bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Morphological Alteration and Neural Pathway of NADPH Diaphorase Positivity in the Spinal Cord with Disc Herniation of Aged Dog: A Case Report
Authors: Li Yinhua , Jia Yunge , Hou Wei , Tan Huibing
Published: February 2020

Neuronal lesion or injury is a traditional approach to investigate neural circuit. Is any new neural pathway or new neurodegeneration related central nerve system injury? Spinal disc herniation can cause the spinal cord injury. However, the histological examination is still lack. It happened that a case of spinal disc herniation of a 10-year old dog was examined with NADPH diaphorase (N-d) histology. We did not find the N-d neurodegenerative aberrant in the tissue of the mid-rostral lumber segment besides the metamorphoses by the compression of the disc herniation. However, the severe neuropathological changes majorly occurred in the lumbosacral spinal cord. We found more diverse neurodegenerative alterations: the aging-related N-d body (ANB), megaloneurite and N-d homogeneous formazan globule in the lumbosacral spinal cord. We also found that a new circuit pathway (intermedial collateral pathway) showed by a megaloneurite between the lateral collateral pathway and the medial collateral pathway. The enormous notch caused by spinal disc herniation located at the mid-rostral lumber segments. The aging-related neurodegeneration occurred the specific lumbosacral segments. The homogeneous formazan globule was round or oval homogeneous N-d positivity which distributed in the gray matter and dorsal column. In the medulla oblongata, ANBs were revealed in the gracile nucleus, nucleus reticularis lateralis (ventrolateral spinal trigeminal nucleus) and middle of the spinal trigeminal nucleus.
AR-V7 Positivity Varies with Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) Enrichment and Novel CTC Enrichment Is Able to Reduce AR-V7 False Positivity
Authors: Nakasato Takehiko , Kusaka Chiho , Ota Mika , Hasebe Yuki , Ueda Kumiko , Unoki Tsutomu , Oshinomi Kazuhiko , Morita Jun , Maeda Yoshiko , Shichijo Takeshi , Naoe Michio , Ogawa Yoshio
Published: February 2020

Background: The AR-V7 splice variant is a cause of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). However, testing for the presence of AR-V7 by RT-PCR shows AR-V7 positivity in healthy individuals. We hypothesized that the positivity reflected contamination by hematopoietic cells. We tried a novel CTC enrichment instrument using Celsee® to clear hematopoietic cells. Methods: We tested whole blood or Celsee-enriched samples for AR-V7 by RT-PCR and included samples from 41 CRPC patients undergoing sequential therapy. We evaluated the associations between AR-V7 status and clinical factors. We evaluated factors affecting AR-V7 positivity. Results: AR-V7 positivity was lower in Celsee-enriched than in whole blood specimens. AR-V7 and clinical factors did not predict the therapy effectiveness. We found no significant differences in the effectiveness of Enz/Abi upon AR-V7 evaluation. All AR-V7 positive patients had resistance to Enz/Abi. DTX, CBZ, and Radium223 treatment showed no significant difference in the treatment effectiveness, regardless of AR-V7 presence. AR-V7 was more frequently positive than EOD2 in cases with bone metastases. Conclusion: Celsee® CTC enrichment suppresses the AR-V7 false positivity. All AR-V7 positive patients presented resistance to Enz/Abi. DTX, CBZ, and Radium223 were effective and remained treatment options. AR-V7 positivity should progressively appear in patients with advanced bone metastases.
The Effect of Vanadate, Phosphate, Fluoride Compounds and Their Effect on the Aqueous Corrosion of Magnesium Alloy AZ31 in Dilute Chloride Solutions
Authors: Feng Zhiyuan , Li Jichao , Yang Zi , Buchheit Rudolph
Published: February 2020

The anodic polarization response of magnesium alloy AZ31 was characterized during exposure to aerated 0.1M NaCl solutions with millimolar additions of NaVO3, Na3PO4, Na2HPO4, NaF and various pairings to assess their ability to inhibit corrosion kinetics and retard localized corrosion. Each of the candidate inhibitors reduced the corrosion rate of the alloy to some degree. A Na3PO4 - NaVO3 pair produced a powerful inhibiting response decreasing the corrosion rate to about 10-7 A/cm2, which was two orders of magnitude lower than the uninhibited control case. A Bliss Independence assessment indicated that this inhibitor pair acted synergistically. A Na2HPO4 - NaVO3 pair reduced the corrosion rate to 10-6 A/cm2 but was not assessed to be acting synergistically. The NaVO3 - NaF pair did not reduce the corrosion rate significantly compared to the control case and was an antagonistic pairing. SEM imaging showed film formation due to exposure, which appears to be the origins of the observed inhibition. The resistance to localized corrosion was assessed as the difference in the breakdown potential and the corrosion potential with larger values indicating a lower probability of localized corrosion during free corrosion exposures. Effects of the inhibitors on this characteristic were mixed, but each of the inhibitor pairs yielded potential differences in excess of 100mV. A conceptual conversion coating process based on a mixture of vanadate and phosphate compounds were demonstrated. A fluoride-bearing formulation produced coatings whose total impedance was increased by a factor or 2 compared to an uncoated control. A fluoride-free formulation produced coatings whose corrosion resistance was increased by more than a factor of 3.
scRNA-seq Profiling of Human Testes Reveals the Presence of ACE2 Receptor, a Target for SARS-CoV-2 Infection, in Spermatogonia, Leydig and Sertoli Cells
Authors: Wang Zhengpin , Xu Xiaojiang
Published: February 2020

In December 2019, a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) was identified in patients with pneumonia (called COVID-19) in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. SARS-CoV-2 shares high sequence similarity and uses the same cell entry receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), as does severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Several studies have provided bioinformatic evidence of potential routes for SARS-CoV-2 infection in respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive and urinary systems. However, whether the reproductive system is a potential target of SARS-CoV-2 infection has not been determined. Here, we investigate the expression pattern of ACE2 in adult human testis at the level of single-cell transcriptomes. The results indicate that ACE2 is predominantly enriched in spermatogonia, Leydig and Sertoli cells. Gene ontology analyses indicate that GO categories associated with viral reproduction and transmission are highly enriched in ACE2-positive spermatogonia while male gamete generation related terms are down-regulated. Cell-cell junction and immunity related GO terms are increased in ACE2-positive Leydig and Sertoli cells, but mitochondria and reproduction related GO terms are decreased. These findings provide evidence that human testes are a potential target of SARS-CoV-2 infection which may have significant impact on our understanding of the pathophysiology of this rapidly spreading disease.
Art education for communication in the society: a content analysis
Authors: Nacak Ayşegül , Yücesoy Yücehan
Published: February 2020

This study aims to identify the current trends in the published articles on art education and society to generate a systematic review in this field. Document analysis as a qualitative research method was used in the study in order to achieve this aim. Data of the study were obtained from Google Scholar database by searching the keywords inclduing “art education”, “communication” and “society”. Based on a comprehensive search, a total number of 91 articles were obtained. The obtained data were examined based on content analysis criteria including year of publication, number of authors, research method, number of references, title of the authors and characteristics of the study group. Data were analyzed and provided with frequency and percentages and shown with tables and figures. Results are discussed with relevant literature and recommendations for further research and practices are provided.
Kesiapan Aksesibilitas Jalur Pedestrian Kawasan Transit Terminal Tirtonadi, Kota Surakarta Berdasarkan Konsep Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
Authors: Dewi Andindita Aulia , Soedwiwahjono Soedwiwahjono , Nurhadi Kuswanto
Published: February 2020

Transit Oriented Development (TOD) merupakan konsep ruang kota yang berorientasi pada pejalan kaki dan pengguna transportasi publik. Salah satu klasifikasi area TOD ialah kawasan transit, kawasan dengan stasiun transit dan penggunaan lahan yang mendorong aktivitas transit. Kota Surakarta merupakan salah satu kota yang menerapkan konsep TOD dalam pengembangan kawasan. Dirjen Perhubungan Darat Kementerian Perhubungan RI menetapkan Terminal Tirtonadi sebagai kawasan transit dengan konsep TOD. Konsep TOD menekankan pentingnya berjalan kaki yang ditunjang dengan adanya jalur pedestrian. Jalur pedestrian berguna untuk meningkatkan aksesibilitas di kawasan transit. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kesiapan aksesibilitas jalur pedestrian di kawasan transit Kota Surakarta berdasarkan Konsep TOD. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan menjabarkan variabel menjadi indikator-indikator terukur. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan deduktif serta teknik analisis skoring dan deskriptif. Data dalam penelitian diperoleh melalui observasi. Hasil perhitungan skoring menunjukan bahwa tingkat kesiapan tiap variabel berbeda-beda dan menunjukan bahwa aksesibilitas jalur pedestrian di kawasan transit Terminal Tirtonadi berdasarkan konsep TOD tergolong belum siap, dengan tiga kriteria kesiapan tergolong tidak siap, tiga kriteria lainnya tergolong belum siap dan dua kriteria tergolong siap. Beberapa faktor yang mempengaruhi kesiapan tersebut berasal dari aspek stakeholder dan rencana.
Kajian Karakteristik Koridor Jalan Slamet Riyadi Sebagai Ruang Interaksi Sosial Kota Surakarta Berdasarkan Teori Good City Form
Authors: Aulia Silka Azzahra Shafa , Yudana Galing , Aliyah Istijabatul
Published: February 2020

Koridor adalah lahan memanjang yang membelah kota/kawasan atau sebuah lorong membentuk fasade bangunan berderet dengan lantai atau ruang kota bergerak dari ruang satu ke ruang lainnya (Wiharnanto dalam (Sumartono, 2003)). Koridor berfungsi sebagai jalan sekaligus wadah berinteraksi (Kurokawa, 1997). Koridor Jalan Slamet Riyadi yang berada di pusat Kota Surakarta terjadi perkembangan aktivitas perkotaan juga berfungsi sebagai ruang interaksi sosial. Adanya keselarasan antara aktivitas masyarakat dengan ruang yang mewadahinya menimbulkan suatu karakteristik yang dapat diamati berdasarkan Teori Good City Form (Lynch, 1981). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakteristik Koridor Jalan Slamet Riyadi sebagai ruang interaksi sosial Kota Surakarta berdasarkan Teori Good City Form. Menggunakan jenis penelitian deskriptif kualitatif untuk mengeksplorasi isu dengan pendeskripsian secara detail sehingga didapatkan gambaran mendalam tentang karakteristik koridor jalan berdasarkan Teori Good City Form di lokasi terkait. Pendekatan penelitian dilakukan secara deduktif dengan peneliti akan melakukan penelitian berangkat dari teori mengenai koridor, aktivitas di ruang publik, dan Good City Form Theory untuk terjun ke lapangan melakukan pencarian data yang dibutuhkan. Koridor Jalan Slamet Riyadi memenuhi kriteria bentuk yang baik sebagai ruang interaksi Kota Surakarta berdasarkan Teori Good City Form, juga memiliki karakteristik fisik (physical characteristic) dan karakteristik spasial (spatial characteristic) yang berbeda dari jalan perkotaan lainnya. Karakteristik fisik berupa jalan besar yang membelah pusat Kota Surakarta dengan pembagian jalur lalu lintas yang beragam mulai dari jalur lambat untuk becak dan sepeda, jalur kendaraan bermotor berdampingan dengan rel kereta api aktif, dan citywalk sebagai jalur pejalan kaki dengan dilengkapi deretan bangunan untuk perdagangan dan jasa serta pepohonan rindang. Sedangkan karakteristik spasial berupa jalan perkotaan yang memiliki nilai sejarah diantaranya sebagai pembatas daerah kekuasaan antara Keraton Kasunanan dan Keraton Mangkunegaran serta memiliki peranan sangat penting bagi Kota Surakarta selain sebagai penghubung menuju pusat Kota Surakarta, juga menjadi wadah penyelenggaraan beragam aktivitas bagi masyarakat juga event tahunan Kota Surakarta.

Kata kunci: Karakteristik; Koridor Jalan Slamet Riyadi; Ruang Interaksi Sosial; Teori Good City Form
Estados Unidos-Cuba: oito mitos de uma confrontação histórica
Authors: Ramírez Cañedo Elier
Published: February 2020

Neste ensaio se desmontam mitos dissimiles sobre o conflito Estados Unidos-Cuba que foram tecidos ao longo do tempo como parte das campanha midiáticas de manipulação da história e da realidade cubana, originadas fundamentalmente dos centros de poder do imperialismo. Desta maneira, o autor vai desde a origem do conflito e o impacto do processo revolucionário em sua evolução dentro do contexto da Guerra Fria até o papel que desempenharam os distintos sujeitos históricos, passando por alguns dos momentos mais críticos, como a Crise de Outubro (conhecida em outras latitudes como Crise dos Mísseis ou Crise do Caribe)
Three-Dimensional Printing in Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Beredjiklian Pedro K. , Wang Mark , Lutsky Kevin , Vaccaro Alexander , Rivlin Michael
Published: February 2020

➢ While 3-dimensional (3D) printing was developed in the 1980s, it has been adopted for medical applications more recently.

➢ There are several ways of creating a file that can be modeled and printed, including computer-aided design software, a 3D scanner, Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine files, and online libraries.

➢ The types of printers used for medical applications include fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, selective laser sintering, and bioprinters.

➢ Orthopaedic applications include the generation of prosthetics and orthotics, intraoperative guides, patient-specific implants, and anatomic models for preoperative planning and education.

➢ The availability of 3D-printed anatomic models may enhance surgeons’ preoperative planning and improve orthopaedic education with the generation of anatomic models.

➢ Children with an amputation or congenital limb differences, especially in communities with limited resources, can benefit from the increased access and diminished cost of 3D-printed prostheses.

➢ The clinical benefits of 3D-printed, custom arthroplasty implants are yet to be determined.
A Novel Tripod Percutaneous Reconstruction Technique in Periacetabular Lesions Caused by Metastatic Cancer
Authors: Yang Rui , Goch Abraham , Murphy Dennis , Wang Jichuan , Charubhumi Vanessa , Fox Jana , Sen Milan , Hoang Bang , Geller David
Published: February 2020

Background:

Metastatic lesions in the periacetabular region can cause pain and immobility. Symptomatic patients are often treated surgically with a total hip replacement using various modified Harrington methods. These open surgical procedures confer inherent risks. Prolonged recovery and potential complications may delay adjuvant radiation and systemic therapy.

Methods:

We describe a novel technique for acetabular reconstruction. Three large-bore cannulated screws are placed percutaneously under fluoroscopy in a tripod configuration to reinforce the mechanical axes of the acetabulum. Increased stability improves pain control and permits weight-bearing.

Results:

Twenty consecutive patients with periacetabular metastases were treated using the tripod technique. Eighteen patients (90%) had Harrington class-III lesions, and 2 patients had Harrington class-II lesions. The mean surgical time was 2.3 hours. Sixteen patients (80%) were able to get out of bed on postoperative day 1. At 3 months postoperatively, there was significant improvement in pain as documented on their visual analog scale (p < 0.01) and in functionality as measured by the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score (p < 0.01). The mean follow-up time was 7 months (range, 0.6 to 20 months). At the most recent follow-up, only 3 among the 16 surviving patients were using opioids chronically for pain. Total hip arthroplasty was performed in 4 patients (20%) in a staged fashion using the previously placed screws as support for a cemented cup and obviating the need for a cage device. Of the 16 patients, 15 could walk either independently (6 patients) or using an ambulatory aid (9 patients). Eight patients with the primary tripod reconstruction survived >6 months postoperatively. They were found to have either new bone formation filling the defects or healing of the pathological fractures. There has been no implant loosening or failure.

Conclusions:

The tripod technique is a novel application to provide safe and effective pain relief in the context of periacetabular metastatic disease. It can be easily converted to support a cemented acetabular cup for a total hip replacement should disease progression occur. This technique provides an alternative to open surgery as currently practiced in these patients.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Preliminary Evaluation of Dynamic Knee Valgus and Serum Relaxin Concentrations After ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Gilmer Gabrielle G. , Washington Jessica K. , Roberts Michael D. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Athletes who have sustained a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are at a greater risk of re-tear and of developing other adverse outcomes, such as knee osteoarthritis, compared with uninjured athletes. Relaxin, a peptide hormone similar in structure to insulin, has been shown to interfere with the structural integrity of the ACL in female individuals. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate dynamic knee valgus and the serum relaxin concentration (SRC) in athletes who had previously sustained a torn ACL and in those who had not.

Methods:

The study included 22 female athletes, divided into 2 groups: those who had previously sustained a torn ACL (4 participants; torn ACL in the dominant leg in all cases) and those who had not (18 participants). Kinematic data were collected at 100 Hz. To assess dynamic knee valgus, participants performed a single-leg squat, a single-leg crossover dropdown, and a drop vertical jump at 2 time points in the menstrual cycle of the patient, pre-ovulatory and mid-luteal. SRC was determined with use of the Human Relaxin-2 Immunoassay using a blood sample obtained during the mid-luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

Results:

Independent samples t tests were utilized to compare the differences in dynamic knee valgus and SRC between groups. For the single-leg squat, participants with a prior torn ACL were found to have significantly higher dynamic knee valgus at the mid-luteal phase but not at the pre-ovulatory phase. For the drop vertical jump and single-leg crossover dropdown, participants with a prior torn ACL were found to have significantly higher dynamic knee valgus at both the pre-ovulatory and mid-luteal phases. SRC was also significantly higher among participants with a prior torn ACL.

Conclusions:

Participants who had previously sustained a torn ACL had higher SRC and more dynamic knee valgus compared with those who had not. Further investigation of the effects of hormones as a risk factor for reinjury in participants with a prior ACL tear may be worthwhile. In addition, it may be worth monitoring hormonal and biomechanical properties in athletes during the long-term recovery from ACL reconstruction.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Changes in perceived knowledge about childbirth among pregnant women participating in the Senses of Birth Intervention in Brazil: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Fernandes Luísa M M , Lansky Sônia , Oliveira Bernardo J , Friche Amélia A L , Bozlak Christine T. , Shaw Benjamin A.
Published: February 2020

Background: Senses of Birth (SoB) is a health education intervention in Brazil that addresses reproductive rights, the benefits and risks of normal birth and cesarean, and use of evidence-based practices (EBP) during labor and childbirth, aiming to reduce unnecessary cesareans in the country. This study evaluates the impact of the SoB intervention on pregnant women’s perceived knowledge about normal birth, cesarean, and use of EBP in childbirth. Method: 1,287 pregnant women answered a structured questionnaire, immediately after their visit to the exhibition, between March 2015 and March 2016, in four cities. To identify the impact of the intervention on women’s perceived knowledge and possible association with socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, statistical analyses were performed including paired T-tests, ANOVA, and logistic and linear regressions. Results: The mean score (MS) of perceived knowledge after the intervention was higher than the mean score before experiencing the SoB for all three knowledge domains: Normal Birth (MS Before= 3.71 x MS After= 4.49), Cesarean (MS Before= 3.54 x MS After= 4.26) and EBPs (MS Before= 3.14 x MS After= 4.14). The results suggest that SoB intervention was more effective for low income women (B = 0.206; p < 0.001 for EBP), women without private health insurance (OR 2.47, 95% CI: 1.49- 4.09 for normal birth), women with private prenatal care (OR 2.42, 95% CI: 1.59- 3.66 for normal birth), women experiencing their first pregnancy (OR 1.92, 95% CI: 1.31-2.82 for EBP; OR 1.37, 95% CI: 1.03-1.84 for normal birth; OR 1.37, 95% CI: 1.03-1.84 for cesarean), and women in their first or second trimester at the time of the intervention (OR 1.64, 95% CI: 1.13-2.39 for EBP; OR 1.48, 95% CI: 1.11-1.97 for normal birth; OR 1.85, 95% CI: 1.40-2.41 for cesarean). Conclusion: The study showed opportunities to increase knowledge among Brazilian pregnant women for the three knowledge domains, and a need to focus the discussion on how to achieve a positive experience of birth using EBP. The intervention gains relevance considering the lack of evidence of the efficacy of non-clinical interventions to reduce unnecessary cesareans in middle and low-income countries targeting women.
Molecular characterization and expression analysis of pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) HpLRR genes in response to Neoscytalidium dimidiatum infection
Authors: Xu Min , Liu Cheng-Li , Fu Yu , Liao Zhi-Wen , Guo Pan-Yang , Xiong Rui , Cheng Yu , Wei Shuang-Shuang , Huang Jia-Quan , Tang Hua
Published: February 2020

Background: Canker disease caused by Neoscytalidium dimidiatum is a devastating disease resulting in a major loss to the pitaya industry. However, resistance proteins in plants play crucial roles to against pathogen infection. Among resistance proteins, the leucine-rich repeat (LRR) protein is a major family that plays crucial roles in plant growth, development, and biotic and abiotic stress responses, especially in disease defense. Results: In the present study, a transcriptomics analysis identified a total of 272 LRR genes, 233 of which had coding sequences (CDSs), in the plant pitaya ( Hylocereus polyrhizus ) in response to fungal Neoscytalidium dimidiatum infection. These genes were divided into various subgroups based on specific domains and phylogenetic analysis. Molecular characterization, functional annotation of proteins, and an expression analysis of the LRR genes were conducted. Additionally, four LRR genes (CL445.Contig4_All, Unigene28_All, CL28.Contig2_All, and Unigene2712_All, which were selected because they had the four longest CDSs were further assessed using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) at different fungal infection stages in different pitaya species ( Hylocereus polyrhizus and Hylocereus undatus ), in different pitaya tissues, and after treatment with salicylic acid (SA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and abscisic acid (ABA) hormones. The associated protein functions and roles in signaling pathways were identified. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the Hp LRR family genes at transcriptional level in pitaya in response to N. dimidiatum infection, it will be helpful to understand the molecular mechanism of pitaya canker disease, and lay a strong foundation for further research.
Genome-wide identification of loci associated with growth in rainbow trout
Authors: Ali Ali , Al-Tobasei Rafet , Lourenco Daniela , Leeds Tim , Kenney Brett , Salem Mohamed
Published: February 2020

Background: Growth is a major economic production trait in aquaculture. Improvements in growth performance will reduce time and cost for fish to reach market size. However, genes underlying growth have not been fully explored in rainbow trout. Results: A previously developed 50K gene-transcribed SNP chip, containing ~21K SNPs showing allelic imbalances potentially associated with important aquaculture production traits including body weight, muscle yield, was used for genotyping a total of 789 fish with available phenotypic data for bodyweight gain. Genotyped fish were obtained from two consecutive generations produced in the NCCCWA growth-selection breeding program. Weighted single-step GBLUP (WssGBLUP) was used to perform a genome-wide association (GWA) analysis to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with bodyweight gain. Using genomic sliding windows of 50 adjacent SNPs, 247 SNPs associated with bodyweight gain were identified. SNP-harboring genes were involved in cell growth, cell proliferation, cell cycle, lipid metabolism, proteolytic activities, chromatin modification, and developmental processes. Chromosome 14 harbored the highest number of SNPs (n = 50). An SNP window explaining the highest additive genetic variance for bodyweight gain (~6.4%) included a nonsynonymous SNP in a gene encoding inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase OCRL-1. Additionally, based on a single-marker GWA analysis, 33 SNPs were identified in association with bodyweight gain. The highest SNP explaining variation in bodyweight gain was identified in a gene coding for thrombospondin-1 (THBS1) (R2 = 0.09). Conclusion: The majority of SNP-harboring genes, including OCRL-1 and THBS1, were involved in developmental processes. Our results suggest that development-related genes are important determinants for growth and could be prioritized and used for genomic selection in breeding programs.
Percutaneous Mastoid Electrical Stimulator improves poststroke depression and cognitive function in patients with ischemic stroke:A Prospective, Randomized, Double-blind, and Sham-controlled Study
Authors: Lu Taoli , He Lanying , Zhang Bei , Wang Jian , Zhang Lili , Dong WeiWei , Yang Hao
Published: February 2020

Backgrond: Poststroke depression could lead to functional dependence, cognitive impairment and reduced quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of percutaneous mastoid electrical stimulator (PMES) plus antidepressant on poststroke depression and cognitive function. Methods: This study was a prospective, randomized, double-blind, and sham-controlled study. 258 clinically depressed ischemic stroke patients within 14 d of index stroke were randomly assigned to PMES plus antidepressant (PMES group, N=125) and sham plus antidepressant (sham group, N=133). All patients underwent Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) test at 2 weeks (baseline), and 6 months after the stroke. Primary outcomes were the percentage of treatment response (≥50% reduction in HRSD score) and depression remission (HRSD score≤9) at 6 months. Secondary outcome was the percentage of MoCA score <26. Results: The percentage of treatment response and depression remission in PMES group were significantly higher than that in the sham group (57.60% vs 41.35%, P=0.009), (44.00% vs 29.32%, P=0.014), respectively. The mean value of HRSD score change(M6-baseline) was significantly greater in the PMES group compared to sham group at 6 months (-11.93 ±5.32 vs -10.48 ± 6.10, P = 0.036). The percentage MoCA score <26 in PEMS group was lower than that in sham group(12.0% vs 24.06%, P=0.012), the mean value of MoCA score change (M6-baseline) was higher in PMES group compared to sham group (3.50±2.55 vs 2.72±2.52; P=0.005). Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that PMES adjunctive to antidepressant therapy is effective in reducing depression, achieving remission in the short term, and improving cognition. Trial registration: This trial was retrospectively registered (registration number: ChiCTR1800016463) on 03 June 2018
Genetic and phenotypic associations between root architecture, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonisation and low phosphate tolerance in strawberry (Fragaria× ananassa)
Authors: Cockerton Helen Maria , Li Bo , Stavridou Eleftheria , Johnson Abigail , Karlström Amanda , Armitage Andrew Douglas , Martinez-Crucis Ana , Arjona Lorena Galiano , Harrison Nichola , Barber-Pérez Nuria , Cobo-Medina Magdalena , Harrison Richard Jonathan
Published: February 2020

Background Phosphate is an essential plant macronutrient required to achieve maximum crop yield. Roots are able to uptake soil phosphate from the immediate root area, thus creating a nutrient depletion zone. Many plants are able to exploit phosphate from beyond this root nutrient depletion zone through symbiotic association with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF). Here we characterise the relationship between root architecture, AMF association and low phosphate tolerance in strawberries. The contrasting root architecture in the parental strawberry cultivars ‘Redgauntlet’ and ‘Hapil’ was studied through a mapping population of 168 progeny. Low phosphate tolerance and AMF association was quantified for each genotype to allow assessment of the phenotypic and genotypic relationships between traits. Results A “phosphate scavenging” root phenotype where individuals exhibit a high proportion of surface lateral roots was associated with a reduction in root system size across genotypes. A genetic correlation between “root system size” traits was observed with a network of pleiotropic QTL were found to represent five “root system size” traits. By contrast, average root diameter and the distribution of roots appeared to be under two discrete methods of genetic control. A total of 18 QTL were associated with plant traits, 4 of which were associated with solidity that explained 46 % of the observed variation. Investigations into the relationship between AMF association and root architecture found that a higher root density was associated with greater AMF colonisation across genotypes. However, no phenotypic correlation or genotypic association was found between low phosphate tolerance and the propensity for AMF association, nor root architectural traits when plants are grown under optimal nutrient conditions. Conclusions Understanding the genetic relationships underpinning phosphate capture can inform the breeding of strawberry varieties with better nutrient use efficiency. Solid root systems were associated with greater AMF colonisation. However, low P-tolerance was not phenotypically or genotypically associated with root architecture traits in strawberry plants. Furthermore, a trade-off was observed between root system size and root architecture type, highlighting the energetic costs associated with a “phosphate scavenging” root architecture.
Sex-on-Premise Venues, Associated Risk Behaviors, and Attitudes toward Venue-Based HIV Testing among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Lima, Perú
Authors: Lankowski Alexander , Sánchez Hugo , Hidalgo José , Cabello Robinson , Duerr Ann
Published: February 2020

Background. In Perú, HIV disproportionately affects men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite widespread access to treatment, the high rate of new HIV infections has remained unchanged over the last decade. Low knowledge of HIV status associated with late diagnosis is a key factor underlying the high HIV incidence observed in this setting, creating conditions for efficient onward transmission. Improving access to HIV testing and prevention services for those at highest risk is an important public health priority. Sex-on-premise venues (SOPVs) – saunas, sex clubs, pornographic movie theaters, hourly hotels, and bars/discos with areas where sex is permitted – may be opportune sites for outreach; however, further research on SOPVs and the populations who frequent them is needed to inform such efforts.
Methods . We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of adult MSM in Lima, Perú to evaluate patterns of SOPV attendance, associated sexual risk behaviors, and attitudes toward SOPV-based interventions. Participants were recruited through outreach to social media networks affiliated with local LGBTQ-aligned community groups. Our primary analytic objective was to estimate the association of HIV-related sexual risk behaviors and SOPV attendance. Additionally, we performed exploratory analyses to describe risk behavior stratified by SOPV category and to examine the relationship between SOPV attendance and the use of online platforms to meet sex partners.
Results. Overall, 389 MSM completed the survey from November 2018 through May 2019, of whom 68% reported attending an SOPV in the last three months. SOPV attendance was associated with multiple sexual risk behaviors, including transactional sex, group sex, substance use around the time of sex, and higher number of partners. Over two thirds of SOPV attendees indicated they would accept HIV testing if offered at SOPVs.
Conclusions. SOPV attendance was common among MSM in Lima who participated in our survey, and SOPV attendees reported significantly greater engagement in sexual risk behaviors related to HIV transmission. Attitudes toward hypothetical SOPV-based interventions were generally favorable. These findings suggest that outreach at SOPVs may be an effective mechanism for reaching a particularly high-risk sub-population of MSM in Perú to deliver targeted HIV testing and prevention interventions.
Implementation strategies in emergency management of children: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Aregbesola Alex , Abou-Setta Ahmed M. , Jeyaraman Maya M. , Okoli George , Lam Otto , Sibley Kathryn M. , Klassen Terry P.
Published: February 2020

Background : Behaviour change is not simple, and the introduction of guidelines or protocols does not mean that they will be followed. As such, implementation strategies are vital for the uptake and sustainability of changes in medical protocols. Medical or mental emergencies may be life threatening, especially in children due to their unique physiological needs. In emergency departments (EDs), where timely decisions are often made, practice change requires thoughtful considerations regarding the best approaches to implementation. As there are many studies reporting on a wide variety of implementation strategies in emergency management of children in EDs, we aim to identify and map the characteristics of these studies. Methods : We will conduct a scoping review to identify various implementation strategies in emergency management of children using the Arksey and O’Malley framework. We will search Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Cochrane Central (Wiley) and CINAHL (Ebsco), from inception through May 29, 2019, for implementation studies among the pediatric population (≤21 years) in a pediatric emergency setting. Two pairs of reviewers will independently select studies for inclusion and extract data. We will perform a descriptive, narrative analysis on the characteristics of the identified implementation strategies. Discussion : We will present specific characteristics and outcome measures of all included studies in a tabular form. The results of this review are expected to help identify and characterize successful implementation strategies in emergency management of children in EDs. Scoping review registration : Open Science Framework https://osf.io/h6jv2
Assessment of risk factors for early childhood caries at different ages in Shandong, China and reflections on oral health education: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Zhifeng , Zhang Meng , Zhang Xinyue , Zhang Yuan , Li Yanan , Shao Chunchun , Xiong Shijiang , Lan Jing
Published: February 2020

Background: The high prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) is widespread around the world, and oral health education (OHE) plays a vital role in preventing ECC. Numerous studies on ECC risk factor assessment have assisted us in enriching the content of OHE. The objective of this study was to further assess independent risk factors for ECC at different ages to provide evidence and insights for OHE.Methods: Children aged 3-5 years old (N=1301) in Shandong Province were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Data about oral health status and guardians’ oral health knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) were extracted from the 4th National Oral Health Survey of China. The associations between ECC prevalence and various KAP variables were tested with chi-square tests, bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression analyses.Results: The ECC prevalence in Shandong Province was 64.6%, and the dmft mean was 3.15. The independent variables with an increased risk for ECC were age, feeding method within 6 months of birth, bedtime sugar frequency, experience of toothache over the past year and dental visits. Feeding methods primarily contributed to the high risk of the 3-year-old group, while sugar habits mainly contributed to that of the 5-year-old group. The association between brushing and ECC was not confirmed in this study, and some positive knowledge and attitude variables were unexpectedly positively correlated with a high risk of ECC. Conclusion: These data provide evidence to suggest that the ECC-related risk factors at different ages are inconsistent, which provides some insights for OHE. Specifically, in addition to promoting preventive dental visit, we should highlight the effects of feeding methods in the early stages of deciduous dentition and sugar habits in the late stages of deciduous dentition on ECC, as well as encourage supplemental training for food oral health practices.
Social marketing interventions to promote physical activity among 60 years and older: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Goethals Luc , Barth Nathalie , Hupin David , Mulvey Michael S. , Roche Frederic , Gallopel-Morvan Karine , Bongue Bienvenu
Published: February 2020

Background: Falls are a significant source of morbidity in people aged 65 and over, affecting one in three people in this age group. The scientific evidence indicates that physical activity is the most effective method for preventing falls among seniors. Although public health professionals often use social marketing is to design and plan successful interventions, its use to promote physical activity and prevent falls among older people remains low. This article aims to provide a new systematic literature review of social marketing interventions promoting physical activity and targeting people aged 60 and over.
Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched for relevant articles in five primary databases using predefined search and inclusion criteria. Two independent coders analysed the selected articles to identify evidence of the seven social marketing benchmark criteria, defined by experts in the field as the common elements that contribute to social marketing success.
Results: The final review included twenty articles covering six interventions. Of the studies selected, two specifically targeted over 60-year-olds, whereas the others segmented the population into several age-based subcategories, including over 60-year-olds. Five interventions highlighted positive results for the participants with an increase in participation or an increase in physical activity level. None of the six interventions selected for this literature review implemented the entire social marketing approach.
Conclusion: Few published interventions mobilise the seven social marketing criteria. Further research is required to encourage uptake and inclusion in successful social marketing interventions to increase program effectiveness in this target population.
Heparinized Chitosan Stabilizes the Bioactivity of BMP-2 and Potentiates the Osteogenic Efficacy of Demineralized Bone Matrix
Authors: Kim Soyon , Fan Jiabing , Lee Chung-Sung , Chen Chen , Bubukina Ksenia , Lee Min
Published: February 2020

Background: Demineralized bone matrix (DBM), an allograft bone processed to better expose osteoinductive factors such as bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), is increasingly used for clinical bone repair. However, more extensive use of DBM is limited by its unpredictable osteoinductivity and low bone formation capacity. Commercial DBM products often employ polymeric carriers to enhance handling properties but such carriers generally do not possess bioactive functions. Heparin is a highly sulfated polysaccharide and is shown to form a stable complex with growth factors to enhance their bioactivities. In this study, a new heparinized synthetic carrier for DBM is developed based on photocrosslinking of methacrylated glycol chitosan and heparin conjugation. Results: Heparinized chitosan exerts protective effects on BMP bioactivity against physiological stressors related to bone fracture healing. It also enhances the potency of BMPs by inhibiting the activity of BMP antagonist, noggin. Moreover, heparinized chitosan is effective to deliver bone marrow stromal cells and DBM for enhanced osteogenesis by sequestering and localizing the cell-produced or DBM-released BMPs. Conclusions: This research suggests an essential approach of developing a new hydrogel carrier to stabilize the bioactivity of BMPs and improve the clinical efficacy of current bone graft therapeutics for accelerated bone repair.
Retracted Publications in the Biomedical Literature from 2012-2018: An Overview
Authors: Wang Tao , Xing Qin-Rui
Published: February 2020

Background: The number of retracted publications in biomedical literature has increased dramatically in recent years. Many of these retractions are due to a faked review process and a large percentage of the retractions come from Chinese authors. The purpose of the current study was to determine the characteristics of retracted articles from 2012 to 2018 using the Medline database. Methods: The Medline database was searched to identify retracted publications from the year 2012 through 2017. Reasons for retraction were collected through PubMed, the Google search engine, and journal websites. Relevant data was collected for each retracted article and included the time from publication to retraction, the study type, the journal impact factor, and the institute of origin. Trends in characteristics related to retraction were determined. Results: Data from 4,043 retracted studies were included in the analysis. The most common reasons for retraction were fraud/suspected fraud (993), error (911), plagiarism (554), duplicate publication (547), and invalid peer review (384). The largest number of retracted articles was from China. Other countries with a large number of retractions were USA, Japan, India, Iran, Korea, Germany, and Italy. A faked review process, was responsible for a large number of retractions from China and Iran and from several journals. Conclusions: Misconduct, including fraud/suspected fraud, duplicate publication, and plagiarism, was the major cause for publication retraction. A faked review process caused the largest number of retractions in some countries. China has become the top country of origin for retracted publications.
Identification of aberrantly methylated differentially expressed genes in melanoma
Authors: Han Wei , Shen Guo-liang
Published: February 2020

Background: Skin Cutaneous Melanoma (SKCM) is known as an aggressive malignant cancer, which could be directly derived from melanocytic nevi. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying malignant transformation of melanocytes and melanoma tumor progression still remain unclear. Increasing researches showed significant roles of epigenetic modifications, especially DNA methylation, in melanoma. This study focused on identification and analysis of methylation-regulated differentially expressed genes (MeDEGs) between melanocytic nevus and malignant melanoma in genome-wide profiles. Methods: The gene expression profiling datasets (GSE3189 and GSE114445) and gene methylation profiling datasets (GSE86355 and GSE120878) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were identified via GEO2R. MeDEGs were obtained by integrating the DEGs and DMGs. Then, functional enrichment analysis of MeDEGs were performed. STRING and Cytoscape were used to describe protein-protein interaction(PPI) network. Furthermore, survival analysis was implemented to select the prognostic hub genes. Finally, we conducted gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of hub genes. Results: We identified 237 hypomethylated, upregulated genes and 182 hypermethylated, downregulated genes. Hypomethylation-upregulated genes were enriched in biological processes of the oxidation-reduction process, cell proliferation, cell division, phosphorylation, extracellular matrix disassembly and protein sumoylation. Pathway enrichment showed selenocompound metabolism, small cell lung cancer and lysosome. Hypermethylation-downregulated genes were enriched in biological processes of positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, cell adhesion, cell proliferation, positive regulation of transcription, DNA-templated and angiogenesis. The most significantly enriched pathways involved the transcriptional misregulation in cancer, circadian rhythm, tight junction, protein digestion and absorption and Hippo signaling pathway. After PPI establishment and survival analysis, seven prognostic hub genes were CKS2, DTL, KIF2C, KPNA2, MYBL2, TPX2 and FBL. Moreover, the most involved hallmarks obtained by GSEA were E2F targets, G2M checkpoint and mitotic spindle. Conclusions: Our study identified potential aberrantly methylated-differentially expressed genes participating in the process of malignant transformation from nevus to melanoma tissues based on comprehensive genomic profiles. Transcription profiles of CKS2, DTL, KIF2C, KPNA2, MYBL2, TPX2 and FBL provided clues of aberrantly methylation-based biomarkers, which might improve the development of precise medicine.