bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In silico screening and experimental analysis of family GH11 xylanases for applications under conditions of alkaline pH and high temperature
Authors: Talens-Perales David , Sánchez-Torres Paloma , Marín-Navarro Julia , Polaina Julio
Published: December 2020

Background

Xylanases are one of the most extensively used enzymes for biomass digestion. However, in many instances, their use is limited by poor performance under the conditions of pH and temperature required by the industry. Therefore, the search for xylanases able to function efficiently at alkaline pH and high temperature is an important objective for different processes that use lignocellulosic substrates, such as the production of paper pulp and biofuels.

Results

A comprehensive in silico analysis of family GH11 sequences from the CAZY database allowed their phylogenetic classification in a radial cladogram in which sequences of known or presumptive thermophilic and alkalophilic xylanases appeared in three clusters. Eight sequences from these clusters were selected for experimental analysis. The coding DNA was synthesized, cloned and the enzymes were produced in E. coli. Some of these showed high xylanolytic activity at pH values > 8.0 and temperature > 80 °C. The best enzymes corresponding to sequences from Dictyoglomus thermophilum (Xyn5) and Thermobifida fusca (Xyn8). The addition of a carbohydrate-binding module (CBM9) to Xyn5 increased 4 times its activity at 90 °C and pH > 9.0. The combination of Xyn5 and Xyn8 was proved to be efficient for the saccharification of alkali pretreated rice straw, yielding xylose and xylooligosaccharides.

Conclusions

This study provides a fruitful approach for the selection of enzymes with suitable properties from the information contained in extensive databases. We have characterized two xylanases able to hydrolyze xylan with high efficiency at pH > 8.0 and temperature > 80 °C.
Sex-specific associations between lipids and cognitive decline in the middle-aged and elderly: a cohort study of Chinese adults
Authors: Liu Lili , Zhang Chen , Lv Xiaozhen , Lai Xuefeng , Xu Lu , Feng Jingnan , Song Yongfeng , Wang Shengfeng , Zhan Siyan
Published: December 2020

Background

Studies regarding the lipid-cognition relationship have increasingly gained popularity but have generated much mixed results. To date, few studies have focused on the difference between sexes.

Methods

This study included 6792 Chinese adults aged over 45 years (women, 48.56%; mean age, 57.28 years), who were free of severe conditions known to affect cognitive function at the baseline (2011). Blood concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and triglycerides (TG) were assessed at baseline, and both continuous and categorical values were used in final analyses. Global cognitive functions were assessed by the word recall test and the mental status test in 2011, 2013, and 2015, respectively. We graded participants into three groups according to the cognitive change slopes: no decline (≥ 0), moderate decline (median to 0), and severe decline (< median). Sex-specific associations between blood lipids and cognitive decline were analyzed using ordinal logistic models, adjusting for sociodemographic information, lifestyle behaviors, and health status.

Results

Higher baseline TC and LDL-C concentrations exhibited no significant association with 5-year cognitive decline in men but were significantly associated with greater 5-year cognitive decline in women [odds ratio (OR) 1.026, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.003, 1.050; OR 1.026, CI 1.002, 1.051, respectively]. For higher serum HDL-c levels, a significantly protective effect on cognition was observed in men, but a slightly adverse effect was found in women (not significant after Bonferroni correction). TG presented almost no effect on later cognition in either sex.

Conclusion

Different associations between sexes were observed for the lipid-cognition relationship, and maintaining serum cholesterol levels at an appropriate range may have a positive effect on cognitive health.
Molecular characterization of cellulolytic (endo- and exoglucanase) bacteria from the largest mangrove forest (Sundarbans), Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Satyajit , Saber Md. Al , Tripty Ismoth Ara , Karim Md. Adnan , Islam Md. Aminul , Hasan Md. Shazid , Alam A. S. M. Rubayet Ul , Jahid Md. Iqbal Kabir , Hasan Md. Nazmul
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Cellulase, due to its massive applicability, has been used in various industrial processes such as biofuels (bioethanol, triphasic biomethanation), agricultural and plant waste management, chiral separation, and ligand binding studies. The finding of a novel cellulase-producing bacterium will benefit the industries, which rely on yeast to produce cellulase in fermentation technology, because bacteria can easily be manipulated and fermented cost-effectively.

Methods

Cellulase enzyme-secreting bacteria were isolated from different regions of the world’s largest mangrove forests, Sundarbans in Bangladesh. Biochemical, morphological, and 16S rRNA identification protocol was followed to precisely characterize the bacterial strains.

Result

We have determined that the strain T2-D2 (Bacillussp.), E1-PT (Pseudomonassp.), and D1-PT (Pseudomonassp.) showed maximum endoglycolytic and strain C1-BT (Bacillussp.), E1-BT (Bacillussp.), and T-4 (E) showed relatively higher exoglycolytic activity during the test. So, it can be easily cultured at a normal temperature (97.7–99.5 °F). On the one hand, T2-D2 (Bacillussp.) and E1-PT (Pseudomonassp.) have shown the highest growth rate at pH 7 as it was neither acidic nor basic.

Conclusion

It was concluded that the strain T2-D2 (Bacillussp.) and E1-PT (Pseudomonassp.) would be our target cellulolytic strains wherein the experimental isolates belonged to the Enterobacteriaceae, Psuedomonacea, Bacillacea, and Morganellacea family.
Specificity of translocator protein-targeted positron emission tomography in inflammatory joint disease
Authors: Helo Yusuf , Searle Graham E. , Borghese Federica , Abraham Sonya , Saleem Azeem
Published: December 2020

Objective

Expression of the translocator protein (TSPO) on inflammatory cells has facilitated imaging of synovitis with TSPO-targeted positron emission tomography (PET). We aimed to quantitatively assess the specificity of the second-generation TSPO PET radioligand, [11C]PBR28, and to generate simplified PET protocols in patients with inflammatory joint disease (IJD) in this pilot study.

Methods

Three IJD patients (two rheumatoid arthritis and one osteoarthritis) with knee involvement underwent dynamic [11C]PBR28-PET scans before and after administration of 90 mg of oral emapunil (XBD-173), a TSPO ligand the same day. Radial arterial blood sampling was performed throughout the scan, and total radioactivity and radioactive metabolites were obtained. A semi-automated method was used to generate regions of interest. Standardized uptake value (SUV) and SUV ratio corrected for activity in bone and blood between 50 and 70 min (SUVr50–70 bone, SUVr50–70 blood, respectively) and PET volume of distribution (VT) of the radioligand were calculated.

Results

A mean [11C]PBR28 radioactivity of 378 (range 362–389) MBq was administered. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in VT, SUVr50–70 bone and SUVr50–70 blood observed after oral emapunil confirmed the TSPO specificity of [11C]PBR28. A decrease in SUV was not observed in the post-block scan.

Conclusion

[11C]PBR28 is TSPO-specific radioligand in IJD patients. Simplified PET protocols with static PET acquisition can be used in the management and evaluation of novel therapeutics that target TSPO overexpressing cells.
Cooperative coverage-based lifetime prolongation for microgrid monitoring WSN in smart grid
Authors: Shao Sujie , Wu Lei , Zhang Qinghang , Zhang Neng , Wang Kaixuan
Published: December 2020

To take full advantage of the flexibility of access and disconnection from smart grid, organizing distributed renewable energy resources in form of microgrid becomes one solution of energy replenishment in smart grid. A large amount of accurate and comprehensive information data are needed to be monitored by a variety of different types of sensors to guarantee the effective operation of this kind of microgrid. Energy consumption of microgrid monitoring WSN consequently becomes an issue. This paper presents a novel lifetime prolongation algorithm based on cooperative coverage of different types of sensors. Firstly, according to the requirements of monitoring business, the construction of cooperative coverage sets and connected monitoring WSN are discussed. Secondly, energy consumption is analyzed based on cooperative coverage. Finally, the cooperative coverage-based lifetime prolongation algorithm (CC-LP) is proposed. Both the energy consumption balancing inside the cooperative coverage set and the switching scheduling between cooperative coverage sets are discussed. Then, we draw into an improved ant colony optimization algorithm to calculate the switching scheduling. Simulation results show that this novel algorithm can effectively prolong the lifetime of monitoring WSN, especially in the monitoring area with a large deployed density of different types of sensors.
Hardy operators and the commutators on Hardy spaces
Authors: Niu Zhuang , Guo Shasha , Li Wenming
Published: December 2020

In this paper, the boundedness of the classic Hardy operator and its adjoint on Hardy spaces is obtained. We also discuss the boundedness for the commutators generated by the classic Hardy operator and its adjoint with $BMO$
B
M
O
and $CMO(\mathbb{R}^{+})$
C
M
O
(

R
+

)
functions on Hardy spaces.
Burden of carbapenem non-susceptible infections in high-risk patients: systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Avendano Esther E. , Raman Gowri , Chan Jeffrey , McCann Eilish
Published: December 2020

Background

Owing to their resistance to an important class of antibiotics, the prevention and treatment of carbapenem-resistant (CR)/non-susceptible Gram-negative (GN) infections has become an important public health objective. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature to evaluate the burden of CR GN infections, focusing on high-risk patients such as transplant recipients, or patients with cancer, renal impairment, or sepsis.

Methods

MEDLINE®, Cochrane Central, and Embase® were searched between 2010 and March 2019. Abstracts and full-text articles were screened in duplicate. Random effects meta-analysis was conducted when reported outcomes were sufficiently similar.

Results

Twenty-six publications were eligible. Meta-analyses found increased mortality associated with CR infections among high-risk patients in both unadjusted analysis (8 studies; summary unadjusted odds ratio [OR]: 5.85; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.69, 9.26; I2 = 19.8%) and adjusted analysis (5 studies; summary hazard ratio [HR]: 4.67; 95% CI: 2.18, 9.99; I2 = 77.7%), compared to patients with carbapenem-susceptible (CS) infections or no infection. Increased mortality was also seen in subgroup analyses by length of follow-up (either short-term or long-term) or causative pathogen. A limited number of studies found that CR GN infections increased the risk for mechanical ventilation, adverse events such as graft failure or acute rejection in solid organ transplant recipients, increased renal failure or nephrotoxicity, and an increase in readmissions and costs, though the findings reported in the literature were not consistent.

Conclusion

This systematic literature review and meta-analysis indicates that CR GN infections in high-risk patients are associated with increased mortality, emphasizing the need for antimicrobial stewardship and infection control in hospitals which treat high-risk patients and for the development of effective antimicrobials with favorable efficacy and safety profiles for the treatment of CR GN infections.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antimicrobial use and resistance among communities of Ilala, Kilosa and Kibaha districts of Tanzania
Authors: Sindato Calvin , Mboera Leonard E. G. , Katale Bugwesa Z. , Frumence Gasto , Kimera Sharadhuli , Clark Taane G. , Legido-Quigley Helena , Mshana Stephen E. , Rweyemamu Mark M. , Matee Mecky
Published: December 2020

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the biggest threats to health globally. This cross-sectional study determined knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding antimicrobial use (AMU) and AMR among communities of Ilala, Kilosa and Kibaha in Tanzania.

Method

A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and KAP data through face-to-face interviews. Responses related to the triad of KAP were assigned scores that were aggregated for each participant. Linear regression analysis was conducted to determine predictors of KAP scores.

Results

The study enrolled 828 participants from the three districts. A total of 816 (98.6%) were aware of antimicrobials, and 808 (99%, n = 816) reported to have used them. Antimicrobials were mainly used to treat cough (68.0%), urinary tract infections (53.4%), diarrhoea (48.5%) and wounds (45.2%). The most frequent sources of antimicrobials were health facility (65.0%, n = 820) and pharmacies/basic drug shops (53.7%). The median AMU knowledge score was 5 (IQR = 4, 7) and that of AMR was 26 (IQR=23, 29). The median AMU attitudes score was 32 (IQR: 29, 35) and that of AMR was 19 (IQR=17, 22). The median AMU practice score was 3 (IQR: 3, 3). The KAP scores were significantly influenced by increased participant’s age (βadj=0.10; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.15) and level of education, being lower among those with primary education (βadj=5.32; 95% CI: 3.27, 7.37) and highest among those with college/university education (βadj=9.85; 95% CI: 6.04, 13.67).

Conclusion

The study documented a moderate level of KAP regarding AMU and AMR in the study districts. The participant's age and level of education were significantly associated with participant's KAP scores. The observed inadequate knowledge, inappropriate attitude, and practices of AMU and AMR should be considered as alarming problems that require immediate actions including policy formulation and planning of community-based mitigation measures.
The treatment of complex intra-articular distal radius fractures with turning radius and distal volaris radius plate fixation
Authors: Jia Zhaofeng , Wang Shijin , Jiang Wei , Li Chuangli , Lin Jiandong , Liu Qisong , Li Guangheng , Hu Xinjia
Published: December 2020

Background

Although distal radius fractures (DRFs) are clinically common, intra-articular DRFs accompanied by dorsally displaced free fragments are much less so. At present, it is very difficult to fix and stabilize the intra-articular distal radius fractures accompanying dorsally displaced free fragments with a plate. Our aim was to investigate the clinical effect of DRFs with distally displaced dorsal free mass treated with distal volaris radius (DVR) combined with turning of the radius via the distal palmar approach.

Methods

From 2015 to 2019, 25 patients with intra-articular distal radius fractures associated with dorsally displaced free fragments were selected and treated with distal volaris radius (DVR) combined with turning of the radius via the distal palmar approach. This study involved 14 males and 11 females, with an average age of 34.5 years (ranging from 21 to 50 years). The mean follow-up period was 16.5 months (ranging from 12 to 22 months). The dorsal displacement of the free fragments was analyzed by X-ray and three-dimensional computed tomography, allowing characterization of postoperative recovery effects by radial height, volar tilt and radial inclination. For the follow-up, we evaluated effects of the surgery by analyzing range of motion (ROM); Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS); and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. Postoperative wound recovery and complications were also monitored to evaluate the clinical therapeutic effects of the surgical procedures.

Results

X-ray showed that all patients showed reduced fractures, well-healed wounds and recovered function with no obvious complications. Based on the follow-up, patients had a mean radial height of 10.5 mm (ranging from 8.1 to 12.6 mm), mean MMWS of 78.8° (ranging from 61° to 90°), mean DASH score of 16.25 (ranging from 11 to 21), mean ROM for volar flexion of 76.5° (ranging from 62° to 81°), mean ROM for dorsiflexion of 77.1° (ranging from 59 to 83) and mean VAS score of 1.4 (ranging from 1 to 3).

Conclusion

Treatment of the intra-articular distal radius fractures accompanying dorsally displaced free fragments with turning of the radius and the DVR plate system via the distal palmar approach is effective and has no obvious complications.
Twin study—genetic comparison of matrix versus intramatrix rotation in the mandible and three different occlusal planes
Authors: Kim Jin Hyeong , Kim Young Ho , Kim Soo Jin , Sung Joohon , Song Yun-Mi , Shin Jeong Won , Park Jae Hyun , Chae Hwa Sung
Published: December 2020

Background

The purpose of this study is to investigate the heritability of total rotation, matrix rotation, and intramatrix rotation of the mandible in Korean monozygotic (MZ) twins, dizygotic (DZ) twins, and their siblings.

Materials and methods

The samples consisted of 75 pairs of Korean twins (39.7 + 9.26 years; MZ group, 36 pairs; DZ group, 13 pairs; sibling group, 26 pairs). Lateral cephalograms were taken, and 13 variables related to internal and external mandible rotation were measured. Three types of occlusal planes (bisected occlusal plane, functional occlusal plane, and the MM bisector occlusal plane) were used to evaluate genetic influence on the occlusal plane. Heritability (h2) was calculated by using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Falconer’s method.

Results

With regard to mandibular rotation, the MZ twin group showed significantly higher ICC values compared to the DZ twin and sibling groups. The ICC mean values for 13 cephalometric measurements were 0.85 (MZ), 0.62 (DZ), and 0.52 (siblings) respectively. The heritability of the total rotation (0.48) and matrix rotation (0.5) between the MZ and DZ groups was higher than that of the intramatrix rotation (− 0.14). All of the three types of occlusal plane showed high heritability, and among the three types, the functional occlusal plane showed the highest heritability (h2 = 0.76).

Conclusion

Based on these findings that showed a strong genetic effect on total rotation and matrix rotation, maintaining these rotations should be carefully considered in the orthodontic treatment plan, while the lower border of the mandible may be responsive to various treatments. Occlusal plane change, especially with regard to the functional occlusal plane, may not be stable due to strong genetic influences.
Corticosteroid treatment for early acute respiratory distress syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Hirano Yohei , Madokoro Shunsuke , Kondo Yutaka , Okamoto Ken , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

Background

The effect of corticosteroid treatment on survival outcome in early acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is still debated. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the efficacy of prolonged corticosteroid therapy in early ARDS.

Methods

We assessed the MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases from inception to August 1, 2020. We included RCTs that compared prolonged corticosteroid therapy with control treatment wherein the intervention was started within 72 h of ARDS diagnosis. Two investigators independently screened the citations and conducted the data extraction. The primary outcomes were all-cause 28- or 30-day mortality and 60-day mortality. Several endpoints such as ventilator-free days and adverse events were set as the secondary outcomes. DerSimonian-Laird random-effects models were used to report pooled odds ratios (ORs).

Results

Among the 4 RCTs included, all referred to the all-cause 28- or 30-day mortality. In the corticosteroid group, 108 of 385 patients (28.1%) died, while 139 of 357 (38.9%) died in the control group (pooled OR, 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.44–0.85). Three RCTs mentioned the all-cause 60-day mortality. In the corticosteroid group, 78 of 300 patients (26.0%) died, while 101 of 265 (38.1%) died in the control group (pooled OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.40–0.83). For secondary outcomes, corticosteroid treatment versus control significantly prolonged the ventilator-free days (4 RCTs: mean difference, 3.74; 95% CI, 1.53–5.95) but caused hyperglycemia (3 RCTs: pooled OR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.04–2.21).

Conclusions

Prolonged corticosteroid treatment in early ARDS improved the survival outcomes.

Trial registration

PROSPERO, CRD42020195969
Characterization of fatal injuries in oil and gas industry-related helicopter accidents in the Gulf of Mexico, 2004–2014
Authors: Yeoman Kristin , O’Connor Mary B. , Sochor Sara , Poplin Gerald
Published: December 2020

Background

Transportation events are the most common cause of offshore fatalities in the oil and gas industry, of which helicopter accidents comprise the majority. Little is known about injury distributions in civilian helicopter crashes, and knowledge of injury distributions could focus research and recommendations for enhanced injury prevention and post-crash survival. This study describes the distribution of injuries among fatalities in Gulf of Mexico oil and gas industry-related helicopter accidents, provides a detailed injury classification to identify potential areas of enhanced safety design, and describes relevant safety features for mitigation of common injuries.

Methods

Decedents of accidents during 2004–2014 were identified, and autopsy reports were requested from responsible jurisdictions. Documented injuries were coded using the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), and frequency and proportion of injuries by AIS body region and severity were calculated. Injuries were categorized into detailed body regions to target areas for prevention.

Results

A total of 35 autopsies were coded, with 568 injuries documented. Of these, 23.4% were lower extremity, 22.0% were thorax, 13.6% were upper extremity, and 13.4% were face injuries. Minor injuries were most prevalent in the face, neck, upper and lower extremities, and abdomen. Serious or worse injuries were most prevalent in the thorax (53.6%), spine (50.0%), head (41.7%), and external/other regions (75.0%). The most frequent injuries by detailed body regions were thoracic organ (23.0%), thoracic skeletal (13.3%), abdominal organ (9.6%), and leg injuries (7.4%). Drowning occurred in 13 (37.1%) of victims, and drowning victims had a higher proportion of moderate brain injuries (7.8%) and lower number of documented injuries (3.8) compared with non-drowning victims (2.9 and 9.4%, respectively).

Conclusions

Knowledge of injury distributions focuses and prioritizes the need for additional safety features not routinely used in helicopters. The most frequent injuries occurred in the thorax and lower extremity regions. Future research requires improved and expanded data, including collection of detailed data to allow characterization of both injury mechanism and distribution. Improved safety systems including airbags and helmets should be implemented and evaluated for their impact on injuries and fatalities.
A potential hypothesis for 2019-nCoV infection therapy through delivery of recombinant ACE2 by red blood cell-hitchhiking
Authors: Aghili Zahra Sadat , Mirzaei Seyed Abbas , Banitalebi-Dehkordi Mehdi
Published: December 2020

A novel infectious disease, caused by 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is responsible for the recent outbreak of severe respiratory disease. The 2019-nCoV spread rapidly and reaching epidemic proportions in many countries of the world. ACE2 was identified as a key receptor for 2019-nCoV infections. Excessive form of soluble ACE2 rescues cellular ACE2 activity which has a protective role in acute lung failure and neutralizes the virus. The short half-life of ACE2 is a major limitation to its practical application. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems are one of the most widely investigated approaches for developing novel therapies for a variety of diseases. Nevertheless, nanoparticles suffer from the rapid removal from the bloodstream by the reticuloendothelial system (RES). A noncovalent attachment of nanoparticles to RBCs increases their half-life in blood and allows transient accumulation in the lungs, while decreases their uptake by the liver and spleen. Connecting the recombinant ACE2 into the surface of nanoparticles that were attached to RBCs can be a potential therapeutic approach for 2019-nCoV infection through increasing their lung targeting to naturalize the virus and also acting as a bioreactor in the blood circulation to decrease serum level of Angiotensin II and protects lungs from injury/ARDS.
Anzansi family program: a study protocol for a combination intervention addressing developmental and health outcomes for adolescent girls at risk of unaccompanied migration
Authors: Sensoy Bahar Ozge , Ssewamala Fred M. , Ibrahim Abdallah , Boateng Alice , Nabunya Proscovia , Neilands Torsten B. , Asampong Emmanuel , McKay Mary M.
Published: December 2020

Background

The International Labor Organization (ILO) estimates that 11% of children (ages 5 to 17) worldwide are child laborers. ILO recently drew attention to migrant child laborers as an underreported, but more vulnerable group to adverse outcomes relative to children working locally. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) continues to be the continent with the highest rates of child labor, with Ghana registering one of the highest incidence rates at 22%, including unaccompanied child migrants engaged in labor. Adolescent girls make up the majority of unaccompanied rural-to-urban migrants in search of better economic opportunities. Studies document the myriad of serious threats to health and emotional well-being experienced by adolescent girls who migrate to engage in child labor. These threats underline the urgent need for theoretically informed preventive interventions, specifically tailored to address the root causes of female child migrant labor and the needs of girls from economically insecure families and communities.

Methods

A two-arm cluster randomized control trial will be conducted to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary impact of ANZANSI (family economic empowerment + multiple family groups) among 100 adolescent girls and their caregivers in the Northern Region of Ghana. Ten schools will be randomly selected from a list of eligible schools, and randomized to one of two study arms: (1) control arm (n= 5 schools,n= 50 adolescent-caregiver dyads); (2) treatment arm (n= 5 schools,n= 50 adolescent-caregiver dyads) receiving ANZANSI over a 9-month period. Adolescents (ages 11 to 14) in the same school will be assigned to the same study condition to avoid contamination.

Discussion

The primary aim of the study is to address the urgent need for theoretically and empirically informed interventions that prevent adolescent girls’ unaccompanied rural-to-urban migration for child labor. Existing programs are not preventive and primarily target children who already migrated to the city and are living and working on the streets. This study is one of the first studies to pilot test a combination intervention, integrating family economic empowerment targeting household poverty with multiple family groups addressing family cohesion and perceptions on gender norms, child education/labor, all of which are factors, when combined, force girls to drop out of school and migrate.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov;NCT04231669; Registered January 18, 2020;
Retraction Note to: Pharmacological agents in development for diabetic macular edema
Authors: Sadiq Mohammad Ali , Halim Muhammad Sohail , Hassan Muha mmad , Onghanseng Neil , Karaca Irmak , Agarwal Aniruddha , Afridi Rubbia , Sepah Yasir J. , Do Diana V. , Nguyen Quan Dong
Published: December 2020

The authors have retracted this article [1] for legal reasons. Therefore the contents of this article are no longer available. The authors have been invited to submit a new version of the article. All authors have agreed to this retraction.
Evaluation of frailty status and prognosis in patients aged over 75 years with chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Authors: Yoshida Masaki , Takanashi Yurie , Harigai Takako , Sakurai Noriyuki , Kobatake Keiko , Yoshida Hiroaki , Kobayashi Satsuki , Matsumoto Takayuki , Ueki Kazue
Published: December 2020

Background

There is a higher frequency of advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) in frail patients than in the general population. This study evaluated frailty status before initiation of dialysis and clarified the prognosis in patients aged over 75 years with advanced CKD.

Method

This study involved 310 patients who initiated dialysis between January 2011 and December 2018. Frailty was evaluated using the Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS). Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), laboratory data, the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), geriatric syndrome (based on SPICES score), nutritional status (based on the Controlling Nutritional Status [CONUT] score), and the effects of frail conditions on the prognosis were examined.

Results

There were 107 robust participants (34.5%), 100 pre-frail participants (32.3%), and 103 frail participants (33.2%). The median survival time was significantly different among the robust (54.3 months), pre-frail (39.7 months), and frail participants (18.7 months) by the log-rank test (P < 0.001). HR of frail group compared to robust group was 1.59 (P = 0.04). Pre-frail group did not show a significantly higher hazard than frail group. The other significant variables maintained in the model were CONUT score (P < 0.001), CCI, and SPICES score. The Kruskal–Wallis test showed that CONUT score (P < 0.001), SPICES score (P < 0.001), and CCI (P = 0.013) were significant differences in three independent groups (robust, pre-frail, frail).

Conclusion

Frail patients receiving dialysis have a poor prognosis. Frailty was associated with comorbidities, nutrition, and especially geriatric syndrome.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a reliable diagnostic tool for small breast lesions (≤ 1.0 cm): a 20-year retrospective study
Authors: de Cursi Jessica Aline Tomelin , Marques Mariângela Esther Alencar , de Assis Cunha Castro Cristina Andrea Campos , Schmitt Fernando Carlos , Soares Cleverson Teixeira
Published: December 2020

Background

Breast cancer is a major public health problem worldwide. It is recommended that small breast lesions or those suspicious for malignancy be evaluated via histopathological examination (“core biopsy” or surgical specimens), and lesions that are probably benign and palpable should be examined via fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). This study aimed to assess the accuracy of FNAC for the diagnosis of small breast lesions.

Methods

We reviewed all anatomopathological reports of FNACs collected between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2019 (n = 24,721) in a private community pathology service. Lesions up to 1.0 cm (≤1.0 cm) (n = 8334) were included for evaluation and classified according to the recommendation of the International Academy of Cytology Yokohama System for Reporting Breast Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Cytopathology in the following categories: (1) insufficient/inadequate; (2) benign; (3) atypical, probably benign; (4) suspicious of malignancy; and (5) malignant. Subsequently, the results of the FNACs were compared to those of the respective histopathological examinations (n = 785).

Results

FNAC had a specificity of 99.6%; sensitivity, 97.4%; positive predictive value, 99.6%; negative predictive value, 97.6%; and accuracy, 98.5%.

Conclusions

FNAC is a reliable method for diagnosing small breast lesions (≤1.0 cm).
A qualitative review of cannabis stigmas at the twilight of prohibition
Authors: Reid Matt
Published: December 2020

Background

As laws change and cannabis use increases, it is worthwhile to take a rich account of cannabis stigmas in society, and this review identifies a disjunction between quantitative investigations on cannabis users and qualitative investigations on the same population. This is also the first attempt to explicate cannabis stigmas as they manifest on multiple analytical levels. Following brief explanations of the normalization hypothesis and the concept of stigma, this review is organized between structural (macro) stigmas, social (meso) stigmas, and personal (micro) stigmas. Furthermore, since cannabis stigmas are similar to the stigmas faced by sexual minorities in that each is physically concealable, the two groups are compared here because the literature base is more extensive with the latter.

Methods

This qualitative review synthesizes the body of empirical studies on both medical and nonmedical cannabis use with attention to stigma, stereotypes, and other social consequences. Studies considered for the review mostly come from the social sciences, particularly sociology. The information presented here is primarily drawn from peer-reviewed articles on cannabis users in the USA, though research from similar national contexts is cited as well.

Results

This review suggests claims of normalization may be premature. While stigmas surrounding cannabis appear to have diminished, there is little evidence that such stigmas have entirely disappeared. It is possible that sweeping claims of cannabis normalization may be symptomatic of unchecked social privileges or social distance from cannabis users. Such claims may also be the product of valuing quantitative data over the nuanced accounts uncovered through qualitative investigations.

Conclusion

This substantial coverage of the literature indicates the lived experience of a post-prohibition society is not the same as a one where cannabis is normalized. Individuals working with those who use cannabis should not assume stigmas have disappeared, especially since cannabis stigmas often intersect with other sources of social inequality. While a comprehensive discussion of ways to combat lingering social stigmas is beyond the scope of this review, it concludes by highlighting some of the strategies identified through research which help users resist or mitigate these oppressive forces. Future research would be wise to prioritize the experiences of people of color, women, and adult populations if the hope is to identify ways to further normalize the plant in American society.
Modified distance regularized level set evolution for brain ventricles segmentation
Authors: Jayaraman Thirumagal , Reddy M. Sravan , Mahadevappa Manjunatha , Sadhu Anup , Dutta Pranab Kumar
Published: December 2020

Neurodegenerative disorders are commonly characterized by atrophy of the brain which is caused by neuronal loss. Ventricles are one of the prominent structures in the brain; their shape changes, due to their content, the cerebrospinal fluid. Analyzing the morphological changes of ventricles, aids in the diagnosis of atrophy, for which the region of interest needs to be separated from the background. This study presents a modified distance regularized level set evolution segmentation method, incorporating regional intensity information. The proposed method is implemented for segmenting ventricles from brain images for normal and atrophy subjects of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography images. Results of the proposed method were compared with ground truth images and produced sensitivity in the range of 65%–90%, specificity in the range of 98%–99%, and accuracy in the range of 95%–98%. Peak signal to noise ratio and structural similarity index were also used as performance measures for determining segmentation accuracy: 95% and 0.95, respectively. The parameters of level set formulation vary for different datasets. An optimization procedure was followed to fine tune parameters. The proposed method was found to be efficient and robust against noisy images. The proposed method is adaptive and multimodal.
Evaluating the dissemination and scale-up of two evidence-based parenting interventions to reduce violence against children: study protocol
Authors: Shenderovich Yulia , Ward Catherine L. , Lachman Jamie M. , Wessels Inge , Sacolo-Gwebu Hlengiwe , Okop Kufre , Oliver Daniel , Ngcobo Lindokuhle L. , Tomlinson Mark , Fang Zuyi , Janowski Roselinde , Hutchings Judy , Gardner Frances , Cluver Lucie
Published: December 2020

Background

Eliminating violence against children is a prominent policy goal, codified in the Sustainable Development Goals, and parenting programs are one approach to preventing and reducing violence. However, we know relatively little about dissemination and scale-up of parenting programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The scale-up of two parenting programs, Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH) for Young Children and PLH for Parents and Teens, developed under Creative Commons licensing and tested in randomized trials, provides a unique opportunity to study their dissemination in 25 LMICs.

Methods

The Scale-Up of Parenting Evaluation Research (SUPER) study uses a range of methods to study the dissemination of these two programs. The study will examine (1) process and extent of dissemination and scale-up, (2) how the programs are implemented and factors associated with variation in implementation, (3) violence against children and family outcomes before and after program implementation, (4) barriers and facilitators to sustained program delivery, and (5) costs and resources needed for implementation.

Primary data collection, focused on three case study projects, will include interviews and focus groups with program facilitators, coordinators, funders, and other stakeholders, and a summary of key organizational characteristics. Program reports and budgets will be reviewed as part of relevant contextual information. Secondary data analysis of routine data collected within ongoing implementation and existing research studies will explore family enrolment and attendance, as well as family reports of parenting practices, violence against children, child behavior, and child and caregiver wellbeing before and after program participation. We will also examine data on staff sociodemographic and professional background, and their competent adherence to the program, collected as part of staff training and certification.

Discussion

This project will be the first study of its kind to draw on multiple data sources and methods to examine the dissemination and scale-up of a parenting program across multiple LMIC contexts. While this study reports on the implementation of two specific parenting programs, we anticipate that our findings will be of relevance across the field of parenting, as well as other violence prevention and social programs.
Study of wave forces acting on the box-girder superstructure of coastal bridges in the submerged condition based on potential flow theory
Authors: Huang Bo , Ren Qingyang , Cui Xiaolu , Zhang Jiawei , Zhu Bing
Published: December 2020

The box-girder superstructure of coastal bridges is vulnerable to wave-induced damage in the case of small clearances. The analytical method for estimating the wave forces on the box-girder superstructure of coastal bridges is proposed based on the potential flow theory in this paper. The two-dimension problem of the box-girder superstructure under the wave action is defined with some necessary simplifications first. Then, the analytical solutions are solved by the eigenfunction matching method, and the wave force on the submerged box-girder superstructure is calculated using the Bernoulli principle. After validating the accuracy of the proposed method by previous calculations and the experimental test, the influences of the girder type and structural configuration on the wave forces of submerged box-girder are conducted using the proposed analytical method. The results show that the girder type has a significant effect on the wave forces of the submerged superstructure, and the influence of various structural parameters should be considered comprehensively in the structural safety design under wave actions. The results of the present study can provide a useful reference for the estimation of wave forces and the structural design of the box-girder superstructure of coastal bridges.
Multistage unidirectionally migrating canyons and the evolution of their trajectories in the canyon zone in the Baiyun Sag, northern South China Sea: Insights into canyon genesis
Authors: Fu Chao , Yu Xinghe , Li Shunli , Shan Xin , He Yulin , Jin Lina
Published: December 2020

In deep-sea slope areas, canyons provide an ideal space to preserve sediments and provide a window to explore the deepwater deposition process, such as turbidity flow and contourite currents. We have evaluated results of the study of the northern continental slope of the South China Sea characterized by the presence of mostly straight canyons. After evaluating core samples and interpreting the corresponding seismic data, we static the sedimentary parameter and identified two types of canyons with different migrating trajectories: “convex downward curve-shaped” trajectories and “convex upward curve-shaped” trajectories. The convex downward curve-shaped canyon trajectory is distinguished by a lower layer of coarse-grained sediment and an upper layer of fine-grained sediment, whereas the convex upward curve-shaped canyon trajectory features a lower layer of fine-grained sediment and an upper layer of coarse-grained sediment. Combining the grain size of the core sample and the scale of the sedimentary structure, we restore the turbidity flow rates and the corresponding turbidity flow behaviors. Coarse-grained turbidity flows are characterized by lower vertical erosion rates and higher lateral abrasion rates, whereas fine-grained turbidity flows exhibit the opposite characteristics. Thus, the convex downward curve-shaped migration trajectory is mainly formed by coarse-grained turbidity flow erosion in the first stage (the late migration stage) and fine-grained turbidity flow deposition in the second stage (the vertical aggradation stage). In contrast, the convex upward curve-shaped trajectory forms through the opposite pattern of sedimentary evolution.
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Patient Outcomes in EGFR- and ALK-Positive Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Goulart Bernardo H.L. , Unger Joseph M. , Chennupati Shasank , Fedorenko Catherine R. , Ramsey Scott D.
Published: December 2020

PURPOSE:

We investigated the association of out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) with overall survival (OS) in epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR)- and anaplastic lymphoma kinase ( ALK)-positive advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We secondarily investigated associations of TKI OOP costs with TKI adherence, duration of therapy (DOT), and TKI discontinuation.

METHODS:

We used the Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research registry-claims database to identify patients with stage IV EGFR- or ALK-positive NSCLC; ≥ 1 claims for EGFR or ALK TKIs; and ≥ 3-month survival from TKI initiation. We estimated the average monthly TKI OOP costs per patient up to 3 months from TKI initiation, categorizing patients into quartiles of TKI OOP costs (Q1 < Q2 < Q3 < Q4). We conducted landmark analysis at 3 months from TKI initiation to compare Q1-3 v Q4 TKI OOP costs with respect to OS, TKI DOT, TKI adherence, and TKI discontinuation.

RESULTS:

Seventy-eight and twenty-seven patients comprised the Q1-3 and Q4 groups, respectively. Median monthly TKI OOP costs were $1,431 (Q1-3) v $2,888 (Q4). Compared with Q1-3, Q4 patients had inferior OS (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.85; [95% CI, 1.11 to 3.10], similar TKI DOT (adjusted HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.53 to 2.15), decreased TKI adherence (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.28; 95% CI, 0.10 to 0.76), and higher TKI discontinuation rate (adjusted OR, 8.75; 95% CI, 2.59 to 29.52).

CONCLUSION:

Among patients with advanced EGFR- and ALK-positive NSCLC, higher TKI OOP costs are associated with decreased TKI adherence, a higher likelihood of TKI discontinuation, and inferior survival.
The Nexus of Endocrine Signaling and Cancer: How Steroid Hormones Influence Genomic Stability
Authors: Ganguly Shinjini , Naik Divya , Muskara Andrew , Mian Omar Y
Published: December 2020

Endocrine-driven malignancies, including breast and prostate cancer, are among the most common human cancers. The relationship between sex steroid hormones (eg, androgen, estrogen, and progesterone), their cognate receptors, and genomic stability lie at the center of endocrine-driven cancer development, progression, and therapeutic resistance. A variety of direct and indirect mechanisms have been described that link steroid hormone signaling to the loss of genomic integrity that drives early carcinogenesis. These effects are often enriched within endocrine receptor cistromes, accounting for the high proportion of mutations and rearrangements in the region of hormone response elements. In other cases, the effects are generalized and rely on a complex array of genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic interactions. Both androgen and estrogen receptors directly modulate the DNA damage response by trans-activating DNA damage response genes and redirecting the cellular repair machinery in the wake of genotoxic stress. Here we review the key mechanistic underpinnings of the relationship between sex steroid hormone receptors and genomic stability. In addition, we summarize emerging research in this area and discuss important implications for cancer prevention and treatment.
Retinal ganglion cell interactions shape the developing mammalian visual system
Authors: D'Souza Shane , Lang Richard A.
Published: December 2020

Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) serve as a crucial communication channel from the retina to the brain. In the adult, these cells receive input from defined sets of presynaptic partners and communicate with postsynaptic brain regions to convey features of the visual scene. However, in the developing visual system, RGC interactions extend beyond their synaptic partners such that they guide development before the onset of vision. In this Review, we summarize our current understanding of how interactions between RGCs and their environment influence cellular targeting, migration and circuit maturation during visual system development. We describe the roles of RGC subclasses in shaping unique developmental responses within the retina and at central targets. Finally, we highlight the utility of RNA sequencing and genetic tools in uncovering RGC type-specific roles during the development of the visual system.
SetDB1 and Su(var)3-9 play non-overlapping roles in somatic cell chromosomes of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kalashnikova Darya A. , Maksimov Daniil A. , Romanov Stanislav E. , Laktionov Petr P. , Koryakov Dmitry E.
Published: December 2020

We explored functional roles of two H3K9-specific histone methyltransferases of Drosophila melanogaster, SetDB1 (also known as Eggless) and Su(var)3-9. Using the DamID approach, we generated the binding profile for SetDB1 in Drosophila salivary gland chromosomes, and matched it to the profile of Su(var)3-9. Unlike Su(var)3-9, SetDB1 turned out to be an euchromatic protein that is absent from repeated DNA compartments, and is largely restricted to transcription start sites (TSSs) and 5′ untranslated regions (5′UTRs) of ubiquitously expressed genes. Significant SetDB1 association is also observed at binding sites for the insulator protein CP190. SetDB1 and H3K9 di- and tri-methylated (me2 and me3)-enriched sites tend to display poor overlap. At the same time, SetDB1 has a clear connection with the distribution of H3K27me3 mark. SetDB1 binds outside the domains possessing this modification, and about half of the borders of H3K27me3 domains are decorated by SetDB1 together with actively transcribed genes. On the basis of poor correlation between the distribution of SetDB1 and H3K9 methylation marks, we speculate that, in somatic cells, SetDB1 may contribute to the methylation of a broader set of chromosomal proteins than just H3K9. In addition, SetDB1 can be expected to play a role in the establishment of chromatin functional domains.