bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Do descriptive norms messaging interventions backfire? Protocol for a systematic review of the boomerang effect
Authors: Kuang Jinyi , Delea Maryann G , Thulin Erik , Bicchieri Cristina 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background Descriptive norms messaging interventions are used to motivate people to adopt or maintain desirable behaviors. Such interventions provide people with information that describes an undesirable behavior as uncommon or a desirable behavior as prevalent within a relevant social group. Descriptive norms messaging interventions have shown promise in increasing individual and social benefit for a broad range of health and sustainability programs. However, evidence suggests that people who have adopted desirable behaviors sometimes regress to undesirable behaviors after receiving descriptive norms messages due to the type of information provided in the messages. This phenomenon is called the boomerang effect. We aim to conduct a systematic review of boomerang effects on health and environmental sustainability behaviors resulting from exposure to descriptive norms messaging interventions.Methods We will employ our search strategy to identify studies of descriptive norms messaging interventions published prior to January 1, 2020. We will search Cochrane Library, Campbell Library, EMBASE, ProQuest, PsycINFO, PubMed, Social Science Research Network (SSRN), Scopus, and Web of Science to retrieve peer-reviewed articles published in English. We will restrict inclusion to studies of health and environmental sustainability interventions that assess behavior before and after exposure to descriptive norms messaging. Two reviewers will independently extract data about study populations and design, intervention components, and behavioral measures. We will use Cochrane’s Risk of Bias assessment tool to assess the risk of bias, and the Liverpool Quality Assessment Tool (LQAT) to assess the quality of evidence. We will conduct thematic analyses to codify interventions, and examine intervention effects across subgroups of individuals based on their behavior prior to intervention exposure (e.g., those practicing desirable behaviors vs. undesirable behaviors). We will also conduct moderator analyses to determine whether boomerang effects are contingent upon other factors.Discussion This systematic review will provide information about descriptive norms messaging intervention effects across subgroups of individuals, and elucidate factors that potentially moderate boomerang effects. The review will yield evidence-based recommendations for the structure and content of descriptive norms messages that can be employed to avoid unintended boomerang effects within the context of health and sustainability programming.Systematic review registration PROSPERO #: 156989
Tumor-infiltrating immune cell activated memory CD4+ T cells predicts prognosis in gastric cancer
Authors: Wei Jianming , Qin Yulan , Gao Xibo , Liu Tong , Kang Yani 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: Tumor-inﬁltrating immune cells (TIICs) play an important role in gastric cancer pathogenesis and are promising prognostic biomarkers. However, the prognostic value of activated memory CD4+ T cells remains unclear. Methods: The aim of this study is to explore the value of activated memory CD4+ T cells and the risk model predicting the prognosis in GC. We analyzed the composition of 22 TIICs in GC by the CIBERSORT algorithm using RNA-seq data, we also evaluated the prognostic value of TIICs by constructing the risk model. Furthermore, we performed Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analysis to evaluate the prognosis of GC. Results: The results showed that the high expression of activated memory CD4+ T cells indicated a better overall survival. Risk score was identified as an independent prognostic factor which means activated memory CD4+ T cells can predict prognosis well in gastric cancer. Conclusions: Our study verified the expression of IL23A was associated with the overall survival of GC patients, and its low expression indicated a poor prognosis, which confirms the reliability of activated memory CD4+ T cells as a prognostic factor in gastric cancer.
RHO Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factors Predict Prognosis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Comprehensive Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Zeng Rui-Jie , Zheng Chun-Wen , Xu Yi-Wei , Xu Li-Yan , Li En-Min 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: Conventionally, RHO GEFs are known as activators for RHO GTPases which promote tumorigenesis. However, the role of RHO GEFs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains largely unknown. Methods: A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of protein structure, transcriptional expression, survival, methylation, mutation and gene-set enrichment data was performed using multiple databases. Results: Through the screening of 81 RHO GEFs for their expression profiles and correlations with survival, four of them are identified with strong significance for predicting the prognosis of NSCLC patients. The four RHO GEFs, namely ABR, PREX1, DOCK2 and DOCK4, are downregulated in NSCLC compared to normal tissue. The downregulation of ABR, PREX1, DOCK2 and DOCK4, which can be contributed by promoter methylation, is correlated with unfavorable prognosis. Moreover, the underexpression of the four key RHO GEFs upregulates MYC signaling and DNA repair pathways, leading to carcinogenesis and poor prognosis. Conclusions: The data unveil the unprecedented role of ABR, PREX1, DOCK2 and DOCK4 as tumor suppressor in NSCLC. The previously unnoticed functions of RHO GEFs in NSCLC will inspire researchers to investigate the distinct roles of RHO GEFs in cancers, in order to provide critical strategies in clinical practice.
miR-96 Regulates Liver Tumor-Initiating Cells Expansion and Sorafenib Resistance
Authors: Huang Yonggang , Zhang Jin , Dong Wei , Peng Huiping , Gu Maolin , Wang Hengjie 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background Liver tumor-initiating cells (T-ICs) contribute to tumorigenesis, progression, recurrence and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the underlying mechanism for the propagation of liver T-ICs remains unclear. Methods Real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-96 in liver tumor-initiating cells (T-ICs). The impact of miR-96 on liver T-ICs expansion was investigated both in vivo and in vitro . The correlation between miR-96 expression and sorafenib benefits in HCC was further evaluated in patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). Results Our finding shows that miR-96 is upregulated in liver T-ICs. Functional studies revealed that forced miR-96 promotes liver T-ICs self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Conversely, knockdown miR-96 inhibits liver T-ICs self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, miR-96 downregulates SOX6 via its mRNA 3’UTR in liver T-ICs. Furthermore, the miR-96 expression determines the responses of hepatoma cells to sorafenib treatment. Analysis of patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) further demonstrated that the miR-96 may predict sorafenib benefits in HCC patients. Conclusion Our findings revealed the crucial role of the miR-96 in liver T-ICs expansion and sorafenib response, rendering miR-96 as an optimal target for the prevention and intervention of HCC.
Development of a new gene expression vector for Thermus thermophilus using a silica-inducible promoter
Authors: Fujino Yasuhiro , Goda Shuichiro , Suematsu Yuri , Doi Katsumi 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background Thermostable enzymes are commonly produced in mesophilic hosts for research and bioengineering purposes. However, these hosts do not overexpress the active forms of some biologically functional thermoenzymes. Therefore, an efficient thermophilic expression system is needed. Thermus thermophilus contains an easily manipulable genome and is therefore among the best candidate microbes for a “hot” expression system. We previously identified a strong and inducible promoter that was active in T. thermophilus under supersaturated silica conditions. Here, we report a new heterologous gene expression system based on a silica-inducible promoter in T. thermophilus.Results A Thermus sp. A4 gene encoding thermostable β-galactosidase was cloned as a reporter gene into the expression vector pSix1, which contains a selection marker that confers thermostable resistance to hygromycin and a 600-bps DNA region containing a putative silica-inducible promoter. β-Galactosidase activity was 11-fold higher in the presence than in the absence of 10 mM silicic acid. SDS-PAGE revealed a prominent band corresponding to β-galactosidase, and this enzyme was expressed as an active and soluble protein (yield: 27 mg/L) in Thermus but as an inclusion body in Escherichia coli. Deletion of the promoter region improved the yield of the target protein, possibly by avoiding plasmid instability due to homologous recombination. Finally, we developed an expression vector containing the pSix1 backbone and a 100-bps DNA region corresponding to the silica-inducible promoter. We used this vector to successfully express the active form of glutamate dehydrogenase from Pyrobaculum islandicum (PisGDH) without additional treatment (yield: 9.5 mg/L), whereas the expression of active PisGDH in E. coli required heat treatment.Conclusion We successfully expressed the thermoenzymes β-galactosidase and PisGDH in T. thermophilus and achieved the highest known protein expression levels in this species. These thermoenzymes were expressed in active and soluble forms. Our results validate the use of our silica-inducible expression system as a novel strategy for the intracellular overexpression of thermostable proteins.
Vestibular stimulation and primitive reflex integration may drive multisensory processing: putative principles for a Targeted sensorimotor therapy (TSMT)
Authors: Harsanyi Szilvia , Dobos Karoly , Tele-Heri Brigitta , Palinkas Judit , Fenyosi Fanni , More Csaba E , Zsuga Judit 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background: At birth the vestibular system is fully mature, and primitive reflexes are functional whilst higher order sensory processing is yet to develop in the full-term neonate. Sequential motor development driven by primitive survival reflexes sets the appropriate framework for development of sensory processing including multisensory processing and sensorimotor integration.Results and conclusions: The current paper lays out a putative theoretical framework to account for the role vestibular stimulation may have driving multisensory and sensorimotor integration. Accordingly, vestibular stimulation, by activating the parieto-insular vestibular cortex, and/or the posterior parietal cortex may provide the cortical input for multisensory neurons in the superior colliculus that is needed for multisensory processing. Furthermore, we propose that primitive survival reflex-driven motor development, by inducing change of reference frames, may shape the receptive field of multisensory neurons. This, by leading to lack of spatial contingency between formally contingent stimuli, may cause degradation of prior motor responses, hence lead to integration of reflexes. Integration of primitive survival reflexes is mandatory prerequisite for cortically controlled motor responses to emerge. Additionally, we offer a testable hypothesis explaining the beneficial effect of sensory integration therapies regarding attentional processes. Key concepts of a sensorimotor integration therapy (e.g. targeted sensorimotor therapy (TSMT)) are also put into a neurological context. TSMT utilizes specific tools and instruments. It is administered in 8-weeks long successive treatment regimes, each gradually increasing vestibular and postural stimulation, so sensory-motor integration is facilitated, primitive reflexes are inhibited, and muscle strength is increased. Empirically TSMT is indicated for various diseases. Theoretical foundations of this sensorimotor therapy are discussed.
Loss of highwire protects against the deleterious effects of traumatic brain injury in Drosophila Melanogaster
Authors: Hill Ciaran Scott , Loreto Andrea , Sreedha Jemeen , Menon David , Coleman Michael 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major global cause of death and disability. Axonal injury is a major underlying mechanism of TBI and could represent a major therapeutic target. We provide evidence that targeting the axonal death pathway known as Wallerian degeneration (WD) improves outcome in a Drosophila Melanogaster model of high impact trauma. This cell-autonomous neurodegenerative pathway is initiated following axon injury, and in Drosophila, involves activity of the E3 ubiquitin ligase highwire. In this study we explore the effects of that a loss-of-function mutation in the highwire gene has on a range of outcomes following high impact trauma.ResultsResults demonstrate that a loss-of-function mutation in the highwire gene rescues deleterious effects of a traumatic injury, including - improved functional outcomes including climbing ability and flight maintenance, lifespan, survival of a subset of dopaminergic neurons, and retention of synaptic proteins.ConclusionWe demonstrate that a loss-of-function mutation in the highwire gene rescues deleterious effects of a traumatic injury. This data suggests that highwire represents a potential therapeutic target in traumatic injury.
Proposal of Forceps Force Limiter Design Using Leaf Spring Buckling
Authors: Noda Satsuya 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
To prevent accidents in minimally invasive surgeries, force limiters have been developed for forceps grippers.
When a force limiter is in use, if the absolute value of its spring constant is reduced, the risk of damage to the organs decreases.This paper proposes the use of a leaf spring buckling mechanism as a force limiter for forceps.The results obtained indicate that the spring constant of a buckled leaf spring is lower than that of a normal coil spring.Furthermore, the use of a leaf spring allows the independent adjustment of its thickness and width, based on the stress and force values.This enables an easy calibration of the threshold value.In the experiments, the spring constant of the buckled leaf spring was 0.15 N/mm, which is half of that of a normal coil spring.After calibrating the gripping force, it was confirmed that the force limiter reduced the extent of damage to the dummy organs in the ex vivo experiments.
The use of ultrasound in primary care: Longitudinal billing and cross-sectional survey study in Switzerland
Authors: Touhami Dima , Merlo Christoph , Hohmann Joachim , Essig Stefan 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background Ultrasound imaging is utilized in Swiss primary care; however, little is known regarding the extent to which it is performed. A course in Point-of-Care ultrasound (POCUS) has been recently introduced to promote and improve the utilization of ultrasound. POCUS will offer faster certification compared to previous courses thanks to a limited set of targeted examinations. With this study, we aim to (1) provide an overview of ultrasound use by general practitioners (GPs), and (2) determine how the clinical uses of ultrasound relate to the targeted objectives of POCUS. Methods This is a quantitative study, analyzing fifteen years of billing data from 213 GPs in Central Switzerland and cross-sectional survey data completed by 61 GPs attending 26 certification and refresher courses offered by the Swiss Society of Ultrasound in Medicine (SGUM). Results According to billing data, 49% of the GPs used ultrasound and provided 130,245 exams to 67,180 patients between 2004 and 2018. Over the years, ultrasound use became more frequent among GPs. Male GPs provide more ultrasound exams than female GPs. Patients that are female, ≥65 years, and multi-morbid had more ultrasound exams compared to males, patients <65 years, and those with only one morbidity, respectively. GPs provided a mean of 129 ultrasound exams per physician-year. Abdominal ultrasound comprised almost 69% of all exams. According to survey data, indications covered many organ systems and clinical conditions, with most POCUS indications being among them. Conclusions Utilization of ultrasound is high among general practitioners and covers a wide range of indications. A focus in certification on POCUS might reduce the variety of indications. Keywords: Ultrasound; general practice; primary care; general practitioners; clinical indications; POCUS; ultrasound certification; Switzerland
Cost of new born care interventions in four regions of Ghana: implications for health resource allocation.
Authors: Alhassan Robert Kaba 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Background Limited financial, human and material health resources coupled with increasing demand for new born care services require efficiency in health systems to maximize the available sources for improved health outcomes. Making Every Baby Count Initiative (MEBCI) implemented by local and international partners in 2003 in Ghana aimed at attaining neonatal mortality of 21 per 1,000 livebirths by 2018 in four administrative regions in Ghana. Objective Determine the cost of MEBCI interventions towards sustaining new born care best practices, and strengthening capacity for frontline clinical staff involved in new born care. Methods Cost of MEBCI interventions was evaluated on unit cost calculations. Expenditure items trainings, supervisions, monitoring and evaluation, advocacy, administrative costs and logistics. Data collection started in October 2017 and ended in September 2018. Key cost data sources were invoices, expense reports and ledger books at the national, regional and district levels of MEBCI implementation. Results Approximately GH₵ 24.5 million (US$ 5.5 million) expenditure data was recorded as overall cost of MEBCI interventions at the national and regional levels of project activities. Out of this figure, fixed cost constituted 71% and recurrent cost represented 29%. A total of GH₵ 1.6 million (US$ 372,727) expenditure values were expended in strengthening national leadership at the national health level; nearly 70% of this cost was spent on workshops and training related activities. Cost of implementing MEBCI at the various regional health directorates was approximately GH₵ 17.6 million (US$ 3.9 million). Out of this amount, direct provider training and related activities constituted 98% and indirect cost accounted for the remaining 2%. Overall, it was found that the MEBCI interventions covered 4,027 health providers, out of which 3,453 (86%) were clinical healthcare staff. Conclusion The MEBCI intervention had a wide coverage in terms of training for frontline healthcare providers albeit the associated cost may be potentially unsustainable for the Ghana’s health system. M-learning and e-learning platforms could be leveraged to reduce cost of the on-site batch-training approach.
Description of Laimaphelenchus sinensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae) from declining Chinese pine, Pinus tabuliformis in Beijing, China
Authors: Gu Jianfeng , Maria Munawar , Fang Yiwu , Liu Lele , Bian Yong , Chen Xianfeng 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Laimaphelenchus sinensis n. sp. isolated from declining Chinese pine, Pinus tabuliformis Carrière, is described and characterized morphologically and molecularly. The new species has four incisures in the lateral field and the excretory pore situated posterior to the nerve ring; the female has a vulval flap and vaginal sclerotization is quite prominent in majority of specimens. The female tail is conoid, ventrally curved having a single stalk-like terminus with 8 to 10 projections. The male spicules are 14.0 (13.2-15) μm long along curved median line and tail is ventrally curved typical of the genus; however, the projections are less prominent as compared to those of female. The male has two pairs of caudal papillae and Bursa is absent. Phylogenetically, the ribosomal DNA sequences of the new species placed it within Laimaphelenchus clade and are morphologically similar to L. persicus, L. preissii, L. simlaensis and L. unituberculus.
Polyphenols can Potentially Prevent Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease by Modulating Macrophage Cholesterol Metabolism
Authors: Ito Fumiaki 
Published: March 2020

Background:
Arterial atherosclerosis is the main pathological cause of coronary artery disease and peripheral arterial disease. Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition characterized by the presence of cholesterol-rich macrophages in the arterial intima. Accumulation of cholesterol in these macrophages is due to increased oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and its uptake via scavenger receptors on the macrophages. Cholesterol efflux from the cholesterol-laden macrophages into high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is also a key process in maintaining cholesterol homeostasis and prevention of cholesterol accumulation. Four pathways for the efflux of cholesterol to HDL exist in macrophages, including passive and active pathways. Several HDL characteristics determine cholesterol efflux capacity, namely composition, oxidative status, and HDL size. Oxidation of LDL and HDL as well as any imbalance in cholesterol uptake and efflux could lead to accumulation of cholesterol in macrophages and initiation of atherosclerogenesis.

Conclusion:
Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that polyphenol-rich foods reduce cardiovascular events in the general population and in patients at risk of cardiovascular diseases. Many studies have reported that polyphenols in polyphenol-rich foods have anti-atherosclerotic properties by preventing cholesterol accumulation in macrophages through the suppression of lipoproteins oxidation and regulation of cholesterol uptake and efflux.
Imposing Packet Relaying for Mobile Adhoc Networks Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Theerthagiri Prasanna Venkatesan 
Published: March 2020

Background:
Packet forwarding is an essential network operation in wireless networks
to establish communication among wireless devices. In mobile wireless networks, data transmission
occurs in the form of packet relaying. In dynamic environmental networks, relaying of the
packet is a more complex process and much essential activity.

Objective:
It requires the co-operation of intermediate nodes in the network. Specifically, in Mobile
Adhoc Networks (MANET) it is the most tedious job because of its dynamic topology, limited
energy, and other resource constraints. In this paper, a genetic algorithm is adopted for stimulating
the packet relaying, such that to assist the co-operation between various nodes in the network.

Methods:
The genetic algorithm is a metaheuristic process-based evolutionary algorithms. It intends
to produce high-quality optimized solutions to any given complex problems. The current research
work had carried out an extensive investigation and comparison of existing relevant genetic
algorithm based algorithms.

Results:
The experimental results are evaluated based on the methodology of the genetic algorithm,
the number of nodes, robustness, scalability, packet delivery ratio, average energy consumption,
and other parameters.