bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cohort study of factors that influence oral health-related quality of life from age 12 to 18 in Hong Kong
Authors: Sun Ling , Wong Hai Ming , McGrath Colman P. J.
Published: March 2020

Background

There is a lack of cohort studies on the influence factors of oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). This study aimed to follow subjects from age 12 to 18 to analyse the sociodemographic and clinical factors that may influence OHRQoL.

Methods

This cohort study selected a representative sample from Hong Kong. Periodontal status and caries were examined according to WHO criteria. Four orthodontic indices were used to assess malocclusion. Child Perceptions Questionnaires (CPQ11–14) with 8 items (CPQ11–14-ISF: 8) and 37 items were used to assess OHRQoL at age 12 and age 15, respectively; Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) was used to assess OHRQoL at age 18. Wilcoxon signed ranks test and Friedman’s test were used to analyse the age-related change of OHRQoL and malocclusion from age 12 to 18. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyse the influence factors of OHRQoL and to calculate adjusted risk ratio (RR).

Results

Subjects recruited in this study were 589 (305 females, 284 males), 364 (186 females, 178 males) and 300 (165 females, 135 males) at age 12, 15 and 18, respectively. Among them, 331 subjects (172 females, 159 males) were followed from age 12 to 15, and 118 subjects (106 females, 82 males) were followed from age 12 to 18. Subjects had less severe malocclusion at age 12 than at ages 15 and 18 (p = 0.000, measured by Dental Aesthetic Index). Age, periodontal status, and malocclusion had an effect on OHRQoL. When compared with OHRQoL at age 12, worse OHRQoL was observed at age 15 (adjusted RR = 1.06, 95%CI = 1.01–1.12, p = 0.032), but not at age 18 (adjusted RR = 1.01, 95%CI = 0.95–1.08, p = 0.759). Unhealthy periodontal conditions had a negative effect on OHRQoL (adjusted RR = 1.14, 95%CI = 1.04–1.25, p = 0.007). Only severe malocclusions had a negative effect on OHRQoL; a more severe malocclusion was associated with a higher effect on OHRQoL (adjusted RR = 1.09, 95%CI = 1.01–1.18, p = 0.032 for severe malocclusion, and adjusted RR = 1.17, 95%CI = 1.07–1.28, p = 0.001 for very severe malocclusion measured by Dental Aesthetic Index).

Conclusion

Age, periodontal status, and malocclusion had an influence on OHRQoL from age 12 to 18. When clinicians attempt to improve subjects’ OHRQoL, it is necessary to consider these factors.
Salivary cortisol levels and anxiety in melanoma patients undergoing sentinel lymph node excision under local anesthesia versus general anesthesia: a prospective study
Authors: Jansen Philipp , Stoffels Ingo , Müseler Anne-Christine , Petri Maximilian , Brinker Titus J. , Schedlowski Manfred , Schadendorf Dirk , Engler Harald , Klode Joachim
Published: March 2020

Background

Sentinel lymph node excision (SLNE) can be performed in tumescent local anesthesia (TLA) or general anesthesia (GA). Perioperative cortisol level changes and anxiety are common in surgical interventions and might be influenced by the type of anesthesia. In this study, we intended to determine whether the type of anesthesia impacts the patients’ perioperative levels of salivary cortisol (primary outcome) and the feeling of anxiety evaluated by psychological questionnaires (secondary outcome).

Methods

All melanoma patients of age undergoing SLNE at the University Hospital Essen, Germany, could be included in the study. Exclusion criteria were patients’ intake of glucocorticoids or psychotropic medication during the former 6 months, pregnancy, age under 18 years, and BMI ≥ 30 as salivary cortisol levels were reported to be significantly impacted by obesity and might confound results.

Results

In total, 111 melanoma patients undergoing SLNE were included in our prospective study between May 2011 and April 2017 and could choose between TLA or GA. Salivary cortisol levels were measured three times intraoperatively, twice on the third and second preoperative day and twice on the second postoperative day. To assess anxiety, patients completed questionnaires (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)) perioperatively. Patients of both groups exhibited comparable baseline levels of cortisol and perioperative anxiety levels. Independent of the type of anesthesia, all patients showed significantly increasing salivary cortisol level from baseline to 30 min before surgery (T3) (TLA: t = 5.07, p < 0.001; GA: t = 3.09, p = 0.006). Post hoc independent t tests showed that the TLA group exhibited significantly higher cortisol concentrations at the beginning of surgery (T4; t = 3.29, p = 0.002) as well as 20 min after incision (T5; t = 277, p = 0.008) compared to the GA group.

Conclusions

The type of anesthesia chosen for SLNE surgery significantly affects intraoperative cortisol levels in melanoma patients. Further studies are mandatory to evaluate the relevance of endogenous perioperative cortisol levels on the postoperative clinical course.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00003076, registered 1 May 2011
Sedentary behaviour surveillance in Canada: trends, challenges and lessons learned
Authors: Prince Stephanie A. , Melvin Alexandria , Roberts Karen C. , Butler Gregory P. , Thompson Wendy
Published: March 2020

Background

Historical changes in the nature of sedentary activities have been observed in other countries, but it is not clear if similar trends exist in Canada. It is also unclear how changes in the measurement of sedentary behaviour affects national estimates. Our objective is to document all sources and measures of sedentary behaviour from Canadian, nationally representative surveys, and report on selected estimates of time spent in sedentary activities. Lessons learned can benefit the wider international surveillance community.

Methods

We describe and document all data sources of sedentary behaviour at the national level in Canada, and report on selected prevalence data from repeated cross-sectional surveys. We summarize amounts of total device-assessed sedentary time and self-reported sedentary activities (e.g., passive travel, leisure television, computer, video games, screen, and reading) by age group over time.

Results

Nineteen national surveys were identified. Changes in questions and/or response categories precluded direct assessment of trends over time for some measures; however, certain trends were observed. Accelerometer-measured sedentary time, leisure reading (among those < 50 years) and television/video viewing in younger age groups have remained relatively stable (with a possible slight decline in television/video viewing). Time spent in passive travel and leisure computer and electronic device use appears to have increased. Television and video viewing appears to have increased in older adults while their leisure reading appears to have fallen.

Conclusions

Changes in measurement of sedentary behaviour can affect estimates and reduce comparability over time. Total leisure screen use appears to have increased over time, reflecting the ways in which Canadians spend their free time and technological advances. The main public health message is the need for continued efforts to reduce leisure screen use, especially among youth and older adults.
Content validity and methodological considerations in ecological momentary assessment studies on physical activity and sedentary behaviour: a systematic review
Authors: Degroote L. , DeSmet A. , De Bourdeaudhuij I. , Van Dyck D. , Crombez G.
Published: March 2020

Background

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a method of collecting real-time data based on repeated measures and observations that take place in participant’s daily environment. EMA has many advantages over more traditional, retrospective questionnaires. However, EMA faces some challenges to reach its full potential. The aims of this systematic review are to (1) investigate whether and how content validity of the items (i.e. the specific questions that are part of a larger EMA questionnaire) used in EMA studies on physical activity and sedentary behaviour was assessed, and (2) provide an overview of important methodological considerations of EMA in measuring physical activity and sedentary behaviour.

Methods

Thirty papers (twenty unique studies) were systematically reviewed and variables were coded and analysed within the following 4 domains: (1) Content validity, (2) Sampling approach, (3) Data input modalities and (4) Degree of EMA completion.

Results

Only about half of the studies reported the specific items (n = 12) and the source of the items (n = 11). None of the studies specifically assessed the content validity of the items used. Only a minority (n = 5) of the studies reported any training, and one tested the comprehensibility of the EMA items. A wide variability was found in the design and methodology of the EMA. A minority of the studies (n = 7) reported a rationale for the used prompt frequency, time selection, and monitoring period. Retrospective assessment periods varied from ‘now’ to ‘in the last 3.5 hours’. In some studies there was a possibility to delay (n = 6) or deactivate (n = 10) the prompt, and some provided reminders after the first prompt (n = 9).

Conclusions

Almost no EMA studies reported the content validation of the items used. We recommend using the COSMIN checklist (COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments) to report on the content validity of EMA items. Furthermore, as often no rationale was provided for several methodological decisions, the following three recommendations are made. First, provide a rationale for choosing the sampling modalities. Second, to ensure assessment ‘in the moment’, think carefully about the retrospective assessment period, reminders, and deactivation of the prompt. Third, as high completion rates are important for representativeness of the data and generalizability of the findings, report completion rates.

Trial registration

This review is registered in PROSPERO, the International prospective register of systematic reviews (registration number: CRD42017077996).
Prospective associations with physiological, psychosocial and educational outcomes of meeting Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years
Authors: Hinkley Trina , Timperio Anna , Watson Amanda , Duckham Rachel L. , Okely Anthony D. , Cliff Dylan , Carver Alison , Hesketh Kylie D.
Published: March 2020

Background

Several countries have released movement guidelines for children under 5 that incorporate guidelines for sleep, physical activity and sedentary behavior. This study examines prospective associations of preschool children’s compliance with the 24-Hour Australian movement guidelines (sleep, physical activity, screen time) and physiological, psychosocial and educational outcomes during primary school.

Methods

Data were from the Healthy Active Preschool and Primary Years Study (Melbourne, Australia; n = 471; 3–5 years; 2008/9). Follow-ups occurred at 3 (2011/12; 6–8 years), 6 (2014/15; 9–11 years) and 7 (2016; 10–12 years) years post baseline. Multiple regression models assessed associations between compliance with guidelines at baseline and later outcomes.

Results

Children were 4.6 years at baseline (53% boys; 62% high socio-economic families). Most children met physical activity (89%) and sleep (93%) guidelines; 23% met screen-time guidelines; and 20% met all guidelines at baseline. Meeting all of the three guidelines was associated with lower BMI z-scores at 9–11 years of age (b = − 0.26, 95%CI -0.47, − 0.05). Meeting physical activity guidelines was associated with higher total body bone mineral density (b = 0.64, 95%CI 0.15, 1.13), and total body bone mineral content (b = 183.19, 95%CI 69.92, 296.46) at 10–12 years of age. Meeting sleep guidelines was associated with better reading (b = 37.60, 95%CI 6.74, 68.46), spelling (b = 34.95, 95%CI 6.65, 63.25), numeracy (b = 39.09, 95%CI 11.75, 66.44), language (b = 44.31, 95%CI 11.77, 76.85) and writing (b = 25.93, 95%CI 0.30, 51.57) at 8–9 years of age. No associations were evident for compliance with screen-time guidelines or for psychosocial outcomes.

Conclusions

Compliance with different movement behavior guidelines was associated with different outcomes. Strategies to support children in meeting all of the guidelines are warranted to maximize health and educational outcomes. Future research investigating dose-response associations, and potential mechanisms, is necessary.
Interfaces with the peripheral nervous system for the control of a neuroprosthetic limb: a review
Authors: Yildiz Kadir A. , Shin Alexander Y. , Kaufman Kenton R.
Published: March 2020

The field of prosthetics has been evolving and advancing over the past decade, as patients with missing extremities are expecting to control their prostheses in as normal a way as possible. Scientists have attempted to satisfy this expectation by designing a connection between the nervous system of the patient and the prosthetic limb, creating the field of neuroprosthetics. In this paper, we broadly review the techniques used to bridge the patient’s peripheral nervous system to a prosthetic limb. First, we describe the electrical methods including myoelectric systems, surgical innovations and the role of nerve electrodes. We then describe non-electrical methods used alone or in combination with electrical methods. Design concerns from an engineering point of view are explored, and novel improvements to obtain a more stable interface are described. Finally, a critique of the methods with respect to their long-term impacts is provided. In this review, nerve electrodes are found to be one of the most promising interfaces in the future for intuitive user control. Clinical trials with larger patient populations, and for longer periods of time for certain interfaces, will help to evaluate the clinical application of nerve electrodes.
Combination of the BeWo b30 placental transport model and the embryonic stem cell test to assess the potential developmental toxicity of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Abdelkhaliq Ashraf , van der Zande Meike , Peters Ruud J. B. , Bouwmeester Hans
Published: March 2020

Background

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used extensively in various consumer products because of their antimicrobial potential. This requires insight in their potential hazards and risks including adverse effects during pregnancy on the developing fetus. Using a combination of the BeWo b30 placental transport model and the mouse embryonic stem cell test (EST), we investigated the capability of pristine AgNPs with different surface chemistries and aged AgNPs (silver sulfide (Ag2S) NPs) to cross the placental barrier and induce developmental toxicity. The uptake/association and transport of AgNPs through the BeWo b30 was characterized using ICP-MS and single particle (sp)ICP-MS at different time points. The developmental toxicity of the AgNPs was investigated by characterizing their potential to inhibit the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) into beating cardiomyocytes.

Results

The AgNPs are able to cross the BeWo b30 cell layer to a level that was limited and dependent on their surface chemistry. In the EST, no in vitro developmental toxicity was observed as the effects on differentiation of the mESCs were only detected at cytotoxic concentrations. The aged AgNPs were significantly less cytotoxic, less bioavailable and did not induce developmental toxicity.

Conclusions

Pristine AgNPs are capable to cross the placental barrier to an extent that is influenced by their surface chemistry and that this transport is likely low but not negligible. Next to that, the tested AgNPs have low intrinsic potencies for developmental toxicity. The combination of the BeWo b30 model with the EST is of added value in developmental toxicity screening and prioritization of AgNPs.
Predictors of five-year relapse rates of youths with substance abuse who underwent a family-oriented therapy program
Authors: You Yu-Han , Lu Shing-Fang , Tsai Chih-Pu , Chen Mei-Yen , Lin Chin-Yin , Chong Mian-Yoon , Chou Wen-Jiun , Chen Yi-Syuan , Wang Liang-Jen
Published: March 2020

Background

Substance abuse among young people has become a serious public health problem for years. The risk of relapse among illicit drug use is essential for developing adequate substance reuse prevention policies. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the potential predictor in long-term relapse rates among young patients that underwent a family-based treatment program.

Methods

To perform this study, 103 young patients with substance use (mean age: 16.2 years, 78.6% male) were referred to participate in a 10-week family-based treatment program. At the beginning and at the end of the treatment, the patients were required to fill out the Chinese Craving Beliefs Questionnaire (CCBQ), the Adolescents’ Behavior-problem Scale (ABS), and the Family APGAR. Furthermore, the patients’ caregivers had to fill out the Family APGAR, the 12-item version of the Chinese Health Questionnaire (CHQ), and the Parenting Stress Index (PSI). All patients were followed up for 5 years in order to observe their long-term outcomes regarding substance use relapse.

Results

During the 10-week family-oriented programs, the CCBQ scores, the CHQ scores and the Child-domain of PSI significantly decreased. Better changes in patients’ behavioral problems during the treatment program predicted a lesser likelihood of substance use relapse in the subsequent 5 years. Furthermore, methamphetamine or 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine use and living in single-parent families were two factors associated with higher relapse rates.

Conclusions

The changes in patients’ behavioral problems during the treatment program may serve as a predictor of substance use relapse over the subsequent 5 years. This study’s findings provide insight about substance use prevention and serve as a reference for policy-making.
5-Aminolevulinic acid tumor paint and photodynamic therapy for myxofibrosarcoma: an in vitro study
Authors: Kenan Shachar , Liang Haixiang , Goodman Howard J. , Jacobs Andrew J. , Chan Amanda , Grande Daniel A. , Levin Adam S.
Published: March 2020

Background

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), a fluorescent contrast agent, has been used for tumor paint and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for various tumors, but its use with soft tissue sarcomas is not well documented. Myxofibrosarcoma, a subtype of soft tissue sarcoma with a high local recurrence rate, may benefit from similar types of treatment. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of 5-ALA tumor paint and PDT on a myxofibrosarcoma cell line.

Methods

Tumor paint was assessed by exposing micromass pellets of human adipose-derived stromal (ADS) cells or myxofibrosarcoma (MUG-Myx1) cells to 5-ALA. Cell pellets were then visualized using a microscope at established excitation and emission wavelengths. Corrected total cell fluorescence was calculated per accepted protocols. Photodynamic therapy was similarly assessed by exposing ADS and MUG-Myx1 cells to 5-ALA, with subsequent analysis via flow cytometry and real-time confocal microscopy.

Results

The use of 5-ALA tumor paint led to a selective fluorescence in MUG-Myx1 cells. Findings were confirmed by flow cytometry. Interestingly, flow cytometry results showed progressive selective cell death with increasing 5-ALA exposure as a result of the PDT effect. PDT was further confirmed using confocal microscopy, which revealed progressive cellular bubble formation consistent with advancing stages of cell death—a finding that was not seen in control ADS cells.

Conclusions

5-ALA tumor paint and PDT were successfully used on a human myxofibrosarcoma cell line (MUG-Myx1). Results from this study showed both selective fluorescent tagging and selective cytotoxicity of 5-ALA toward malignant myxofibrosarcoma cells, while sparing benign adipose control cells. This finding was further confirmed in a dramatic time-lapse video, visually confirming active, targeted cell death. 5-ALA’s two-pronged application of selective tumor identification and cytotoxicity may transform surgical and medical approaches for treating soft tissue sarcomas.
Posterior-only vs. combined posterior-anterior approaches in treating lumbar and lumbosacral spinal tuberculosis: a retrospective study with minimum 7-year follow-up
Authors: Liu Zheng , Zhang Penghui , Li Weiwei , Xu Zhengchao , Wang Xiyang
Published: March 2020

Background

There is no comparative study with long-term follow-up between posterior-only and combined posterior-anterior approaches in treating lumbar spinal tuberculosis (LSTB) and lumbosacral spinal tuberculosis (LSSTB). This retrospective study aimed to compare and evaluate the long-term outcomes of these two surgical approaches in LSTB and LSSTB.

Methods

Thirty patients with LSTB and 12 patients with LSSTB underwent posterior-only approach (group A); 26 patients with LSTB and 14 patients with LSSTB were managed with combined posterior-anterior approaches (group B). Analysis and comparison in clinical and radiographic outcomes between the two groups were performed.

Results

The intra-operative bleeding amount, surgery time, and hospitalization days in group A were less than that in group B (P < 0.05). These patients were followed for a minimum of 7 years. All patients achieved completely healing within 2-year follow-up. Bony fusion was obtained in all patients. The visual analog scale, Japanese Orthopedic Association score, Oswestry Disability index, and Kirkaldy-Willis functional evaluation at the final visit demonstrated that all patients in both groups achieved satisfactory results. There was no significant difference in angle correction or maintaining correction between combined posterior-anterior approaches and posterior-only approach (P > 0.05). Complications occurred in both groups.

Conclusions

Both combined posterior-anterior approaches and posterior-only approach can achieve satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes of long-term in treating LSTB and LSSTB, while posterior-only approach can safely and effectively achieve lesion debridement, decompression, and stability reconstruction and maintenance with the advantages of less invasive surgery, less bleeding, shorter surgery time, and hospital stay, and fewer complications. So, posterior-only approach seemed to be superior to the combined posterior-anterior one.
Correction to: miR-21-5p protects IL-1β-induced human chondrocytes from degradation
Authors: Zhu Hai , Yan Xin , Zhang Meng , Ji Feng , Wang Shouguo
Published: March 2020

Following publication of the original article [1], due to mistakes, the flow chart of miR-21 overexpression, miR-21 inhibitor and miR-21 mimic NC in Fig. 3, and the corresponding histogram need to be replaced.
Pilot study of a basic individualized cognitive behavioral therapy program for chronic pain in Japan
Authors: Hosogoshi Hiroki , Iwasa Kazunori , Fukumori Takaki , Takagishi Yuriko , Takebayashi Yoshitake , Adachi Tomonori , Oe Yuki , Tairako Yukino , Takao Yumiko , Nishie Hiroyuki , Kanie Ayako , Kitahara Masaki , Enomoto Kiyoka , Ishii Hirono , Shinmei Issei , Horikoshi Masaru , Shibata Masahiko
Published: March 2020

Background

Chronic pain is a major health problem, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is its recommended treatment; however, efforts to develop CBT programs for chronic pain and assess their feasibility are remarkably delayed in Asia. Therefore, we conducted this pilot study to develop a basic individualized CBT for chronic pain (CBT-CP) and assessed its feasibility for use in Japan.

Methods

Our study was an open-labeled before–after trial without a control group conducted cooperatively in five Japanese tertiary care hospitals. Of 24 outpatients, 15, age 20–80, who experienced chronic pain for at least three months were eligible. They underwent an eight-session CBT-CP consisting of relaxation via a breathing method and progressive muscle relaxation, behavioral modification via activity pacing, and cognitive modification via cognitive reconstruction. The EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire five level (EQ5D-5 L) assessment as the primary outcome and quality of life (QOL), pain severity, disability, catastrophizing, self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms as secondary outcomes were measured using self-administered questionnaires at baseline, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up. Intention-to-treat analyses were conducted.

Results

Effect size for EQ5D-5 L score was medium from baseline to post-treatment (Hedge’s g = − 0.72, 90% confidence interval = − 1.38 to − 0.05) and up to the 3-month follow-up (g = − 0.60, CI = − 1.22 to 0.02). Effect sizes for mental and role/social QOL, disability, catastrophizing, self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms were medium to large, although those for pain severity and physical QOL were small. The dropout rate was acceptably low at 14%. No severe adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that CBT-CP warrants a randomized controlled trial in Japan.

Trial registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), UMIN000020880. Registered on 04 February 2016.
Attributional and attentional bias in children with conduct problems and callous-unemotional traits: a case–control study
Authors: Hartmann Daniela , Ueno Kathrin , Schwenck Christina
Published: March 2020

Background

Children who are frequently aggressive or lack empathy show various deficits in their social information processing. Several findings suggest that children with conduct problems (CP) show a tendency to interpret ambiguous situations as hostile (hostile attribution bias) and have difficulties to disengage from negative stimuli (attentional bias). The role that additional callous-unemotional traits (CU-traits) play in these biases is yet unclear. Investigating both attentional and attributional aspects of social information processing in children can help us to understand where anomalies in the processing pathway occur and whether the biases are associated with CP and CU-traits separately or in an interactive manner.

Methods

We compared three groups of children: (a) 25 children with CP and low levels of CU-traits (b) 25 children with CP and elevated levels of CU-traits (c) 50 gender (68% male), age (8–17 years) and intelligence score-matched typically developing children, on a pictorial emotional stroop task and a hostile attribution bias task.

Results

In contrast to our predictions, there were no significant group differences regarding attentional biases or hostile attribution biases. Boys with CP and high levels of CU-traits showed a significantly higher hostile attribution bias compared to girls with CP and high levels of CU-traits. The attention bias to angry stimuli significantly correlated with the hostile attribution bias. Compared to the control group the CP group with low levels of CU-traits showed a significantly stronger association between the attention bias to angry stimuli and the hostile attribution bias.

Conclusions

The current study provides evidence that boys with CP and high levels of CU-traits interpret ambiguous situations as more hostile than girls do. Our results further provide indications that the interaction of attentional and attributional biases in children with CP might contribute to their increased aggressive behavior.
Metabolic and evolutionary responses of Clostridium thermocellum to genetic interventions aimed at improving ethanol production
Authors: Holwerda Evert K. , Olson Daniel G. , Ruppertsberger Natalie M. , Stevenson David M. , Murphy Sean J. L. , Maloney Marybeth I. , Lanahan Anthony A. , Amador-Noguez Daniel , Lynd Lee R.
Published: March 2020

Background

Engineering efforts targeted at increasing ethanol by modifying the central fermentative metabolism of Clostridium thermocellum have been variably successful. Here, we aim to understand this variation by a multifaceted approach including genomic and transcriptomic analysis combined with chemostat cultivation and high solids cellulose fermentation. Three strain lineages comprising 16 strains total were examined. Two strain lineages in which genes involved in pathways leading to organic acids and/or sporulation had been knocked out resulted in four end-strains after adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE). A third strain lineage recapitulated mutations involving adhE that occurred spontaneously in some of the engineered strains.

Results

Contrary to lactate dehydrogenase, deleting phosphotransacetylase (pta, acetate) negatively affected steady-state biomass concentration and caused increased extracellular levels of free amino acids and pyruvate, while no increase in ethanol was detected. Adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) improved growth and shifted elevated levels of amino acids and pyruvate towards ethanol, but not for all strain lineages. Three out of four end-strains produced ethanol at higher yield, and one did not. The occurrence of a mutation in the adhE gene, expanding its nicotinamide-cofactor compatibility, enabled two end-strains to produce more ethanol. A disruption in the hfsB hydrogenase is likely the reason why a third end-strain was able to make more ethanol. RNAseq analysis showed that the distribution of fermentation products was generally not regulated at the transcript level. At 120 g/L cellulose loadings, deletions of spo0A, ldh and pta and adaptive evolution did not negatively influence cellulose solubilization and utilization capabilities. Strains with a disruption in hfsB or a mutation in adhE produced more ethanol, isobutanol and 2,3-butanediol under these conditions and the highest isobutanol and ethanol titers reached were 5.1 and 29.9 g/L, respectively.

Conclusions

Modifications in the organic acid fermentative pathways in Clostridium thermocellum caused an increase in extracellular pyruvate and free amino acids. Adaptive laboratory evolution led to improved growth, and an increase in ethanol yield and production due a mutation in adhE or a disruption in hfsB. Strains with deletions in ldh and pta pathways and subjected to ALE demonstrated undiminished cellulolytic capabilities when cultured on high cellulose loadings.
Common fragile sites: protection and repair
Authors: Li Shibo , Wu Xiaohua
Published: March 2020

Common fragile sites (CFSs) are large chromosomal regions that exhibit breakage on metaphase chromosomes upon replication stress. They become preferentially unstable at the early stage of cancer development and are hotspots for chromosomal rearrangements in cancers. Increasing evidence has highlighted the complexity underlying the instability of CFSs, and a combination of multiple mechanisms is believed to cause CFS fragility. We will review recent advancements in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the maintenance of CFS stability and the relevance of CFSs to cancer-associated genome instability. We will emphasize the contribution of the structure-prone AT-rich sequences to CFS instability, which is in line with the recent genome-wide study showing that structure-forming repeat sequences are principal sites of replication stress.
Circular RNA expression profile in blood according to ischemic stroke etiology
Authors: Ostolaza Aiora , Blanco-Luquin Idoia , Urdánoz-Casado Amaya , Rubio Idoya , Labarga Alberto , Zandio Beatriz , Roldán Miren , Martínez-Cascales Judith , Mayor Sergio , Herrera María , Aymerich Nuria , Gallego Jaime , Muñoz Roberto , Mendioroz Maite
Published: March 2020

Background

The discovery of novel biomarkers of stroke etiology would be most helpful in management of acute ischemic stroke patients. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been proposed as candidate biomarkers of neurological conditions due to its high stability. circRNAs function as sponges, sequestering miRNAs and are involved in most relevant biological functions. Our aim was to identify differentially expressed circRNAs in acute ischemic stroke patients according to stroke etiology.

Methods

A comprehensive expression profile of blood circRNAs was conducted by Arraystar Human circRNA arrays (13,617 probes) on a discovery cohort of 30 stroke patients with different stroke etiologies by TOAST classification. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to validate array results in a cohort of 50 stroke patients. Functional in silico analysis was performed to identify potential interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs) and pathways underlying deregulated circRNAs.

Results

A set of 60 circRNAs were found to be upregulated in atherotrombotic versus cardioembolic strokes (fold-change > = 1.5 and p-value ≤ 0.05). Differential expression of hsa_circRNA_102488, originated from UBA52 gene, was replicated in the validation cohort. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) sites of hsa_circRNA_102488 clustered around AGO2 and FUS proteins. Further functional analysis revealed interactions between deregulated circRNAs and a set of miRNAs involved in stroke-related pathways, such as fatty acid biogenesis or lysine degradation.

Conclusion

Different stroke subtypes show specific profiles of circRNAs expression. circRNAs may serve as a new source of biomarkers of stroke etiology in acute ischemic stroke patients.
Quercetin and cancer: new insights into its therapeutic effects on ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Vafadar Asma , Shabaninejad Zahra , Movahedpour Ahmad , Fallahi Farzaneh , Taghavipour Mona , Ghasemi Younes , Akbari Maryam , Shafiee Alimohammad , Hajighadimi Sarah , Moradizarmehri Sanaz , Razi Ebrahim , Savardashtaki Amir , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: March 2020

Ovarian cancer is known as a serious malignancy that affects women’s reproductive tract and can considerably threat their health. A wide range of molecular mechanisms and genetic modifications have been involved in ovarian cancer pathogenesis making it difficult to develop effective therapeutic platforms. Hence, discovery and developing new therapeutic approaches are required. Medicinal plants, as a new source of drugs, could potentially be used alone or in combination with other medicines in the treatment of various cancers such as ovarian cancer. Among various natural compounds, quercetin has shown great anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. In vitro and in vivo experiments have revealed that quercetin possesses a cytotoxic impact on ovarian cancer cells. Despite obtaining good results both in vitro and in vivo, few clinical studies have assessed the anti-cancer effects of quercetin particularly in the ovarian cancer. Therefore, it seems that further clinical studies may introduce quercetin as therapeutic agent alone or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs to the clinical setting. Here, we not only summarize the anti-cancer effects of quercetin but also highlight the therapeutic effects of quercetin in the ovarian cancer.
A novel detector based on EM algorithm for multiple-mode OFDM with index modulation
Authors: Qing Hua , Yu Hua , Wen Miaowen , Chen Fangjiong , Ji Fei
Published: March 2020

Multiple-mode orthogonal frequency division multiplexing with index modulation (MM-OFDM-IM) is a promising multiple-carrier modulation technique, which activates all OFDM subcarriers to transmit multiple distinguishable modes (or signal constellations, alternatively) and carries additional information with the full permutation of the modes, enjoying superior error performance and high spectral efficiency. In this paper, we propose a novel detector tailored to MM-OFDM-IM based on the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm to further improve the detection performance. The idea is to first select the signal constellation points candidates for any given mode permutation by applying the EM algorithm and then determine the most-likely mode permutation as well as the associated signal constellation points by minimizing the Euclidean distance. The effectiveness of the EM detector has been verified in terms of bit error rate (BER) performance by Monte Carlo simulations.
Existence of a random attractor for non-autonomous stochastic plate equations with additive noise and nonlinear damping on $\mathbb{R}^{n}$
Authors: Yao Xiaobin
Published: March 2020

Based on the abstract theory of pullback attractors of non-autonomous non-compact dynamical systems by differential equations with both dependent-time deterministic and stochastic forcing terms, introduced by Wang in (J. Differ. Equ. 253:1544–1583, 2012), we investigate the existence of pullback attractors for the non-autonomous stochastic plate equations with additive noise and nonlinear damping on $\mathbb{R}^{n}$Rn.
Impact of test format on vocabulary test performance of EFL learners: the role of gender
Authors: Akhavan Masoumi Ghazal , Sadeghi Karim
Published: March 2020

This study aimed to examine the effect of test format on test performance by comparing Multiple Choice (MC) and Constructed Response (CR) vocabulary tests in an EFL setting. Also, this paper investigated the function of gender in MC and CR vocabulary measures. To this end, five 20-item stem-equivalent vocabulary tests (CR, and 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-option MC) were administered to 243 (132 male and 111 female) pre-intermediate students. Results of the study revealed that MC tests were easier than CR. Results indicated a gender bias, in that, males scored better than females in all versions of MC tests while females outperformed males in CR. The findings implied that testers should consider the effect of test format while assessing vocabulary knowledge and use a combination of test formats (MC and CR) in vocabulary assessment to reduce gender bias and format effect.
Reduced macular inner retinal thickness and microvascular density in the early stage of patients with dysthyroid optic neuropathy
Authors: Wu Yufei , Tu Yunhai , Wu Chaoming , Bao Lulu , Wang Jianhua , Lu Fan , Shen Meixiao , Chen Qi
Published: March 2020

Background

The goal was to investigate changes of the inner intra-retinal layer thicknesses and retinal capillary density (RCD) around the macula in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) patients with or without dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON).

Methods

Forty-four TAO patients including 23 non-DON and 21 DON patients, and 38 healthy participants were enrolled. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography equipped with Angiovue was used to obtain three-dimensional retinal thickness maps and microvascular images of the superficial and deep retinal capillary layers (SRCL and DRCL, respectively) around the macula. Quantitative analyses were performed using a custom automated algorithm.

Results

The thicknesses of the nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer + inner plexiform layer, and ganglion cell complex (GCC) as well as the RCDs in the SRCL and DRCL in both TAO groups were significantly decreased compared to the controls. In addition, the RCDs in DRCL of the DON group were further decreased compared to the non-DON group. GCC thickness in both TAO groups was positively correlated with the RCDs of the SRCL in the total annular zone and in the temporal, inferior, and nasal sectors. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the GCC thickness combined with the RCD were generally larger than those of each single indicator.

Conclusions

Thinned inner intra-retinal layers and decreased RCDs in the TAO patients without DON revealed that morphological changes might precede visual dysfunction. The composite index of the retinal structure and the microvascular density might be valuable in the diagnosing, monitoring, and intervention for early DON.
Spontaneous trans-anal extrusion of caudally migrated ventriculo-peritoneal shunt tip in a child: a case report
Authors: Bakshi Sabyasachi
Published: March 2020

Background

Bowel perforation caused by the ventriculo-peritoneal shunt is a rare occurrence with an estimated incidence rate of 0.1% to 1.0% among all cases of VP shunt displacement. This is an unusual report of spontaneous trans-anal extrusion of caudally migrated ventriculo-peritoneal shunt tip in a child. Literature was reviewed to find out therapeutic strategies.

Case presentation

An asymptomatic 8 months old boy presented with spontaneous trans-anal extrusion of caudally migrated left-sided Chhabra type of ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt for last 1 day, following surgery for hydrocephalus initially done 3 months ago. He had no features of peritonitis or encephalitis. Digital X-ray of the whole abdomen in postero-anterior view in erect posture was only evident of the expulsion of radio-opaque distal catheter tip through the anus into the exterior. Noncontrast-enhanced computed tomography scan (NCCT) of brain showed proximal catheter in the lateral ventricle of the brain. Under sedation, the distal part of the VP shunt catheter was resected out, aseptically, over the abdomen and pulled out gently through the anus. The proximal catheter part along with the reservoir was removed through a separate incision in the neck and sent for bacteriological study, which came out later to be negative. Postoperatively, the child was put on a prophylactic antibiotic and 3 weeks later another VP shunt was placed in the contralateral side.

Conclusions

Spontaneous trans-anal extrusion of VP shunt tip is a surgical emergency. The whole catheter must be removed aseptically in such a way that both contamination of the cerebral cavity and spillage into the peritoneum can be avoided. Awareness of this unusual complication among surgeons is needed for early recognition, management, and timely intervention to minimize morbidity.
Spatiotemporal analysis of drug-resistant TB patients registered in selected districts of Karnataka, South India: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Poojar Basavaraj , Shenoy K. Ashok , Naik Poonam R. , Kamath Ashwin , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Mithra P. Prasanna , Chowta Mukta N. , Badarudeen M. N. , Nagalakshmi Narasimhaswamy , Sharma Vivek , Shamanewadi Amrita N. , Thekkur Pruthu
Published: March 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) depicts heterogeneous spatial patterns with geographical aggregation of TB cases due to either ongoing person-to-person transmission or reactivation of latent infection in a community sharing risk factor. In this regard, we aimed to assess the spatiotemporal aggregation of drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) patients notified to the national TB program (NTP) from 2015 to 2018 in selected districts of Karnataka, South India.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study among DR-TB patients notified from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Chikamagalur districts of the state of Karnataka. Clinico-demographic details were extracted from treatment cards. The registered addresses of the patients were geocoded (latitude and longitude) using Google Earth. Using the QGIS software, spot map, heat maps and grid maps 25 km2 with more than the expected count of DR-TB patients were constructed.

Results

Of the total 507 patients studied, 376 (74%) were males and the mean (standard deviation) age of the study participants was 41.4 (13.9) years. From 2015 to 2018, the number of patients increased from 85 to 209 per year, the area of aggregation in square kilometers increased from 113.6 to 205.7, and the number of rectangular grids with more than the expected DR-TB patients (> 1) increased from 12 to 47.

Conclusions

The increase in the number of DR-TB patients, area of aggregation, and grids with more than the expected count is a cause for concern. The NTP can use routine programmatic data to develop maps to identify areas of aggregation of disease for targeted TB control activities.
Integrated Er/Si Schottky Photodetectors on the end facet of optical waveguides
Authors: Crisci T. , Moretti L. , Gioffrè M. , Iodice M. , Coppola G. , Casalino M.
Published: March 2020

In the last two decades there has been growing interest in silicon photonics and in the possibility to integrate new materials to overcome the silicon intrinsic limitations. Erbium has represented a viable solution for the realization of light sources at telecommunications wavelengths opening the path to the investigation of various photonic devices based on rare earth.

In this work we investigate a photodetector operating at 1550 nm whose detection mechanism is based on the internal photoemission effect through an Er/Si Schottky junction. The Er/Si junction has been carefully electrically characterized showing a potential barrier and cut-off wavelength of 0.59 eV and 2105 nm, respectively. Moreover, a responsivity of 0.62 mA/W has been measured for a 3 μm-width waveguide at 1550 nm and at reverse voltage of -8 V. Finally, the noise equivalent power of the device has been evaluated as high as 0.53 nW/(Hz)1/2 at -8 V.

Even if device responsivity is still low, we believe that our insights may suggest Er/Si as a new platform for the integration of various optical functionalities on the same chip opening new frontiers in the field of low-cost silicon micro and nanophotonics.
Differential exosome miRNA expression in oral cancer stem cells
Authors: Shoff M. , Booker T. , Leavitt B. , Harmon D. , Kingsley K. , Howard K. M.
Published: March 2020

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) secrete exosomes into the surrounding extracellular environment to promote the horizontal transfer of bioactive molecules including microRNA (miRNA). The primary objective of this study was to explore potential differences in miRNA content between OSCC and OSCC stem cells.

Methods

The OSCC cell lines SCC4, SCC15, SCC25 and CAL27 were used in these studies. The corresponding OSCC stem cells that demonstrated phenotypic adhesion independent tumor spheres (AiTS) were manually isolated. All cells were cultured in DMEM containing 10% exosome-free fetal bovine serum. Exosomes were isolated using Total Exosome Isolation reagent (Invitrogen) and RNA was purified using Total Exosome RNA isolation kit (Invitrogen). Exosome miRNA content was evaluated using miRNA Advanced Taqman Assays for miR-21, − 155, − 133, − 34, − 31, − 32, and − 365. The fold change of miRNA content was calculated using the comparative CT (ΔΔCT) method using miR-16 as an endogenous control.

Results

After successful cell cultures were established, AiTS (cancer stem cells) were manually separated and confirmed using CD133 and Sox-2 biomarkers. Exosomes and extracellular vesicles were successfully isolated from all cell lines and AiTS isolates for miRNA screening. All isolates exhibited miR-16 expression (positive control), but none contained mir-31, − 32, or 133a. Differential expression of miR-21, miR-34 and miR-155 were observed with patterns observed among the cancer cell lines which were distinct from the corresponding AiTS isolates.

Conclusions

Exosomes isolated from these different OSCC stem cell populations displayed nearly consistent downregulation/loss of miR-21 and miR-34 suggesting the possibility of a unique miRNA profile characteristic of oral cancer stem cells. These findings highlight the need to investigate the comprehensive functions of miR-21 and miR-34 in tumor progression and continued research to refine a miRNA profile that could aid in distinguishing tumors with poor prognosis.