

This is a single-centre, randomised, controlled, double-blind pragmatic clinical trial. AP patients aged 18–75 admitted within 72 h of onset will be assessed at admission for enrolment. We excluded the predicted mild acute pancreatitis (Harmless Acute Pancreatitis Score > 2 at admission) and severe organ failure (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment [SOFA] score of respiratory, cardiovascular, or renal systems > 3) at admission. Eligible patients will be randomly allocated on a 1:1 basis to CQCQD or placebo control administration based on conventional therapy. The administration of CQCQD and placebo is guided by the Acute Gastrointestinal Injury grade-based algorithm. The primary outcome measure will be the duration of respiratory failure (SOFA score of respiratory system ≥ 2) within 28 days after onset. Secondary outcome measures include occurrence of new-onset any organ failure (SOFA score of respiratory, cardiovascular, or renal system ≥ 2) and new-onset persistent organ failure (organ failure lasts > 48 h), dynamic surrogate biochemical markers and clinical severity scores, gut-centred treatment modalities, local complications status, intensive care need and duration, surgical interventions, mortality, and length of hospital stay. Follow-up will be scheduled on 6, 12, and 26 weeks after enrolment to assess AP recurrence, local complications, the requirement for surgical interventions, all-cause mortality, and patient-reported outcomes.

Discussion

The results of this study will provide high-quality evidence to appraise the efficacy of CQCQD for the early management of AP patients.

Trial registration

Chictr.org.cn Registry (ChiCTR2000034325). Registered on 2 July, 2020.
The mixed liver and kidney transcriptome dataset of Darevskia valentini rock lizard
Authors: Ryakhovsky Sergei S. , Zhernakova Daria V. , Korchagin Vitaly I. , Vergun Andrey A. , Girnyk Anastasiya E. , Dikaya Victoria A. , Arakelyan Marine S. , Komissarov Aleksey S. , Ryskov Alexey P.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study is performed in the frame of a bigger study dedicated to genomics and transcriptomics of parthenogenesis in vertebrates. Among vertebrates, obligate parthenogenesis was first described in the lizards of the genus Darevskia. In this genus, all found parthenogenetic species originated via interspecific hybridization. It remains unknown which genetic or genomic factors play a key role in the generation of parthenogenetic organisms. Comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis of parthenogens and their parental species may elucidate this problem. Darevskia valentini is a paternal species for four (of seven) parthenogens of this genus, which we promote as a particularly important species for the generation of parthenogenetic forms.

Data description

Total cellular RNA was isolated from kidney and liver tissues using the standard Trizol Tissue RNA Extraction protocol. Sequencing of transcriptome libraries prepared by random fragmentation of cDNA samples was performed on an Illumina HiSeq2500. Obtained raw sequences contained 117,6 million reads with the GC content of 47%. After preprocessing, raw data was assembled by Trinity and produced 491,482 contigs.
Chest wall loading in the ICU: pushes, weights, and positions
Authors: Selickman John , Marini John J.
Published: November 2022

Clinicians monitor mechanical ventilatory support using airway pressures—primarily the plateau and driving pressure, which are considered by many to determine the safety of the applied tidal volume. These airway pressures are influenced not only by the ventilator prescription, but also by the mechanical properties of the respiratory system, which consists of the series-coupled lung and chest wall. Actively limiting chest wall expansion through external compression of the rib cage or abdomen is seldom performed in the ICU. Recent literature describing the respiratory mechanics of patients with late-stage, unresolving, ARDS, however, has raised awareness of the potential diagnostic (and perhaps therapeutic) value of this unfamiliar and somewhat counterintuitive practice. In these patients, interventions that reduce resting lung volume, such as loading the chest wall through application of external weights or manual pressure, or placing the torso in a more horizontal position, have unexpectedly improved tidal compliance of the lung and integrated respiratory system by reducing previously undetected end-tidal hyperinflation. In this interpretive review, we first describe underappreciated lung and chest wall interactions that are clinically relevant to both normal individuals and to the acutely ill who receive ventilatory support. We then apply these physiologic principles, in addition to published clinical observation, to illustrate the utility of chest wall modification for the purposes of detecting end-tidal hyperinflation in everyday practice.
Using tensor contractions to derive the structure of slice-wise multiplications of tensors with applications to space–time Khatri–Rao coding for MIMO-OFDM systems
Authors: Naskovska Kristina , Sokal Bruno , de Almeida André L. F. , Haardt Martin
Published: November 2022

The slice-wise multiplication of two tensors is required in a variety of tensor decompositions (including PARAFAC2 and PARATUCK2) and is encountered in many applications, including the analysis of multidimensional biomedical data (EEG, MEG, etc.) or multi-carrier multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. In this paper, we propose a new tensor representation that is not based on a slice-wise (matrix) description, but can be represented by a double contraction of two tensors. Such a double contraction of two tensors can be efficiently calculated via generalized unfoldings. It leads to new tensor models of the investigated system that do not depend on the chosen unfolding (in contrast to matrix models) and reveal the tensor structure of the data model, such that all possible unfoldings can be seen at the same time. As an example, we apply this new concept to the design of new receivers for multi-carrier MIMO systems in wireless communications. In particular, we consider MIMO-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems with and without Khatri–Rao coding. The proposed receivers exploit the channel correlation between adjacent subcarriers, require the same amount of training symbols as traditional OFDM techniques, but have an improved performance in terms of the symbol error rate. Furthermore, we show that the spectral efficiency of the Khatri–Rao-coded MIMO-OFDM can be increased by introducing cross-coding such that the “coding matrix” also contains useful information symbols. Considering this transmission technique, we derive a tensor model and two types of receivers for cross-coded MIMO-OFDM systems using the double contraction of two tensors.
Reducing interference via link adaptation in delay-critical wireless networks
Authors: Mandelli Silvio , Lieto Alessandro , Razenberg Mark , Weber Andreas , Wild Thorsten
Published: November 2022

One of the current (6G) wireless networks research’s trends is to investigate short distance and dense scenarios, where users are locally connected in sub-networks. Such use case is critical to support the advances of industrial internet of things or Industry 4.0 (I4.0), e.g. connecting an entire group of sensors and actuators of a robot. Therefore, schemes that can properly manage the interference must be deployed in practical systems to allow the promised performance advances of 6G. Targeting these high density scenarios, we describe the Power Optimization for Low Interference and Throughput Enhancement (POLITE) paradigm for link adaptation and power allocation, which leverages available radio resources to stabilize and reduce the interference. The baseline link adaptation schemes are compared with POLITE in their performance in a 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) calibrated system level simulator for industrial scenarios. As services in industrial environments require high reliability under constrained delays, we propose different delay-aware formulations in the POLITE design. In this work, we provide solutions both for relaxed delay requirements and for latency critical traffic, whose delay must be minimized. In particular, in the latter case, we propose also modifications of user selection and resource allocation procedures to further improve the reliability and latency. Simulation results prove the benefits of POLITE in terms of increased throughput, fulfillment of relaxed and delay-critical requirements, with an overall reduced transmit power compared to the current baseline link adaptation schemes.
Alcohol use disorder with comorbid anxiety disorder: a case report and focused literature review
Authors: Mocanu Victor , Wood Evan
Published: November 2022

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and anxiety disorders (AnxD) are prevalent health concerns in clinical practice which frequently co-occur (AUD-AnxD) and compound one another. Concurrent AUD-AnxD poses a challenge for clinical management as approaches to treatment of one disorder may be ineffective or potentially counterproductive for the other disorder.

Case Presentation

We present the case of a middle-aged man with anxiety disorder, AUD, chronic pain, and gamma-hydroxybutyrate use in context of tapering prescribed benzodiazepines who experienced severe alcohol withdrawal episodes during a complicated course of repeated inpatient withdrawal management. After medical stabilization, the patient found significant improvement in symptoms and no return to alcohol use with a regimen of naltrexone targeting his AUD, gabapentin targeting both his AUD and AnxD, and engagement with integrated psychotherapy, Alcoholics Anonymous, and addictions medicine follow-up.

Conclusion

Proper recognition and interventions for AUD and AnxD, ideally with overlapping efficacy, can benefit individuals with comorbid AUD-AnxD. Gabapentin, tobacco cessation, and integrated psychotherapy have preliminary evidence of synergistic effects in AUD-AnxD. Meta-analysis evidence does not support serotoninergic medications (e.g. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) which are commonly prescribed in AnxD and mood disorders as their use has not been associated with improved outcomes for AUD-AnxD. Additionally, several double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trials have suggested that serotonergic medications may worsen alcohol-related outcomes in some individuals with AUD. Areas for future investigation are highlighted.
Low expression of PEBP1P2 promotes metastasis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by post-transcriptional regulation of PEBP1 and KLF13 mRNA
Authors: Yang Lei , Yin Haoli , Chen Yi , Pan Chun , Hang Hexing , Lu Yanwen , Ma Wenliang , Li Xin , Gan Weidong , Guo Hongqian , Li Dongmei
Published: November 2022

Background

Pseudogenes play an essential role in tumor occurrence and progression. However, the functions and mechanisms of pseudogenes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remain largely elusive.

Methods

We quantified PEBP1P2 expression in ccRCC tissues and cells using fluorescence in situ hybridization and real-time PCR. Besides, we evaluated the role of PEBP1P2 in ccRCC using a lung metastasis model and a transwell assay. Finally, we documented the interactions between PEBP1P2, PEBP1, and KLF13 by performing luciferase, RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pulldown, and targeted RNA demethylation assays.

Results

Low PEBP1P2 expression correlates significantly with advanced stages and poor prognosis in ccRCC patients. Besides, PEBP1P2 overexpression inhibits ccRCC metastasis formation in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, PEBP1P2 directly interacted with 5-methylcytosine (m5C)-containing PEBP1 mRNA and recruited the YBX1/ELAVL1 complex, stabilizing PEBP1 mRNA. In addition, PEBP1P2 increased KLF13 mRNA levels by acting as a sponge for miR-296, miR-616, and miR-3194.

Conclusions

PEBP1P2 inhibits ccRCC metastasis formation and regulates both PEBP1 and KLF13. Therefore, molecular therapies targeting PEBP1P2 might be an effective treatment strategy against ccRCC and other cancers with low PEBP1P2 levels.
A review on the application of the exposome paradigm to unveil the environmental determinants of age-related diseases
Authors: Ding Enmin , Wang Yu , Liu Juan , Tang Song , Shi Xiaoming
Published: November 2022

Age-related diseases account for almost half of all diseases among adults worldwide, and their incidence is substantially affected by the exposome, which is the sum of all exogenous and endogenous environmental exposures and the human body’s response to these exposures throughout the entire lifespan. Herein, we perform a comprehensive review of the epidemiological literature to determine the key elements of the exposome that affect the development of age-related diseases and the roles of aging hallmarks in this process. We find that most exposure assessments in previous aging studies have used a reductionist approach, whereby the effect of only a single environmental factor or a specific class of environmental factors on the development of age-related diseases has been examined. As such, there is a lack of a holistic and unbiased understanding of the effect of multiple environmental factors on the development of age-related diseases. To address this, we propose several research strategies based on an exposomic framework that could advance our understanding—in particular, from a mechanistic perspective—of how environmental factors affect the development of age-related diseases. We discuss the statistical methods and other methods that have been used in exposome-wide association studies, with a particular focus on multiomics technologies. We also address future challenges and opportunities in the realm of multidisciplinary approaches and genome–exposome epidemiology. Furthermore, we provide perspectives on precise public health services for vulnerable populations, public communications, the integration of risk exposure information, and the bench-to-bedside translation of research on age-related diseases.
Preparation of vitamin D3-loaded oil-in-water-in-oil double emulsions using psyllium gum: optimization using response surface methodology
Authors: Didar Zohreh , Hesarinejad Mohammad Ali
Published: November 2022

In this study, the encapsulation of vitamin D3 into a double emulsion with psyllium gum in the aqueous phase and lecithin in the oil phase was optimized and modeled. The optimal values of the three independent variables were generated using a faced-centered central composite design (FCCD). The Z-average (diameter of the emulsion droplets), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, interfacial tension, creaming index, and encapsulation efficiency are among the quality evaluation metrics. According to the findings, the Z-average in the double emulsion was inversely affected by the psyllium gum concentration. The findings indicated that time after production had a significant direct influence on the Z-average. All freshly manufactured formulations may be characterized as good stable emulsions, according to the measurement of double emulsions’ zeta potential after preparation (negative charge lower than − 40.1 mV). During storage, the zeta potential value exhibited an upward trend. The creaming index was influenced significantly by storage time (p < 0.05) and at the end of storage time, the creaming index was 19.2% (in the sample with no gum and containing 0.25% lecithin). Analysis revealed that the interfacial tension was reduced as a result of the inclusion of the psyllium gum. On the other hand, prolonging storage lengthened the interfacial tension's magnitude. According to the findings, gum content and time had a significant impact on the encapsulation efficiency of primary and double emulsions. Finally, the optimal double emulsion preparation parameters based on maximum encapsulation efficiency were 1% psyllium gum, 1.125% lecithin, and a storage time equal to 25 days at 8 °C, with an obtained encapsulation efficiency of the double emulsion of 93.26%.
Derivation of 1.064 μm normal albedos on the C-type asteroid Ryugu from laser pulse intensity measurement of the Hayabusa2 LIDAR
Authors: Yamada Ryuhei , Yamamoto Keiko , Oshigami Shoko , Araki Hiroshi , Senshu Hiroki , Noda Hirotomo , Namiki Noriyuki , Matsumoto Koji , Yoshida Fumi , Abe Shinsuke , Hirata Naru , Sasaki Sho , Mizuno Takahide
Published: November 2022

Japanese asteroid explorer Hayabusa2 arrived at C-type asteroid 162,173 Ryugu in June 2018. The laser altimeter (LIDAR) onboard Hayabusa2 measured its own transmitted laser and returned pulse intensities from a Ryugu surface until November 2019. Because the Ryugu surface is extremely rough, topography dominates over the material properties in the conventional derivation of normal albedo. Thus, we developed a method to retrieve the normal albedo from the rough surface of a C-type asteroid at a LIDAR laser wavelength of 1.064 μm. The albedo map covering an equatorial band between – 40° and + 20° in latitude was created with 3˚-by-3˚ resolution using the intensity data obtained before the conjunction of the spacecraft with the Sun. The average of the normal albedo is 0.0405 $$\pm$$
±
0.0027, whereas approximately half of the 3°-by-3° grids are between 0.04 and 0.045. The low and uniform normal albedo feature is common to other remote-sensing observations of Ryugu by visible and near-infrared cameras onboard Hayabusa2.

Graphical Abstract
Global marine gravity anomalies from multi-satellite altimeter data
Authors: Wan Xiaoyun , Hao Ruijie , Jia Yongjun , Wu Xing , Wang Yi , Feng Lei
Published: November 2022

In this study, China’s first altimeter satellite Haiyang-2A (HY-2A) data combined observations from CryoSat-2, SARAL/AltiKa, and Jason-1&2 are used to calculate the global (60°S–60°N) marine deflections of the vertical and gravity anomalies named Global Marine Gravity Anomaly Version 1(GMGA1), with grid resolution of 1′ × 1′. The deflections of the vertical from each satellite observations are first derived from the gradients of the geoid height through the least squares method. The deflections of the vertical are then merged by assigning different weights to each satellite product based on their accuracy. Finally, gravity anomalies are obtained by the remove-restore method. The results reveal that the fused deflections of the vertical have an accuracy of 0.4 arcsec in the north component and 0.8 arcsec in the east component. HY-2A’s contribution to the north component of the integrated deflections of the vertical is second only to Cryosat-2. Jason-1/2 accounts for a large proportion of the integrated east components. Compared to worldwide products such as DTU17, Sandwell & Smith V31.1, as well as values from EGM2008, EIGEN-6C4 and XGM2019e_2159, GMGA1 has an accuracy of around 3.3 mGal. By not using HY-2A data, the precision of GMGA1 is reduced by about 0.1 mGal. To further improve the accuracy, seafloor topography information is used to provide short wavelength gravity anomaly. It is verified in the South China Sea (112°E–119E°, 12°N–20°N) using the Parker formula. By combining shipborne depth generated data and GMGA1 through a filtering technique, a new version of gravity anomaly grid with an accuracy improvement of 0.4 mGal in the South China Sea is obtained.

Graphical Abstract
Effect of noradrenaline on propofol-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in human skeletal muscle cells
Authors: Krajčová Adéla , Skagen Christine , Džupa Valér , Urban Tomáš , Rustan Arild C. , Jiroutková Kateřina , Bakalář Bohumil , Thoresen G. Hege , Duška František
Published: November 2022

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of both critical illness and propofol infusion syndrome and its severity seems to be proportional to the doses of noradrenaline, which patients are receiving. We comprehensively studied the effects of noradrenaline on cellular bioenergetics and mitochondrial biology in human skeletal muscle cells with and without propofol-induced mitochondrial dysfunction.

Methods

Human skeletal muscle cells were isolated from vastus lateralis biopsies from patients undergoing elective hip replacement surgery (n = 14) or healthy volunteers (n = 4). After long-term (96 h) exposure to propofol (10 µg/mL), noradrenaline (100 µM), or both, energy metabolism was assessed by extracellular flux analysis and substrate oxidation assays using [14C] palmitic and [14C(U)] lactic acid. Mitochondrial membrane potential, morphology and reactive oxygen species production were analysed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Mitochondrial mass was assessed both spectrophotometrically and by confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Results

Propofol moderately reduced mitochondrial mass and induced bioenergetic dysfunction, such as a reduction of maximum electron transfer chain capacity, ATP synthesis and profound inhibition of exogenous fatty acid oxidation. Noradrenaline exposure increased mitochondrial network size and turnover in both propofol treated and untreated cells as apparent from increased co-localization with lysosomes. After adjustment to mitochondrial mass, noradrenaline did not affect mitochondrial functional parameters in naïve cells, but it significantly reduced the degree of mitochondrial dysfunction induced by propofol co-exposure. The fatty acid oxidation capacity was restored almost completely by noradrenaline co-exposure, most likely due to restoration of the capacity to transfer long-chain fatty acid to mitochondria. Both propofol and noradrenaline reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and increased reactive oxygen species production, but their effects were not additive.

Conclusions

Noradrenaline prevents rather than aggravates propofol-induced impairment of mitochondrial functions in human skeletal muscle cells. Its effects on bioenergetic dysfunctions of other origins, such as sepsis, remain to be demonstrated.
Co-designing person-centred quality indicator implementation for primary care in Alberta: a consensus study
Authors: Manalili Kimberly , Scott Catherine M. , Hemmelgarn Brenda , O’Beirne Maeve , Bailey Allan L. , Haener Michel K. , Banerjee Cyrene , Peters Sue P. , Chiodo Mirella , Aghajafari Fariba , Santana Maria J.
Published: November 2022

Background

We aimed to contribute to developing practical guidance for implementing person-centred quality indicators (PC-QIs) for primary care in Alberta, Canada. As a first step in this process, we conducted stakeholder-guided prioritization of PC-QIs and implementation strategies. Stakeholder engagement is necessary to ensure PC-QI implementation is adapted to the context and local needs.

Methods

We used an adapted nominal group technique (NGT) consensus process. Panelists were presented with 26 PC-QIs, and implementation strategies. Both PC-QIs and strategies were identified from our extensive previous engagement of patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and quality improvement leaders. The NGT objectives were to: 1. Prioritize PC-QIs and implementation strategies; and 2. Facilitate the participation of diverse primary care stakeholders in Alberta, including patients, healthcare providers, and quality improvement staff. Panelists participated in three rounds of activities. In the first, panelists individually ranked and commented on the PC-QIs and strategies. The summarized results were discussed in the second-round face-to-face group meeting. For the last round, panelists provided their final individual rankings, informed by the group discussion. Finally, we conducted an evaluation of the consensus process from the panelists’ perspectives.

Results

Eleven primary care providers, patient partners, and quality improvement staff from across Alberta participated. The panelists prioritized the following PC-QIs: ‘Patient and caregiver involvement in decisions about their care and treatment’; ‘Trusting relationship with healthcare provider’; ‘Health information technology to support person-centred care’; ‘Co-designing care in partnership with communities’; and ‘Overall experience’. Implementation strategies prioritized included: ‘Develop partnerships’; ‘Obtain quality improvement resources’; ‘Needs assessment (stakeholders are engaged about their needs/priorities for person-centred measurement)’; ‘Align measurement efforts’; and ‘Engage champions’. Our evaluation suggests that panelists felt that the process was valuable for planning the implementation and obtaining feedback, that their input was valued, and that most would continue to collaborate with other stakeholders to implement the PC-QIs.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the value of co-design and participatory approaches for engaging stakeholders in adapting PC-QI implementation for the primary care context in Alberta, Canada. Collaboration with stakeholders can promote buy-in for ongoing engagement and ensure implementation will lead to meaningful improvements that matter to patients and providers.
Acute severe asthma in emergency department: clinical characteristics, risk factors, and predictors for poor outcome
Authors: Mohamed Ashraf Zin E L-Abdeen , Shaaban Lamiaa Hassan , Gad Shereen Frghaly , Azeem Esraa Abdel , Gamal Elddin Waleed
Published: November 2022

Background

Severe asthma exacerbation can be a frightening experience to the patient and physician. Despite continuous efforts to frame management guidelines and advances in treatment, severe exacerbations still occur. In order to prevent and judicious management of asthma exacerbations, we should predict them first. This study aims to evaluate distinct clinical trajectories and management outcome of patients with severe asthma exacerbations and also evaluate predictors for poor outcome.

Methods

Patients suffering from acute asthma exacerbation and presented to emergency room (forty patients) were grouped into 2 groups (groups A and B) according to severity of exacerbation. Assessment included full clinical history, laboratory investigations (including eosinophil cell count and serum IgE level), Beck’s anxiety and depression inventory scales, assessment of asthma medication adherence and control level, and peak expiratory flow measurement (at presentation, 1 and 6 h after).

Results

Fifty-five percent of patients suffered from severe and life-threatening asthma exacerbations, 63.6% of them were females. The most important predictors for severe exacerbations were SO2 < 90% at baseline (OR = 4.56; 95% CI = 3.45–7.56; P < 0.001), PEFR after 1 h (OR= 3.34; 95%CI = 1.90–4.90; P < 0.001), and uncontrolled asthma (OR= 3.33; 95%CI = 2.50–5.05; P < 0.001). Predictors for hospitalization were old age (OR = 1.11; 95%CI = 1.09–2.11; P < 0.001), uncontrolled asthma (OR = 2.34; 95%CI = 2.01–4.40; P < 0.001), PEFR after 1 h (OR= 4.44; 95%CI= 3.24–7.68; P < 0.001), and SO2 <90% at baseline (OR= 5.67; 95%CI= 3.98–8.50; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Severe asthma exacerbations can be predicted by old age, previous history of mechanical ventilation, obstructive sleep apnea, overuse of SABA, uncontrolled asthma, moderate to severe depression, eosinophilia, SO2 <90%, and low peak expiratory flow rates.
Most Important Things and Associated Factors With Prioritizing Daily Life in Patients With Advanced Lung Cancer
Authors: Kameyama Naofumi , Sato Takashi , Arai Daisuke , Fujisawa Daisuke , Takeuchi Mari , Nakachi Ichiro , Kawada Ichiro , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Ikemura Shinnosuke , Terai Hideki , Nukaga Shigenari , Nakano Yasushi , Hirano Toshiyuki , Minematsu Naoto , Asakura Takanori , Kamatani Takashi , Tanaka Kyuto , Suzuki Shoji , Miyawaki Masayoshi , Naoki Katsuhiko , Fukunaga Koichi , Soejima Kenzo
Published: November 2022

PURPOSE:

Patients' values and priorities in their lives should be appreciated from an early phase of incurable diseases such as advanced cancer. However, studies examining these characteristics have been lacking. This study attempted to determine what patients with advanced lung cancer valued most, once they had been diagnosed, and any associated factors.

METHODS:

Patients with newly diagnosed advanced lung cancer (N = 248) were enrolled in a questionnaire survey conducted at 16 hospitals in Japan. Their priorities were assessed using a free-text response to the question what is the most important thing to you now? at the time of diagnosis and 3 months after diagnosis. The free-text responses were classified into 10 categories for quantification. The clinical characteristics associated with the category describing daily life were further examined.

RESULTS:

Free-text comments were obtained from 103 (44.0%) and 66 (42.6%) patients at the time of diagnosis and at 3 months, respectively. The most frequent categories were family (at diagnosis: 50.5%; at 3 months: 50.0%) and daily life (at diagnosis: 33.0%; at 3 months: 36.4%), followed by health (at diagnosis: 32.0%; at 3 months: 27.3%) at both time points. The patients mentioning daily life, the issues related to how to spend daily life, showed significantly higher total scores and functional well-being subscale scores on the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung scale at both time points and lower depression scores at diagnosis and lower anxiety scores at 3 months on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

CONCLUSION:

Family and daily life were highly valued by patients with advanced lung cancer at diagnosis. A better quality of life and better mood were associated with mentioning daily life, which should be taken into account in care planning to maintain patients' involvement in daily life even with incurable diseases.
Incorporating reading strategies for EFL undergraduate learners in Saudi Arabia: A think-aloud study
Authors: Al-Ahdal Arif Ahmed Mohammed Hassan , Alolaywi Yasamiyan
Published: November 2022

Background: In language learning, reading is a skill that enables interaction with a text in whatever field of knowledge the learner is pursuing. Readers tend to use strategies such as comprehension, interpretation and conception of decoding written language and texts to enhance their reading capacity. This research explores the reading strategies applied by Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners and compares the reading abilities of male and female EFL students. Methods: The study interviewed three EFL students about the reading strategies they applied while reading passages and texts. Then an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) reading test was handed over to 26 randomly selected students. Results: The study found that the reading strategies used by the students interviewed involved skimming, scanning, guessing the meaning from context, identifying the mean idea, and summarizing the body of the text in question. Moreover, the study revealed that both male and female students scored low in the IELTS tests that the researchers conducted. The average mean score they reached was 7.15 out of 20. However, even in the low scoring ratio, female students (M=7.69) outperformed male students (M= 6.62) and the difference between them remained significant, P=.000. Conclusions: The study recommends that the language instructors help EFL learners in developing their reading strategies and applying them every time they read any text.
Is Taylor Swift leading a new Pop revolution? A cross-generation analysis of Pop/Rock cover songs
Authors: Ortega José Luis
Published: November 2022

Background: The aim of this paper is to find evidence of a changing pattern in cover songs by 21st-century artists. To this end, over 76,000 covers performed by artists who grew up in the 2000s were quantitatively analyzed. Methods: SecondHandSongs.com was crawled to extract the cover relationships, and Allmusic.com to obtain the genre and starting decade of each performer. Results: The results show that the current music panorama is dominated by Pop/Rock music and, for the first time since the 1960s, artists from the 2010s generation prefer to cover more songs by contemporary artists than by classic figures from the 1960s. Pop and Dance are the emerging sub-genres with the largest proportion of covered musicians, while Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber and Ed Sheeran are responsible for this changing trend. Conclusions: These results provide an interesting opportunity to introduce quantitative studies in cultural studies about music, cinema and arts.
Intraoral repair of fractured ceramics: a literature review
Authors: Alqarawi Firas K. , Alhumaidan Abdulkareem A. , Aldakhili Abdulrahman , Alfayez Abdullah , Abushowmi Tahani , Alramadan Anwar , Alzoubi Fawaz
Published: November 2022

Background: Fracture or chipping of veneering ceramic resulting in aesthetic and functional issues is a frequent technical complication encountered with fixed dental prostheses. Treatment options include extraoral or intraoral repair of the ceramic restoration; the latter being minimally invasive and cost-effective. We reviewed the various intraoral repair techniques for ceramic fractures and their efficiency in the last decade.

Methods: A literature search was carried out between 2017 and 2022 using the PubMed database with keywords: intraoral, repair, ceramics, porcelain, and ‘porcelain fused to metal’. Screening of abstracts and full texts was carried out to determine the final list of eligible studies.

Results:  Twenty-one eligible studies were included in the review which consisted of 17 in vitro studies, three case reports, and one prospective clinical study. Researchers and dentists preferred repairing cracked veneered zirconia-based restorations intraorally if the restoration is in acceptable condition. However, successful intraoral repair of veneering fractures relies on the bond between the previous restoration and the new repair material, the right adhesive resin, and adequate surface conditioning. The review indicated that the best technique to fix chipping in a complex made of zirconia core and veneering ceramic is to treat the veneering ceramic with hydrofluoric acid before covering the core ceramic with silica.

Conclusion: Intraoral repair is an efficient and economic procedure without the need for repeated sessions. However, the success and longevity of the restoration rely on the technical skills of the clinicians and adherence to prescribed protocols.
Perceptions and experiences of intravenous iron treatment for anaemia in pregnancy in Malawi: a formative qualitative study
Authors: Manda-Taylor Lucinda , Kufankomwe Macdonald , Chatha Gertrude , Chipeta Effie , Mamani-Mategula Elisabeth , Mwangi Martin N. , Kelaher Magaret , Prang Khic-Houy , Ataíde Ricardo , Pasricha Sant-Rayn , Phiri Kamija Samuel
Published: November 2022

Background: The study objective was to explore opinions, identify experiences, and describe perspectives on the acceptability of intravenous (IV) iron to treat anaemia in pregnancy and identify potential barriers and facilitators of introducing IV iron in the Malawian healthcare system.

Methods: We conducted 15 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions with pregnant women, and seven in-depth interviews with health workers at a community-based health centre in Blantyre and a tertiary hospital in Zomba.

Results: Most women who used IV iron treatment during the second trimester of pregnancy reported feeling better and stronger after receiving the intervention. Women perceived that IV iron treatment worked faster and increased their haemoglobin count. However, cultural beliefs that IV iron treatment will cause miscarriage and the perception that study procedures involved Satanism and vampirism practices were barriers to acceptability. Health workers found IV iron treatment easy to administer because it is a single-dose treatment, simultaneously reducing the burden for pregnant women taking daily oral iron tablets. However, health workers expressed concerns about the costs and the need to train health workers before the large-scale implementation and integration of IV iron treatment into Malawi’s routine care.

Conclusions: Despite the perceived concerns and challenges experienced in participating in the first IV iron infusion trial in Malawi, participants’ reflections suggest that IV iron infusion is acceptable for treating iron-deficiency anaemia in pregnancy. Participant advocate groups can offer a peer-to-peer education approach to sensitize and engage community members on the benefits of treatment and dispel concerns when the country contemplates integrating IV iron infusion for treating anaemia in pregnancy in Malawi.