bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of bacterial pathogens in cultured fish with a custom peptide database constructed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS)
Authors: Piamsomboon Patharapol , Jaresitthikunchai Janthima , Hung Tran Quang , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Wongtavatchai Janenuj
Published: February 2020

Background

The majority of infectious diseases of cultured fish is caused by bacteria. Rapid identification of bacterial pathogens is necessary for immediate management. The present study developed a custom Main Spectra Profile (MSP) database and validate the method using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for rapid identification of fish bacterial pathogens. Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus iniae, Aeromonas hydrophila, Aeromonas veronii, and Edwardsiella tarda obtained from diseased fish were used as representative bacterial pathogens in this study. Bacterial peptides were extracted to create a Main Spectra Profile (MSP), and the MSPs of each bacterial species was added into the MALDI Biotyper database. Fifteen additional isolates of each bacterial species were tested to validate the utilized technique.

Results

The MSPs of all field isolates were clearly distinguishable, and the MSPs of the same species were clustered together. The identification methodology was validated with 75 bacterial isolates. The reliability and specificity of the method were determined with MALDI Biotyper log score values and matching results with 16 s rDNA sequencing. The species identification using the public MALDI Biotyper library (Bruker MALDI Biotyper) showed unreliable results (log score < 2.000) with 42.67% matching result with the reference method. In contrast, accurate identification was obtained when using the custom-made database, giving log score > 2.115, and a 100% matching result.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an effective identification of fish bacterial pathogens when a complete custom-made MSP database is applied. Further applications require a broad, well-established database to accommodate prudent identification of many fish bacterial pathogens by MALDI-TOF MS.
Heterologous caffeic acid biosynthesis in Escherichia coli is affected by choice of tyrosine ammonia lyase and redox partners for bacterial Cytochrome P450
Authors: Haslinger Kristina , Prather Kristala L. J.
Published: February 2020

Background

Caffeic acid is industrially recognized for its antioxidant activity and therefore its potential to be used as an anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, antidiabetic and antidepressive agent. It is traditionally isolated from lignified plant material under energy-intensive and harsh chemical extraction conditions. However, over the last decade bottom-up biosynthesis approaches in microbial cell factories have been established, that have the potential to allow for a more tailored and sustainable production. One of these approaches has been implemented in Escherichia coli and only requires a two-step conversion of supplemented l-tyrosine by the actions of a tyrosine ammonia lyase and a bacterial Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase. Although the feeding of intermediates demonstrated the great potential of this combination of heterologous enzymes compared to others, no de novo synthesis of caffeic acid from glucose has been achieved utilizing the bacterial Cytochrome P450 thus far.

Results

The herein described work aimed at improving the efficiency of this two-step conversion in order to establish de novo caffeic acid formation from glucose. We implemented alternative tyrosine ammonia lyases that were reported to display superior substrate binding affinity and selectivity, and increased the efficiency of the Cytochrome P450 by altering the electron-donating redox system. With this strategy we were able to achieve final titers of more than 300 µM or 47 mg/L caffeic acid over 96 h in an otherwise wild type E. coli MG1655(DE3) strain with glucose as the only carbon source. We observed that the choice and gene dose of the redox system strongly influenced the Cytochrome P450 catalysis. In addition, we were successful in applying a tethering strategy that rendered even a virtually unproductive Cytochrome P450/redox system combination productive.

Conclusions

The caffeic acid titer achieved in this study is about 10% higher than titers reported for other heterologous caffeic acid pathways in wildtype E. coli without l-tyrosine supplementation. The tethering strategy applied to the Cytochrome P450 appears to be particularly useful for non-natural Cytochrome P450/redox partner combinations and could be useful for other recombinant pathways utilizing bacterial Cytochromes P450.
Asymptomatic malaria infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in malaria endemic areas of North-Shoa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Feleke Daniel Getacher , Adamu Aderaw , Gebreweld Angesom , Tesfaye Melkam , Demisiss Wondmagegn , Molla Genet
Published: February 2020

Background

The effort to reduce the burden of malaria should target transmission in the community by accurate identification of asymptomatic infections. In malaria-endemic areas, asymptomatic malaria infection is still associated with complications. Malaria during pregnancy is characterized by anaemia and placental malaria, leading to low birth weight and perinatal morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to provide reliable data on the burden of asymptomatic malaria among pregnant women in malaria endemic areas of North-Shoa, Ethiopia.

Methods

Cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the prevalence and predictors of asymptomatic malaria in pregnant women from November 2018 to January 2019. Multistage sampling technique was employed to include 263 study participants. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20.0 statistical software. In all comparisons, p-values ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria infection was 5.7% (15/263) and 3.4% (9/263) by using microscopy and RDTs, respectively. Plasmodium falciparum was a dominant species 9 (3.4%) and Plasmodium vivax accounted for 6 (2.3%) of Plasmodium infections as detected by microscopy. Multivariate analysis showed that ITN usage and haemoglobin level had a statistically significant association with Plasmodium infection after adjusting other possible factors. Compared to those who were using ITN always, the odds of Plasmodium infection was 18.16 times higher (95% CI 1.84–179.07) in pregnant women who were not using ITN, and 5.19 times higher (95% CI 0.55–49.21) in pregnant women who were using ITN sometimes. Asymptomatic malaria infected pregnant women were 3.78 times (95% CI 0.98–14.58) more likely to be anaemic compared to non-infected pregnant women.

Conclusion

The present study showed asymptomatic malaria is prevalent in pregnant women and it has statistically significance association with the haemoglobin level of pregnant women. This indicates pregnant women have to be screened for asymptomatic malaria to avoid health consequences of malaria infection during pregnancy for the mother and fetus.
miR-124 and miR-203 synergistically inactivate EMT pathway via coregulation of ZEB2 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC)
Authors: Chen Jiajia , Zhong Yuqing , Li Liangzhi
Published: February 2020

Background

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is one of the most aggressive urological malignancies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are post-transcriptional gene regulators in tumor pathophysiology. As miRNAs exert cooperative repressive effects on target genes, studying the miRNA synergism is important to elucidate the regulation mechanism of miRNAs.

Methods

We first created a miRNA-mRNA association network based on sequence complementarity and co-expression patterns of miRNA-targets. The synergism between miRNAs was then defined based on their expressional coherence and the concordance between target genes. The miRNA and mRNA expression were detected in RCC cell lines (786-O) using quantitative RT-PCR. Potential miRNA-target interaction was identified by Dual-Luciferase Reporter assay. Cell proliferation and migration were assessed by CCK-8 and transwell assay.

Results

A synergistic miRNA–miRNA interaction network of 28 miRNAs (52 miRNA pairs) with high coexpression level were constructed, among which miR-124 and miR-203 were identified as most tightly connected. ZEB2 expression is inversely correlated with miR-124 and miR-203 and verified as direct miRNA target. Cotransfection of miR-124 and miR-203 into 786-O cell lines effectively attenuated ZEB2 level and normalized renal cancer cell proliferation and migration. The inhibitory effects were abolished by ZEB2 knockdown. Furthermore, pathway analysis suggested that miR-124 and miR-203 participated in activation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway via regulation of ZEB2.

Conclusions

Our findings provided insights into the role of miRNA–miRNA collaboration as well as a novel therapeutic approach in ccRCC.
Development and validation of a novel immune-related prognostic model in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhu Jie , Liu Yongjuan , Liu Changhong , Wang Wenqi , Chen Fengzhe , Ma Lixian
Published: February 2020

Background

Growing evidence has suggested that immune-related genes play crucial roles in the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, the utility of immune-related genes for evaluating the prognosis of HCC patients are still lacking. The study aimed to explore gene signatures and prognostic values of immune-related genes in HCC.

Methods

We comprehensively integrated gene expression data acquired from 374 HCC and 50 normal tissues in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis and univariate Cox regression analysis were performed to identify DEGs that related to overall survival. An immune prognostic model was constructed using the Lasso and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Furthermore, Cox regression analysis was applied to identify independent prognostic factors in HCC. The correlation analysis between immune-related signature and immune cells infiltration were also investigated. Finally, the signature was validated in an external independent dataset.

Results

A total of 329 differentially expressed immune‐related genes were detected. 64 immune‐related genes were identified to be markedly related to overall survival in HCC patients using univariate Cox regression analysis. Then we established a TF-mediated network for exploring the regulatory mechanisms of these genes. Lasso and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to construct the immune-based prognostic model, which consisted of nine immune‐related genes. Further analysis indicated that this immune-related prognostic model could be an independent prognostic indicator after adjusting to other clinical factors. The relationships between the risk score model and immune cell infiltration suggested that the nine-gene signature could reflect the status of tumor immune microenvironment. The prognostic value of this nine-gene prognostic model was further successfully validated in an independent database.

Conclusions

Together, our study screened potential prognostic immune-related genes and established a novel immune-based prognostic model of HCC, which not only provides new potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets, but also deepens our understanding of tumor immune microenvironment status and lays a theoretical foundation for immunotherapy.
JCPyV NCCR analysis in PML patients with different risk factors: exploring common rearrangements as essential changes for neuropathogenesis
Authors: Ciardi Maria Rosa , Zingaropoli Maria Antonella , Iannetta Marco , Prezioso Carla , Perri Valentina , Pasculli Patrizia , Lichtner Miriam , d’Ettorre Gabriella , Altieri Marta , Conte Antonella , Pietropaolo Valeria , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Vullo Vincenzo
Published: February 2020

Background

During severe immunosuppression or treatment with specific biological drugs, human polyomavirus JC (JCPyV) may establish a lytic infection in oligodendrocytes, leading to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Beyond AIDS, which represents the most common predisposing condition, several biological drugs have been associated to the development of PML, such as natalizumab, fingolimod and dimethyl fumarate, which have been showed to increase the risk of PML in the multiple sclerosis (MS) population. JCPyV non-coding control region (NCCR) can be found in two different forms: a virulent neurotropic pathogenic form and a latent non-pathogenic form. The neurotropic forms contain a rearranged NCCR and are typically found in the cerebrospinal fluid, brain or blood of PML patients.

Case presentation

We sequenced and critically examined JCPyV NCCR from isolates detected in the cerebrospinal fluid of four newly diagnosed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy patients: two HIV-positive and two HIV-negative multiple sclerosis patients. More complex NCCR rearrangements were observed in the two HIV-positive patients compared to the HIV-negative multiple sclerosis patients with PML.

Conclusions

The comparison of HIV-positive and HIV-negative MS patients with PML, allowed us to evidence the presence of a common pattern of JCPyV NCCR rearrangement, characterized by the deletion of the D-block, which could be one of the initial rearrangements of JCPyV NCCR needed for the development of PML.
Correction to: Timing of pubertal stages and breast cancer risk: the Breakthrough Generations Study
Authors: Bodicoat Danielle H. , Schoemaker Minouk J. , Jones Michael E. , McFadden Emily , Griffin James , Ashworth Alan , Swerdlow Anthony J.
Published: February 2020

As a consequence of responding to colleagues who asked about the publication of the original article [1], the authors have determined that the data published in Table 4 of the paper are incorrect.
A randomized controlled trial protocol comparing the feeds of fresh versus frozen mother’s own milk for preterm infants in the NICU
Authors: Sun Huiqing , Cao Yun , Han Shuping , Cheng Rui , Liu Ling , Liu Jiangqin , Xia Shiwen , Zhang Jiajie , Li Zhankui , Cheng Xiuyong , Yang Chuanzhong , Pan Xinnian , Li Long , Ding Xin , Wang Rensheng , Wu Mingyuan , Li Xiaoying , Shi Liping , Xu Falin , Yu Fengqin , Pan Jiahua , Zhang Xiaolan , Li Li , Yang Jie , Li Mingxia , Yan Changhong , Zhou Qi , Lu Jiao , Wei Mou , Wang Laishuan , Yang Ling , Ye Xiang Y. , Unger Sharon , Kakulas Foteini , Lee Shoo K.
Published: February 2020

Background

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of death among preterm infants born at < 30 weeks’ gestation. The incidence of NEC is reduced when infants are fed human milk. However, in many neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), it is standard practice to freeze and/or pasteurize human milk, which deactivates bioactive components that may offer additional protective benefits. Indeed, our pilot study showed that one feed of fresh mother’s own milk per day was safe, feasible, and can reduce morbidity in preterm infants. To further evaluate the benefits of fresh human milk in the NICU, a randomized controlled trial is needed.

Methods

Our prospective multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial will include infants born at < 30 weeks’ gestation and admitted to one of 29 tertiary NICUs in China. Infants in the intervention (fresh human milk) group (n = 1549) will receive at least two feeds of fresh human milk (i.e., within 4 h of expression) per day from the time of enrollment until 32 weeks’ corrected age or discharge to home. Infants in the control group (n = 1549) will receive previously frozen human milk following the current standard protocols. Following informed consent, enrolled infants will be randomly allocated to the control or fresh human milk groups. The primary outcome is the composite outcome mortality or NEC ≥ stage 2 at 32 weeks’ corrected age, and the secondary outcomes are mortality, NEC ≥ stage 2, NEC needing surgery, late-onset sepsis, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), weight gain, change in weight, increase in length, increase in head circumference, time to full enteral feeds, and finally, the number and type of critical incident reports, including feeding errors.

Discussion

Our double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial aims to examine whether fresh human milk can improve infant outcomes. The results of this study will impact both Chinese and international medical practice and feeding policy for preterm infants. In addition, data from our study will inform changes in health policy in NICUs across China, such that mothers are encouraged to enter the NICU and express fresh milk for their infants.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry; #ChiCTR1900020577; registered January 1, 2019;http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=34276
Evaluation of the effects of pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers and nutritional and clinical status in traumatic brain injury patients in an intensive care unit: A randomized clinical trial protocol
Authors: Malekahmadi Mahsa , Moradi Moghaddam Omid , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Tanha Kiarash , Nematy Mohsen , Pahlavani Naseh , Firouzi Safieh , Zali Mohammad Reza , Norouzy Abdolreza
Published: February 2020

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the major health and socioeconomic problems in the world. Immune-enhancing enteral formula has been proven to significantly reduce infection rate in TBI patients. One of the ingredients that can be used in immunonutrition formulas to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress is pycnogenol.

Objective

The objective of this work is to survey the effect of pycnogenol on the clinical, nutritional, and inflammatory status of TBI patients.

Methods

This is a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Block randomization will be used. An intervention group will receive pycnogenol supplementation of 150 mg for 10 days and a control group will receive a placebo for the same duration. Inflammatory status (IL-6, IL- 1β, C-reactive protein) and oxidative stress status (malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity), at the baseline, at the 5th day, and at the end of the study (10th day) will be measured. Clinical and nutritional status will be assessed three times during the intervention. The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) questionnaire for assessment of organ failure will be filled out every other day. The mortality rate will be calculated within 28 days of the start of the intervention. Weight, body mass index, and body composition will be measured. All analyses will be conducted by an initially assigned study arm in an intention-to-treat analysis.

Discussion

We expect that supplementation of 150 mg pycnogenol for 10 days will improve clinical and nutritional status and reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress of the TBI patients.

Trial registration

This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (ref: NCT03777683) at 12/13/2018.
Improving the accuracy and efficacy of diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome by integrating metabolomics with clinical characteristics: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ni Cheng-Ming , Huang Wen-Long , Jiang Yan-Min , Xu Juan , Duan Ru , Zhu Yun-Long , Zhu Xu-Ping , Fan Xue-Mei , Luo Guo-An , Wang Yi-Ming , Li Yan-Yu , He Qing , Xu Lan
Published: February 2020

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine syndrome with poorly understood mechanisms. To provide patients with PCOS with individualized therapy, it is critical to precisely diagnose the phenotypes of the disease. However, the criteria for diagnosing the different phenotypes are mostly based on symptoms, physical examination and laboratory results. This study aims to compare the accuracy and efficacy of diagnosing PCOS by integrating metabolomic markers with common clinical characteristics.

Methods

This is a prospective, multicenter, analyst-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Participants will be grouped into (1) people without PCOS (healthy control group), (2) patients diagnosed with PCOS based on clinical indices (experimental group 1), and (3) patients diagnosed with PCOS based on metabolomic indices (experimental group 2). A total of 276 participants, including 60 healthy people and 216 patients with PCOS, will be recruited. The 216 patients with PCOS will be randomly assigned to the two experimental groups in a 1:1 ratio, and each group will receive a different 6-month treatment. The primary outcome for the experimental groups will be the effect of PCOS treatment.

Discussion

The results of this trial should help to determine whether using metabolomic indices is more accurate and effective than using clinical characteristics in diagnosing the phenotypes of PCOS. The results could provide a solid foundation for the accurate diagnosis of different PCOS subgroups and for future research on individualized PCOS therapy.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR-INR-1800016346. Registered 26 May 2018.
Electroacupuncture for postoperative pain after nasal endoscopic surgery: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Shanshan , Zhang Qing , Yin Xuan , Yue Hongyu , Zhang Wei , Lao Lixing , Zhang Zhangjin , Wu Huangan , Xu Shifen
Published: February 2020

Background

Postoperative pain is common after nasal endoscopic surgery. It interferes with the quality of sleep and delays postoperative recovery. Acupuncture is an effective tool for pain management. However, electroacupuncture specifically for the relief of postoperative pain after nasal endoscopic surgery has not yet been studied in a randomized controlled trial.

Methods/design

This randomized sham-controlled patient- and assessor-blind pilot trial has been designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture in managing postoperative pain following nasal endoscopic surgery to treat sinusitis due to nasal polyps. Altogether, 30 participants will be randomly allocated to an electroacupuncture or non-invasive sham control in a 1:1 ratio. Treatment will occur within 2 h before the operation, immediately after the operation upon arrival in the recovery ward, and once daily for 3 days. The primary outcome is the pain numerical rating scale, which will be analyzed using the area under the curve. The secondary outcome measures include heart rate and blood pressure after the operation, sleep quality during the hospital stay (actigraph), quality of recovery, and the 36-item short form health survey. This trial will use an intention-to-treat analysis.

Discussion

This pilot randomized controlled trial will explore the feasibility of the further clinical application of electroacupuncture for the management of postoperative pain. It will inform the design of a further full-scale trial.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900024183. Registered on 29 June 2019.
Development of genome-wide polymorphic microsatellite markers for Trichinella spiralis
Authors: Li Ting-Ting , Tang Bin , Bai Xue , Wang Xue-Lin , Luo Xue-Nong , Yan Hong-Bin , Zhu Hong-Fei , Jia Hong , Liu Xiao-Lei , Liu Ming-Yuan
Published: February 2020

Background

Trichinellanematodes are globally distributed food-borne pathogens, in whichTrichinella spiralisis the most common species in China. Microsatellites are a powerful tool in population genetics and phylogeographic analysis. However, only a few microsatellite markers were reported inT. spiralis. Thus, there is a need to develop and validate genome-wide microsatellite markers forT. spiralis.

Methods

Microsatellites were selected from shotgun genomic sequences using MIcroSAtellite identification tool (MISA). The identified markers were validated in 12 isolates ofT. spiralisin China.

Results

A total of 93,140 microsatellites were identified by MISA from 9267 contigs inT. spiralisgenome sequences, in which 16 polymorphic loci were selected for validation by PCR with single larvae from 12 isolates ofT. spiralisin China. There were 7–19 alleles per locus (average 11.25 alleles per locus). The observed heterozygosity (HO) and expected heterozygosity (HE) ranged from 0.325 to 0.750 and 0.737 to 0.918, respectively. The polymorphism information content (PIC) ranged from 0.719 to 0.978 (average 0.826). Among the 16 loci, markers for 10 loci could be amplified from all 12 international standard strains ofTrichinellaspp.

Conclusions

Sixteen highly polymorphic markers were selected and validated forT. spiralis. Primary phylogenetic analysis showed that these markers might serve as a useful tool for genetic studies ofTrichinellaparasites.
Metabolism, ATP production and biofilm generation by Staphylococcus epidermidis in either respiratory or fermentative conditions
Authors: Pedroza-Dávila Ulrik , Uribe-Alvarez Cristina , Morales-García Lilia , Espinoza-Simón Emilio , Méndez-Romero Ofelia , Muhlia-Almazán Adriana , Chiquete-Félix Natalia , Uribe-Carvajal Salvador
Published: February 2020

Staphylococcus epidermidis is a Gram-positive saprophytic bacterium found in the microaerobic/anaerobic layers of the skin that becomes a health hazard when it is carried across the skin through punctures or wounds. Pathogenicity is enhanced by the ability of S. epidermidis to associate into biofilms, where it avoids attacks by the host and antibiotics. To test the effect of oxygen on metabolism and biofilm generation, cells were cultured at different oxygen concentrations ([O2]). As [O2] decreased, S. epidermidis metabolism went from respiratory to fermentative. Remarkably, the rate of growth decreased at low [O2] while a high concentration of ATP ([ATP]) was kept. Under hypoxic conditions bacteria associated into biofilms. Aerobic activity sensitized the cell to hydrogen peroxide-mediated damage. In the presence of metabolic inhibitors, biofilm formation decreased. It is suggested that at low [O2] S. epidermidis limits its growth and develops the ability to form biofilms.
Health apps targeting children with overweight—a protocol for a systematic review with meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis of randomised clinical trials
Authors: Rashid Rajeeb , Perego Paolo , Condon Laura , Jakobsen Janus Christian , Lindschou Jane , Gluud Christian , Andreoni Giuseppe , Lissau Inge
Published: February 2020

Background

The prevalence of overweight is increasing worldwide in children. Multi-component interventions incorporating diet, physical activity, and behavioural change have been shown to reduce body mass index (BMI). Whilst many children have their own smartphone, the clinical effects of using smartphone applications (apps) for overweight are unknown. This systematic review aims to ascertain the effects of mHealth apps in children with overweight.

Methods

We will include randomised clinical trials irrespective of publication type, year, status, or language. Children between 0 and 18 years with overweight will be included. We will compare apps targeting overweight versus sham app, no app, or usual intervention. No distinction about operative system will be considered (i.e. Android, iOS, and Window Mobile will be included). The following databases will be searched: The Cochrane Library, Excerpta Medica database (Embase), PsycINFO, PubMed, IEEE Explore, Web of Science, CINAHL, and LILACS. Primary outcomes will be body weight, quality of life, and serious adverse event. Secondary outcomes will be self-efficacy, anxiety, depression, and adverse event not considered serious. Trial inclusion, data extraction, and bias risk assessment will be conducted independently by at least two authors. We will assess risk of bias through eight domains and control risks of random errors with Trial Sequential Analysis. The quality of the evidence will be assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Tool (GRADE).

Discussion

We will provide evidence of the beneficial and harmful effects of smartphone apps for children with overweight and highlight any gaps in the evidence in order to shape future potential interventions. By only including randomised clinical trials, we know that we bias our review towards benefits.

Systematic review registration

PROSPEROCRD42019120210
Modification of certain fractional integral inequalities for convex functions
Authors: Mohammed Pshtiwan Othman , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: February 2020

We consider the modified Hermite–Hadamard inequality and related results on integral inequalities, in the context of fractional calculus using the Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals. Our results generalize and modify some existing results. Finally, some applications to special means of real numbers are given. Moreover, some error estimates for the midpoint formula are pointed out.
Sensor data quality: a systematic review
Authors: Teh Hui Yie , Kempa-Liehr Andreas W. , Wang Kevin I-Kai
Published: February 2020

Sensor data quality plays a vital role in Internet of Things (IoT) applications as they are rendered useless if the data quality is bad. This systematic review aims to provide an introduction and guide for researchers who are interested in quality-related issues of physical sensor data. The process and results of the systematic review are presented which aims to answer the following research questions: what are the different types of physical sensor data errors, how to quantify or detect those errors, how to correct them and what domains are the solutions in. Out of 6970 literatures obtained from three databases (ACM Digital Library, IEEE Xplore and ScienceDirect) using the search string refined via topic modelling, 57 publications were selected and examined. Results show that the different types of sensor data errors addressed by those papers are mostly missing data and faults e.g. outliers, bias and drift. The most common solutions for error detection are based on principal component analysis (PCA) and artificial neural network (ANN) which accounts for about 40% of all error detection papers found in the study. Similarly, for fault correction, PCA and ANN are among the most common, along with Bayesian Networks. Missing values on the other hand, are mostly imputed using Association Rule Mining. Other techniques include hybrid solutions that combine several data science methods to detect and correct the errors. Through this systematic review, it is found that the methods proposed to solve physical sensor data errors cannot be directly compared due to the non-uniform evaluation process and the high use of non-publicly available datasets. Bayesian data analysis done on the 57 selected publications also suggests that publications using publicly available datasets for method evaluation have higher citation rates.
Aerobic bacterial transformation and biodegradation of dioxins: a review
Authors: Saibu Salametu , Adebusoye Sunday A. , Oyetibo Ganiyu O.
Published: February 2020

Waste generation tends to surge in quantum as the population and living conditions grow. A group of structurally related chemicals of dibenzofurans and dibenzo-p-dioxins including their chlorinated congeners collectively known as dioxins are among the most lethal environmental pollutants formed during different anthropogenic activities. Removal of dioxins from the environment is challenging due to their persistence, recalcitrance to biodegradation, and prevalent nature. Dioxin elimination through the biological approach is considered both economically and environmentally as a better substitute to physicochemical conventional approaches. Bacterial aerobic degradation of these compounds is through two major catabolic routes: lateral and angular dioxygenation pathways. Information on the diversity of bacteria with aerobic dioxin degradation capability has accumulated over the years and efforts have been made to harness this fundamental knowledge to cleanup dioxin-polluted soils. This paper covers the previous decades and recent developments on bacterial diversity and aerobic bacterial transformation, degradation, and bioremediation of dioxins in contaminated systems.
On the role of microgeometry in conductivity substitution
Authors: Dutta Priyanka , Mavko Gary , Guo Chen
Published: February 2020

Conductivity substitution is the process of predicting the change in the effective electrical conductivity of a rock upon a change in conductivity of the mineral or fluid phase. Conductivity substitution is nonunique — only a range of conductivities can be predicted from knowledge of the initial effective conductivity, the porosity, and the initial and final compositions. The precise change depends strongly on the rock microstructure, which is seldom adequately known. Rigorous bounds on the change in effective conductivity upon changes in the phase conductivities for two-phase isotropic composites are used to gain insights into the roles of microgeometry and phase conductivity contrast. When the conductivity contrast between phases is high, the conductivity substitution predicted by Archie’s law corresponds approximately to the upper bound on the change of conductivity upon substitution. Inclusion modeling suggests that vuggy, highly tortuous, or partially disconnected pore space could account for conductivity changes smaller than those predicted by Archie’s law. Substitution behavior computed analytically for known microgeometries correlates with measures of microgeometry, including the fraction of connected fluid phase and variance of electric field strength in each phase. Comparison of the conductivity substitution bounds with brine-saturated sandstone data reveals that the position of measured data with respect to the conductivity substitution bounds can be indicative of the effective clay content. The bounds provide a template for better prediction of effective conductivity if we have at least some knowledge of the pore microstructure. Similarly, multiple conductivity measurements on the same rock might be used to extract more information about the rock and pore space properties than is possible with only a single measurement.
Autologous Stem-Cell Transplantation for Multiple Myeloma in the Era of Novel Therapies
Authors: Parrondo Ricardo D. , Ailawadhi Sikander , Sher Taimur , Chanan-Khan Asher A. , Roy Vivek
Published: February 2020

Despite the evolution of the therapeutic arsenal for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) over the past decade, autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) remains an integral part of the treatment of patients with both newly diagnosed and relapsed MM. The advent of novel therapies, such as immunomodulatory agents, proteasome inhibitors, and monoclonal antibodies, has led to unprecedented levels of deep hematologic responses. Nonetheless, studies show that ASCT has an additive effect leading to additional deepening of responses. As the therapeutic agents for MM continue to evolve, the timing, duration, and sequence of their use in combination with ASCT will be crucial to understand to obtain the deepest response and survival benefit for patients with MM. This review aims to discuss the role of ASCT for the management of MM, with a particular focus on the role of ASCT in the context of novel therapies and minimal residual disease.
Management of Pneumonitis and Neuropathy in Patients Receiving PD-1–Based Therapy for Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Davies Marianne J. , Chiang Anne C.
Published: February 2020

Immunotherapy with programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) receptor and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors has improved outcomes for certain patients with advanced lung cancer. As use of these therapies has expanded in first-line settings, in patients with different histologies, and in combinations with chemotherapeutic and targeted agents, more patients with lung cancer may benefit from these therapies. However, with expanded use comes greater potential exposure to the immune-related adverse events (irAEs) associated with these immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This article uses two case examples to illustrate the presentation, evaluation, and management of pulmonary and neurologic symptoms in two patients receiving PD-1–based therapy for non–small-cell lung cancer. These cases illustrate the challenges associated with recognizing pneumonitis and neuropathy in patients receiving ICIs for lung cancer. Although pneumonitis and neuropathy are relatively rare irAEs, they can have devastating or even fatal outcomes if not promptly recognized and managed appropriately. Specific use of guideline-based, multidisciplinary management is emphasized, as illustrated in the Immuno-Oncology Essentials Care Step Pathways.
The Economics of Maps
Authors: Nagaraj Abhishek , Stern Scott
Published: February 2020

For centuries, maps have codified the extent of human geographic knowledge and shaped discovery and economic decision-making. Economists across many fields, including urban economics, public finance, political economy, and economic geography, have long employed maps, yet have largely abstracted away from exploring the economic determinants and consequences of maps as a subject of independent study. In this essay, we first review and unify recent literature in a variety of different fields that highlights the economic and social consequences of maps, along with an overview of the modern geospatial industry. We then outline our economic framework in which a given map is the result of economic choices around map data and designs, resulting in variations in private and social returns to mapmaking. We highlight five important economic and institutional factors shaping mapmakers’ data and design choices. Our essay ends by proposing that economists pay more attention to the endogeneity of mapmaking and the resulting consequences for economic and social welfare.
Why Does the Indian State Both Fail and Succeed?
Authors: Kapur Devesh
Published: February 2020

The Indian state’s performance spans the spectrum from woefully inadequate, especially in core public goods provision, to surprisingly impressive in successfully managing complex tasks and on a massive scale. It has delivered better on macroeconomic rather than microeconomic outcomes, where delivery is episodic with inbuilt exit than where delivery and accountability are quotidian and more reliant on state capacity at local levels, and on those goods and services where societal norms on hierarchy and status matter less than where they are resilient. The paper highlights three reasons for these outcomes: under-resourced local governments, the long-term effects of India’s “precocious” democracy, and the persistence of social cleavage. However, claims that India’s state is bloated in size and submerged in patronage have weak basis. The paper concludes by highlighting a reversal of past trends in that state capacity is improving at the micro level even as India’s macro performance has become more worrisome.
The urachus revisited: multimodal imaging of benign & malignant urachal pathology
Authors: Das Jeeban Paul , Vargas Hebert Alberto , Lee Aoife , Hutchinson Barry , O'Connor Eabhann , Kok Hong Kuan , Torreggiani William , Murphy Joe , Roche Clare , Bruzzi John , McCarthy Peter
Published: February 2020

The urachus is a fibrous tube extending from the umbilicus to the anterosuperior bladder dome that usually obliterates at week 12 of gestation, becoming the median umbilical ligament. Urachal pathology occurs when there is incomplete obliteration of this channel during foetal development, resulting in the formation of a urachal cyst, patent urachus, urachal sinus or urachal diverticulum. Patients with persistent urachal remnants may be asymptomatic or present with lower abdominal or urinary tract symptoms and can develop complications. The purpose of this review is to describe imaging features of urachal remnant pathology and potential benign and malignant complications on ultrasound, CT, positron emission tomography CT and MRI.
Utility of routine non-gated CT chest in detection of subclinical atherosclerotic calcifications of coronary arteries in hospitalised HIV patients
Authors: Krishnam Mayil , Chae Eun Jin , Hernandez-Rangel Eduardo , Karangiah Edgar , Gupta Geeta , Budoff Mathew
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

To evaluate coronary artery calcification (CAC) on routine CT chest in hospitalised HIV patients and to assess individual risk factors.

Methods:

Routine CT chests, May 2010–November 2015, of 143 hospitalised HIV-positive patients were reviewed for qualitative assessment of calcification in major coronary arteries by two radiologists. Presence, location and burden of calcification were evaluated on 3 mm axial images of CT chest. Cardiovascular risk factors and HIV lab parameters such as CD4 count, viral load and duration, and status of antiretroviral treatment were collected. Statistical analysis including multivariate logistic regression was performed.

Results:

Forty-one patients (28.7%) showed CAC, left anterior descending (n = 38, 92.7%), circumflex (n = 18, 43.9%) and Right Coronary Artery (n = 13, 31.7%); mostly mild CAC burden and mostly proximal left coronary arteries with excellent interobserver and intraobserver agreements (K = 0.9, and 1). Age of CAC+ group (53.9 years) was significantly higher than CAC− group (43.4, p < 0.001, minimum age of CAC+, 27 years). No significant difference between two groups in sex, ethnicity and risk factors and HAART status. CAC+ group showed significantly longer HIV duration (12.3 years vs 8.6, p < 0.0344) and higher CD4 cell counts (mean = 355.9 vs 175.3, p = 0.0053) and significantly lower viral load (76 vs 414K, p = 0.02) than CAC− group. On multivariate logistic regression, age, HIV duration and CD4 were significantly associated with CAC+ (p-values < .05).

Conclusions:

One-third of hospitalised HIV patients showed subclinical CAC on CT chest. HIV duration and age of patients were independent risk factors for developing CAC. Higher CD4 cell count was strongly associated with CAC+.

Advances in knowledge:

Routine CT chest with or without contrast performed for non-cardiac indications is helpful in identification of subclinical CAC in HIV patients and radiologists should be encouraged to report CAC.

CAC is seen in younger age group in HIV, and awareness of this finding on routine CT chest would help guiding clinicians to assess risk stratification for primary prevention of ischemic heart disease in this population at an earlier stage when compared to normal population.

Duration of HIV infection and age of patients were independent risk factors for developing CAC in our study and CD4 count was strongly associated with presence of CAC.
Non-Linear Derivative Interactions in Relativistic Hadrodynamics
Authors: Gaitanos T. , Kaskulov M.
Published: February 2020

The Lagrangian of Relativistic Hadrodynamics (RHD) is extended by introducing non-linear derivative (NLD) operators into the interactions between the nucleon with the meson elds. As the novel feature of the NLD model, the nucleon selfenergy depends on both, on energy and density. Our approach contains a single cut-o parameter, which determines the density dependence of the nuclear equation of state (EoS) and the energy dependence of the nucleon-nucleus optical potential. The NLD formalism is compatible with results from microscopic nuclear matter calculations as well as with Dirac phenomenology.
Investigation of the Transient Field at High Velocities by magnetic-moment measurements in 74Ge and 70Zn
Authors: Mertzimekis T. J.
Published: February 2020

The advent of radioactive beams at large experimental facilities has moti- vated extensive research work on the expansion of techniques to accommodate higher ion velocities. The application of the Transient Field technique in measuring magnetic moments of excited states in energetic nuclei is investigated at the INFN-LNS in Catania by means of re-measuring the g(2+1 ) factors in 74Ge and 70Zn. The description of the experiment method and some preliminary angular correlation results are presented.
Microscopic description of nuclear quantum phase transitions
Authors: Lalazissis G. A. , Niksic T. , Vretenar D. , Ring P.
Published: February 2020

The relativistic mean-field framework, extended to include correlations related to restoration of broken symmetries and to fluctuations of the quadrupole deformation, is applied to a study of shape transitions in Nd isotopes. It is demonstrated that the microscopic self-consistent approach, based on global effective interactions, can describe not only general features of transitions between spherical and deformed nuclei, but also the singular properties of excitation spectra and transition rates at the critical point of quantum shape phase transition.
Isomeric Cross Section Study of neutron induced reactions on Ge
Authors: Vlastou R. , Galanopoulos S. , Papadopoulos C. T. , Kokkoris M. , Serris M. , Lagoyannis A. , Demetriou P.
Published: February 2020

The72Ge(n,α)69mZn, 74Ge(n,α)71mZn, 76Ge(n,2n)75g+mGe reaction cross sections have been measured from 9.6 to 11.4 MeV and studied, along with data from litera- ture, within the frame of statistical model calculations by using the code EMPIRE-II.
The new external ion-beam station at the Demokritos Tandem 5.5 MV accelerator: A unique analytical tool in the fields of cultural heritage and environmental science
Authors: Sokaras D. , Et al. ...
Published: February 2020

At the 5.5 MV Tandem accelerator of the Institute of Nuclear Physics of NCSR Demokritos, Athens, a new external ion-beam set-up has been recently installed. The aim of this development was to establish a complete experimental set-up integrating the analytical capabilities of the PIXE, RBS and PIGE techniques, so that a complete elemental and near surface structural characterization of samples/artifacts to be attained in an almost non-destructive way and without any limitation concerning their size or conductive state. A careful 3D mechanical drawing optimized the experimental parameters of the set-up so that the special requirements imposed for optimum performance of the aforementioned techniques to be fulfilled.The first applications were focused in the quality control of tagged materials (technologically authentic replicas of attic ceramics and in coatings used by conservators for paintings).
Statistical Global Modeling of β−-Decay Halflives Systematics Using Multilayer Feedforward Neural Networks and Support Vector Machines
Authors: Costiris N. , Mavrommatis E. , Gernoth K. A. , Clark J. W. , Li H.
Published: February 2020

In this work, the beta-decay halflives problem is dealt as a nonlinear optimiza- tion problem, which is resolved in the statistical framework of Machine Learning (LM). Continuing past similar approaches, we have constructed sophisticated Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Support Vector Regression Machines (SV Ms) for each class with even-odd character in Z and N to global model the systemat- ics of nuclei that decay 100% by the β−-mode in their ground states. The arising large-scale lifetime calculations generated by both types of machines are discussed and compared with each other, with the available experimental data, with previous results obtained with neural networks, as well as with estimates coming from tradi- tional global nuclear models. Particular attention is paid on the estimates for exotic and halo nuclei and we focus to those nuclides that are involved in the r-process nucleosynthesis. It is found that statistical models based on LM can at least match or even surpass the predictive performance of the best conventional models of β-decay systematics and can complement the latter.