bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEG-PLAN: a clinical and technical protocol for obtaining magnetoencephalography data in minimally verbal or nonverbal children who have autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kuschner Emily S. , Kim Mina , Bloy Luke , Dipiero Marissa , Edgar J. Christopher , Roberts Timothy P. L.
Published: January 2021

Background

Neuroimaging research on individuals who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has historically been limited primarily to those with age-appropriate cognitive and language performance. Children with limited abilities are frequently excluded from such neuroscience research given anticipated barriers like tolerating the loud sounds associated with magnetic resonance imaging and remaining still during data collection. To better understand brain function across the full range of ASD there is a need to (1) include individuals with limited cognitive and language performance in neuroimaging research (non-sedated, awake) and (2) improve data quality across the performance range. The purpose of this study was to develop, implement, and test the feasibility of a clinical/behavioral and technical protocol for obtaining magnetoencephalography (MEG) data. Participants were 38 children with ASD (8–12 years) meeting the study definition of minimally verbal/nonverbal language. MEG data were obtained during a passive pure-tone auditory task.

Results

Based on stakeholder feedback, theMEG Protocol for Low-language/cognitive Ability Neuroimaging(MEG-PLAN) was developed, integrating clinical/behavioral and technical components to be implemented by an interdisciplinary team (clinicians, behavior specialists, scientists, and technologists). Using MEG-PLAN, a 74% success rate was achieved for acquiring MEG data, with a 71% success rate for evaluable and analyzable data. Exploratory analyses suggested nonverbal IQ and adaptive skills were related to reaching the point of acquirable data. No differences in group characteristics were observed between those with acquirable versus evaluable/analyzable data. Examination of data quality (evaluable trial count) was acceptable. Moreover, results were reproducible, with high intraclass correlation coefficients for pure-tone auditory latency.

Conclusions

Children who have ASD who are minimally verbal/nonverbal, and often have co-occurring cognitive impairments, can be effectively and comfortably supported to complete an electrophysiological exam that yields valid and reproducible results. MEG-PLAN is a protocol that can be disseminated and implemented across research teams and adapted across technologies and neurodevelopmental disorders to collect electrophysiology and neuroimaging data in previously understudied groups of individuals.
Anemia as a risk factor for tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gelaw Yemataw , Getaneh Zegeye , Melku Mulugeta
Published: January 2021

Background

Tuberculosis is a major public health problem caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, occurring predominantly in population with low socioeconomic status. It is the second most common cause of death from infectious diseases. Tuberculosis becomes a double burden among anemic patients. Anemia increases an individual’s susceptibility to infectious diseases including tuberculosis by reducing the immunity level. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether anemia is a risk factor for tuberculosis.

Method

Relevant published articles were searched in electronic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library using the following MeSH terms: risk factor, predictors, tuberculosis, TB, Anaemia, Anemia, hemoglobin, Hgb, and Hb. Articles written in the English, observational studies conducted on the incidence/prevalence of tuberculosis among anemic patients, or papers examined anemia as risk factors for tuberculosis were included. From those studies meeting eligibility criteria, the first author’s name, publication year, study area, sample size and age of participants, study design, and effect measure of anemia for tuberculosis were extracted. The data were entered using Microsoft Excel and exported to Stata version 11 for analysis. The random-effects model was applied to estimate the pooled OR and HR, and 95% CI. The sources of heterogeneity were tested by Cochrane I-squared statistics. The publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test statistics.

Results

A total of 17 articles with a 215,294 study participants were included in the analysis. The odd of tuberculosis among anemic patients was 3.56 (95% CI 2.53–5.01) times higher than non-anemic patients. The cohort studies showed that the HR of tuberculosis was 2.01 (95% CI 1.70–2.37) times higher among anemic patients than non-anemic patients. The hazard of tuberculosis also increased with anemia severity (HR 1.37 (95% CI 0.92–2.05), 2.08 (95% CI 1.14–3.79), and 2.66 (95% CI 1.71–4.13) for mild, moderate, and severe anemia, respectively).

Conclusion

According to the current systematic review and meta-analysis, we can conclude that anemia was a risk factor for tuberculosis. Therefore, anemia screening, early diagnose, and treatment should be provoked in the community to reduce the burden of tuberculosis.
Ancient mitochondrial DNA connects house mice in the British Isles to trade across Europe over three millennia
Authors: García-Rodríguez Oxala , Hardouin Emilie A. , Hambleton Ellen , Monteith Jonathan , Randall Clare , Richards Martin B. , Edwards Ceiridwen J. , Stewart John R.
Published: January 2021

Background

The earliest records in Britain for the western European house mouse (Mus musculus domesticus) date from the Late Bronze Age. The arrival of this commensal species in Britain is thought to be related to human transport and trade with continental Europe. In order to study this arrival, we collected a total of 16 ancient mouse mandibulae from four early British archaeological sites, ranging from the Late Bronze Age to the Roman period.

Results

From these, we obtained ancient mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) house mouse sequences from eight house mice from two of the sites dating from the Late Bronze to Middle Iron Age. We also obtained five ancient mtDNA wood mouse (Apodemus spp.) sequences from all four sites. The ancient house mouse sequences found in this study were from haplogroups E (N = 6) and D (N = 2). Modern British house mouse mtDNA sequences are primarily characterised by haplogroups E and F and, much less commonly, haplogroup D.

Conclusions

The presence of haplogroups D and E in our samples and the dating of the archaeological sites provide evidence of an early house mouse colonisation that may relate to Late Bronze Age/Iron Age trade and/or human expansion. Our results confirm the hypothesis, based on zooarchaeological evidence and modern mtDNA predictions, that house mice, with haplogroups D and E, were established in Britain by the Iron Age and, in the case of haplogroup E, possibly as early as the Late Bronze Age.
Incorporating a brief intervention for personalised cancer risk assessment to promote behaviour change into primary care: a multi-methods pilot study
Authors: Mills Katie , Paxton Ben , Walter Fiona M. , Griffin Simon J. , Sutton Stephen , Usher-Smith Juliet A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Approximately 40% of cancers could be prevented if people lived healthier lifestyles. We have developed a theory-based brief intervention to share personalised cancer risk information and promote behaviour change within primary care. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of incorporating this intervention into primary care consultations.

Method

Patients eligible for an NHS Health Check or annual chronic disease review at five general practices were invited to participate in a non-randomised pilot study. In addition to the NHS Health Check or chronic disease review, those receiving the intervention were provided with their estimated risk of developing the most common preventable cancers alongside tailored behaviour change advice. Patients completed online questionnaires at baseline, immediately post-consultation and at 3-month follow-up. Consultations were audio/video recorded. Patients (n = 12) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) (n = 7) participated in post-intervention qualitative interviews that were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

62 patients took part. Thirty-four attended for an NHS Health Check plus the intervention; 7 for a standard NHS Health Check; 16 for a chronic disease review plus the intervention; and 5 for a standard chronic disease review. The mean time for delivery of the intervention was 9.6 min (SD 3) within NHS Health Checks and 9 min (SD 4) within chronic disease reviews. Fidelity of delivery of the intervention was high. Data from the questionnaires demonstrates potential improvements in health-related behaviours following the intervention. Patients receiving the intervention found the cancer risk information and lifestyle advice understandable, useful and motivating. HCPs felt that the intervention fitted well within NHS Health Checks and facilitated conversations around behaviour change. Integrating the intervention within chronic disease reviews was more challenging.

Conclusions

Incorporating a risk-based intervention to promote behaviour change for cancer prevention into primary care consultations is feasible and acceptable to both patients and HCPs. A randomised trial is now needed to assess the effect on health behaviours. When designing that trial, and other prevention activities within primary care, it is necessary to consider challenges around patient recruitment, the HCP contact time needed for delivery of interventions, and how best to integrate discussions about disease risk within routine care.
Fractal lacunarity of trabecular bone in vertebral MRI to predict osteoporotic fracture risk in over-fifties women. The LOTO study
Authors: Zaia Annamaria , Rossi Roberto , Galeazzi Roberta , Sallei Manuela , Maponi Pierluigi , Scendoni Pietro
Published: January 2021

Background

Osteoporotic fractures are a major cause of morbidity in the elderly. Menopausal women represent the population with the highest risk of early osteoporosis onset, often accompanied by vertebral fractures (VF). Bone mineral density (BMD) is commonly assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for osteoporosis diagnosis; however, BMD alone does not represent a significant predictor of fracture risk. Bone microarchitecture, instead, arises as a determinant of bone fragility independent of BMD. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an effective noninvasive/nonionizing tool for in vivo characterisation of trabecular bone microarchitecture (TBA). We have previously set up an MRI method able to characterise TBA changes in aging and osteoporosis by one parameter, trabecular bone lacunarity parameter β (TBLβ). Fractal lacunarity was used for TBA texture analysis as it describes discontinuity of bone network and size of bone marrow spaces, changes of which increase the risk of bone fracture. This study aims to assess the potential of TBLβ method as a tool for osteoporotic fracture risk.

Methods

An observational, cross-sectional, and prospective study on over-50s women at risk for VF was designed. TBLβ, our index of osteoporotic fracture risk, is the main outcome measure. It was calculated on lumbar vertebra axial images, acquired by 1.5 T MRI spin-echo technique, from 279 osteopenic/osteoporotic women with/without prior VF. Diagnostic power of TBLβ method, by Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve and other diagnostic accuracy measurements were compared with lumbar spine DXA-BMD.

Results

Baseline results show that TBLβ is able to discriminate patients with/without prevalent VF (p = 0.003). AUC (area under the curve from ROC) is 0.63 for TBLβ, statistically higher (p = 0.012) than BMD one (0.53). Contribution of TBLβ to prevalent VF is statistically higher (p < 0.001) than BMD (sensitivity: 66% vs. 52% respectively; OR: 3.20, p < 0.0001 for TBLβ vs. 1.31, p = 0.297 for BMD). Preliminary 1-year prospective results suggest that TBA contribution to incident VF is even higher (sensitivity: 73% for TBLβ vs. 55% for BMD; RR: 3.00, p = 0.002 for TBLβ vs. 1.31, p = 0.380 for BMD).

Conclusion

Results from this study further highlight the usefulness of TBLβ as a biomarker of TBA degeneration and an index of osteoporotic fracture risk.
The concept of a cementless isoelastic monoblock cup made of highly cross-linked polyethylene infused with vitamin E: radiological analyses of migration and wear using EBRA and clinical outcomes at mid-term follow-up
Authors: Afghanyar Yama , Joser Sebastian , Tecle Jonas , Drees Philipp , Dargel Jens , Rehbein Philipp , Kutzner Karl Philipp
Published: January 2021

Background

The newest generation of cementless titanium-coated, isoelastic monoblock cup with vitamin E-blended highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) was introduced to the market in 2009. The aim of the present study was to obtain mid-term follow-up data including migration and wear analyses.

Methods

This prospective study investigated 101 primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) cases in 96 patients treated at a single institution. Patients were allowed full weight-bearing on the first day postoperatively. Harris hip score (HHS) and pain and satisfication on a visual analogue scale (VAS) were assessed at a mean follow-up of 79.0 months. Migration and wear were assessed using Einzel-Bild-Roentgen-Analyse (EBRA) software. Radiological acetabular bone alterations and complications were documented.

Results

At mid-term follow-up (mean 79.0 months, range: 51.8–101.7), 81 cases with complete clinical and radiological data were analyzed. Utilisable EBRA measurements were obtained for 42 hips. The mean HHS was 91.1 (range 38.0–100.0), VAS satisfaction was 9.6 (range 6.0–10.0), VAS rest pain was 0.2 (range 0.0–4.0), and VAS load pain was 0.6 (range 0.0–9.0). Mean migration was 0.86 mm (range: 0.0–2.56) at 24 months and 1.34 mm (range: 0.09–3.14) at 5 years, and the mean annual migration rate was 0.22 (range: − 0.24–1.34). The mean total wear was 0.4 mm (range: 0.03–1.0), corresponding to a mean annual wear rate of 0.06 mm per year (range: 0.0–0.17). Radiographic analysis did not reveal any cases of osteolysis, and no revision surgeries had to be performed.

Conclusions

After using vitamin-E blended HXLPE in cementless isoelastic monoblock cups, there were no obvious signs of osteolysis or aseptic loosening occurred. No patients required revision surgery after mid-term follow-up. Cup migration and wear values were well below the benchmarks considered predictive for potential future failure.

Trial registration

The trial registration number on ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04322916 (retrospectively registered at 26.03.2020).
Implementation of the norwegian ‘Starting right’ child health service innovation: implementation adjustments, adoption, and acceptability
Authors: Westergren Thomas , Mølland Eirin , Haraldstad Kristin , Tellefsen Håland Åshild , Stamnes Köpp Unni Mette , Fegran Liv , Abildsnes Eirik
Published: January 2021

Background

An increased and/or stable proportion of the child and adolescent population reports symptoms of impaired health, and the symptoms can be identified early. Therefore, structured child- and parent-reported outcome measures need to be implemented in child and school health services for decision support and identification of children at risk. We aimed to (a) qualitatively examine adjustments of active implementation from the pilot implementation of the Norwegian ‘Starting Right’ health service innovation including an online child health assessment tool and practical routines, and (b) measure practitioners´ adoption and parental acceptability.

Methods

We used a mixed-methods design to qualitatively examine adjustments from working notes and meeting memoranda, and quantitatively assess adoption and acceptability from user rates provided by the systems log. Twenty-one child and school health nurses (CSHNs) from two child health centers participated in the implementation pilot of online health assessments in children aged 2-, 4- and 6-year. We used a deductive and narrative analysis approach using Fixsen et al.´s core implementation components to code and sort adjustments.

Results

Core implementation components were adjusted throughout the pilot implementation. Researchers´ increased their availability in reciprocity with staff evaluation to integrate active implementation adjustments. We launched a project for improved data systems integration. The overall CSHNs adoption rate was satisfactory and higher in center A, where a medical secretary supported the nurses through the entire pilot phase, than in center B (96 vs. 55 %). Parental acceptability rate was overall high (77 %) with increased rates among parents of 6-year-old children (98 %) compared with younger ones (78–85 %), and in cases where both parents received the questionnaires.

Conclusions

The ‘Starting Right’ health service innovation implementation was actively adjusted by integration of core implementation components mainly based on staff evaluation. The CSHNs adopted the innovation which was also acceptable to parents.
Diet intervention improves cardiovascular profile in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: results from the randomized controlled cross-over trial ADIRA
Authors: Hulander Erik , Bärebring Linnea , Turesson Wadell Anna , Gjertsson Inger , Calder Philip C. , Winkvist Anna , Lindqvist Helen M.
Published: January 2021

Background

The chronic inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The contribution of diet as a risk factor for CVD among these patients is however not fully understood. The aim of this study is to investigate if a proposed anti-inflammatory diet improves cardiovascular profile in weight stable patients with RA.

Methods

Patients (n = 50) with RA were included in a cross-over trial. They were randomized to either a diet rich in whole grain, fatty fish, nuts, vegetables and fruit and supplemented with probiotics, or a control diet resembling average nutritional intake in Sweden, for ten weeks. After a 4-month washout they switched diet. Participants received food bags and dietary guidelines. Primary outcome was triglyceride (TG) concentration. Secondary outcomes were total-, high density lipoprotein- (HDL) and low density lipoprotein- (LDL) cholesterol, Apolipoprotein-B100 and -A1, lipoprotein composition, plasma phospholipid fatty acids and blood pressure.

Results

Forty-seven patients completed at least one period and they remained weight stable. There was a significant between-dietary treatment effect in TG and HDL-cholesterol concentration in favor of intervention (p = 0.007 and p = 0.049, respectively). Likewise, Apolipoprotein-B100/A1 ratio shifted toward a less atherogenic profile in favor of the intervention (p = 0.007). Plasma fatty acids increased in polyunsaturated- and decreased in monounsaturated- and saturated fatty acids between diet periods in favor of the intervention period.

Conclusion

Blood lipid profile improved indicating cardioprotective effects from an anti-inflammatory dietary intervention in patients with RA.

Trial registration

This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT02941055.
Role of Williamsia and Segniliparus in human infections with the approach taxonomy, cultivation, and identification methods
Authors: Fatahi-Bafghi Mehdi
Published: January 2021

The genera Williamsia and Segniliparus are of aerobic actinomycetes and at the time of writing, they have 12 and 2 species, respectively. These genera cause various infections in humans. In this review, we surveyed their taxonomy, isolation, identification, as well as their role to cause human infections.
Total laparoscopic transabdominal-transdiaphragmatic approach for treating Siewert II tumors: a prospective analysis of a case series
Authors: Pang Wei , Liu Gang , Zhang Yan , Huang Yun , Yuan Xinpu , Zhao Zhanwei , Zhang Chaojun
Published: January 2021

Background

Although the morbidity of gastric cancer has decreased, the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) is increasing. Furthermore, no consensus exists on which surgical approach should be applied for Siewert type II AEG. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the technical safety and feasibility of a new surgical approach.

Methods

Sixty patients with Siewert type II AEG underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy with the total laparoscopic transabdominal-transdiaphragmatic (TLTT) approach, which needs an incision in the diaphragm.

Results

The median operative time, reconstruction time, and estimated blood loss were 214.8 ± 41.6 min, 29.40 ± 7.1 min, and 209.0 ± 110.3 ml, respectively. All of the patients had negative surgical margins.

Conclusion

There were no intraoperative complications or conversions to open surgery. Our surgical procedure provides a unique option for the safe application of laparoscopic lower mediastinal lymph node dissection and gastrointestinal reconstruction.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014336. Registered on 31 December 2017 - Prospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=23111&htm=4.
Long noncoding RNA SNHG14 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating miR-876-5p/SSR2 axis
Authors: Liao Zhibin , Zhang Hongwei , Su Chen , Liu Furong , Liu Yachong , Song Jia , Zhu He , Fan Yawei , Zhang Xuewu , Dong Wei , Chen Xiaoping , Liang Huifang , Zhang Bixiang
Published: January 2021

Background

Aberrant expressions of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to be related to the progress of HCC. The mechanisms that SNHG14 has participated in the development of HCC are obscure.

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the lncRNA, microRNA and mRNA expression level. Cell migration, invasion and proliferation ability were evaluated by transwell and CCK8 assays. The ceRNA regulatory mechanism of SNHG14 was evaluated by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual luciferase reporter assay. Tumorigenesis mouse model was used to explore the roles of miR-876-5p in vivo. The protein levels of SSR2 were measured by western blot assay.

Results

In this study, we demonstrated that SNHG14 was highly expressed in HCC tissues, meanwhile, the elevated expression of SNHG14 predicted poor prognosis in patients with HCC. SNHG14 promoted proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells. We further revealed that SNHG14 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-876-5p and that SSR2 was a downstream target of miR-876-5p in HCC. Transwell, CCK8 and animal experiments exhibited miR-876-5p inhibited HCC progression in vitro and in vivo. By conducting rescue experiments, we found the overexpression of SSR2 or knocking down the level of miR-876-5p could reverse the suppressive roles of SNHG14 depletion in HCC.

Conclusion

SNHG14 promotes HCC progress by acting as a sponge of miR-876-5p to regulate the expression of SSR2 in HCC.
Cytosolic sensor STING in mucosal immunity: a master regulator of gut inflammation and carcinogenesis
Authors: Hu Qiongyuan , Zhou Quan , Xia Xuefeng , Shao Lihua , Wang Meng , Lu Xiaofeng , Liu Song , Guan Wenxian
Published: January 2021

The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) connects microbial cytosolic sensing with host cell effector functions. STING signaling plays a central role in cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) and DNA sensing to induce secretion of interferons and pro-inflammatory mediators. Although activated STING signaling favors antimicrobial progress and facilitates mucosal would healing, its role in mucosal immunity and gut homeostasis is paradoxical, ranging from positive and negative effects within the gut. In our review, we summarize recent advance of STING signaling in gut homeostasis and inflammation, especially focusing on its molecular basis in mucosal immune response. Deep understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of intestinal STING pathway could promote clinical manipulation of this fundamental signaling as a promising immunomodulatory therapy.
Leronlimab, a humanized monoclonal antibody to CCR5, blocks breast cancer cellular metastasis and enhances cell death induced by DNA damaging chemotherapy
Authors: Jiao Xuanmao , Wang Min , Zhang Zhao , Li Zhiping , Ni Dong , Ashton Anthony W. , Tang Hsin-Yao , Speicher David W. , Pestell Richard G.
Published: January 2021

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (BCa) (TNBC) is a deadly form of human BCa with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. In our prior analysis of over 2200 breast cancer samples, the G protein-coupled receptor CCR5 was expressed in > 95% of TNBC samples. A humanized monoclonal antibody to CCR5 (leronlimab), used in the treatment of HIV-infected patients, has shown minimal side effects in large patient populations.

Methods

A humanized monoclonal antibody to CCR5, leronlimab, was used for the first time in tissue culture and in mice to determine binding characteristics to human breast cancer cells, intracellular signaling, and impact on (i) metastasis prevention and (ii) impact on established metastasis.

Results

Herein, leronlimab was shown to bind CCR5 in multiple breast cancer cell lines. Binding of leronlimab to CCR5 reduced ligand-induced Ca+ 2 signaling, invasion of TNBC into Matrigel, and transwell migration. Leronlimab enhanced the BCa cell killing of the BCa chemotherapy reagent, doxorubicin. In xenografts conducted with Nu/Nu mice, leronlimab reduced lung metastasis of the TNBC cell line, MB-MDA-231, by > 98% at 6 weeks. Treatment with leronlimab reduced the metastatic tumor burden of established TNBC lung metastasis.

Conclusions

The safety profile of leronlimab, together with strong preclinical evidence to both prevent and reduce established breast cancer metastasis herein, suggests studies of clinical efficacy may be warranted.
Four cellulose-active lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases from Cellulomonas species
Authors: Li James , Solhi Laleh , Goddard-Borger Ethan D. , Mathieu Yann , Wakarchuk Warren W. , Withers Stephen G. , Brumer Harry
Published: January 2021

Background

The discovery of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) has fundamentally changed our understanding of microbial lignocellulose degradation. Cellulomonas bacteria have a rich history of study due to their ability to degrade recalcitrant cellulose, yet little is known about the predicted LPMOs that they encode from Auxiliary Activity Family 10 (AA10).

Results

Here, we present the comprehensive biochemical characterization of three AA10 LPMOs from Cellulomonas flavigena (CflaLPMO10A, CflaLPMO10B, and CflaLPMO10C) and one LPMO from Cellulomonas fimi (CfiLPMO10). We demonstrate that these four enzymes oxidize insoluble cellulose with C1 regioselectivity and show a preference for substrates with high surface area. In addition, CflaLPMO10B, CflaLPMO10C, and CfiLPMO10 exhibit limited capacity to perform mixed C1/C4 regioselective oxidative cleavage. Thermostability analysis indicates that these LPMOs can refold spontaneously following denaturation dependent on the presence of copper coordination. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed substrate-specific surface and structural morphological changes following LPMO action on Avicel and phosphoric acid-swollen cellulose (PASC). Further, we demonstrate that the LPMOs encoded by Cellulomonas flavigena exhibit synergy in cellulose degradation, which is due in part to decreased autoinactivation.

Conclusions

Together, these results advance understanding of the cellulose utilization machinery of historically important Cellulomonas species beyond hydrolytic enzymes to include lytic cleavage. This work also contributes to the broader mapping of enzyme activity in Auxiliary Activity Family 10 and provides new biocatalysts for potential applications in biomass modification.
Experimental dopaminergic neuron lesion at the area of the biological clock pacemaker, suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) induces metabolic syndrome in rats
Authors: Luo Shuqin , Ezrokhi Michael , Cominos Nicholas , Tsai Tsung-Huang , Stoelzel Carl R. , Trubitsyna Yelena , Cincotta Anthony H.
Published: January 2021

Background

The daily peak in dopaminergic neuronal activity at the area of the biological clock (hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei [SCN]) is diminished in obese/insulin resistant vs lean/insulin sensitive animals. The impact of targeted lesioning of dopamine (DA) neurons specifically at the area surrounding (and that communicate with) the SCN (but not within the SCN itself) upon glucose metabolism, adipose and liver lipid gene expression, and cardiovascular biology in normal laboratory animals has not been investigated and was the focus of this study.

Methods

Female Sprague–Dawley rats received either DA neuron neurotoxic lesion by bilateral intra-cannula injection of 6-hydroxydopamine (2–4 μg/side) or vehicle treatment at the area surrounding the SCN at 20 min post protriptyline ip injection (20 mg/kg) to protect against damage to noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons.

Results

At 16 weeks post-lesion relative to vehicle treatment, peri-SCN area DA neuron lesioning increased weight gain (34.8%, P < 0.005), parametrial and retroperitoneal fat weight (45% and 90% respectively, P < 0.05), fasting plasma insulin, leptin and norepinephrine levels (180%, 71%, and 40% respectively, P < 0.05), glucose tolerance test area under the curve (AUC) insulin (112.5%, P < 0.05), and insulin resistance (44%—Matsuda Index, P < 0.05) without altering food consumption during the test period. Such lesion also induced the expression of several lipid synthesis genes in adipose and liver and the adipose lipolytic gene, hormone sensitive lipase in adipose (P < 0.05 for all). Liver monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (a proinflammatory protein associated with metabolic syndrome) gene expression was also significantly elevated in peri-SCN area dopaminergic lesioned rats. Peri-SCN area dopaminergic neuron lesioned rats were also hypertensive (systolic BP rose from 157 ± 5 to 175 ± 5 mmHg, P < 0.01; diastolic BP rose from 109 ± 4 to 120 ± 3 mmHg, P < 0.05 and heart rate increase from 368 ± 12 to 406 ± 12 BPM, P < 0.05) and had elevated plasma norepinephrine levels (40% increased, P < 0.05) relative to controls.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that reduced dopaminergic neuronal activity in neurons at the area of and communicating with the SCN contributes significantly to increased sympathetic tone and the development of metabolic syndrome, without effect on feeding.
Impact of APOE ε4 genotype on initial cognitive symptoms differs for Alzheimer’s and Lewy body neuropathology
Authors: Pillai Jagan A. , Bena James , Bonner-Jackson Aaron , Leverenz James B.
Published: January 2021

Background

APOE ε4 carrier status is known to increase odds of amnestic presentations with Alzheimer’s pathology. It is unknown how APOE ε4 carrier status impacts odds of specific initial cognitive symptoms in the presence of Lewy body pathology. Here we evaluate the impact of APOE ε4 genotype on initial cognitive symptoms among those with Alzheimer’s disease pathology (ADP) and Lewy-related pathology (LRP).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 2288 participants with neuropathology confirmed ADP or LRP in the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center database, who had initial cognitive symptoms documented and had a Clinical Dementia Rating-Global (CDR-G) score ≤ 1 (cognitively normal, MCI, or early dementia). Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models taking into account age at evaluation, sex, and education examined the relationship between APOE ε4 genotype and initial symptoms (memory, executive, language visuospatial) among ADP with LRP and ADP-LRP groups.

Results

One thousand three hundred three participants met criteria for ADP alone, 90 for LRP alone, and 895 for co-existing ADP and LRP (ADP-LRP). Younger age increased odds of non-amnestic symptoms across all three groups. In the adjusted model among ADP, APOE ε4 carriers had higher odds of amnestic initial symptoms 1.5 [95% CI, 1.7–2.14, p = 0.003] and lower odds of initial language symptoms 0.67 [95% CI, 0.47–0.96, p = 0.03] than non-carriers. The odds for these two symptoms were not different between ADP and mixed ADP-LRP groups. Female sex and higher education increased odds of initial language symptoms in the ADP group in the adjusted model. In the unadjusted model, APOE ε4 carriers with LRP had a higher odds of visuospatial initial symptoms 21.96 [95% CI, 4.02–110.62, p < 0.0001], while no difference was noted for initial executive/attention symptoms. Among LRP, the odds of APOE ε4 on amnestic symptom was not significant; however, the interaction effect evaluating the difference in odds ratios of amnestic symptom between ADP and LRP groups also did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

The odds of specific initial cognitive symptoms differed between ADP and LRP among APOE ε4 carriers compared to non-carriers. The odds of initial amnestic symptom was higher among ADP APOE ε4 carriers and the odds of visuospatial initial symptom was higher with LRP APOE ε4 carriers. This supports the hypothesis that APOE ε4 differentially impacts initial cognitive symptoms together with underlying neuropathology.
Time-course single-cell RNA sequencing reveals transcriptional dynamics and heterogeneity of limbal stem cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Sun Changbin , Wang Hailun , Ma Qiwang , Chen Chao , Yue Jianhui , Li Bo , Zhang Xi
Published: January 2021

Background

Human pluripotent stem cell-derived limbal stem cells (hPSC-derived LSCs) provide a promising cell source for corneal transplants and ocular surface reconstruction. Although recent efforts in the identification of LSC markers have increased our understanding of the biology of LSCs, much more remains to be characterized in the developmental origin, cell fate determination, and identity of human LSCs. The lack of knowledge hindered the establishment of efficient differentiation protocols for generating hPSC-derived LSCs and held back their clinical application.

Results

Here, we performed a time-course single-cell RNA-seq to investigate transcriptional heterogeneity and expression changes of LSCs derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Based on current protocol, expression heterogeneity of reported LSC markers were identified in subpopulations of differentiated cells. EMT has been shown to occur during differentiation process, which could possibly result in generation of untargeted cells. Pseudotime trajectory analysis revealed transcriptional changes and signatures of commitment of hESCs-derived LSCs and their progeny—the transit amplifying cells.

Conclusion

Single-cell RNA-seq revealed time-course expression changes and significant transcriptional heterogeneity during hESC-derived LSC differentiation in vitro. Our results demonstrated candidate developmental trajectory and several new candidate markers for LSCs, which could facilitate elucidating the identity and developmental origin of human LSCs in vivo.
Role of preoperative intravenous iron therapy to correct anemia before major surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Elhenawy Abdelsalam M. , Meyer Steven R. , Bagshaw Sean M. , MacArthur Roderick G. , Carroll Linda J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Preoperative anemia is a common comorbidity that often necessitates allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT). As there is a risk associated with blood transfusions, preoperative intravenous iron (IV) has been proposed to increase the hemoglobin to reduce perioperative transfusion; however, randomized controlled trials (RCT) investigating this efficacy for IV iron are small, limited, and inconclusive. Consequently, a meta-analysis that pools these studies may provide new and clinically useful information.

Methods/design

Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBM Reviews; Cochrane-controlled trial registry; Scopus; registries of health technology assessment and clinical trials; Web of Science; ProQuest Dissertations and Theses; Clinicaltrials.gov; and Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S) were searched. Also, we screened all the retrieved reference lists.

Selection criteria

Titles and abstracts were screened for relevance (i.e., relevant, irrelevant, or potentially relevant). Then, we screened full texts of those citations identified as potentially applicable.

Results

Our search found 3195 citations and ten RCTs (1039 participants) that met our inclusion criteria. Preoperative IV iron supplementation significantly decreases ABT by 16% (risk ratio (RR): 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.71, 0.99,p= 0.04). In addition, preoperatively, hemoglobin levels increased after receiving IV iron (mean difference [MD] between the study groups: 7.15 g/L, 95% CI: 2.26, 12.04 g/L,p= 0.004) and at follow-up >  4 weeks postoperatively (MD: 6.46 g/L, 95% CI: 3.10, 9.81,p= 0.0002). Iron injection was not associated with increased incidence of non-serious or serious adverse effects across groups (RR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.78, 1.65,p= 0.52) and (RR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.44, 2.10,p= 0.92) respectively.

Conclusions

With moderate certainty, due to the high risk of bias in some studies in one or two domains, we found intravenous iron supplementation is associated with a significant decrease in the blood transfusions rate, and modest hemoglobin concentrations rise when injected pre-surgery compared with placebo or oral iron supplementation. However, further full-scale randomized controlled trials with robust methodology are required. In particular, the safety, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness of different intravenous iron preparations require further evaluation.
Considerations for conducting systematic reviews: evaluating the performance of different methods for de-duplicating references
Authors: McKeown Sandra , Mir Zuhaib M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Systematic reviews involve searching multiple bibliographic databases to identify eligible studies. As this type of evidence synthesis is increasingly pursued, the use of various electronic platforms can help researchers improve the efficiency and quality of their research. We examined the accuracy and efficiency of commonly used electronic methods for flagging and removing duplicate references during this process.

Methods

A heterogeneous sample of references was obtained by conducting a similar topical search in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and PsycINFO databases. References were de-duplicated via manual abstraction to create a benchmark set. The default settings were then used in Ovid multifile search, EndNote desktop, Mendeley, Zotero, Covidence, and Rayyan to de-duplicate the sample of references independently. Using the benchmark set as reference, the number of false-negative and false-positive duplicate references for each method was identified, and accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were determined.

Results

We found that the most accurate methods for identifying duplicate references were Ovid, Covidence, and Rayyan. Ovid and Covidence possessed the highest specificity for identifying duplicate references, while Rayyan demonstrated the highest sensitivity.

Conclusion

This study reveals the strengths and weaknesses of commonly used de-duplication methods and provides strategies for improving their performance to avoid unintentionally removing eligible studies and introducing bias into systematic reviews. Along with availability, ease-of-use, functionality, and capability, these findings are important to consider when researchers are selecting database platforms and supporting software programs for conducting systematic reviews.
Sexual health and COVID-19: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Kumar Navin , Janmohamed Kamila , Nyhan Kate , Forastiere Laura , Zhang Wei-Hong , Kågesten Anna , Uhlich Maximiliane , Van de Velde Sarah M. , Francis Joel M. , Erausquin Jennifer T. , Larsson Elin C. , Callander Denton , Scott John , Minichiello Victor , Tucker Joseph D.
Published: January 2021

Background

Global responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have exposed and exacerbated existing socioeconomic and health inequities that disproportionately affect the sexual health and well-being of many populations, including people of color, ethnic minority groups, women, and sexual and gender minority populations. Although there have been several reviews published on COVID-19 and health disparities across various populations, none has focused on sexual health. We plan to conduct a scoping review that seeks to fill several of the gaps in the current knowledge of sexual health in the COVID-19 era.

Methods

A scoping review focusing on sexual health and COVID-19 will be conducted. We will search (from January 2020 onwards) CINAHL, Africa-Wide Information, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, Gender Studies Database, Gender Watch, Global Health, WHO Global Literature on Coronavirus Disease Database, WHO Global Index Medicus, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Sociological Abstracts. Grey literature will be identified using Disaster Lit, Google Scholar, governmental websites, and clinical trials registries (e.g., ClinicalTrial.gov, World Health Organization, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Registry). Study selection will conform to the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewers’ Manual 2015 Methodology for JBI Scoping Reviews. Only English language, original studies will be considered for inclusion. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. A narrative summary of findings will be conducted. Data analysis will involve quantitative (e.g., frequencies) and qualitative (e.g., content and thematic analysis) methods.

Discussion

Original research is urgently needed to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 on sexual health. The planned scoping review will help to address this gap.

Systematic review registrations

Systematic Review Registration: Open Science Framework osf/io/PRX8E
On the averaging principle for SDEs driven by G-Brownian motion with non-Lipschitz coefficients
Authors: Mao Wei , Chen Bo , You Surong
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we aim to develop the averaging principle for stochastic differential equations driven by G-Brownian motion (G-SDEs for short) with non-Lipschitz coefficients. By the properties of G-Brownian motion and stochastic inequality, we prove that the solution of the averaged G-SDEs converges to that of the standard one in the mean-square sense and also in capacity. Finally, two examples are presented to illustrate our theory.
Dynamics of land use and land cover changes in Huluka watershed of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Ogato Gemechu Shale , Bantider Amare , Geneletti Davide
Published: January 2021

Background

Land use and land cover changes in urbanized watersheds of developing countries like Ethiopia are underpinned by the complex interaction of different actors, driving forces, and the land itself. Land conversion due to residential development, economic growth, and transportation is identified as the most serious environmental pressure on urbanized landscapes of the world. It results in the degradation of natural vegetation and significant increases in impervious surfaces. The purpose of the study was to analyze spatio-teporal changes in land use and land cover in the Huluka watershed with implications to sustainable development in the watershed.

Results

Forest land, cultivated land, urban built-up, bush/shrub land, bare land, grassland, and water body were identified as the seven types of land use and land cover in the Huluka watershed. Forest land decreased by 59.3% at an average rate of 164.52 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Bush/ shrub land decreased by 68.2% at an average rate of 318.71 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Grassland decreased by 32.7% at an average rate of 228.65 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Water body decreased by 5.1% at an average rate of 1.06 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Urban built-up area increased by 351% at an average rate of 16.20 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Cultivated land increased by 105.3% at an average rate of 692.76 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Bare land increased by 41.9% at an average rate of 4.00 ha/year between 1979 and 2017. Infrastructural and agricultural expansion, increased demand for wood, local environmental and biophysical drivers, rapid human population growth, economic drivers, technological drivers, policy and institutional drivers, and local socio-cultural drivers were perceived by residents as drivers of land use and land cover changes. Increased flooding risk, increased soil erosion, increased sedimentation into water resources like lakes and rivers, decrease in soil fertility, loss of biodiversity, loss of springs, decrease in annual rainfall, and increase in heat during the dry season were perceived by residents as negative local effects of land use and land cover changes.

Conclusions

Changes in land use and land cover in the study water shade imply the need for integrating sustainable watershed planning and management into natural resources management strategies. In other words, practices of appropriate land use planning and management, family planning, participatory planning and management, appropriate environmental impact assessment (EIA), and proper planning and management of development projects and programmes are of paramount importance to promote sustainable development in the Huluka watershed and beyond.
Immigrant and Swedish adolescents’ involvement in organized sports activities: an expectancy-value approach
Authors: Jaf Darun , Özdemir Metin , Skoog Therése
Published: January 2021

Background

Drawing on Eccles’ expectancy-value model, we investigated the associations between parents’ sports-related socialization behaviors in the family context, youth’s sports’ values, and youth’s involvement in organized sports activities in the Nordic countries. More specifically, we tested the mediating effect of youth’s sports’ values on the link between socialization of sports in the family setting and youth’s sports participation. Further, we examined whether any associations were moderated by youth’s immigrant background or gender.

Methods

Immigrant and Nordic adolescents (N = 678), in 7th–8th grade, were followed over two consecutive years and responded to surveys during regular class hours.

Results

Supporting Eccles’ model, we found that sports-related family co-activities significantly predicted youth’s prospective sports-related behaviors through youth’s sports’ values. The mediation process was robust across both Nordic and immigrant youth and adolescent girls and boys. Further, our results revealed that parents’ role modeling of sports activities was linked to both the amount of time youth currently spend on sports and their continuation in sports through youth’s sports’ values, although these associations were only significant for immigrant youth.

Conclusions

Our findings offer insights into how participation in organized sports activities can be promoted among both immigrant and Nordic youth and among boys and girls. Most importantly, the findings may have valuable implications for researchers, policymakers and practitioners interested in promoting youth’s involvement in organized sports activities. This especially applies to immigrant youth, given that the literature consistently reports lower sports involvement among immigrant youth than their native counterparts.