bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Altered Dietary Fiber on the Gut Microbiota, Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Cecum of Chickens during Different Growth Periods
Authors: Sun Baosheng , Hou Linyue , Yang Yu
Published: February 2020

Increasing numbers of researchers are interested in the importance of dietary fiber for the gut microbiota, microbiotal metabolite SCFA, energy metabolism and gut health of the host. However, studies have demonstrated that long-term and longitudinal observation may be needed to evaluate the effect of dietary fiber better, and few such works have been made in chickens. Therefore, we successively fed low-fiber, high--fiber and low-fiber diets to two breeds of chickens during different growth periods (1—8, 9—20 and 21—50 weeks), aiming to longitudinally observe the long-term effect of altered dietary fiber on the gut microbiota, SCFA and development of cecum of chickens with age. The results showed that the composition and function of the gut microbiota, SCFA and the development of the cecum were different during different periods, which was largly affected by dietary fiber. However, the causes of some effects were different during the different periods. For example, compared with that in low-fiber chickens at 8 weeks, dominant fiber-degradation bacteria such as Bacteroidetes, Alloprevotella and SCFA-producing bacteria such as Faecalibacterium increased due to a high-fiber diet at 20 weeks, while due to a high feed intake in 50 weeks. Moreover, the concentration of SCFA in 20 weeks was significantly higher than in 8 weeks and 50 weeks, but the causes of this difference were also distinct. It was proposed that a long-term observation was needed to evaluate the effect of dietary fiber better on chickens. The metabolite pathways of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters encoded by Firmicutes were enriched in 8 weeks, while a two-component system and β–glucosidase encoded by Bacteroidetes were enriched in 20 and 50 weeks. The trend was the same in two breeds of chickens except for Alloprevotella. In addition, the total content of SCFA in the contents of cecum was also affected by the size of the cecum. Surprisingly, the length of the cecum shortened from 20—50 weeks, maybe due to reduced dietary fiber.
Blind Source Separation for NMR Spectra with Negative Intensity
Authors: McCarty Ryan J. , Ronghe Nimish , Woo Mandy , Alam Todd M.
Published: February 2020

NMR spectral datasets, especially in systems with limited samples, can be difficult to interpret if they contain multiple chemical components (phases, polymorphs, molecules, crystals, glasses, etc…) and the possibility of overlapping resonances. In this paper, we benchmark several blind source separation techniques for analysis of NMR spectral datasets containing negative intensity. For benchmarking purposes, we generated a large synthetic datasbase of quadrupolar solid-state NMR-like spectra that model spin-lattice T1 relaxation or nutation tip/flip angle experiments. Our benchmarking approach focused exclusively on the ability of blind source separation techniques to reproduce the spectra of the underlying pure components. In general, we find that FastICA (Fast Independent Component Analysis), SIMPLISMA (SIMPLe-to-use-Interactive Self-modeling Mixture Analysis), and NNMF (Non-Negative Matrix Factorization) are top-performing techniques. We demonstrate that dataset normalization approaches prior to blind source separation do not considerably improve outcomes. Within the range of noise levels studied, we did not find drastic changes to the ranking of techniques. The accuracy of FastICA and SIMPLISMA degrades quickly if excess (unreal) pure components are predicted. Our results indicate poor performance of SVD (Singular Value Decomposition) methods, and we propose alternative techniques for matrix initialization. The benchmarked techniques are also applied to real solid state NMR datasets. In general, the recommendations from the synthetic datasets agree with the recommendations and results from the real data analysis. The discussion provides some additional recommendations for spectroscopists applying blind source separation to NMR datasets, and for future benchmark studies. Applications of blind source separation to NMR datasets containing negative intensity may be especially useful for understanding complex and disordered systems with limited samples and mixtures of chemical components.
Arthropods as Vertebrate Predators: A Review of Global Patterns
Authors: Valdez Jose
Published: February 2020

Arthropod predators preying on vertebrates is generally overlooked in ecological studies, as it is not typically observed in nature and generally considered a rare event. This is likely due to the cryptic nature of these predatory events, the relatively small size of arthropods, and the difficulty in collating published data which is scattered throughout the literature. Although arthropods are known to readily hunt and consume vertebrates, very little is known about these predatory events. In this study, a systematic literature review was conducted to provide a conceptual framework, identify global patterns, and create a searchable database of arthropod preying on vertebrates. This study represents the largest global assessment of arthropod predators and vertebrate prey with over a thousand recorded observations collated from over 80 countries across every continent except Antarctica, where no arthropod predator exists. Arthropod predators were represented by six classes (insects, arachnids, centipedes, and crustaceans: Malacostraca, Ostracoda, Hexanauplia) and over 80 families. Vertebrate prey were represented by five classes (birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish) and 160 families. The most common prey were frogs consisting of over a third of all observations. The most commonly preyed reptiles were nearly all lizards, half of mammal prey were bats, nearly a third of fish were Cypriniformes, and half of bird prey were passerines. Spiders represented over half of all predatory events found and were the main predator for all vertebrates except birds, which were preyed mostly upon praying mantises. However, prey varied between spider families. For insects, true bugs (Hemiptera) and beetles preyed mostly on amphibians while the aquatic Odonata larvae preyed on amphibians and fish. Decapod predators were observed preying equally between reptiles, birds, and amphibians; with centipedes preying mainly on reptiles and mammals. Predation was mostly recorded from the Americas and Australia, with countries and regions varying between predator and prey groups. This study demonstrates that arthropods are indeed an overlooked predator of vertebrates. Recognizing and quantifying these predator-prey interactions is vital for identifying patterns and the potential impact of these relationships on shaping vertebrate populations and communities. Understanding the possible threat of arthropod predators may be especially important to improve the success of conservation efforts by accounting for predators which may currently be overlooked.
Learning to Incorporate Structure Knowledge for Image Inpainting
Authors: Yang Jie , Qi Zhiquan , Shi Yong
Published: February 2020

This paper develops a multi-task learning framework that attempts to incorporate the image structure knowledge to assist image inpainting, which is not well explored in previous works. The primary idea is to train a shared generator to simultaneously complete the corrupted image and corresponding structures --- edge and gradient, thus implicitly encouraging the generator to exploit relevant structure knowledge while inpainting. In the meantime, we also introduce a structure embedding scheme to explicitly embed the learned structure features into the inpainting process, thus to provide possible preconditions for image completion. Specifically, a novel pyramid structure loss is proposed to supervise structure learning and embedding. Moreover, an attention mechanism is developed to further exploit the recurrent structures and patterns in the image to refine the generated structures and contents. Through multi-task learning, structure embedding besides with attention, our framework takes advantage of the structure knowledge and outperforms several state-of-the-art methods on benchmark datasets quantitatively and qualitatively.
Conceptual Problems in Bell's Inequality and Quantum Entanglement
Authors: Gu Ying-Qiu
Published: February 2020

The description of the microscopic world in quantum mechanics is very different from that in classical physics, and there are some points of view that are contrary to intuition and logic. The first is the loss of reality, the behavior of micro particles shows randomness and hopping. The second is the loss of certainty, the conjugate physical variables of a system cannot be determined synchronously, they satisfy the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. The third is the non-local correlation. The measurement of one particle in the quantum entanglement pair will change the state of the other entangled particle simultaneously. In this paper, some concepts related to quantum entanglement, such as EPR correlation, quantum entanglement correlation function, Bell's inequality and so on, are analyzed in detail. Analysis shows that the mystery and confusion in quantum theory may be caused by the logical problems in its basic framework. Bell's inequality is only a mathematical theorem, but its physical meaning is actually unclear. The Bell state of quantum entangled pair may not satisfy the dynamic equation of quantum theory, so it cannot describe the true state of microscopic particles. In this paper, the correct correlation functions of spin entanglement pair and photonic entanglement pair are strictly derived according to normal logic. Quantum theory is a more fundamental theory than classical mechanics, and they are not parallel relation in logic. However, there are still some unreasonable contents in the framework of quantum theory, which need to be improved. In order to disclose the real relationship between quantum theory and classical mechanics, we propose some experiments which show the wave-particle duality simultaneously and provide intuitionistic teaching materials for the new interpretation of quantum theory.
Autophagic Inhibition via Lysosomal Integrity Dysfunction Leads to Antitumor Activity in Glioma Treatment
Authors: Hwang Hui-Yun , Cho Yoon Sun , Kim Jin Young , Yun Ki Na , Yoo Jong Shin , Lee Eunhyeong , Kim Injune , Kwon Ho Jeong
Published: February 2020

Manipulating autophagy is a promising strategy for treating cancer as several autophagy inhibitors shown to induce autophagic cell death. One of these, autophagonizer (APZ), induces apoptosis-independent cell death by binding an unknown target via an unknown mechanism. To identify APZ targets we used a label-free drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) approach with a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) readout. Of 35 protein interactors, we identified Hsp70 as a key target protein of unmodified APZ in autophagy. Either APZ treatment or Hsp70 inhibition attenuates integrity of lysosomes, which leads to autophagic cell death exhibiting an excellent synergism with a clinical drug, temozolomide, in vitro, in vivo, and orthotropic glioma xenograft model. These findings demonstrate the potential of APZ to induce autophagic cell death and its development to combinational chemotherapeutic agent for glioma treatment. Collectively, our study demonstrated that APZ, a new autophagy inhibitor, can be used as a potent antitumor drug candidate to get over unassailable glioma and revealed a novel function of Hsp70 in lysosomal integrity regulation of autophagy.
Tick-borne Encephalitis Virus Vaccines Contain Non-structural Protein 1 (NS1) Antigen and May Elicit NS1-Specific Antibody Responses in Vaccinated Individuals
Authors: Salat Jiri , Mikulasek Kamil , Larralde Osmany , Pokorna Formanova Petra , Chrdle Ales , Haviernik Jan , Elsterova Jana , Teislerova Dana , Palus Martin , Eyer Ludek , Zdráhal Zbyněk , Petrik Juraj , Ruzek Daniel
Published: February 2020

Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is based on the use of formalin-inactivated, culture-derived whole-virus vaccines. Immune response following vaccination is primarily directed to the viral envelope (E) protein, the major viral surface antigen. In Europe, two TBE vaccines are available in adult and pediatric formulations, FSME-IMMUN® (Pfizer) and Encepur® (GlaxoSmithKline). Herein, we analyzed the content of these vaccines using mass spectrometry (MS). The MS analysis revealed that the Encepur vaccine contains not only proteins of the whole virus particle, but also viral non-structural protein 1 (NS1). MS analysis of the FSME-IMMUN vaccine failed due to the high content of human serum albumin used as a stabilizer in the vaccine. However, the presence of NS1 in FSME-IMMUN was confirmed by immunization of mice with six doses of this vaccine, which led to a robust anti-NS1 antibody response. NS1-specific western blot analysis detected anti-NS1 antibodies also in sera of humans who received multiple doses of either of these two vaccines; however, most vaccinees who received ≤3 doses were negative for NS1-specific antibodies. The contribution of NS1-specific antibodies to protection against TBE was demonstrated by immunization of mice with purified NS1 antigen, which led to a significant (p < 0.01) prolongation of the mean survival time after lethal virus challenge. This indicates that stimulation of anti-NS1 immunity by the TBE vaccines may increase their protective effect.
Research on Device Used to Measure Distance and Position for Two Pipelines on the Seafloor
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Wang Qiao-chu , Wang Tao , Zhang Bo
Published: February 2020

In order to solve the problem of measuring the distance and position between the flanges of two pipelines on the seabed, a measuring device for pulling rope in seawater was designed. Aiming at the sealing problem of the key equipment that is the rotating shaft of the rope winch, this paper used the principle of the magnetic coupling to transfer the driving moment, and adopted the method of converting the dynamic seal into the static seal structure to realize the reliable sealing of the motor. Through the experiment of measuring two pipelines with underwater rope pulling device, it was verified that the measuring accuracy of the device meets the design requirements, and the feasibility of the application of magnetic coupling technology in winch is also verified.
CDC37 and HSP90 are Essential for Stressome Release and Tumor Progression in Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Eguchi Takanori , Sogawa Chiharu , Ono Kisho , Matsumoto Masaki , Tran Manh Tien , Okusha Yuka , Lang Benjamin , Okamoto Kuniaki , Calderwood Stuart
Published: February 2020

Tumor cells exhibit a resistance-associated secretory phenotype involving extracellular vesicles (EVs) and heat shock proteins (HSPs). This response occurs in response to cell stress and cancer therapeutics. HSPs are stress-responsive molecular chaperones promoting proper protein folding, while also being released from cells with EVs as well as in free form as alarmins. We have here investigated the secretory phenotype of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) cells using proteome analysis. We have also examined the roles of the key co-chaperone CDC37 in stressome release, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and tumor progression. A number of HSP family members and their common receptor CD91/LRP1 were enriched at high levels in CRPC cell-derived EVs among over 700 other protein species. The small EVs (30 to 200 nm in size, potentially exosomes) were released even in a non-heated condition from the prostate cancer cells, whereas EMT-coupled release of EVs (200 to 500 nm, likely ectosomes) with associated HSP90α was increased after heat shock stress (HSS). Lactate dehydrogenase, a marker of membrane leakage/damage of cells, was also released upon HSS from the prostate cancer cells. During this stress response, intracellular CDC37 was also transcriptionally inducible by heat shock factor 1, and knockdown of CDC37 decreased EMT-coupled release of EVs. Triple knockdown of CDC37, HSP90α, and HSP90β was required for efficient reduction of the chaperone trio and to reduce tumorigenicity of the CRPC cells in vivo. Taken together, the data indicated that CDC37 and HSP90 are essential for stressome release and for tumorigenesis in resistant cancer.
Hydraulic Performance Analysis and Modeling of Water Supply Distribution System of Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
Authors: Milkecha Chalchisa , Itefa Habtamu
Published: February 2020

This study was conducted generally by aiming assessment of the hydraulic performance of water distribution systems of Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU). In line with the main objective, this study addressed, (1) pinpointing problems of existing water supply versus demand deficit (2) evaluating the hydraulic performance of water distribution system using water GEMS and (3) recommended alternative methods for improving water demand scenarios. The University’s water supply distribution network layout was a looped system and the flow of water derived by both gravity and pressurized system. The gravity flow served for the academic and administrative staffs whereas the pressurized system of the network fed the students dormitories, cafeteria’s etc. The study revealed the existence of unmet minimum pressure requirement around the student dormitories which accounts 25.64% below the country’s building code standard during the peak hour consumption. The result of the water demand projection showed an increment of 2.5 liter per capita demand (LPCD) in every five years. Hence, first, the university’s water demand was projected and then hydraulic parameters such as; pressure, head loss and velocity were modeled for both the existing and the improved water supply distribution. The finding of the study was recommended to the university’s water supply project and institutional development offices for its future modification and rehabilitation works.
Health Disparities and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Niakouei Ava , Fulton Lawrence , Tehrani Minoo
Published: February 2020

The number one leading cause of death in 2017 for Americans was cardiovascular disease, and health disparities can exacerbate risks. This study evaluates the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (n=437,436) to estimate population risks for behavioral, socio-economic, psychological, and biological factors. A general linear model with a quasi-binomial link function indicated higher risks for the following groups: smokers, individuals with higher body-mass index scores, persons unable to work, individuals with depression, workers who missed more days due to mental issues, the elderly, those in race categories “indigenous Americans, Alaskan non-Hispanics” or “other, non-Hispanic,” and individuals with lower income. The results confirm previous studies and raise more questions about drinking and cardiovascular disease. Policy and ethical considerations are also discussed.
Acceptability and Appropriateness of a Perinatal Depression Preventive Group Intervention: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Diebold Alicia , Segovia Melissa , Johnson Jessica K. , Degillio Aria , Zakieh Dana , Park Hee Jin , Lim Kenneth , Tandon S. Darius
Published: February 2020

Background: Perinatal depression is a prevalent public health concern. Although preventive interventions exist, there is limited literature on the acceptability and appropriateness of these interventions, especially those delivered by paraprofessionals. The Mothers and Babies Program (MB) is a group-based perinatal depression preventive intervention delivered prenatally. A current cluster-randomized controlled trial is examining the acceptability, appropriateness, and effectiveness of MB delivered by mental health professionals compared to paraprofessional staff from home visiting programs. Methods: The full study enrolled 874 pregnant women. Fifty-three facilitators were trained and delivered the MB intervention to women in one of seven states in the United States. Semi-structured interviews were attempted with a randomly-selected subset of the full sample of pregnant women who received the MB intervention and with all facilitators. Specifically, interviews were conducted with 88 women who received the MB group intervention (45 in the paraprofessional-led arm and 43 in the mental health professional-led arm) and 46 women who facilitated the groups (27 home visiting staff and 19 mental health professionals). Interviews were conducted over the phone in English or Spanish and audio recorded. The recordings were translated into English, as needed, and transcribed. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVIVO to identify key themes related to intervention acceptability and appropriateness. Similarities and differences between study arms were explored. Results: Clients and facilitators found the MB content and group format acceptable. Challenges included maintaining group attendance, transportation issues, and managing group discussion. Overall, facilitators found the intervention appropriate for pregnant clients with some challenges presented for clients in crisis situations, experiencing housing instability, and with literacy and learning challenges. Participants provided suggestions for improvement, both for the course content and implementation. There were no significant differences found between study arms. Conclusions: Overall, clients and facilitators enjoyed MB irrespective of study arm, and facilitators found the intervention appropriate for the population. These findings add to the qualitative literature on perinatal depression preventive interventions, specifically those delivered by paraprofessionals. Trial Registration: This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (Initial post: December 1, 2016; identifier: NCT02979444; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02979444).
Combined use of apatinib mesylate and vinorelbine versus single use of vinorelbine in recurrent or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Wu Shuo , Zhang Liang , Li Huan , Xu Junnan , Jiang Cui , Sun Tao
Published: February 2020

Background: The emergence of new molecular targeted drugs provides new prospects for the treatment of advanced breast cancer; the future therapeutic trend includes chemotherapy combined with molecular targeted therapy. Apatinib mesylate, a novel, small anti-angiogenic agent, highly selectively inhibits the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 tyrosine kinase. Apatinib mesylate also blocks the signaling of vascular endothelial growth factor binding to its receptor, thereby, strongly inhibiting tumor angiogenesis and exerting an anti-tumor effect. However, a randomized controlled clinical trial of apatinib combined with vinorelbine for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has not been reported. We will compare the therapeutic effect of vinorelbine alone or in combination with apatinib mesylate in patients with recurrent or metastatic TNBC in North China who have received at least two drug treatments including anthracyclines and taxanes. Methods/analysis: This study is a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial. We plan to include 164 female patients with locally recurrent or metastatic TNBC and without BRCA1 mutation (as BRCA -positive patients would have poor responses to the therapeutic methods designed in this study), admitted at the Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Northeast China. All enrolled patients will be randomized to orally take vinorelbine alone (40 mg orally, thrice a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) in each 3-week cycle) or combined with apatinib mesylate (500 mg orally, once daily of each 3-week cycle). Radiographic assessment will be performed every 6 weeks for 36 weeks, and every 9 weeks thereafter. The primary outcome is measurement of progression-free survival and secondary outcomes include overall survival, disease control rate, objective response rate, and incidence of adverse events at grades 3 and 4 as defined by the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria [NCI-CTC] Version 4.0. Outcome measures will be evaluated at baseline (< 2 weeks before starting treatment), every 6 weeks during treatment, and at 4 weeks and every 3 months after treatment discontinuation. Discussion: Based on the data from this trial, we hope to identify a treatment plan that is suitable for female TNBC patients in Northeast China who have been treated with anthracyclines and taxanes. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT03932526). Registered on April 30, 2019.
Heterogeneous components of lung adenocarcinomas confer distinct EGFR mutation and PD-L1 expression
Authors: Cai Yi-Ran , Wu Hongbo , Shi Xiaoqin , Dong Yujie , Chang Xiujun , Zhang Li , Zhou Lijuan , Su Dan , Yang Ming
Published: February 2020

Background
Lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) is composed of lepidic, papillary, mucinous, micropapillary and solid components in its parenchyma. Complex responses to therapeutics result from intratumoral heterogeneity. However, it remains confused that what components in a mixed LAC tumor are responsible to the heterogeneous EGFR mutation and PD-L1 expression.
Methods
We investigated EGFR status via laser microdissection to capture spatially separated cancer cell subpopulations and digital droplet PCR to determine the abundance of EGFR sensitizing mutation and naïve T790M. Whilst, PD-L1 expression level via tumor proportion score (TPS) was evaluated by Ventana immunohistochemistry using SP263 antibody. PD-L1 expression levels were tiered in <1%, 1%-49% and >=50% groups.
Results
EGFR mutation harbored in 154 (59%) of 261 LAC patients and more frequently occurred in papillary, lepidic and micropapillary constituents. Higher levels of PD-L1 were found in LACs at stage III and IV (68.3%) versus those at stage I and II (31.7%) ( P =0.04). Solid predominant LACs (41.3%) expressed PD-L1 with TPS >=50%, versus mucinous and lepidic LACs ( P <0.01). LACs with solid constituents also had more positive proportion of PD-L1 protein. Cut-offs <1%, 1%–49% or >=50% were associated with patients’ progression-free survival and longer in the <1% group (22.9 month, 95% CI 17.6-28.2) (P<0.05). LACs consisting of two constituents with PD-L1 TPS <1% had a better prognosis than the groups with single component and more than two components ( P <0.05). Eighteen LACs (6.9%) had concomitantly deletion in exon 19 or L858R and naïve T790M mutation. The abundance of T790M varied diversely with sensitizing mutation. PD-L1 expression was not concordant in same components and usually negative in the EGFR -mutated constituents. Heterogeneous PD-L1 expression occurred in the vicinity of stromal tissues.
Conclusion
Intratumoral genetic heterogeneity of LACs was demonstrated associated with histological patterns. Heterogeneous PD-L1 expression in higher level usually occurred in solid component both in EGFR mutated and EGFR wild-typed LACs. EGFR mutated LACs heterogeneously had sensitizing and resistant mutation and was accompanied with PD-L1 expression, but discordant among histological constituents. Immune checkpoint inhibitor combined with third generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor should be more effective to these LACs.
Evaluation of choroidal thickness, macular thickness, and aqueous flare after cataract surgery in patients with and without diabetes: a prospective randomized study
Authors: Ikegami Yasuko , Takahashi Miyuki , Amino Kana
Published: February 2020

Background

In diabetic eyes, various choroidal abnormalities are noted in addition to changes in the retinal circulation, and the risk of increased aqueous flare and retinal thickening after cataract surgery is higher in diabetic eyes. Inflammation caused by surgery induces breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier and affects the retina, although the influence on the choroid is unknown. Several researchers have evaluated the choroidal thickness (CT) after cataract surgery in patients with diabetes; however, the results are inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of uneventful small-incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery on the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SCT), the central macular thickness (CMT), and aqueous flare in patients with diabetes.

Methods

This study included 59 randomly selected eyes (33 eyes of patients with diabetes and 26 eyes of control patients without diabetes) undergoing small-incision cataract surgery. Among the diabetic eyes, 26 were without diabetic retinopathy, and the remaining eyes had non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Aqueous flare, CMT, and SCT measurements were performed before and at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery.

Results

The postoperative CMT continued to increase significantly until 3 months in both groups. Although the CMT was more in patients with diabetes than in patients without diabetes during the follow-up period, there was no significant difference between the two groups. The aqueous flare value increased until 3 months after surgery in both groups. Although the increase was significant at 3 months after surgery in patients with diabetes, the increase in controls was not significant. The aqueous flare values differed significantly between the two groups before and at 3 months after surgery. There was no significant within-group or between-group difference in pre- and postoperative SCT values.

Conclusion

In diabetic eyes with early stage of retinopathy, even small-incision cataract surgery can induce increased aqueous flare and macular thickening until 3 months, although there is no significant change in the choroidal thickness. Further studies are essential to evaluate choroidal changes after the cataract surgery in diabetic eyes.
Microscopic and submicroscopic Plasmodium infections in indigenous and non-indigenous communities in Colombia.
Authors: Montiel Jehidys , Zuluaga Lina M. , Aguirre Daniel C. , Segura Cesar , Tobon-Castaño Alberto , Vasquez Ana M
Published: February 2020

Background: The indigenous population is considered a highly susceptible group to malaria because they usually live in areas with high exposure to Anopheles and poverty, and have limited access to health services. There is a great diversity of indigenous communities in Colombia living in malaria-endemic areas; however, the burden of infection in these populations has not been studied extensively. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium infections in indigenous and non-indigenous communities in two malaria-endemic areas in Colombia.
Methods: A Community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in seven villages of Turbo and El Bagre municipalities; three of these villages were indigenous communities. Inhabitants of all ages willing to participate were included. Sociodemographic and clinical data were recorded as well as household information. The parasitological diagnosis was performed by microscopy and nested PCR. The prevalence of microscopy and submicroscopic infection was estimated. An adjusted GEE model was used to explore risk factors associated with the infection.
Results: Among 713 participants, 60.7% were from indigenous communities. Plasmodium spp. was detected in 30 subjects (4.2%, CI 95% 2.9-5.9); from those, 29 were in the indigenous population, 47% of infections were afebrile, and most of them submicroscopic (10/14). Microscopic and submicroscopic prevalence was 2.5% (CI 95% 1.6-3.9) and 1.7% (CI 95% 0.9-2.9) respectively. In El Bagre, all infections occurred in indigenous participants (3.9%, CI 95% 2.2-7.1), and 81% were submicroscopic. By contrast, in Turbo, the highest prevalence occurred in indigenous people (11.5%; CI 95%: 7.3-17.5), but 88.8% were microscopic. Living in an indigenous population increased the incidence rate of infection compared with a non-indigenous population (IRR 19.4; CI 95% 2.3-166.7).
Conclusion: There is a high proportion of Plasmodium infection in indigenous communities. A substantial proportion of asymptomatic and submicroscopic carriers were detected. The identification of these infections, not only in indigenous but also in the non-indigenous population, as well as their associated factors, could help to implement specific malaria strategies for each context.
Inhibition of PAR1 attenuates meningeal macrophage activation and vascular inflammation in a rat model of thrombin-induced hydrocephalus
Authors: Hao Xiaodi , Ye Xianghua , Shen Dan , Li Jiawen , Le Chensheng , Tong Lusha , Gao Feng
Published: February 2020

Background Our previous studies demonstrated that intraventricular injection of thrombin could induce hydrocephalus. The inflammation of subarachnoid space plays a key role in hydrocephalus. As thrombin, inducing coagulation, could contribute to inflammation, its effects on subarachnoid space have not been well studied. Macrophagic dysfunction may contribute to this course. However, the mechanisms that how thrombin affects macrophage in subarachnoid space have not been illustrated. Our aim was to explore the possible role that macrophage played in thrombin-induced meningeal inflammation, and to furtherly understand its contribution during thrombin-induced hydrocephalus. Methods There were two parts in this study. Firstly, rats had an intraventricular injection of saline or thrombin. Secondly, rats received thrombin injection with vehicle or PAR1 antagonist treatment. Immunofluorescence staining was applied to observe the activation of meningeal macrophage and the expression of NeuN in the cortex. Meanwhile, the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) in meningeal vessels were tested to detect the vascular inflammation. Western blot was applied to measure the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IFNγ). Results Our results demonstrated that intraventricular injection of thrombin caused significant activation of meningeal macrophages, vascular inflammation, and neuron loss. Inhibition of PAR1 pathway attenuated the M1 polarization of meningeal macrophage, reduced the inflammatory infiltrations and prevented the neuron loss, as well as hydrocephalus after thrombin injection. Conclusions Clinically available PAR1 antagonists may offer a novel therapeutic approach candidate for the prevention or the management of inflammation in hemorrhage-induced hydrocephalus.
Exploring the prevalence of gaming disorder and internet gaming disorder: a rapid scoping review
Authors: Darvesh Nazia , Radhakrishnan Amruta , Lachance Chantelle C , Nincic Vera , Sharpe Jane P , Ghassemi Marco , Straus Sharon E , Tricco Andrea C
Published: February 2020

Background : Internet gaming disorder (IGD) was included in the DSM-5 in 2013 as a condition requiring further research, and gaming disorder (GD) was included in the ICD-11 in 2018. Given the importance of including these conditions in diagnostic guidelines, a review was conducted to describe their prevalence.
Methods : Using guidance from the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR), we conducted a rapid scoping review. MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane library were searched for literature published from inception to July 2018. All review stages were pilot tested to calibrate reviewers. The titles/abstracts and full-text articles were screened by one reviewer to include quantitative primary studies that reported GD or IGD prevalence. Excluded citations were screened by a second reviewer to confirm exclusion. Charting was conducted by one reviewer and verified by another, to capture relevant data. Results were summarized descriptively in tables or text.
Results : We assessed 5550 potentially relevant citations. No studies on GD were identified. We found 160 studies of various designs that used 35 different methods to diagnose IGD. Prevalence of IGD ranged from 0.21-57.50% in general populations, 3.20-91.00% in clinical populations, and 50.42-79.25% in populations undergoing intervention (severe cases). Most studies were conducted in the Republic of Korea (n=45), China (n=29), and the United States of America (n=20). Results are presented for severe IGD and by geographic region, gender/sex, and age groups (child, adolescent, adult). The five most frequently reported health-related variables were depression (67 times), internet addiction (54 times), anxiety (48 times), impulsiveness (37 times), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (24 times).
Conclusions : Due to the variability in diagnostic approaches, knowledge users should interpret the wide IGD prevalence ranges with caution. In addition to further research on GD, consensus on the definition of IGD and how it is measured is needed, to better understand the prevalence of these conditions.
Protocol registration : Open Science Framework https://osf.io/y2sr6/ , August 21 2018.
A study on the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities in the chloroformic and methanolic extracts of 6 important medicinal plants collected from north of Iran
Authors: Ghahari Somayeh , Hadadi Zahra , Nematzadeh Ghorban Ali
Published: February 2020

Background The plant essential oils and extracts are possible sources of natural bioactive molecules and have been selected globally for new antimicrobial compounds, food preservatives, and alternatives to treat infectious disease. Methods In this research, antimicrobial activities of chloroformic and methanolic extracts of Sophora flavescens , Rhaponticum repens , Alhagi maurorum , Melia azedarach , Peganum harmala , and Juncus conglomeratus were evaluated against 8 bacteria ( S. aureus , B. subtilis , R. toxicus , P. aeruginosa , E. coli , P. syringae , X. campestris , P. viridiflava ) and 3 fungi ( Pyricularia oryzae , Fusarium oxysporum and Botrytis cinerea ) through disc diffusion method. Furthermore, the essential oil of plants with the highest antibacterial activity was analyzed utilizing GC/MS. Moreover, tested plants were exposed to screening for possible antioxidant effect utilizing DPPH test, guaiacol peroxidas, and catalase enzymes. Besides, the amount of total phenol and flavonoid of these plants was measured. Results Among tested plants, methanolic and chloroformic extracts of P. harmala fruits showed the highest antibacterial activity against tested bacteria. Also, the investigation of free radical scavenging effects of the tested plants indicated the highest DPPH, protein, guaiacol peroxidase, and catalase in P. harmala , M. azedarach , J. conglomeratus fruits, and J. conglomeratus fruits, respectively. In addition, the phytochemical analysis demonstrated the greatest amounts of total phenolic, and flavonoid compositions in J. conglomeratus and P. harmala . Conclusion The results indicated that these plants can act as a promising antimicrobial agent due to its short killing time.
Modeling a reliable and valid framework for building and measuring the health system workforce’s competence to lead, manage and govern in Ethiopia: Factor analysis approach
Authors: Ambelie Yeshambel Agumas , Alene Getu Degu , Gebrekiros Damen Hailemariam
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study was to model a reliable and valid framework for building and measuring health system workforce’s competence to lead, manage and govern. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three zones of Amhara regional state, northwest Ethiopia. Eight-hundred-thirteen participants were recruited from 32 health facilities. The data were collected using a structured self-rated questionnaire that comprised 26, five-point Likert scale, items. Data analysis techniques such as factor analysis, composite reliability and average variance extraction were applied. Factor analysis was unlocked to assemble the relationship among latent factors extracted, items rated and error variances observed. Latent factors were extracted using Eigenvalue greater than 1 as a cut of point. To make latent factors more meaningful, they were labeled considering the contents of the items clustered within them. Meanwhile, a framework for building and measuring competence to lead, manage and govern was modeled by assembling latent factors labeled, items rated and error variances observed. Reliability and validity of the framework were tested using composite reliability and average variance extraction analyses respectively. Four-factor framework for building and measuring the health system workforce’s competence to lead, manage and govern was modeled. The four latent factors extracted were labeled as compliance with principles, strategic sensitivity, system building, and contextual thoughtfulness. These factors explained 68.434% of the total variability. Composite reliability and average variance extraction for all factors were .807 and greater, and .512 and greater, respectively. Compliance with principles, strategic sensitivity, system building, and contextual thoughtfulness are dimensions that affect competence to lead, manage and govern, which, in turn, influence the health system performance and health outcomes. This model has implications for training, evaluation, and research.
Long-term safety and tolerability of atabecestat (JNJ-54861911), an oral BACE1 inhibitor, in early Alzheimer's disease spectrum patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study and a two-period extension study
Authors: Novak Gerald , Streffer Johannes Rolf , Timmers Maarten , Henley David , Brashear H Robert , Bogert Jennifer , Russu Alberto , Janssens Luc , Tesseur Ina , Tritsmans Luc , Nueten Luc Van , Engelborghs Sebastiaan
Published: February 2020

Background

Atabecestat, a potent brain-penetrable inhibitor of BACE1 activity that reduces CSF amyloid beta (Aβ), was developed for oral treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

The long-term safety and effect of atabecestat on cognitive performance in participants with predementia AD in two phase 2 studies were assessed.

Methods

In the placebo-controlled double-blind parent ALZ2002 study, participants aged 50 to 85 years were randomized (1:1:1) to placebo or atabecestat 10 or 50 mg once-daily (later reduced to 5 and 25 mg) for six months. Participants entered ALZ2004, a 12-month-treatment extension with placebo or atabecestat 10 or 25 mg, followed by an open-label phase. Safety, changes in CSF biomarker levels, brain volume, and effects on cognitive performance were assessed.

Results

Of 114 participants randomized in ALZ2002, 99 (87%) completed, 90 entered the ALZ2004 double-blind phase, and 77 progressed to open-label phase. CSF Aβ fragments and sAPPβ were reduced dose-proportionately. Decreases in whole brain and hippocampal volumes were greater in participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to AD, but without apparent relation to treatment. In ALZ2004, change from baseline in RBANS suggested a trend toward worse scores for atabecestat versus placebo. Elevated liver enzyme adverse events reported in 12 participants on atabecestat resulted in dosage modification and increased frequency of safety monitoring. Treatment discontinuation normalized ALT or AST in all except one with pretreatment elevation, which remained mildly elevated. No case met ALT/AST >3X ULN; total bilirubin >2X ULN (Hy’s law).

Conclusion

Atabecestat was associated with trend toward declines in cognition, and elevation of liver enzymes.
Effect of a Calcium-Enriched Lemon Beverage on Bone Metabolism and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women: A Double-Blind, 11-Month, Intervention Study
Authors: Ikeda Hiromi , Iida Tadayuki , Hiramitsu Masanori , Inoue Takashi , Aoi Satomi , Kanazashi Miho , Ishizaki Fumiko , Harada Toshihide
Published: February 2020

Background Key approaches to preventing the onset of osteoporosis are to maximize peak bone mass (PBM) in early adulthood and to minimize the inevitable loss of bone mineral density (BMD) after menopause. Consequently, osteoporosis attracts a great deal of social as well as medical attention in Japan, a country experiencing population aging. Methods The present randomized, controlled study aimed to elucidate how bone metabolism and bone mineral density (BMD) are affected by the consumption of a lemon juice-containing, calcium-enriched beverage. The effectiveness of this investigational product was evaluated in 79 postmenopausal women. The subjects were assigned to three groups. The first two groups received calcium-supplemented (LECA group) and unsupplemented lemon (LE group) beverages, respectively. The third group (control) received no intervention. The LECA and LE groups consumed one bottle (290 ml) of the appropriate investigational product every day for 11 consecutive months. Results The results showed that the regular consumption of this lemon beverage promoted Ca absorption through the chelating function of citric acid, attenuating bone resorption. The results also suggest that the suppression of bone resorption inhibits bone formation mediated by the differentiation and activity of osteoblasts and leads to the prevention of high-turnover bone metabolism. Conclusion This hypothesis is further supported by the novel finding that the regular consumption of the lemon beverage increases the BMD of both the lumbar spine and femur. We believe that the Ca-supplemented lemon beverage used in the present study will be instrumental in developing effective strategies for the prevention of osteoporosis.
Uric acid levels are critical for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Chao Guanqun , Zhu Yue , Fang Lizheng
Published: February 2020

Background: To clarify the risk factors associated with NAFLD and further clarify the correlation between uric acid level and NAFLD by analyzing the correlation between NAFLD and different metabolic factors.Methods: Datas were obtained from subjects who underwent health examination in the Health promotion centre of Sir Run Run Shaw hospital of Zhejiang University from January 2016 to December 2017.The diagnosis of NAFLD was according to the clinical diagnosis of the Guidelines.Statistical analyses were performed using R software.Results: 79492 subjects were analyzed. 56680(71.3%) participants did not have NAFLD, 22812(28.7%) participants had NAFLD. Male, age, BMI, high blood pressure, central obesity, high glycosylated hemoglobin, high serum uric acid, high triglyceride, high total cholesterol, high low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), abnormal liver function were risk factors of NAFLD, however, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level was another risk factor of NAFLD.OR value suggested serum uric acid was a robust risk factor for NAFLD in all subgroups.In male group, AUC was 0.656 (95%CI: 0.651-0.661), the optimal diagnostic threshold was 395.5 mol/L, the sensitivity was 61.9%, the specificity was 61.1%, and the yoden index was 0.23. In female group, AUC was 0.716 (95%CI: 0.708-0.724), the optimal diagnostic threshold was 294.5 mol/L, sensitivity was 67.7%, specificity was 64.5%, and the Jordan index was 0.32.Conclusions: Our study suggested that there was a close correlation between serum uric acid level and NAFLD.Uric acid levels was a key risk factor for NAFLD.The diagnosis of fatty liver in patients can be preliminarily determined by detecting uric acid level.Contributions to the literature：1. The purpose of this study was to clarify the risk factors associated with NAFLD and further clarify the correlation between uric acid level and NAFLD by analyzing the correlation between NAFLD and different metabolic factors in the physical examination population.2. There was a close correlation between serum uric acid level and NAFLD.Uric acid levels was a key risk factor for NAFLD.3. The diagnosis of fatty liver in patients can be preliminarily determined by detecting uric acid level.