bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomised pilot trial of cash incentives for reducing paediatric asthmatic tobacco smoke exposures from maternal caregivers and members of their social network
Authors: Jassal Mandeep S , Lewis-Land Cassia , Thompson Richard E , Butz Arlene
Published: October 2020

Background

The primary aim was to evaluate the efficacy of financial incentives for reducing paediatric tobacco smoke exposures (TSEs) through motivating cigarette usage reduction among low-income maternal caregivers and members of their social network.

Design

Randomised control pilot trial over a 6-month study follow-up time period. The study was undertaken from May 2017 to -May 2018. Once monthly follow-up visits occurred over the 6-month study period.

Setting

Baltimore City, Maryland, USA.

Participants

We grouped 135 participants into 45 triads (asthmatic child (2–12 years of age), maternal caregiver and social network member). Triads were assigned in a 1:1 allocation ratio. The maternal caregiver and social network members were active smokers and contributed to paediatric TSE.

Interventions

Triads were randomised to receive either usual care (TSE education and quitline referrals) or usual care plus financial incentives. Cash incentives up to $1000 were earned by caregivers and designated social network participants. Incentives for either caregivers or social network participants were provided contingent on their individual reduction of tobacco usage measured by biomarkers of tobacco usage. Study visits occurred once a month during the 6-month trial.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome measure was mean change in monthly paediatric cotinine levels over 6 months of follow-up interval and was analysed on an intention-to-treat basis.

Results

The mean change in monthly child cotinine values was not significantly different in the intervention cohort over the 6-month follow-up period, compared with the control group (p=0.098, CI −0.16 to 1.89). Trends in child cotinine could not be ascribed to caregivers or social network members. Despite decreasing mean monthly cotinine values, neither the intervention cohort’s caregivers (difference in slope (control–intervention)=3.30 ng/mL/month, CI −7.72 to 1.13, p=0.144) or paired social network members (difference in slope (control–intervention)=−1.59 ng/mL/month, CI −3.57 to 6.74, p=0.546) had significantly different cotinine levels than counterparts in the control group.

Conclusions

Financial incentives directed at adult contributors to paediatric TSE did not decrease child cotinine levels.

Trial registration number

NCT03099811
.
Experiences and perspectives of the parents of emerging adults living with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Pritlove Cheryl , Markowitz Benjamin , Mukerji Geetha , Advani Andrew , Parsons Janet A
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Whereas it is widely recognized that emerging adulthood can be a difficult time in the life of an individual living with type 1 diabetes, relatively little is known about the experiences of their parents or guardians. These individuals once shouldered much of the burden for their child’s diabetes ‘self’-management, yet their contribution is often overlooked by the adult healthcare system. Here, we set out to gain an understanding of the perspectives of parents of emerging adults living with type 1 diabetes.

Research design and methods

Semi-structured interviews were performed with a purposeful sample of parents of emerging adults with type 1 diabetes recruited from two urban young adult diabetes clinics and through a national diabetes charity. Thematic coding was derived using a constant comparative approach.

Results

Analysis of interviews with 16 parents of emerging adults with type 1 diabetes identified three themes: parental experiences of the transition to adult care; negotiating parent–child roles, responsibilities and relationships; and new and evolving fears. Parents spoke in detail about the time surrounding their child’s diagnosis of type 1 diabetes to emphasize the complexity of diabetes care and the need to establish a ‘new normal’ for the family. In turn, adolescence and emerging adulthood required a renegotiation of roles and responsibilities, with many parents continuing to play a role in high-level diabetes management. Several parents of emerging adults with type 1 diabetes (particularly those of young men) vocalized worries about their child’s readiness to assume responsibility for their self-care, and some expressed frustration with the apparent dichotomy in the role expectations of parents between the pediatric and adult care settings.

Conclusions

Adult healthcare providers should recognize both the ongoing involvement of parents in the ‘self’-management of emerging adults with type 1 diabetes and the unique aspects of the caregiver burden that they experience.
Are payment methods for prescription drugs associated with polypharmacy in older adults in Ireland? Evidence from the TILDA cohort study
Authors: Varley Aine , Cullinan John
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Polypharmacy is commonly defined as the use of five or more medications, is associated with a range of adverse outcomes and is particularly common in older adults. We sought to examine the relationship between polypharmacy and payment methods for prescription drugs among older adults in Ireland.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional analysis of data from wave 3 of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging, a nationally representative cohort study sample of community-living adults aged 50 years and older in Ireland. We used multivariable logistic regression to model the independent relationship between polypharmacy and drug payment methods. We controlled for a wide range of demographic, socioeconomic and health-related variables.

Results

Enrolment in publicly funded schemes which entitle participants to subsidised or free prescription medications was independently associated with increased odds of reporting polypharmacy. Relative to out-of-pocket payment, we found polypharmacy was independently associated with payment via medical card (OR 2.65; 95% CI 2.13 to 3.28), drugs payment scheme (OR 3.83; 95% CI 2.96 to 4.95), long-term illness scheme (OR 4.24; 95% CI 3.06 to 5.87), but not private health insurance (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.42 to 1.62).

Conclusions

Given multiple payment methods available for funding prescription charges in Ireland, there is a significant differential in the upfront costs faced by patients. One implication of our results is that the quantity of medications consumed by an individual may be influenced by payment methods for prescription fees. This could lead to overconsumption of medicines by those who are covered, or underconsumption by those who are not. However, our study was limited by an inability to discriminate between appropriate and inappropriate polypharmacy or to account for differential levels of multimorbidity, suggesting further research on this topic is warranted.
Nutrition screening and assessment tools for patients with cancer and survivors of cancer: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Kristensen Marianne Boll , Wessel Irene , Ustrup Kim Skov , Dieperink Karin B , Zwisler Ann-Dorthe , Beck Anne Marie
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Nutritional challenges are common consequences of cancer, and they do not only occur in the hospital setting. They are also frequent after completion of treatment, and nutritional interventions in community-based post-treatment rehabilitation services are important. The first step towards initiating any nutritional intervention is to identify the individual in need hereof, but evidence is limited on the applicability of different nutrition screening and assessment tools in the post-treatment rehabilitation services. The aim is to systematically review and identify nutrition screening and assessment tools appropriate for use in patients with cancer and survivors of cancer in hospital or community-based healthcare settings.

Methods and analysis

In this systematic review, the electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL Complete and Embase were searched systematically using comprehensive search strategies. Primary searches were carried out in August 2018 with updated searches performed in November 2019. Clinicaltrials.gov and PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews will be searched for additional relevant studies. Studies will be included if they validate a nutrition screening or assessment tool in adult patients with cancer or survivors of cancer. No restriction on publication date will be applied, and full-text articles in English, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish are eligible for inclusion. Two reviewers will independently conduct screening of search results, study selection, data extraction and quality assessment. Data will be synthesised narratively.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required. Results will be reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement and published in an international peer-reviewed journal. Furthermore, results will be presented in relevant research and clinical fora to facilitate transfer of results to clinical practice in benefit of patients.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018096678.
Changes in preventive care utilisation and its influencing factors among Chinese adults before and after the healthcare reform: cross-sectional evidence from the China Health and Nutrition Survey in 2004–2015
Authors: Wu Ting Ting , Liu Wei Wei , Zou Mao , Lei Xun , Yang Qiang , Sharma Manoj , Zhao Yong , Shi Zu Min
Published: October 2020

Objective

China launched its health reform in 2009. This study aimed to assess changes in preventive care utilisation (PCU) and its relationship with the healthcare reform.

Design

A cross-sectional study using demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, environmental factors, and lifestyle and health status data of adults from five waves (2004–2015) of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) was conducted. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression models were used.

Setting

Data were derived from urban and rural communities of nine provinces in China.

Participants

Data were obtained from five waves of the CHNS, with 9960 participants in 2004, 9888 in 2006, 10 286 in 2009, 9709 in 2011, and 10 628 in 2015.

Outcome

The primary outcome was PCU.

Results

PCU in 2004–2015 among adults was 3.29%, 3.13%, 3.77%, 4.95% and 2.73%, respectively. Whether before or after the health reform, having a history of disease and female gender were positive influencing factors of PCU. Before 2009, PCU was significantly associated with gender, income, medical insurance status and region. Age, medical insurance status, history of drinking and education level significantly affected PCU in 2009–2011. Having medical insurance was no longer a positive influencing factor of PCU, while high income had a negative effect on PCU, in 2011–2015.

Conclusions

PCU from 2004 to 2015 was low and the health reform in China may lack sustainable effect on PCU. Further studies on how to ensure sustainability of PCU are necessary, and further reforms on preventive care services should be aimed at different ages, rural areas and participants without history of disease.
Microbiota tryptophan metabolism induces aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation and improves alcohol-induced liver injury
Authors: Wrzosek Laura , Ciocan Dragos , Hugot Cindy , Spatz Madeleine , Dupeux Margot , Houron Camille , Lievin-Le Moal Vanessa , Puchois Virginie , Ferrere Gladys , Trainel Nicolas , Mercier-Nomé Françoise , Durand Sylvere , Kroemer Guido , Voican Cosmin Sebastian , Emond Patrick , Straube Marjolène , Sokol Harry , Perlemuter Gabriel , Cassard Anne-Marie
Published: October 2020

Objective

Chronic alcohol consumption is an important cause of liver-related deaths. Specific intestinal microbiota profiles are associated with susceptibility or resistance to alcoholic liver disease in both mice and humans. We aimed to identify the mechanisms by which targeting intestinal microbiota can improve alcohol-induced liver lesions.

Design

We used human associated mice, a mouse model of alcoholic liver disease transplanted with the intestinal microbiota of alcoholic patients and used the prebiotic, pectin, to modulate the intestinal microbiota. Based on metabolomic analyses, we focused on microbiota tryptophan metabolites, which are ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Involvement of the AhR pathway was assessed using both a pharmacological approach and AhR-deficient mice.

Results

Pectin treatment modified the microbiome and metabolome in human microbiota-associated alcohol-fed mice, leading to a specific faecal signature. High production of bacterial tryptophan metabolites was associated with an improvement of liver injury. The AhR agonist Ficz (6-formylindolo (3,2-b) carbazole) reduced liver lesions, similarly to prebiotic treatment. Conversely, inactivation of theahrgene in alcohol-fed AhRknock-outmice abrogated the beneficial effects of the prebiotic. Importantly, patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis have low levels of bacterial tryptophan derivatives that are AhR agonists.

Conclusions

Improvement of alcoholic liver disease by targeting the intestinal microbiota involves the AhR pathway, which should be considered as a new therapeutic target.
Observations from a teaching hospital in Ireland: changing from MDRD to CKD-EPI eGFR in routine practice
Authors: Reeve Janice Lee Veronica , Davis Marion , Twomey Patrick Joseph
Published: October 2020

Estimates of glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) help assess kidney function. Estimated GFR can be used to classify patients into one of six Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) categories as recommended by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes clinical practice guidelines; CKD1 ≥90, CKD2 60–89, CKD3a 45–59, CKD3b 30–44, CKD4 15–29 or CKD5 ≤15 mL/min/1.73 m2. The Modification of Diet and Renal Disease (MDRD) study formula was widely adopted to calculate eGFR. The CKD Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula improved accuracy of CKD staging at eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2. MDRD and CKD-EPI eGFR were calculated on 111 444 serum creatinine results from adult patients measured as part of the routine Clinical Chemistry service. Application of CKD-EPI eGFR reclassified 18% to a lower (13.9%) or higher (4.0%) CKD stage. CKD staging was lower when <65 years and higher when ≥65 years. Females were more often reclassified compared with males (2.6% vs 0.8%). Overall, CKD-EPI eGFR classified less with CKD (stages 3a-5), unless ≥75 years. Older males and inpatients had higher CKD stages when CKD-EPI eGFR was applied. It has been recommended to replace MDRD eGFR with CKD-EPI eGFR. In general, doing this will have little impact, however, for some patients their CKD classification will be different.
Phase II study of atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab in patients with advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Friedman Claire F , Snyder Charen Alexandra , Zhou Qin , Carducci Michael A , Buckley De Meritens Alexandre , Corr Bradley R , Fu Siqing , Hollmann Travis J , Iasonos Alexia , Konner Jason A , Konstantinopoulos Panagiotis A , Modesitt Susan C , Sharon Elad , Aghajanian Carol , Zamarin Dmitriy
Published: October 2020

Background

There are limited treatment options for patients with metastatic or recurrent cervical cancer. Platinum-based chemotherapy plus the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibody bevacizumab remains the mainstay of advanced treatment. Pembrolizumab is Food and Drug Agency approved for programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) positive cervical cancer with a modest response rate. This is the first study to report the efficacy and safety of the PD-L1 antibody atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab in advanced cervical cancer.

Methods

We report the results from a phase II, open-label, multicenter study (NCT02921269). Patients with advanced cervical cancer were treated with bevacizumab 15 mg/kg intravenous every 3 weeks and atezolizumab 1200 mg intravenous every 3 weeks. The primary objective was to measure the objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety.

Results

In the total evaluable population (n=10), zero patients achieved an objective response as assessed by Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors (RECIST) V.1.1, resulting in a confirmed ORR of 0%. Of note, there were two patients who achieved an unconfirmed PR. The DCR by RECIST V.1.1 was 60% (0% complete response, 0% partial response, 60% stable disease). Median PFS was 2.9 months (95% CI, 1.8 to 6) and median OS was 8.9 months (95% CI, 3.4 to 21.9). Safety results were generally consistent with the known safety profile of both drugs, notably with two high-grade neurologic events.

Conclusions

The combination of bevacizumab and atezolizumab did not meet the predefined efficacy endpoint, as addition of bevacizumab to PD-L1 blockade did not appear to enhance the ORR in cervical cancer.
Redefining liberty: is natural inability a legitimate constraint of liberty?
Authors: Ladan Zahra
Published: October 2020

In P v Cheshire West, Lady Hale stated that an act that would deprive an able-bodied or able-minded person of their liberty would do the same to a mentally or physically disabled person. Throughout the judgement, there is no definition of what liberty is, which makes defining an act that would deprive a person of it difficult. Ideas of liberty are described in terms of political liberty within a society, the state of being free from external influence and individual autonomy. This essay explores various philosophical ideas of liberty and what a legitimate constraint of liberty is. It will be argued that defining liberty in terms external influence from other human agents undermines the impact of natural inability on a person’s ability to fulfil their intrinsic desires—a true constraint of liberty is any which prohibits a person from acting in the way they desire. If liberty is not the same for all, it follows that a deprivation of liberty differs between different agents. Although the government must protect personal liberty, it is important to recognise that an act that may deprive an able-bodied or minded person of their liberty, may in fact promote the liberty of a disabled persons. It will be argued that acts that allow a disabled person to act out desires that they ordinarily would not be able to perform, do not deprive them of their liberty.
Non-hyperaemic pressure ratios to guide percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Michail Michael , Thakur Udit , Mehta Ojas , Ramzy John M , Comella Andrea , Ihdayhid Abdul Rahman , Cameron James D , Nicholls Stephen J , Hoole Stephen P , Brown Adam J
Published: October 2020

The use of fractional flow reserve (FFR) in guiding revascularisation improves patient outcomes and has been well-established in clinical guidelines. Despite this, the uptake of FFR has been limited, likely attributable to the perceived increase in procedural time and use of hyperaemic agents that can cause patient discomfort. This has led to the development of instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR), an alternative non-hyperaemic pressure ratio (NHPR). Since its inception, the use of iFR has been supported by an increasing body of evidence and is now guideline recommended. More recently, other commercially available NHPRs including diastolic hyperaemia-free ratio and resting full-cycle ratio have emerged. Studies have demonstrated that these indices, in addition to mean distal coronary artery pressure to mean aortic pressure ratio, are mathematically analogous (with specific nuances) to iFR. Additionally, there is increasing data demonstrating the equivalent diagnostic performance of alternative NHPRs in comparison with iFR and FFR. These NHPRs are now integral within most current pressure wire systems and are commonly available in the catheter laboratory. It is therefore key to understand the fundamental differences and evidence for NHPRs to guide appropriate clinical decision-making.
Ilioinguinal/Iliohypogastric versus quadratus lumborum nerve blockade for elective open inguinal herniorrhaphy: a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, equivalency trial
Authors: Edwards Christopher J , Weller Robert S , Turner James D , Dobson Sean W , Jaffe J Douglas , Reynolds J Wells , Russell Greg , Henshaw Daryl S
Published: October 2020

Background

Open inguinal herniorrhaphy (OIH) is a commonly performed surgical procedure with expected postoperative pain. Historically, an option for regional analgesia has been an ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block (IINB). More recently, the transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has been used as an analgesic technique for a variety of abdominal and truncal surgical procedures. Given our own institutional experiences with the performance of QLB combined with the body of literature supporting the proximal blockade of the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves via this approach, we compared the analgesia provided by an IINB to a QLB. We hypothesized that the two blocks would provide equivalent analgesia, as defined by a difference of less than±2 points on the pain scale (0–10 numeric rating scale (NRS)), for patients undergoing OIH.

Methods

Sixty patients scheduled for elective outpatient OIH under general anesthesia were randomized to preoperatively receive either an IINB or a transmuscular QLB with 0.25% bupivacaine/epinephrine/clonidine for postoperative analgesia. The primary endpoint was movement NRS pain scores at 8 hours. Secondary outcomes included resting NRS pain scores at 8 and 24 hours, movement NRS pain scores at 24 hours, incidence of opioid related side effects (nausea, vomiting, pruritus), time-to-first oral opioid analgesic, and total opioid consumption at 24 hours.

Results

Fifty-nine patients were analyzed per an intention-to-treat approach (one patient was excluded because the surgical procedure was canceled). Movement pain scores at 8 hours were equivalent (IINB 5.10±3.02 vs QLB 5.03±3.01 (mean NRS±SD); two one-sided test mean difference (90% CI), 0.07 (−1.24 to 1.38), p ≤0.01). There were no differences between groups for any of the secondary endpoints.

Conclusion

An IINB and a transmuscular QLB are equivalent with regards to their ability to provide postoperative analgesia after OIH.
Prevalence, incidence and associated risk factors of STIs during pregnancy in South Africa
Authors: Nyemba Dorothy Chiwoniso , Medina-Marino Andrew , Peters Remco P H , Klausner Jeffrey D , Ngwepe Phuti , Myer Landon , Johnson Leigh Francis , Davey Dvora Joseph
Published: October 2020

Objective

STIs during pregnancy increase adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes and may increase HIV risk. STI syndromic management is standard of care in South Africa. Our study evaluated the prevalence and incidence of STIs in pregnant women and the associated risk factors.

Methods

We combined data from two prospective observational studies of pregnant women enrolled while attending their first antenatal clinic (ANC) visit in Tshwane District and Cape Town. Women ≥18 years were tested at first ANC visit and at their first postpartum visit forChlamydia trachomatis,Neisseria gonorrhoeaeandTrichomonas vaginalisusing Xpert assays (Cepheid, USA). We evaluated the prevalence and incidence of STI and the associated risk factors using multivariable regression models.

Results

We enrolled 669 pregnant women, 64% (n=427) from Tshwane District and 36% (n=242) from Cape Town; 80% (n=534) were women living with HIV (WLHIV) and 20% (n=135) without HIV. At enrolment, 37% (n=250) were diagnosed with at least one STI, of which 76% (n=190) were asymptomatic. STI prevalence was 40% (n=213) in WLHIV and 27% (n=37) in women without HIV (p=0.01). Baseline STI infection was associated with younger age (OR=0.95 per year, 95% CI 0.92 to 0.98), higher gestational age (adjusted OR (aOR)=1.03 per week, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.05), single relationship status (aOR=1.53, 95% CI 1.09 to 2.15) and HIV status (aOR=1.86, 95% CI 1.17 to 2.95). Of 419 participants with no STI at baseline, 21 had an incident STI during follow-up, with a mean follow-up time of 140 days. The incidence rate of STI during pregnancy and early post partum was 15 infections per 100 women-years (95% CI 9 to 23). Younger age was associated with STI incidence.

Conclusion

Our study shows high prevalence and incidence of STIs in pregnancy, especially in WLHIV, demonstrating the need for STI screening in ANC to prevent adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. Most STI cases were asymptomatic and would have gone untreated with syndromic management. Aetiological STI screening is urgently needed to reduce the burden of STIs in pregnancy.
The impact of sex and gender on heart–brain axis dysfunction: current concepts and novel perspectives
Authors: Baroni Carlotta , Lionetti Vincenzo
Published: October 2020

The heart–brain axis (HBA) recapitulates all the circuits that regulate bidirectional flow of communication between heart and brain. Several mechanisms may underlie the interdependent relationship involving heterogeneous tissues at rest and during specific target organ injury such as myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmia, stroke, mood disorders, or dementia. In-depth translational studies of the HBA dysfunction under single-organ injury should include both male and female animals to develop sex- and gender-oriented prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Indeed, sex and gender are determining factors as females and males exhibit significant differences in terms of susceptibility to risk factors, age of onset, severity of symptoms, and outcome. Despite most studies having focused on the male population, we have conducted a careful appraisal of the literature investigating HBA in females. In particular, we have (i) analyzed sex-related heart and brain illnesses, (ii) recapitulated the most significant studies simultaneously conducted on cardio- and cerebro-vascular systems in female populations, and (iii) hypothesized future perspectives for the development of a gender-based approach to HBA dysfunction. Although sex- and gender-oriented research is at its infancy, the impact of sex on HBA dysfunction is opening unexpected new avenues for managing the health of female subjects exposed to risk of lifestyle multi-organ disease.
Transcriptional responses to water stress and recovery in a drought-tolerant fescue wild grass (Festuca ovina; Poaceae)
Authors: Qiu Fan , Bachle Seton , Estes Ryan , Duvall Melvin R. , Nippert Jesse B. , Ungerer Mark C.
Published: October 2020

Water stress associated with drought-like conditions is a major factor limiting plant growth and impacts productivity of natural plant communities and agricultural crops. Molecular responses of plants to water stress have been studied most extensively in model species and crops, few of which have evolved natural drought tolerance. In the current study, we examined physiological and transcriptomic responses at multiple timepoints during increasing water stress and following initial recovery from stress in a drought-tolerant C3 species, Festuca ovina. Results demonstrated non-linear transcriptomic changes during increasing stress, but largely linear declines in physiological measurements during this same period. Transcription factors represented approximately 12.7% of all differentially expressed genes. In total, 117 F. ovina homologs of previously identified and molecularly characterized drought-responsive plant genes were identified. This information will be valuable for further investigations of the molecular mechanisms involved in drought tolerance in C3 plants.
Phenomenology of scotogenic scalar dark matter
Authors: Ávila Ivania M. , De Romeri Valentina , Duarte Laura , Valle José W. F.
Published: October 2020

We reexamine the minimal Singlet $$+$$
+
Triplet Scotogenic Model, where dark matter is the mediator of neutrino mass generation. We assume it to be a scalar WIMP, whose stability follows from the same $${\mathbb {Z}}_{2}$$

Z
2

symmetry that leads to the radiative origin of neutrino masses. The scheme is the minimal one that allows for solar and atmospheric mass scales to be generated. We perform a full numerical analysis of the signatures expected at dark matter as well as collider experiments. We identify parameter regions where dark matter predictions agree with theoretical and experimental constraints, such as neutrino oscillations, Higgs data, dark matter relic abundance and direct detection searches. We also present forecasts for near future direct and indirect detection experiments. These will further probe the parameter space. Finally, we explore collider signatures associated with the mono-jet channel at the LHC, highlighting the existence of a viable light dark matter mass range.
Designing 6–18 GHz Microstrip Filters with Removing Unwanted Upper and Lower Band Frequency Responses and with Arbitrary Load Impedance Matching
Authors: Sharifi Alireza
Published: October 2020

In this paper, Ultra-Wideband (UWB) filters at 6–18[Formula: see text]GHz are designed that can reduce undesired frequency responses at lower and upper frequency bands to less than [Formula: see text]20[Formula: see text]dB. Arbitrary load impedances are considered in the design of these filters. The structure of these filters is the combination of microstrip band-pass filters and Defected Ground Structures (DGSs) with multiple sections. The optimum circuit dimensions are calculated using a computer code which implements the Least Mean Squares (LMS) optimization method. Two design examples are included to illustrate this method. In these examples, eight-section DGS structures are employed to eliminate the unwanted upper frequency band responses. To ensure the correct performance of the designed filters, they are analyzed using full-wave methods and fabrication and the results of the measurement or full-wave analysis shows good agreement with the results of the computer code and the circuit model simulations.
MO-CCCII Based Current-Mode Fractional-Order Universal Filter
Authors: Sen Fadile , Kircay Ali
Published: October 2020

In this study, a new current-mode fractional-order universal filter is presented by using multi mode second generation current controlled current conveyors (MO-CCCII). The circuit consists of two resistors and grounded capacitors with only three MO-CCCII. This is accomplished with a fractional-order capacitor, also known as a stationary phase element, to form a fractional-order filter. The value of this capacitor depends only on the fractional-order [Formula: see text]. The proposed filter is designed as fractional [Formula: see text], 1.8 and 1.9 order. The fractional-order capacitor is obtained using the Foster-I [Formula: see text] network circuit. The filter is simulated with BJT-based MO-CCCII using PSPICE simulation program for the filter to verify the theory and to show the performance of it. The fractional-order universal filter outputs are provided the desired stop band attenuation and more precise control of attenuation slope. Through the fractional-order parameter, it is revealed that the filter designer can fully meet the requirements of the filter. It also offers design flexibility since the frequencies of interest depend not only on circuit components but also on fractional-order parameters.
A survey on the domination of fuzzy graphs
Authors: Rana Akul
Published: October 2020

In this paper, based on the outcomes from the published literature, a brief survey of domination of fuzzy graphs is presented. Discovering what has been accomplished for a particular kind of domination and staying aware of new revelations are difficult due to the huge number of papers and on the grounds that a significant number of the papers have been published in journals that are not broadly accessible. This survey is based on the papers that I could find on the domination of fuzzy graphs. For the comfort of the reader, the overview incorporates some basic definitions and techniques used to study domination of fuzzy graphs.
An Inquiry into China’s Urbanization Quality in the Era of Urban Society
Authors: LI Tong-Ping , XIAO Gu , ZHANG Xiao
Published: October 2020

In 2011, China entered into an era of urban society with a majority of urban population. It is a miracle in human history and a momentous change in Chinese society. Under this context, this paper establishes an index system to measure the quality of urbanization, including the rate of household registered population and deviation of urbanization based on the three aspects of urban development, residents’ life and urban–rural integration and the five dimensions of population, economy, space, society and urban–rural coordination. The entropy method and inter-provincial panel data in 2011–2017 are used to conduct empirical analysis on the quality of urbanization of China and its evolution in this period. It is found that although urbanization quality has been improved significantly and regional disparities have been alleviated slightly after entering the urban society, the overall pattern has not changed. Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai as well as the eastern provinces including Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Guangdong are among the top, while the northeastern region continues to decline and the western inland provinces are still left behind. The most pressing task is to promote high-quality urbanization. With people as the core and “market” as the support, efforts should be made to improve social construction and urban–rural coordination, narrow the gap between the rate of household registered population and the rate of permanent urban population, promote the new urbanization focusing on quality and finally, build a high-quality modern urban society.
The health benefits of passive heating and aerobic exercise: To what extent do the mechanisms overlap?
Authors: Cullen Tom , Clarke Neil D. , Hill Mathew , Menzies Campbell , Pugh Christopher J. A. , Steward Charles J. , Thake C. Douglas
Published: October 2020

Exercise can induce numerous health benefits that can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and all-cause mortality, yet a significant percentage of the population do not meet minimal physical activity guidelines. Several recent studies have shown that passive heating can induce numerous health benefits, many of which are comparable with exercise, such as improvements to cardiorespiratory fitness, vascular health, glycemic control, and chronic low-grade inflammation. As such, passive heating is emerging as a promising therapy for populations who cannot perform sustained exercise or display poor exercise adherence. There appears to be some overlap between the cellular signaling responses that are regulated by temperature and the mechanisms that underpin beneficial adaptations to exercise, but detailed comparisons have not yet been made. Therefore, the purpose of this mini review is to assess the similarities and distinctions between adaptations to passive heating and exercise. Understanding the potential shared mechanisms of action between passive heating and exercise may help to direct future studies to implement passive heating more effectively and identify differences between passive heating and exercise-induced adaptations.
Prognostic and Clinical Value of Interleukin 6 and CD45+CD14+ Inflammatory Cells with PD-L1+/PD-L2+ Expression in Patients with Different Manifestation of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wertel Iwona , Suszczyk Dorota , Pawłowska Anna , Bilska Monika , Chudzik Agata , Skiba Wiktoria , Paduch Roman , Kotarski Jan
Published: October 2020

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the deadliest gynecological cancers. Recent studies suggest a crucial role of inflammatory immune system cells in the progression and metastasis of OC. The understanding of inflammatory mechanisms is pivotal for the selection of a biomarker that allows the differentiation between malignant and benign tumors, monitoring the progression of the disease, and identification of patients that will respond to implemented treatment. Our study is aimed at evaluating the profile of IL-6 in the plasma and peritoneal fluid (PF) of patients with various clinical manifestations of OC (n=78). We also examined the relationship between IL-6 and PD-L1/PD-L2 positive CD45+CD14+ inflammatory cell (MO/MA) levels in three OC environments (TME): peripheral blood (PB), PF, and tumor (TT) and their clinical and prognostic relevance in OC patients. The expression of PD-L1/PD-L2 molecules was analyzed by flow cytometry. The IL-6 levels were determined by ELISA. We found an elevated level of PD-L1/PD-L2 positive MO/MA in TT compared to PB (p<0.0001). Significantly higher (p<0.0001) levels of IL-6 were observed in PF of the OC patients than in the benign ovarian tumor group (n=31). Additionally, we found higher IL-6 levels in PF than in the plasma of the OC patients. Interestingly, accumulation of IL-6 was observed in PF of patients with low-differentiated OC and correlated with worse prognosis. Moreover, we observed correlations between the level of IL-6 and CD45+CD14+ cells and between CD45+CD14+PD-L1+ cells and the IL-6 level in PF. For the first time, we discovered that the higher percentage of CD45+CD14+PD-L2+ cells in PF predicts better survival of OC patients. Our study suggests that CD45+CD14+PD-L2+ cells and IL-6 may be predictive biomarkers for OC patients. Understanding how the composition of TME changes during OC development and progression is a prerequisite for projecting new therapeutic strategies. Overall, further validation research is warranted.
Assessment of the In Vitro Antischistosomal Activities of the Extracts and Compounds from Solidago Microglossa DC (Asteraceae) and Aristolochia Cymbifera Mart. & Zucc. (Aristolochiaceae)
Authors: Costa Poliana da Silva , Zuza da Silva Ohana Oliveira , Costa Danilo de Souza , Silva Lara Aparecida de Oliveira , de Faria Pinto Priscila , Silva Marcos Paulo Nascimento da , de Moraes Josué , Da Silva Filho Ademar A.
Published: October 2020

Schistosomiasis, caused by helminth flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, is a neglected tropical disease that afflicts over 230 million people worldwide. Currently, treatment is achieved with only one drug, praziquantel (PZQ). In this regard, the roots of Solidago microglossa (Asteraceae) and Aristolochia cymbifera (Aristolochiaceae) are popularly used as anthelmintic. Despite their medicinal use against helminthiasis, such as schistosomiasis, A. cymbifera, and S. microglossa have not been evaluated against S. mansoni. Then, in this work, the in vitro antischistosomal activity of the crude extracts of A. cymbifera (Ac) and S. microglossa (Sm) and their isolated compounds were investigated against S. mansoni adult worms. Sm (200 μg/mL) and Ac (100–200 μg/mL) were lethal to all male and female worms at the 24 h incubation. In addition, Sm (10–50 μg/mL) and Ac (10 μg/mL) caused significant reduction in the parasite’s movements, showing no significant cytotoxicity to Vero cells at the same range of schistosomicidal concentrations. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that Sm and Ac caused tegumental damages and reduced the numbers of tubercles of male schistosomes. Chromatographic fractionation of Sm leads to isolation of bauerenol, α‐amirin, and spinasterol, while populifolic acid, cubebin, 2‐oxopopulifolic acid methyl ester, and 2‐oxopopulifolic acid were isolated from Ac. At concentrations of 25–100 μM, bauerenol, α‐amirin, spinasterol, populifolic acid, and cubebin showed significant impact on motor activity of S. mansoni. 2‐oxopopulifolic acid methyl ester and 2‐oxopopulifolic acid caused 100% mortality and decreased the motor activity of adult schistosomes at 100 μM. This study has reported, for the first time, the in vitro antischistosomal effects of S. microglossa and A. cymbifera extracts, also showing promising compounds against adult schistosomes.
Genomic Analysis Reveals Novel Specific Metastatic Mutations in Chinese Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Meng Hui , Jiang Xuewen , Cui Jianfeng , Yin Gang , Shi Benkang , Liu Qi , Xuan He , Wang Yu
Published: October 2020

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) accounts for more than 75% of renal cell carcinoma. Nearly 25% of ccRCC patients were diagnosed with metastasis. Though the genomic profile of ccRCC has been widely studied, the difference between localized and metastatic ccRCC was not clarified. Primary tumor samples and matched whole blood were collected from 106 sporadic patients diagnosed with renal clear cell carcinoma at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University from January 2017 to November 2019, and 17 of them were diagnosed with metastasis. A hybridization capture‐based next‐generation sequencing of 618 cancer‐related genes was performed to investigate the somatic and germline variants, tumor mutation burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI). Five genes with significantly different prevalence were identified in the metastatic group, especially TOP1 (17.65% vs. 0%) and SNCAIP (17.65% vs. 0%). The altered frequency of PBRM1 (0% vs. 27%) and BAP1 (24% vs. 10%) differed between the metastatic and nonmetastatic groups, which may relate to the prognosis. Of these 106 patients, 42 patients (39.62%) had at least one alteration in DNA damage repair (DDR) genes, including 58.82% of metastatic ccRCC patients and 35.96% of ccRCC patients without metastasis. Ten pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants were identified in 11 sporadic clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients (10.38%), including rarely reported ATM (n=1), MUTYH (n=1), NBN (n=1), RAD51D (n=1), and BRCA2 (n=1). No significant difference in the ratio of P/LP variant carriers or TMB was identified between the metastatic and nonmetastatic groups. We found a unique genomic feature of Chinese metastatic ccRCC patients with a higher prevalence of alterations in DDR, TOP1, and SNCAIP. Further investigated studies and drug development are needed in the future.
P2Y2 Receptor Induces L. amazonensis Infection Control in a Mechanism Dependent on Caspase-1 Activation and IL-1β Secretion
Authors: Thorstenberg Maria Luiza , Martins Monique Daiane Andrade , Figliuolo Vanessa , Silva Claudia Lucia Martins , Savio Luiz Eduardo Baggio , Coutinho-Silva Robson
Published: October 2020

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by an intracellular parasite of the genus Leishmania. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) such as UTP and ATP are released from infected cells and, once in the extracellular medium, activate P2 purinergic receptors. P2Y2 and P2X7 receptors cooperate to control Leishmania amazonensis infection. NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β release resulting from P2X7 activation are important for outcomes of L. amazonensis infection. The cytokine IL-1β is required for the control of intracellular parasites. In the present study, we investigated the involvement of the P2Y2 receptor in the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome elements (caspase-1 and 11) and IL-1β secretion during L. amazonensis infection in peritoneal macrophages as well as in a murine model of cutaneous leishmaniasis. We found that 2-thio-UTP (a selective P2Y2 agonist) reduced parasite load in L. amazonensis-infected murine macrophages and in the footpads and lymph nodes of infected mice. The antiparasitic effects triggered by P2Y2 activation were not observed when cells were pretreated with a caspase-1 inhibitor (Z-YVAD-FMK) or in macrophages from caspase-1/11 knockout mice (CASP-1,11−/−). We also found that UTP treatment induced IL-1β secretion in wild-type (WT) infected macrophages but not in cells from CASP-1,11−/− mice, suggesting that caspase-1 activation by UTP triggers IL-1β secretion in L. amazonensis-infected macrophages. Infected cells pretreated with IL-1R antagonist did not show reduced parasitic load after UTP and ATP treatment. Our in vivo experiments also showed that intralesional UTP treatment reduced both parasite load (in the footpads and popliteal lymph nodes) and lesion size in wild-type (WT) and CASP-11−/− but not in CASP-1,11−/− mice. Taken together, our findings suggest that P2Y2R activation induces CASP-1 activation and IL-1β secretion during L. amazonensis infection. IL-1β/IL-1R signaling is crucial for P2Y2R-mediated protective immune response in an experimental model of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Chloroplast Genome Sequences and Comparative Analyses of Combretaceae Mangroves with Related Species
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Hai-Li , Zhong Jun-Di , Wang Yun , Yuan Chang-Chun
Published: October 2020

In the Combretaceae family, only two species of Lumnitzera and one species of Laguncularia belong to mangroves. Among them, Lumnitzera littorea (Jack) Voigt. is an endangered mangrove plant in China for the limited occurrence and seed abortion. In contrast, Lumnitzera racemosa Willd. is known as the most widespread mangrove plant in China. Laguncularia racemosa C. F. Gaertn., an exotic mangrove in China, has the fast growth and high adaptation ability. To better understand the phylogenetic positions of these mangroves in Combretaceae and in Myrtales and to provide information for studies on evolutionary adaptation for intertidal habitat, the complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of Lu. racemosa and La. racemosa were sequenced. Furthermore, we present here the results from the assembly and annotation of the two cp genomes, which were further subjected to the comparative analysis with Lu. littorea cp genomes we published before and other eleven closely related species within Myrtales. The chloroplast genomes of the three Combretaceae mangrove species: Lu. littorea, Lu. racemosa, and La. racemosa are 159,687 bp, 159,473 bp, and 158,311 bp in size. All three cp genomes host 130 genes including 85 protein‐coding genes, 37 tRNAs, and 4 rRNAs. A comparative analysis of those three genomes revealed the high similarity of genes in coding‐regions and conserved gene order in the IR and LSC/SSC regions. The differences between Lumnitzera and Laguncularia cp genomes are the locations of rps19 and rpl2 genes in the IR/SC boundary regions. Investigating the effects of selection events on shared protein‐coding genes showed a relaxed selection had acted on the ycf2, ycf1, and matK genes of Combretaceae mangroves compared to the nonmangrove species Eucalyptus aromaphloia. The phylogenetic analysis based on the whole chloroplast genome sequence with one outgroup species strongly supported three Combretaceae mangroves together with other two Combretaceae species formed a cluster in Combretaceae. This study is the first report on the comparative analysis of three Combretaceae mangrove chloroplast genomes, which will provide the significant information for understanding photosynthesis and evolution in Combretaceae mangrove plants.
Weakly Coupled B-Type Kadomtsev-Petviashvili Equation: Lump and Rational Solutions
Authors: Xiong Na , Li Wen-Tao , Li Biao , Fellah Zine El Abiddine
Published: October 2020

Through the method of

Z

N

-KP hierarchy, we propose a new (

3
+
1

)-dimensional weakly coupled B-KP equation. Based on the bilinear form, we obtain the lump and rational solutions to the dimensionally reduced cases by constructing a symmetric positive semidefinite matrix. Then, we do numerical analysis on the rational solutions and fit the trajectory equation of the crest. Furthermore, we verify the accuracy of the trajectory equation by numerical analysis. This method of solving the lump and rational solutions can also be applied to other nonlinear evolution equations.