bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Innovative Approach for the Assessment and Monitoring of Land Degradation and Desertification in Semi-Arid Regions Using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques
Authors: B Pradeep Kumar , K Raghu Babu , M Rajasekhar , G Sakram , M Ramachandra
Published: August 2020

Land degradation (LD) and desertification is a serious ecological, environmental, and social-economic threat in the world, and there is a demanding need to develop accountable and reproducible techniques to assess it at different scales. In this study to assess LD and desertification with the help of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) in the study region for the period of past 29 years i.e., from 1990 to 2019. The severity of LD and desertification was assessed quantitatively by collecting twelve soil samples in the study region, and analyzing the eleven soil Physico-chemical parameters and these values have made correlated with Digital Number (DN) values with LANDSAT 8 satellite image. The land cover analysis of LANDSAT imagery revealed that the water body slightly increased from 0.29% in 1990 to 0.46% in 2019, and built-up-land increased from 2.87% in 1990 to 5.31% in 2019. Vegetation is decreased from 52.03% in 1990 to 28.57%. Fallow land, degraded land, and desertified lands are increased at alarming rates, respectively 13.71% to 26.35, 18.57% to 22.31%, and 12.53% to 17.00%. It is also established that the multi-temporal analysis of change detection data can provide a sophisticated measure of ecosystem health and variation, and that, over the last 29 years, considerable progress has been made in the respective research.
Targeting therapy-resistant lung cancer stem cells via disruption of the AKT/TSPYL5/PTEN positive-feedback loop
Authors: Kim In-Gyu , Lee Jei-Ha , Kim Seo-Yeon , Heo Chang-Kyu , Kim Rae-Kwon , Cho Eun-Wie
Published: August 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are regarded as essential targets to overcome tumor progression and therapeutic resistance; however, practical targeting approaches are limited. Here, we identify testis-specific Y-like protein 5 (TSPYL5) as a CSC-associated factor that promotes stemness and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in therapy-resistant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Aberrantly activated PI3K/AKT pathway in therapy-resistant NSCLC cells promotes TSPYL5 phosphorylation at threonine-120 (pT120), which inhibits ubiquitination and stabilizes TSPYL5. TSPYL5 pT120 also supports SUMOylation, which leads to its nuclear translocation and functions as a transcriptional repressor of PTEN. Nuclear TSPYL5 also activates the transcription of CSC-associated genes, ALDH1 and CD44. Collectively, TSPYL5 pT120 maintains persistent CSC-like characteristics via transcriptional activation of CSC-associated genes and via a positive-feedback loop between the AKT/TSPYL5/PTEN and PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. However, inhibition of TSPYL5 pT120 can block aberrant AKT/TSPYL5/PTEN cyclic signaling and cancer stemness. Our study suggests TSPYL5 as a novel target for cancer therapy.
Mainz Foot-school: a course concept for prevention and treatment of foot disorders
Authors: Betz Martin , Konradi Jürgen , Betz Ulrich , Drees Philipp
Published: August 2020

BackgroundPhysiotherapy offers an active approach to prevent and treat foot dysfunction, but it is currently rarely used. A Spiraldynamik®-inspired 6‒8-h educational program, called “Mainzer Fußschule” (Mainz Foot-school, MFS), was established to offer a framework for effective implementation. Elements of the courses are: knowledge transfer about anatomy and function, perception training, mobilization, as well as strengthening and coordination. In order to evaluate opinions of former participants about the course format and their subjective effects of course participation, we collected patient-reported outcomes (PROs).MethodsIn mid-2018, we conducted a retrospective, monocentric, questionnaire-based cohort study. The online-questionnaire comprised 23-items. All MFS attendees in 2015‒2017 who were contactable via e-mail (522; 90.3%) were approached. Finally, 350 completed questionnaires (67%) were returned.ResultsThe overall framework of the course was evaluated very positively by most participants, with 94.8% expressing a positive opinion about the course format, 97.2% about the theory vs. practice ratio, and 97.2% about the information content. PROs regarding the offering were equally positive, with 84.3% stating that their feet are now used and treated differently, and 63,9% that they still perform exercises learned in the MFS. Furthermore, the majority (67.9%) believes that the procedure had a positive effect on their existing foot problem. Feedback on the various other examined aspects was similarly positive.ConclusionsThe courses were rated positively by the majority of former participants, both in terms of format and subjective effects. Thus the MFS is a promising therapy option that should be included in an extended treatment concept with individual orthopedic examination and therapy options. Our results should be verified in a multicenter, randomized controlled study.Trial registrationThe Trial was approved by the ethical review committee of the Rhineland-Palatinate state chamber of physicians (18.04.2018). International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), DRKS00013890. Registered 11 May 2018, http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=DRKS00013890.
Knowledge and Attitudes Among Preschools Staff in Shanghai, China, Regarding Epilepsy
Authors: Qiu Liyan , Shen Lixiao , Wang Junli , Ren Fang , Xu Mingyu , Jiang Fan , Sheng Xiaoyang , Li Fei , Li Feng
Published: August 2020

BackgroundEpilepsy is one of the most common neurological problems among children. The aim of this survey was to assess the knowledge and attitude among preschool staff in Shanghai regarding epilepsy.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was carried out among the staff at selected preschools. A stratified random sampling method was first used to identify suitable subjects. Data were obtained using a self-completed questionnaire. A standardized collection of demographic information was performed, and participants were given a questionnaire about their knowledge and attitudes regarding epilepsy.ResultsA total of 1069 subjects completed the questionnaire. In this survey, 387 (36.2%) staff members had previously participated in related training. 17.6% of teachers knew how to provide appropriate first aid for seizures. Correct responses regarding first aid for seizures, such as laying the person on his or her side (24.9%), moving harmful objects out of the way (20.7%), protecting the head (36.1%), waiting until the seizure ends (7.9%), and dialing the emergency number (40.1%), were low. The staff members had different attitudes towards children with epilepsy: Some subjects had a positive attitude, some had a negative attitude.ConclusionsThe level of first-aid knowledge among preschool staff in Shanghai relevant to epilepsy was low. There is an urgent need to educate staff about epilepsy and appropriate first-aid practices for seizures.
A GIS-AHP Based Approach for Optimal Quarry Site Location Around Harer and Dire-Dawa Towns, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Gudissa Leta , Raghuvanshi Tarun Kumar , Meten Matebie , Chemeda Yadeta Chemdesa
Published: August 2020

The scarcity of lands for suitable quarry sites is rapidly becoming a critical growing problem in most developing countries of the world. Therefore, selection of optimal quarry sites for crushed aggregates is a prerequisite for safe operation and economic viability. The present study was carried out around Harer and Dire-Dawa towns located about 520 km from Addis Ababa. The main objective of the study was to identify optimal location of quarry sites for crushed aggregates by using integrated Analytic Hierarch Process (AHP) and GIS approach. Selection was carried out by considering factors such as lithology, land-use and land-cover, distance to built-up areas, distance to water bodies, distance to roads, relative relief, and slope angle. For each of the factors appropriate classifications and criteria were formulated based on its suitability. Finally, by utilizing all factors, weighted overlay analysis was applied to produce the quarry site suitability map. The resulted suitability map shows about 136km2 of the area is highly suitable, 1,587km2 is moderately suitable, and 2,166km2 has low suitability for quarry site development. The findings of the study will be helpful in narrowing down the area to the suitable areas that may further be studied through detailed field investigation. This result will also greatly serve as guide in quarry site selection in other states and/or other developing countries.
Differential Effects of Chronic Immunosuppression on Behavioral, Epigenetic and Alzheimer’s Disease-Associated Markers in 3xTg-AD Mice
Authors: Kapadia Minesh , Mian Firoz M. , Ma Donglai , Hutton Craig P. , Azam Amber , Narkaj Klotilda , Cao Chuanhai , Brown Breanna , Michalski Bernadeta , Morgan David , Forsythe Paul , Zovkic Iva B. , Fahnestock Margaret , Sakic Boris
Published: August 2020

Circulating autoantibodies and sex-dependent discrepancy in prevalence are unexplained phenomena of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using the 3xTg-AD mouse model, we reported that adult males show early manifestations of systemic autoimmunity, increased emotional reactivity, enhanced expression of the histone variant macroH2A1 in the cerebral cortex, and loss of plaque/tangle pathology. Conversely, adult females display less severe autoimmunity and retain their AD-like phenotype. This study examines the link between immunity and other traits of the current 3xTg-AD model. Young 3xTg-AD and wild-type mice drank a sucrose-laced 0.4 mg/ml solution of the immunosuppressant cyclophosphamide on weekends for 5 months. After behavioral phenotyping at 2 and 6 months of age, we assessed organ mass, serologic markers of autoimmunity, molecular markers of early AD pathology and expression of genes associated with neurodegeneration. Chronic immunosuppression prevented hematocrit drop and reduced soluble Aβ in 3xTg-AD males while normalizing the expression of histone variant macroH2A1 in 3xTg-AD females. This treatment also reduced hepatosplenomegaly, lowered autoantibody levels, and increased the effector T cell population while decreasing the proportion of regulatory T cells in both sexes. Exposure to cyclophosphamide, however, neither prevented reduced brain mass and BDNF expression nor normalized increased tau and anxiety-related behaviors. The results suggest that systemic autoimmunity increases soluble Aβ production and affects transcriptional regulation of macroH2A1 in a sex-related manner. Despite the complexity of multisystem interactions, 3xTg-AD mice can be a useful in vivo model for exploring the regulatory role of autoimmunity in the etiology of AD-like neurodegenerative disorders.
On-Site Blackwater Treatment Fosters Microbial Groups and Functions to Efficiently and Robustly Recover Carbon and Nutrients
Authors: Kuramae Eiko E. , Dimitrov Mauricio R. , Silva Gustavo R.H. , Lucheta Adriano , Mendes Lucas W. , Luz Ronildson L. , Vet Louise , Fernandes Tania V.
Published: August 2020

Background: Wastewater is considered as a renewable resource water and energy. An advantage of decentralized sanitation systems is the separation of the blackwater (BW) stream, which is highly contaminated with human pathogens, from the remaining household water. However, the composition and functions of the microbial community in BW are not known. In this study, we used shotgun metagenomics to assess the dynamics of microbial community structure and function throughout a new BW anaerobic digestion system installed at The Netherlands Institute of Ecology. Samples from the influent (BW), primary effluent (anaerobic digested BW), sludge and final effluent of the pilot upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor and microalgae pilot tubular photobioreactor (PBR) were analyzed.Results: Our results showed a decrease in microbial richness and diversity followed by a decrease in functional complexity and co-occurrence along the different modules of the bioreactor. The microbial diversity and function decrease were reflected both changes in substrate composition and wash conditions. The most prevalent core functions in influent (BW) were related to metabolism of carbohydrates, response to chemicals and drugs, and nitrogen. The core functions in anaerobic digested BW and upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor were related to response to stress, viral processes and iron-sulfur metabolism. Methanogenesis-related functions were most abundant in upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor. Effluent from tubular photobioreactor presented high abundances of functions related to nitrogen utilization, metal ion binding and antibiotic biosynthetic processes. Interestingly, the abundance of sequences related to ‘pathogenesis’ decreased from influent BW to SP1 to effluent from tubular photobioreactor. Our wastewater treatment system also decreased potential microbial functions related to pathogenesis. Conclusions: The new sanitation system studied here fosters microbial groups and functions that allow the system to efficiently and robustly recover carbon and nutrients while reducing pathogenic groups, ultimately generating a final effluent safe for discharge and reuse.
Landslide Susceptibility Mapping for Quito with Logistic Regression and Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Puente-Sotomayor Fernando Xavier , Mustafa Ahmed , Teller Jacques
Published: August 2020

The Andean region is one of the highest landslide-susceptible areas worldwide, while still limited attention has been devoted to the topic in this context in terms of research, risk reduction practice and urban policy. Given the collection of a few early datasets for landslides after a dozen years by the Andean city of Quito, this article aims to explore the predictive power of a binary logistic regression model (LOGIT) to test the provided data and multicriteria evaluation for landslide susceptibility in this urban area. Furthermore, two types of sensitivity analysis, the univariate and the MonteCarlo methods, were applied in order to suggest a better calibration of the LOGIT model. Amongst the ten variables included in the model for the context of Quito, which help to explain its landslide susceptibility, results showed that population and road density have relevant predicting power for high landslide susceptibility when adopting a weights-based data normalization for the model. This model was validated with a receiving operating characteristic of 0.79. Sensitivity analyses suggested calibrations of the model different from the referential one that would improve this metric up to 2%. The calibration process suggests further experimentation regarding other methods of normalization and a finer level of disaggregation of data. In terms of policy design, the LOGIT model coefficients values suggest the need of a deep analysis of the impacts that urban features such as population, road density, building footprint and floor area at a household scale have on the generation of landslide susceptibility in Andean cities like Quito.
Community composition and development of the post-weaning piglet gut microbiome
Authors: Gaio Daniela , DeMaere Matthew Z , Anantanawat Kay , Eamens Graeme J , Liu Michael , Zingali Tiziana , Falconer Linda , Chapman Toni A , Djordjevic Steven P , Darling Aaron E
Published: August 2020

BackgroundEarly weaning and intensive farming practices predispose piglets to the development of infectious and often lethal diseases, against which antibiotics are used. Besides contributing to the build-up of antimicrobial resistance, antibiotics are known to modulate the gut microbial composition. Studies have previously investigated the effects of probiotics as alternatives to antibiotic treatment for the prevention of post-weaning diarrhea. In order to describe the post-weaning gut microbiota, and the effects of two probiotics formulations and of intramuscular antibiotic treatment on the gut microbiota, we processed over 800 faecal time-series samples from 126 piglets and 42 sows, generating over 8Tbp of metagenomic shotgun sequence data. Here we describe the animal trial procedures, the generation of our metagenomic dataset and the analysis of the microbial community composition using a phylogenetic framework.ResultsFactors such as age, litter effects, and breed, by significantly correlating with gut microbial community shifts, can be major confounding factors in the assessment of treatment effects. Intramuscular antibiotic treatment and probiotic treatments were found to correlate with alpha and beta diversity, as well as with a transient establishment of Mollicutes and Lactobacillales, respectively. We found the abundance of certain taxa to correlate with weight gain.ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate that breed, litter, and age, are important contributors to variation in the community composition, and that treatment effects of the antibiotic and probiotic treatments were subtle, while host age was the dominant factor in shaping the gut microbiota of piglets after weaning. The current study shows, by means of a phylogenetic diversity framework, that the post-weaning pig gut microbiome appears to follow a highly structured developmental program with characteristic post-weaning changes that can distinguish hosts that were born as little as two days apart in the second month of life.
Ultra-Conformal Skin Electrodes with Synergistically Enhanced Conductivity for Low-Motion Artifact Epidermal Electrophysiology
Authors: Zhao Yan , Zhang Song , Yu Tianhao , Zhang Yan , Ye Guo , Jiang Wenchao , Lu Yifei , Zhang Weifeng , Du Xiaojia , Qiu Jiakang , Gu Xiaodan , Nan Liu
Published: August 2020

Accurate and imperceptible monitoring of electrophysiological signals is of primary importance for wearable healthcare. Stiff and bulky pregelled electrodes are now commonly used in clinical diagnosis, causing severe discomfort to users as well as artifact signals in motion. Here, we report a ~ 100 nm ultrathin dry epidermal electrode that is able to conformably adhere to skin and accurately measure electrophysiological signals. This dry epidermal electrode was fabricated by direct transfer of Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) - grown graphene (~ 1 nm) by poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS, ~ 100 nm) as the transfer medium, namely PTG. It showed low sheet resistance (45 Ω/sq), high transparency (80%), and mechano-electrical stability. The enhanced optoelectronic performance was due to the synergistic effect between graphene and PEDOT:PSS, which induced a high degree of molecular ordering on PEDOT and charge transfer on graphene by strong π-π interaction. Together with ultra-thin nature, PTG exhibited a low electrochemical impedance when interfacing with skin, thereby leading to accurate electrophysiological signal detection with low motion artifact, as well as controlling robotic claws. This strategy to synergistically incorporate graphene and PEDOT:PSS together as ultra-conformal dry electrodes will have a significant impact on the development of epidermal electronics.
How cognitive loads modulate the postural control of older people with low back pain?
Authors: Ge Le , Yu Qiuhua , Wang Chuhuai , Huang Huanjie , Li Xin , Zhang ShanShan , Zhang SiYun
Published: August 2020

Background: PC is a strong risk factor for falling in older people, particularly in older individuals with low back pain (LBP). Cognitive involvement in postural control (PC) increases with age.However, most scholars have not considered different difficulty levels of cognitive loads when exploring the effects of cognition on PC in older patients with LBP. To investigate how different levels of cognitive loads modulate PC in older patients with LBP.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Twenty older women with LBP were recruited into the LBP group, and 20 healthy older women without the history of LBP were recruited into the healthy control (HC) group. Balance parameters were computed to quantify PC. All participants underwent the static balance test (SBT), which required the participant to maintain stability during standing on a force platform with or without a concurrent a cognitive task. The SBT included three levels of difficulties of posture tasks (eyes-open vs. eyes-closed vs. and one-leg stance) and three cognitive tasks (without cognitive task vs. auditory stimulation calculator task vs. serial-7s arithmetic task). Results: A repeated-measure analysis of variance (3 postural tasks × 3 congnitive tasks× 2 groups) testing the effects of the different congnitive task levels on the performance in different postural conditions.Older people with LBP had worse PC (as reflected by larger center of pressure (COP) parameters) than HCs regardless of postural or cognitive difficulties. Compared with the single task, the COP parameters of participants with LBP were larger during dual tasks, even though the difficulty level of the cognitive task was low. Larger COP parameters were shown only if the difficulty level of the cognitive task was high in HCs. Correlations between sway area/sway length and the number of falls were significant in dual tasks.Conclusion: Our findings shed light on the how cognitive loads modulate PC for older people with LBP. Compared with HCs, cognitive loads showed more disturbing effects on PC in older people with LBP, which was associated with falling.
Factors Associated with the Use of Primary Care Centres in Persons with Schizophrenia
Authors: Anguiano Mª Carmen Castillejos , Pérez Carlos Martín , Aragon Antonio Bordallo , Küstner Berta Moreno
Published: August 2020

Background. Patients with schizophrenia and related disorders have more physical problems than the general population. Primary care professionals play an important role in the care of these patients as they are the main entry point into the healthcare system. We aimed to identify patient, general practitioner, and primary care centre factors associated with the number of visits of patients with schizophrenia and related disorders to general practitioners.Methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in 13 primary care centres belonging to the Clinical Management Unit of Mental Health of the Regional Hospital of Málaga, Spain. The eligible population was composed of patients with schizophrenia and related disorders attending the primary care centres in the study area, and the general practitioners who attend these patients. Our dependent variable was the total number of general practitioner visits made by patients with schizophrenia and related disorders during the 3.5-year observation period. The independent variables were grouped into three: a) patient variables (sociodemographic and clinical), b) general practitioner variables, and c) primary care centre characteristics. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses using the random forest method were performed.Results. A total of 259 patients with schizophrenia and related disorders, 96 general practitioners, and 13 primary care centres were included. The annual mean was 3.9 visits per patient. The results showed that younger general practitioners, patients who were women, patients who were married, some primary care centres to which the patient belonged, taking antipsychotic medication, presenting any cardiovascular risk factor, and more frequency of mental health training sessions at the primary care centre were associated with an increased number of visits to general practitioners.Conclusions. The only general practitioner characteristic that was associated with the number of visits was age. There were also patient variables involved in the number of visits. Finally, mental health training for general practitioners was important for these professionals to manage patients with schizophrenia and related disorders.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Serum Levels Sufficiently Predict Cerebrospinal Fluid Levels of DHEA and Estradiol (E2) in Women at Term Pregnancy
Authors: Habib Pardes , Neulen Joseph , Habib Shahin , Rösing Benjamin
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives:Neuroactive steroids such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P4) are associated with structural and functional changes in the central nervous system (CNS). Measurement of steroid levels in the CNS compartments, though restricted in accessibility, is essential for clinical evaluation. Consequently, there is only limited human data on the correlation and equilibrium for steroid levels between peripheral and central compartments. While some neuroactive steroids including DHEA and E2 have been reported to convey excitatory and proconvulsant properties, the opposite was demonstrated for progesterone. We aimed to elucidate the correlation between peripheral and central DHEA, E2, and P4 levels in women at term pregnancy.Subjects and Methods:CSF and serum samples of 27 healthy pregnant women (22-39 years) at term pregnancy were collected simultaneously under combined spinal and epidural anesthesia and used for DHEA, E2, and P4 ELISA.Results:All three neuroactive steroids were detected at markedly lower levels in CSF compared to their corresponding serum concentrations (decrease, mean ± SD, 97.66 ± 0.83 %).We found a strong correlation for DHEA between its serum and the corresponding CSF levels (r=0.65, p=0.003). While a significant but weak correlation (r=0.39, p=0.046) was detected for P4, serum and CSF levels of E2 (r=0.31, p=0.12) appeared not to correlate in the investigated cohort. DHEA serum concentration correlated significantly with both E2 (r=0.58, p=0.0016) and P4 in CSF (r=0.39, p=0.046). A strong correlation between the steroids DHEA and E2 measured in CSF was found (r=0.65, p=0.0002), while no substantial correlation between DHEA and P4 was evident in this compartment (r=0.34, p=0.085). Conclusions: Peripheral DHEA levels might serve as a valid predictor for central nervous levels of the neuroactive steroids DHEA and E2 in pregnant women.
Genome-wide Analysis of the Rice Mate Gene Family: Identification, Genomic Organization and Expression Profiles in Response to Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Du Zhixuan , Su Qitao , Wu Zheng , Huang Zhou , Bao Jianzhong , Li Jianbin , Tu Hang , Zeng Chuihai , Fu Junru , He Haohua
Published: August 2020

Background: Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) proteins are involved in many physiological functions of plant growth and development. Although an increasing number of MATE proteins have been identified, the understanding of MATE proteins is still very limited in rice.Results: In this study, 46 MATE proteins were identified from the rice (Oryza sativa) genome by homology searches and domain prediction. In addition, physical and chemical properties of the encoded proteins, subcellular localization, chromosome localization, stress-related cis-elements in abiotic stresses were determined, and a phylogenetic analysis and conserved motif analysis were performed. The rice MATE family can be divided into four subfamilies. It is speculated that members of the rice MATE family have many potential functions, such as the transport and accumulation of flavonoids and alkaloids, the extrusion of plant or exogenous compounds, the regulation of disease resistance and the response to abiotic stress, based on the proteins and cis-acting elements with known functions in the same subfamily. Analysis of gene expression showed that most of the genes were constitutively expressed. Furthermore, eight MATE genes were chosen for qRT-PCR-based analysis and showed differential expression patterns in response to salt and drought stress. Conclusions: Phylogenetic analysis, element prediction, expression data and homology with other species provided strong evidence for functional homology of MATE gene in rice. The analysis results of this study provide comprehensive information on the MATE gene family in rice and will aid in understanding the functional divergence of MATE genes.
Risk Factors for Osteoradionecrosis of the Jaw in Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kubota Hikaru , Miyawaki Daisuke , Mukumoto Naritoshi , Ishihara Takeaki , Matsumura Megumi , Hasegawa Takumi , Akashi Masaya , Kiyota Naomi , Shinomiya Hirotaka , Teshima Masanori , Nibu Ken‑ichi , Sasaki Ryohei
Published: August 2020

Background: To evaluate factors associated with osteoradionecrosis of the jaw (ORNJ) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), focusing on jaw-related dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 616 patients with HNSCC treated with curative-intent or postoperative radiation therapy (RT) during 2008–2018. Patient-related (age, sex, history of smoking or alcohol use, diabetes mellitus, performance status, pre-RT dental evaluation, pre- or post-RT tooth extraction), tumor-related (primary tumor site, T-stage, nodal status), and treatment-related (pre-RT surgery, pre-RT mandible surgery, induction or concurrent chemotherapy, RT technique) variables and DVH parameters (relative volumes of the jaw exposed to doses of 10 Gy–70 Gy [V10–70]) were investigated and compared between patients with and without ORNJ. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare RT dose parameters. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to assess factors associated with ORNJ development. Kaplan–Meier analyses were performed for cumulative ORNJ incidence estimation. Results: Forty-six patients (7.5%) developed ORNJ. The median follow-up duration was 40 (range, 3–145) months. The median time to ORNJ development was 27 (range, 2–127) months. DVH analysis revealed that V30-V70 values were significantly higher in patients with than in those without ORNJ. In univariate analyses, primary tumor site, pre-RT mandible surgery, post-RT tooth extraction, and V60 >14% were identified as important factors. In multivariate analyses, V60 >14% (p=0.0065) and primary tumor site (p=0.0059) remained significant. The 3-year cumulative ORNJ incidence rates were 2.5% and 8.6% in patients with V60 ≤14% and >14%, respectively (p<0.0001), and 1.4% and 9.3% in patients with oropharyngeal or oral cancer and other cancers, respectively (p<0.0001). Conclusions: V60 >14%, and oropharyngeal or oral cancer were found to be independent risk factors for ORNJ. These findings might be useful to minimize ORNJ incidence in HNSCC treated with curative RT.
Mentalization-Based Treatment for Adolescents with Conduct Disorder (MBT-CD): Protocol of a Feasibility and Pilot Study
Authors: Taubner Svenja , Hauschild Sophie , Korhas Lea , Kaess Michael , Sobanski Esther , Gablonski Thorsten-Christian , Schröder-Pfeifer Paul , Volkert Jana
Published: August 2020

Background: Conduct disorder (CD) is a complex mental disorder characterized by severe rule breaking and aggressive behaviour. While studies have shown that several therapeutic interventions are effective in treating CD symptoms, researchers call for treatments based on etiological knowledge and potential patho-mechanisms. Mentalization-based treatment (MBT) may represent such a treatment approach: Studies have shown that individuals with CD show mentalizing deficits and that mentalizing might represent a protective factor against the development of the disorder. As MBT focuses on the understanding of social behaviour in terms of mental states, fostering mentalizing might help CD individuals to (re)gain an adaptive way of coping with negative emotions especially in social interactions and thus reduce aggressive behaviour. For this purpose, MBT was adapted for adolescents with CD (MBT-CD). This is a protocol of a feasibility and pilot study primarily investigating the acceptability of the intervention and the scientific assessments by CD individuals and their families based on quantitative and qualitative data as well as necessary organizational resources. Secondary aim is to investigate the course of symptom severity and mentalizing skills.Methods: The bi-centre study is carried out in two outpatient settings associated with University Hospitals (Heidelberg and Mainz) in Germany. Adolescents aged between 11 and 18 years with a CD or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) diagnosis are included. Participants receive MBT-CD for 6 to 12 months. Primary outcome of the feasibility study (e.g. recruitment and adherence rates) will be descriptively analysed. Multilevel modelling will be used to investigate secondary outcome data.Discussion: Fostering the capacity to mentalize social interactions triggering non-mentalized, aggressive behaviour might help CD individuals to behave more adaptively. The feasibility trial is essential for gathering information on how to properly conduct MBT-CD including appropriate scientific assessments in this patient group, in order to subsequently investigate the effectiveness of MBT-CD in an RCT.
Interferon-based therapy did not attenuate hepatitis C-associated rheumatic disorder risk: A nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Cheng Jur-Shan , Hu Jing-Hong , Lin Yu-sheng , Lin Ming-Shyan , Ku Hsin-Ping , Chien Rong-Nan , Chang Ming-Ling
Published: August 2020

BackgroundWhether hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection increases the risk of rheumatic disorders and whether the associated risk is reversed by anti-HCV therapy remain elusive. We aimed to investigate these topics. MethodsA nationwide population-based cohort study of Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (TNHIRD) was conducted. ResultsOf 19,298,735 subjects, 3 TNHIRD cohorts (1:4:4, propensity score-matched), including HCV-treated (6,919 HCV-infected subjects with interferon and ribavirin therapy > 6 months), HCV-untreated (n=27,676) and HCV-uninfected (n=27,676) cohorts, were enrolled and had been followed since 2003 to 2015. HCV-uninfected cohort had the lowest 11-year cumulative incidence of rheumatic disorders [9.535%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 8.416~10.734%] (p<0.0001), while HCV-treated (14.95%; 12.417~17.704%) and HCV-untreated (14.999%; 13.585~16.479%) cohorts showed no difference in the cumulative incidences of rheumatic disorders (p=0.8316). Multivariate analyses showed, HCV infection [hazard ratio (HR):1.671; 95% CI HR: 1.562-1.788, p<0.0001], female sex (1.67; 1.565-1.782, p<0.0001), age> 49 years (1.168; 1.088-1.253, p<0.0001), Charlson comorbidity index > 1 (1.156; 1.074-1.245, p=0.0001), liver cirrhosis (0.795; 0.674-0.937, p=0.0062), chronic obstruction pulmonary disease (1.244; 1.134-1.364, p<0.0001), end stage renal disease (0.732; 0.549-0.974, p=0.0326), diabetes mellitus (0.91; 0.835-0.993, p=0.0333) and dyslipidemia (1.205; 1.108-1.31, p<0.0001) were associated with incident rheumatic disorders. Among the 3 cohorts, the untreated cohort had the highest cumulative incidence of overall mortality (29.163%; 27.218-31.133%, p<0.0001), while the treated (13.662%; 11.389-16.140%) and un-infected (9.99%; 8.548-11.559%) cohorts had indifferent mortalities (p=0.1796). ConclusionsHCV infection, baseline demographics and comorbidities were associated with the risks of rheumatic disorders. Although HCV-associated risk of rheumatic disorders might not be reversed by interferon-based anti-HCV therapy, which reduced the overall mortality in HCV-infected patients.
Dietary Supplementary of Modified Si-jun-zi Granule Promotes Intestinal Development and Enhances Mucosal Immunity of Weaned Rex Rabbits
Authors: Chen Shiqi , Liu Ning , Li Dongbo , Dou Haibo , Liu Quanjin , Liu Hanzhong , Wang Ping , Yu Zhiju , Shu Gang , Lin Juchun , Zhang Wei , Peng Guangneng , Zhao Ling , Tang Huaqiao , Zhang Kai , Wen Bin , Fu Hualin
Published: August 2020

Background: Early-weaned in Rex rabbits and other animals is associated with the development and immunity of intestine. This article was aimed to investigate the potential benefits of a dietary supplementation, modified Si-jun-zi granule (M-SJZG), on enhancing immunity of small intestinal mucosa and promoting intestinal development of weaned Rex rabbits. Results: In the present study, we found that dietary supplementation with 2% modified Si-jun-zi granule decreased the diarrhea frequency and mortality due to early-weaned, and significantly increased the average daily gain; the length and relative weight of intestine; the concentration of immunoglobulin in serum and SIgA in intestinal mucus. Additionally, the activity of lipase was raised by dietary Si-jun-zi granule addition. However the activities of ALT, ALP and AST in serum were obviously decreased. Compared with the un-supplementation control group, the ratio of villi length to crypt depth and the expression of tight junction protein(zonula occludens-1, Claudin-1 and Occludin) and Glucose transporter (re-combinant Sodium/Glucose co-transporter 1 and recombinant Glucose transporter 2) in jejunum were raised. In addition, Moreover early development of intestine and the injury of intestinal mucosa induced by early-weaning also could be improved.Conclusions: This study indicated that modified Si-jun-zi granule has protective effects on diarrhea induced by early-weaning through enhancing immunity of small intestine mucosa and promoting intestinal development.
Thoracic Spine Pain in Adolescents and Its Association With Electronic Devices and Other Factors
Authors: Vitta Alberto de , Campos Leticia Dominguez , Bento Thiago P. F. , Felippe Lilian Assunção , Ramos Wagner Luiz , Fernandes Julio Alberto Agante , Maciel Nicoly Machado , Perrucini Priscila D. O.
Published: August 2020

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of thoracic spine pain (TSP) in adolescents and to analyze its association with sociodemographic characteristics, use of electronic devices, habitual practice of physical activity and mental health problems. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 1628 students of public schools from the city of Bauru/SP. Data collection: 1. Characterization of the participants, use of electronic devices (TV, computer, tablet and phone), psychosocial factors and lifestyle; 2. Strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ); 3. Baecke Questionnaire; 4. Nordic questionnaire. Descriptive analyzes, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used. Results: The overall prevalence of TSP was 51.5% (CI 49.1 to 53.9). Women showed a prevalence of 59.6% (CI 56.2 to 62.9) and men of 43.1% (CI 39.7 to 46.5), with significant difference. The variables associated with TSP were: female gender (PR= 1.96), use of computer for more than 3 hours per day (PR= 1.29), use of computer for more than 3 times per week (PR= 1.35), distance from eye to the computer screen (PR= 1.29), use of cell phone in semi-lying position (PR= 1.37), time of use of cell phone for more than 3 hours per day (PR= 1.44), use of tablet in sitting position (PR= 1.47) and presence of mental health problems (PR= 2.62) Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of TSP in adolescents and a marked association with female sex, the use of electronic devices, the presence of mental health problems. The level of physical activity was a protective factor.
Reduced human-biting preferences by the African malaria vectors Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles gambiae in an urban context: Controlled, competitive host-preference experiments in Tanzania
Authors: Mlacha Yeromin P , Chaki Prosper P. , Muhili Athuman , Massue Dennis J. , Tanner Marcel , Majambere Silas , Killen Gerry F , Govella Nicodem J.
Published: August 2020

BackgroundHost preference is a critical determinant of human exposure to vector-borne infections and also the impact of interventions. Widespread use of long-lasting insecticides treated nets (LLINs) and, indoor residual spraying (IRS) across sub-Saharan Africa, which protect humans against mosquitoes, may select for altered host preference traits of malaria vectors over the long term. Here, the host preferences of Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto was experimentally assessed in the field, using direct host-preference assays in two distinct ecological settings in Tanzania. MethodsEight Ifakara Tent Trap (ITT), half of them baited with humans or bovine calves were simultaneously used to catch malaria vectors in open field sites urban and rural Tanzania. The numbers of mosquitoes collected in human-baited traps versus calf-baited traps were used to estimate human feeding preference of each malaria vector species present at each site. ResultsThe estimated proportion [95% confidence interval (CI)] of mosquitoes attacking humans rather than cattle was 0.60 [0.40, 0.77] for An. arabiensis in the rural setting and 0.61 [0.32, 0.85] for An. gambiae in the urban setting, indicating no preference for either host in both cases (P=0.32 and 0.46, respectively) and no difference in preference between the two (Odds Ratio (OR) [95%] = 0.95 [0.30, 3.01], P=0.924). However, only a quarter of An. arabiensis in the urban setting attacked humans (0.25 [0.09, 0.53]), indicating a preference for cattle that approached significance (P=0.08). Indeed, urban An. arabiensis were less likely to attack humans rather than cattle when compared to the same species in the rural setting (OR [95%] = 0.21 [0.05, 0.91], P =0.037). ConclusionUrban An. arabiensis had a stronger preference for cattle than the rural population in this or previous studies, all of which reported similar traits for this species in rural contexts. Furthermore, the urban An. gambiae assessed here had a weaker preference for humans over cattle than reported by previous studies of the same species in rural contexts. Cattle keeping may therefore particularly limit the impact of human-targeted vector control interventions in Dar es Salaam and perhaps in other African towns and cities.
Long-Term Outcomes of Moderately Hypofractionated Radiotherapy (67.5 Gy in 25 Fractions) for Prostate Cancer Confined to the Pelvis: A Single Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Yao Lihong , Shou Jianzhong , Wang Shulian , Song Yongwen , Fang Hui , Lu Ningning , Tang Yuan , Chen Bo , Qi Shunan , Yang Yong , Jing Hao , Jin Jing , Yu Zihao , Li Yexiong , Liu Yueping
Published: August 2020

Background: There is an increasing application of moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy for prostate cancer. We presented our outcomes and treatment-related toxicities with moderately hypofractionated (67.5 Gy in 25 fractions) radiotherapy for a group of advanced prostate cancer patients from China.Methods: From November 2006 to December 2018, 246 consecutive patients with prostate cancer confined to the pelvis were treated with moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy (67.5 Gy in 25 fractions). 97.6% of the patients received a different duration of androgen deprivation therapy. Failure-free survival (FFS), prostate cancer-specific survival (PCSS), overall survival (OS), and cumulative grade ≥2 late toxicity were evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier actuarial method. Prognostic factors for FFS, PCSS, and OS were analyzed.Results: The median follow-up time was 74 months (range: 6-150 months). For all patients, the 5- and 10-year FFS rates were 80.0% (95%CI: 74.7%-85.7%) and 63.5% (95%CI: 55.4%-72.8%). The failure rates for the intermediate, high-risk, locally advanced, and N1 groups were 6.1%, 13.0%, 18.4%, and 35.7%, respectively (P = 0.003). Overall, 5- and 10-year PCSS rates were 95.7% (95%CI: 93.0%-98.5%) and 88.2% (95%CI: 82.8%-93.8%). Prostate cancer-specific mortality rates for the high-risk, locally advanced, and N1 groups were 4.0%, 8.2%, and 23.8%, respectively (P＜0.001). Overall, 5- and 10-year actuarial OS rates were 92.4% (95%CI: 88.8%-96.1%) and 72.7% (95%CI: 64.8%-81.5%). High level prostate-specific antigen and positive N stage were significantly associated with worse FFS (P＜0.05). Advanced T stage and positive N stage emerged as worse predictors of PCSS (P＜0.05). Advanced age, T stage, and positive N stage were the only factors that were significantly associated with worse OS (P＜0.05). The 5-year cumulative incidence rate of grade ≥ 2 late GU and GI toxicity was 17.8% (95%CI: 12.5%-22.7%) and 23.4% (95%CI: 17.7%-28.7%), respectively. Conclusions: Moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy (67.5 Gy in 25 fractions) for this predominantly high-risk, locally advanced, or N1 in Chinese patients demonstrates encouraging long-term outcomes and acceptable toxicity. This fractionation schedule deserves further evaluation in similar populations.
A new method to calculate the maximum dose of local anesthetics
Authors: Rocha Julierme Ferreira , Fan Song , Dias Ribeiro Eduardo
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this correspondence is to present a suggestion of a simple and practical formula to calculate the maximum recommended dose of local anesthetics. We believe that using the proposed formula, it will be easier to calculate the maximum recommended dose.Descriptors: : Local Anesthetics; Drug Dosage Calculation; Clinical Practice Pattern.ReferencesMalamed SF. Handbook of local anesthesia. 6th ed. St Louis: Mosby  2013.
Therapeutic Advancements in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus with Special Reference to Nanotechnology
Authors: Chauhan Pallavi Singh , Yadav Dhananjay , Tayal Shivam , Jin Jun-O
Published: August 2020

For improvisation of diabetic’s quality of life, nanotechnology is facilitating the development of advanced glucose sensors as well as efficient insulin delivery systems. Our prime focus of the review is to highlight the advancement in diabetic research with special reference to nanotechnology at its interface. Recent studies are more focused on enhancing sensitivity, accuracy, and response by employing metal as well as nanoparticles based glucose sensors. Moreover, the review focuses on nanoscale based approaches i.e. closed-loop insulin delivery systems, which detect any fluctuation in blood glucose levels and allow controlled release of a drug, thus are also called self-regulating insulin release system. Additionally, this review summarizes the role of nanotechnology in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic complications through little advancement in the existing techniques. To improve health, as well as the quality of life in diabetic’s new sensing systems for blood glucose level evaluation and controlled administration of drugs through efficient drug delivery systems should be explored.