bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical trials and drug cost savings for Italian Health Service
Authors: D’Ambrosio Francesca , De Feo Gianfranco , Botti Gerardo , Capasso Arturo , Pignata Sandro , Maiolino Piera , Triassi Maria , Nardone Antonio , Perrone Franco , Piezzo Michela , Grimaldi Antonio Maria , Palazzo Ida , De Stasio Immacolata , D’Aniello Roberta , Morabito Alessandro , Pascarella Giacomo
Published: September 2020

Background: The cost of anticancer drugs is constantly growing. The aim of this study was determine the impact in terms of cost reduction for anticancer drug in the Italian Health Service due to patient participation in clinical trials.Methods: We evaluated the cost of drugs administered to patients treated in clinical trials at the National Cancer Institute of Naples in a four-week time period. Patients with a diagnosis of different cancers were considered, including adjuvant therapy and treatment for advanced disease, pharma sponsored and investigator initiated phase I, II and III clinical studies. We defined the expected standard treatment for each patient and we calculated the cost of the standard antineoplastic drugs that should be administered in clinical practice outside clinical trials. We used the market price of drugs to determine the cost savings value. Costs other than drugs were not included in the cost saving calculation. Results: From 23.10.2017 to 17.11.2017, 126 patients were treated in 34 pharma sponsored and investigator initiated clinical trials, using experimental drugs provided free of charge by the sponsors, for an overall number of 152 cycles of therapy. If these patients were treated with conventional therapies in clinical practice the cost of antineoplastic drugs would account for 517,658 Euros, with an average of 5,487 Euros saved per patients for a period of four weeks.Conclusions: Clinical trials with investigational antineoplastic drugs provided free of charge by Sponsors render considerable cost savings, with a tangible benefit in clinical and administrative strategies to reduce drug expenditures.
Solid-state NMR spectroscopic studies of 13C,15N,29Si-enriched biosilica from the marine diatom Cyclotella cryptica
Authors: Kolbe Felicitas , Ehren Helena Leona , Kohrs Simon , Butscher Daniel , Reiß Lukas , Baldus Marc , Brunner Eike
Published: September 2020

Diatoms are algae producing micro- and nano-structured cell walls mainly containing amorphous silica. The shape and patterning of these cell walls is species-specific. Herein, the biosilica of Cyclotella cryptica, a centric marine diatom with a massive organic matrix, is studied. Solid-state NMR spectroscopy is applied to gain deeper insight into the interactions at the organic-inorganic interface of the cell walls. The various organic compounds like polysaccharides as well as proteins and long-chain polyamines (LCPAs) are detected by observation of heteronuclei like 13C and 15N whereas the silica phase is studied using 29Si NMR spectroscopy. The sensitivity of the NMR experiments is strongly enhanced by isotope-labeling of the diatoms during cultivation with 13C, 15N and 29Si. The presence of two different chitin species in the biosilica is demonstrated. This observation is supported by a monosaccharide analysis of the silica-associated organic matrix where a high amount of glucosamine is found. Moreover, the Rotational Echo Double Resonance (REDOR) experiment provides distance information for heteronuclear spins. 13C{29Si} REDOR experiments reveal proximities between different organic compounds and the silica phase. The closest contacts between silica and organic compounds appear for different signals in the 13C-chemical shift range of 40 – 60 ppm, the typical range for LCPAs.
The Main Components of Body Image from the Perspectives of Iranian Adolescents: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Jalali-Farahani Sara , Amiri Parisa , Zarani Fariba , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: September 2020

Background: This study investigates main components of body image from the perspectives of Iranian boys and girls. Methods: A qualitative approach was used to identify the main components of body image in Iranian adolescents. A total of 13 semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted with 84 adolescents (42 girls and 42 boys), aged 15–18 years. All focus group discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim, followed by a qualitative content analysis of the data.Results: The mean age and BMI of participants were 16.2±0.9 years and 24.3±8.0 kg/m2 respectively. Regarding main components of body image, three main themes emerged from the data: 1) perceived face/hair, which included three subthemes-facial features, facial shape/form and hair, 2) perceived body, which included three subthemes-body size, body shape and bone structure and 3) perceived physical functioning which included three subthemes-physical ability, physical health and voice tone. Among mentioned themes, perceived body was the concept which was most frequently addressed by both adolescent boys and girls. When adolescents were talking about their bodies, girls more frequently mentioned their faces and its components, while boys tended to talk more about their physical functioning. Conclusion: This qualitative study provide further insight into the components of body image as perceived by Iranian boys and girls. Current findings indicated that besides those features that focused on body appearance and its aesthetic aspects, physical functioning was another main component of perceived body image by participants. These findings can contribute to the design and implementation of effective interventions aiming at improving body image and its related disorders in Iranian adolescents.
Invasion of pterygoid plates; an indicator for regional lymph node failure in maxillary sinus cancer
Authors: Kosugi Yasuo , Kawamoto Terufumi , Oshima Masaki , Fujimaki Mitsuhisa , Ohba Shinichi , Matsumoto Fumihiko , Shikama Naoto , Sasai Keisuke
Published: September 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term treatment results of combined superselective intraarterial chemotherapy and radiation therapy for advanced maxillary sinus cancer (MSC) and the incidence of regional lymph node failure, and to reveal the clinical and anatomical predictive factors for metastasis.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 55 consecutive patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the maxillary sinus who were treated with external radiotherapy and superselective intraarterial chemotherapy. Elective nodal irradiation (ENI) was performed only in the clinical node-positive (cN+) cases and not in the clinical node-negative (cN0) cases.Results: Thirty-eight patients were cN0, and 17 were cN+ at diagnosis. Regional lymph node metastases occurred in 7 of 38 patients with cN0, and 2 of 17 with cN+ during the median follow-up period of 36 months. There were more cases of high-grade (3 or 4) late adverse events in the ENI group than in the non-ENI group (13% vs. 41%, respectively; p = 0.03). In cN0 cases without ENI, invasion of the pterygoid plates (57% vs. 90%; p < 0.01) and oral cavity (35% vs. 92%, with invasion vs without invasion, respectively; p = 0.02) was significantly correlated with a low 5-year regional recurrence-free rate.Conclusions: Patients with MCS and invasion of the pterygoid plates and oral cavity can be considered appropriate candidates for ENI.
Factors associated with preterm birth in Southern Ethiopia: Case-Control Study
Authors: Gejo Negeso Gebeyehu , W/mariam Melaku Tesfaye , Kebede Biruk Assefa , Abdo Ritbano Ahmed , Anshebo Abebe Alemu , Halil Hassen Mosa , Woldu Biruktawit Fekade , Katiso Nuradin Abusha
Published: September 2020

Background
Preterm birth is defined as one born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy is completed. Worldwide, prematurity is the second foremost cause of death in children under the age of 5 years. Preterm birth also gives rise to short and long term complications. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with preterm birth in Wachemo University Nigest Eleni Mohammed Memorial referral hospital, Hadiya Zone, Southern Ethiopia.
Methods
An institution-based unmatched case-control study was conducted from July 01, 2018 to June 30, 2019, among mothers who gave birth in Wachemo University Nigest Eleni Mohammed Memorial referral hospital. Simple random sampling technique was employed to approach study participants. SPSS version 20 software was used for data entry and computing statistical analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to determine the association of each independent variable with the dependent variable. Odds ratio with their 95% confidence intervals was computed to identify the presence and strength of association, and statistical significance was affirmed if p < 0.05.
Result
The current study evaluated 213 medical records of mothers with index neonates (71 cases and 142 controls). Urban residency [AOR = 0.48; 95% Cl; 0.239, 0.962], ANC follow up [AOR = 0.08; 95 Cl; 0.008, 0.694], premature rupture of membranes [AOR = 3.78; 95% Cl; 1.467, 9.749], pregnancy induced hypertension [AOR = 3.77; 95% Cl; 1.408, 10.147], multiple pregnancies [AOR = 5.53; 95% Cl; 2.467, 12.412] were the factors associated with preterm birth. In the present study, more than one-third (36.6%) of preterm neonates have died.
Conclusions
The present study found that urban residency, ANC follow up, premature rupture of membranes, pregnancy induced hypertension and multiple pregnancies were factors associated with preterm birth. The mortality among preterm neonates is high. Enhancing ANC follow up and early detection and treatment of disorders among pregnant women during ANC and undertaking every effort to improve outcomes of preterm birth and reduce neonatal mortality associated with prematurity is decisive.
The rationality and mechanism of ACEIs for the treatment of proteinuria caused by antiangiogenic drugs in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Su , Cao Man Qing , Hou Zhen Yu , Gu Xiao Ying , Chen Yong Zi , Chen Lu , Luo Yi , Chen Li Wei , Liu Dong Ming , Zhou Hong Yuan , Zhu Ke Yun , Wang Zhi Wei , Zhang Xi Hao , Zhu Xiao Lin , Cui Yun Long , Li Hui Kai , Guo Hua , Zhang Ti
Published: September 2020

Anti-angiogenic drugs (AADs) are currently the main choice for systemic treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, but treatment-related proteinuria can affect the routine use of AADs, which in turn affects the overall efficacy, its prevention is a clinical aspiration. At present, most clinicians give angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) to alleviate proteinuria according to diabetic nephropathy guidelines or expert recommendations. However, its efficacy and whether it promotes cancer are controversial. Our clinical work has found that the use of ACEIs has not effectively relieved proteinuria, and some cases even have obvious tumor progression. Here we confirmed that in different tumor-bearing mouse models, ACEIs not only did not delay the appearance of proteinuria or reduce the degree of proteinuria caused by AADs, but also reduced the anti-cancer efficacy of AADs, and the reduction of anticancer efficacy has nothing to do with the change of VEGF signaling pathway, Our study show the combination of ACEIs and AADs aggravates the production of kidney-derived erythropoietin(EPO). In turn, EPO compromises the anti-angiogenic effects of AADs and decreases antitumor activity. This study presents treatment of proteinuria caused by AADs with ACEIs is useless and plays a role in drug resistance. Our purpose is to contribute to the rational management of side effects of AADs and to develop relevant guidelines.
The expansion of large-scale tree plantations:
Detection, pathways, and development trade-offs
Authors: Bey Adia , Meyfroidt Patrick
Published: September 2020

Tree plantations can contribute to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by creating job opportunities, storing carbon, and providing wood products that relieve pressure on natural forests. However, their impacts on SDGs are largely contingent upon the land uses they replace. Here we present a framework for understanding the development trade-offs associated with tree plantations and we introduce a new remote sensing technique to detect their expansion and pre-conversion land use. Using this approach in northern Mozambique, we found that 70% of 2001-2017 tree plantation expansion occurred on cropland, potentially exacerbating poverty, food insecurity and rural unemployment. The remainder occurred on natural vegetation, adversely affecting climate change mitigation efforts and life on land. Forty-one percent of plantation expansion occurred on land not designated for this land use. As tree plantations become more prevalent globally, monitoring their trajectories and expansion is critical to maximizing their benefits for people and the planet.
The Effect of Anesthesia Depth on Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Dong Hongquan , Li Nana , Sun Zhaochu
Published: September 2020

Background: Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) as a safe and effective method has been widely used in ventricular tachycardia (VT) patients, and with which anesthesiologists frequently manage their perioperative care. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different anesthetic depths on perioperative RFCA and recurrence in patients who with intractable VT and could not tolerate an awake procedure.Methods: We reviewed electronic medical records of patients with VT who underwent RFCA by general anesthesia from January 2014 to March 2019. According to intraoperative VT induction, they were divided into two groups: non-inducible group (group N) and inducible group (group I). We constructed several multivariable regression models, in which covariates included patient characteristics, comorbidities, protopathy and BIS value. Results: 101 patients were analyzed. 29 patients (28.7%) experienced VT no induction, and 26 patients (25.7%) recurrented within one year. Compared with group I, the proportion of patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy in group NI were higher (P<0.05), and the recurrence rate of VT was significantly higher (51.7% vs 15.3%) (P<0.05). Based on pre-specified bispectral index (BIS), the BIS <40 was associated with elevated odds of VT no induction compared with a BIS value >50 (odds ratio, 6.92; 95% confidence interval, 1.47-32.56; P=0.01). VT no induction was an independent predictor of recurrence after RFCA (odds ratio, 5.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.88-13.83; P<0.01).Conclusion: Lower BIS value during VT induction in RFCA operation was associated with high risk of VT no induction, which affects postoperative outcomes. We proposed that appropriate depth of anesthesia should be maintained during the process of VT induction.Trial registrationChiCTR, ChiCTR2000034210. Registered 28 June 2020 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=55691&htm=4
Self-Rated Health (SRH), Recovery From Work, Fatigue, and Insomnia Among Commercial Pilots in Relation to Occupational and Non-Occupational Factors
Authors: Fu Xi , Norbäck Dan , Lindgren Torsten , Janson Christer , Hu Qiansheng , Runeson-Broberg Roma
Published: September 2020

Background: This study investigates associations between self-rated health (SRH), recovery from work, fatigue, and insomnia and work conditions, psychosocial work environment, lifestyle and sense of coherence (SOC) among commercial pilots. Methods: A standardized questionnaire was sent to all pilots in an airline company, 354 (61%) participated. Associations were analysed by ordinal and logistic regression with mutual adjustment. Results: Totally 21.8% reported low SRH, 13.0% did not recover from work during free time, 61.9% had fatigue and 70.6% had insomnia symptoms. SRH was associated with high work demands, SOC, exercise, and overweight/obesity. Recovery from work was associated with part-time work, being a co-pilot, low social support at work and SOC. Fatigue was associated with female gender, high work demands, SOC, and younger age. Insomnia was associated with low social support, SOC, and free hours after work. Moreover, insomnia was associated with flying MD80 and intercontinental flights with Airbus 330/340, using Boeing 737 as reference. Conclusion: The psychosocial environment at work is important for health among pilots and a high sense of coherence can be protective. Occupational conditions may have an influence on recovery from work, fatigue, and insomnia. Moreover exercise, being fit, working part-time and having more free hours after work could improve health.
Stepwise Lactate Kinetics in Critically Ill Patients: Prognostic,Influencing Factors,and Clinical Phenotype
Authors: Tang Bo , Su Longxiang , Li Dongkai , Wang Ye , Liu Qianqian , Shan Guangliang , Long Yun , Liu Dawei , Zhou Xiang
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To investigate the optimal target e of lactate kinetics at different time during the resuscitation, the factors that influence whether the kinetics achieve the goals, and the clinical implications of different clinical phenotypes. Methods: Patients with hyperlactatemia between May 1, 2013 and December 31, 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, basic organ function, hemodynamic parameters at ICU admission (T0) and at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h, arterial blood lactate and blood glucose levels, cumulative clinical treatment conditions at different time points and final patient outcomes were collected. Results: A total of 3298 patients were enrolled, and the mortality rate was 12.2%. The cutoff values of lactate kinetics for prognosis at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h were 21%, 40%, 57%, 66%, and 72%. The APACHE II score, SOFA score, heart rate (HR), and blood glucose were risk factors that influenced whether the lactate kinetics attained the target goal. Based on the pattens of the lactate kinetics, eight clinical phenotypes were proposed. The odds ratios of death for clinical phenotypes VIII, IV, and II were 4.39, 4.2, and 5.27-fold of those of clinical phenotype I, respectively. Conclusion: Stepwise recovery of lactate kinetics is an important resuscitation target for patients with hyperlactatemia. The APACHE II score, SOFA score, HR, and blood glucose were independent risk factors that influenced achievement of lactate kinetic targets. The cinical phenotypes of stepwise lactate kinetics are closely related to the prognosis.
In situ study of surface species and structure over Oxide-Derived Copper Catalysts for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Chen Chunjun , Yan Xupeng , Wu Yahui , Liu Shoujie , Sun Xiaofu , Zhu Qinggong , Feng Rongjuan , Wu Tianbin , Qian Qingli , Liu Huizhen , Zheng Lirong , Zhang Jing , Han Buxing
Published: September 2020

The oxide-derived copper (OD-Cu) has been discovered as effective catalyst for electroreduction of CO2 to C2+ products. The real structure of the OD-Cu and surface species in the reaction process are interesting phenomena, which are not clear now. Herein, in situ surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), 18O isotope labeling experiments, and density functional theory were employed to investigate the surface speciation and structure of the OD-Cu catalysts during CO2 electroreduction. It was found that the OD-Cu catalysts were reduced to metallic Cu(0) in the reaction. CuOx species existed on the catalyst surfaces during CO2RR, which resulted from the chemisorption of CO2 instead of active sites of the catalyst. After removing potential, Cu2O was formed on the surface of the catalyst by reaction of Cu and H2O. It was also found that Cu (100) facet can be enhanced by redox cycling treatment of the catalyst, leading to outstanding performance of the catalyst. The Faradaic efficiency(FE) for C2+ products reached up to 83.8% at current density of 341.5 mA•cm-2 at -0.9 V vs RHE. The findings of this work are very interesting knowledge in the area in electrochemical reduction of CO2. The work also demonstrates advantage and necessity of in situ experimental methods in exploring the interesting phenomena in the process of CO2RR.
Genome Analysis of the Fatal Tapeworm Sparganum Proliferum Uncovers the Cryptic Life Cycle and Mechanisms Underlying Aberrant Larval Proliferation
Authors: Kikuchi Taisei , Dayi Mehmet , Hunt Vicky , Toyoda Atsushi , Maeda Yasunobu , Kondo Yoko , de Noya Belkisyole Alarcon , Noya Oscar , Kojima Somei , Kuramochi Toshiaki , Maruyama Haruhihko
Published: September 2020

The cryptic parasite Sparganum proliferum proliferates in humans and invades tissues and organs. Only scattered cases have been reported, but S. proliferum infection is always fatal. However, S. proliferum’s phylogeny and life cycle remain enigmatic. To investigate the phylogenetic relationships between S. proliferum and other cestode species, and to examine the mechanisms underlying pathogenicity, we sequenced the entire genomes of S. proliferum and a closely related non–life-threatening tapeworm Spirometra erinaceieuropaei. Additionally, we performed larvae transcriptome analyses of S. proliferum plerocercoid to identify genes involved in asexual reproduction in the host. The genome sequences confirmed that the S. proliferum has experienced a clearly distinct evolutionary history from S. erinaceieuropaei. Moreover, we found that nonordinal extracellular matrix coordination allows asexual reproduction in the host, and loss of sexual maturity in S. proliferum are responsible for its fatal pathogenicity to humans. Our high-quality reference genome sequences should be valuable for future studies of pseudophyllidean tapeworm biology and parasitism.
Elevated Preoperative Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Early Adverse Outcomes in Uncomplicated Type B Aortic Dissection Undergoing TEVAR
Authors: Zhu Hongqiao , Zhang Lei , Liang Taiping , Li Yiming , Zhou Jian , Jing Zaiping
Published: September 2020

Background: Thoracic aortic endovascular repair (TEVAR) of uncomplicated type B aortic dissection (uTBAD) has favorable long-term outcomes but higher early adverse events compared with the optimal medical treatment. Recently, clinical evidence concerning vascular surgery indicates that elevated preoperative systemic inflammatory response predicts adverse clinical events. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between preoperative neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and early outcomes of (uTBAD) patients undergoing (TEVAR). Results: 216 patients diagnosed with uTBAD were included in this retrospective study between January 2015 and December 2018. The median (IQR) follow-up period was 21 (15-33) months. An early adverse event was defined as occurring within 2 years after the procedure. Median patient age was 60 (IQR, 48-68) years and 78.7% were male. Early adverse events occurred in 24 patients (11.3%). In the multivariable analysis, preoperative NLR (HR per SD, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.03-1.18; P = 0.003) was associated with 2-year adverse events. Conclusions: NLR is an independent predictive factor of early adverse events in uTBAD patients undergoing TEVAR.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the General Functioning Subscale of the McMaster Family Assessment Device
Authors: Babar Muneer Gohar , Bilal Sobia , Yusof Zamros Yuzadi Mohd , Chinna Karuthan , Doss Jennifer Geraldine , Pau Allan
Published: September 2020

Background: The aim of the study was to conduct a cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the General Functioning Subscale (GF12) of the McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD) into the Malay language. Methods: The translation and adaptation procedure of the Malay GF12 was based on the dual-panel methodology. This involved conducting a bilingual panel (providing the initial translation into Malay language) followed by a lay panel (where items are assessed for comprehension and acceptability). A mixed-methods approach with exploratory sequential study design was employed.Results: Two hundred and fifty-one families who have children in pre-schools (Tadikas) answered the Malay GF12. The KMO value for sampling adequacy was 0.81, indicating the sample was adequate for factor analysis. The Malay GF12 demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient > 0.80). In the confirmatory factor analysis, the original 12-item model did not fit very well. Alternatively, a 2-factor-6-item model showed a sufficient fit. The two constructs comprised Positive Items and Negative Items. Conclusions: The results indicate the feasibility of administering 6 of the 12 items of Malay GF12 (3 positively worded and 3 negatively worded) to measure family functioning in the Malaysian population.
Deep Polar Residual Network for Identifying Myocardial Infarction in Mce Imaging
Authors: Shen Wenqian , Xue Jingyi , Guo Yanhui , Yu Haiyuan , Chen Shuang , Wu Yan , Du Guoqing
Published: September 2020

Background: Ultrasonic diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) varies markedly among radiologists, and is also time-consuming. In addition, there is a high level of inter-observer variation in diagnosis of MI. The purpose of this study is to develop a deep learning-based model that automatically recognizes MI in myocardial contrast echocardiography(MCE) images, and to compare the model performance against radiologists with varying experience in echocardiography.Methods: In this study, a polar residual network (PResNet) model was employed to recognize MI segments in MCE images of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. All SD rats were randomly divided into the MI model group (n=15) and the sham group (n=10). Rats in MI model group were infarcted via left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. Ultimately, MCE was performed on SD rats to observe their myocardium. Left ventricle (LV) short-axis views of MCE at the basal and midpapillary muscle levels for each SD rat were divided into 6 segments separately. The PResNet model and six radiologists each diagnosed 276 MCE image segments. Masson’s trichrome staining was used as the gold standard for MI presence or absence. The PResNet model and radiologist diagnostic performance were evaluated using sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Furthermore, analysis duration per rat and interobserver variability were also compared. Results: Masson’s trichrome stain revealed 30 infarcted segments out of the 276 total segments. The PResNet model achieved an AUC of 0.89 (0.85-0.93), which was comparable to that of senior radiologists (0.89; 0.85-0.93). Relative to senior radiologists, the PResNet model presented slightly lower sensitivity but significantly higher specificity. The mean sensitivity and specificity for the junior radiologists were significantly lower than both the PResNet model and the senior radiologists. In terms of analysis duration, the PResNet model (148-169sec) was markedly faster than both junior (314-366sec) and senior (193-235sec). Moreover, the intrasample agreement for the PResNet model (k=0.96) was better than the interobserver agreement for the junior (k=0.81) and senior radiologists (k=0.86). Conclusion: The PResNet model not only improved diagnostic performance and observer consensus but also improve the diagnose speed. It is a promising tool for identifying MI.
On the learnability of quantum neural networks
Authors: Du Yuxuan , Hsieh Min-Hsiu , Liu Tongliang , You Shan , Tao Dacheng
Published: September 2020

Quantum neural network (QNN), or equivalently, the variational quantum circuits with a gradient-based classical optimizer, has been broadly applied to many experimental proposals for noisy intermediate scale quantum (NISQ) devices. However, the learning capability of QNN remains largely unknown due to the non-convex optimization landscape, the measurement error, and the unavoidable gate noise introduced by NISQ machines. In this study, we theoretically explore the learnability of QNN from the perspective of the trainability and generalization. Particularly, we derive the convergence performance of QNN under the NISQ setting, and identify classes of computationally hard concepts that can be efficiently learned by QNN. Our results demonstrate that large gate noise, few quantum measurements, and deep circuit depth will lead to poor convergence rates of QNN towards the empirical risk minimization. Moreover, we prove that any concept class, which is efficiently learnable by a restricted quantum statistical query (QSQ) learning model, can also be efficiently learned by QNN. Since the restricted QSQ learning model can tackle certain problems such as parity learning with a runtime speedup, our result suggests that QNN established on NISQ devices will retain the quantum advantage. Our work provides the theoretical guidance for developing advanced QNNs and opens up avenues for exploring quantum advantages using NISQ devices.
Retrieval of Land Surface Temperature From Landsat 8 Data of the Dandong-liaoyang Geothermal Area
Authors: Luan Yiming
Published: September 2020

In recent years, with the intensification of problems like the depletion of traditional fossil fuels and environmental degradation, the development of new energy sources has become a key long-term strategy in China. Geothermal energy has attracted much attention due to its advantages of abundance and low environmental impact. Based on infrared data sensed remotely by the Landsat 8 satellite, this paper reports a verification of the atmospheric-correction method for extracting the surface temperature of the Dandong-Liaoyang geothermal region in all months of 2014. The method combines the abnormal points in the inversion results with the local sites of hot springs, structures, local historical air temperatures, and land surface temperature/emissivity data (MOD11_L2). Results showed that these data sources were spatially distributed in similar ways, which indicates that these results can be used to identify promising geothermal resources from publically available thermal-infrared remote-sensing data.
Knowledge of Iatrogenic Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Among Chinese Obstetricians and Gynecologists: A National Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Wang Yanfang , Zou Ying , Wang Wei , Zheng Qingmei , Feng Ying , Dong Han , Tan Zhangyun , Zeng Xiaoqin , Zhao Yinqing , Peng Danhong , Yang Xiaomin , Sun Ai-jun
Published: September 2020

Background: With increasing cases of iatrogenic premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), more clinicians are required to counsel patients regarding the gonadotoxic effects of iatrogenic treatments. This survey aims to explore obstetricians and gynecologists’ knowledge regarding iatrogenic POI. A national online questionnaire survey was conducted across China. Respondents were asked to select the iatrogenic condition(s) that can cause POI based on their experience and knowledge.Results: Of the 5,523 returned questionnaires, 4,995 were analyzed. Among tumor therapies causing POI, most respondents agreed that radiotherapy (73.5% of respondents) and chemotherapy (64.1%) are risk factors for POI. While only 6.5% and 7.8% of the gynecological oncologists believed tumor immunotherapy and tumor-targeting therapy, respectively, may cause ovarian impairment, 31.8% and 22.2% of the non-gynecologic oncologists believed that these therapies could affect ovarian health. Most respondents believed that ovarian cystectomy (54.4%) was a risk factor for POI, while only a few respondents believed that hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy (39.6%) and uterine artery embolization (33.5%) could cause ovarian impairment. Only 30.5% respondents believed that immunosuppressants increased the risk of POI. Views differed with experience and hospital setting.Conclusions: The knowledge of gonadal toxicity due to traditional tumor treatments is generally high among Chinese obstetricians and gynecologists. A misunderstanding may exist in primary care hospitals and general gynecologists regarding a link between novel tumor treatments and POI, owing to the lack of convincing evidence. Knowledge of POI caused by hysterectomy and immunosuppressants should be improved.
Identification of Amblyomma Javanense and Detection of Tick-Borne Ehrlichia Spp. In Confiscated Malayan Pangolins
Authors: Zhai Junqiong , Wu Yajiang , Chen Jinping , Zou Jiejian , Shan Fen , Li Wanping , Chen Wu , Zhou Niu
Published: September 2020

BackgroundDue to habitat destruction and illegal hunting and trade, the number of pangolins has been sharply reduced. To prevent their extinction, relevant departments are combined and active action have been taken. A total of 21 confiscated Malayan pangolins were rescued in 2019, but died continuously for unknown reasons. This study aimed to investigate the reasons for the death of these pangolin and rescue them.MethodsRecused Malayan pangolins were checked for clinical symptoms. Ticks on the surface of pangolins were collected and identified using morphological and molecular biological methods. Dead pangolins were autopsied for the gross lesion and tissues were collected for microscopic lesion using HE staining. Viral and protozoa pathogens’ detection were carried on ticks firstly and further confirmed in dead pangolin pathological tissues using PCR.ResultsWhen rescued, pangolins were in bad situation. More than 90% (19/21) of the rescued pangolins had ticks on their body surfaces. A total of 303 ticks were removed and identified as Amblyomma javanense (A. javanense) according to their morphology and the sequences of PCR product of 16S rRNA and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2). Autopsy of the dead pangolins showed multiorgan damage, especially congestion and hemorrhage in lung, heart and kidney. Histopathological analysis revealed marked presence of inflammation in tissues. Pathogens’ nucleic acid detection showed ticks were only positive for Ehrlichia spp, with 56.7% positive rate of collected ticks (127/224), which was further confirmed in tissues from dead pangolins. Sick pangolins reduced clinical symptoms after medical treatment of intramuscular injection with doxycycline and kept alive before transfer.ConclusionsOur findings confirm that ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia spp. from A. javanense might be one of the reasons for the confiscated pangolins’ death. More attention should be payed to tick-elimination work and the diagnoses and treatment of tick-borne diseases in the follow-up rescue operation.
Effect of Various Potential Additives on Hydrogen Fermentation During the Co-Digestion of Food Waste and Cow Dung
Authors: Deheri Chinmay , Acharya Saroj Kumar
Published: September 2020

The effect of calcium peroxide (CaO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), copper oxide (CuO), and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as additives during the anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and cow dung is experimentally investigated to enhance the hydrogen fermentation. The maximum concentration of hydrogen in the generated gas is found to be 26.43%, 21.67%, 17.64%, and 20.84% while the cumulative yield of hydrogen remains 114.1, 109.27, 104.87, and 107.38 mL g− 1 Total Solid (TS) with CaO2, ZnO, CuO, and CaCO3 respectively. The sample in which no additive is used (control) exhibits a maximum hydrogen concentration of 17% and a cumulative hydrogen generation of 101.57 mL g− 1 TS in the produced gas. Result reveals an enhancement in the hydrogen concentration up to 9.43% whereas the cumulative hydrogen yield is increased up to 11% with additives compared to the control sample. Overall the hydrogen fermentation can be significantly enhanced with the additives through the anaerobic co-digestion process.
Protein Regulation Strategies of Mouse Spleen in Response to Babesia Microti Infection
Authors: Xue Xiaomin , Ren Shuguang , Masoudi Abolfazl , Hu Yuhong , Wang Xiaoshuang , Li Hongxia , Zhang Xiaojing , Wang Minjing , Wang Hui , Liu Jing-Ze
Published: September 2020

BackgroundBabesia is a protozoan parasite in red blood cells of some vertebrates. Some species of Babesia can cause zoonoses and cause great harm. As the largest immune organ in mammals, the spleen plays an important role in defending against Babesia infection. When infected with Babesia, the spleen is seriously injured, but it still actively initiates immunomodulatory responses.MethodsIn order to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune regulation and self-repair of the spleen in response to infection, this study used data-independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative proteomics to analyse changes in expression levels of global proteins and changes in phosphorylation modification in spleen tissue after Babesia microti infection in mice.ResultsAfter the mice were infected with B. microti, their spleen were seriously damaged.Using bioinfor-matics methods to analyze the dynamic changes of a large number of proteins, we found that spleen still initiated immune response to deal with the infection, in which immune-related proteins played an important role, including CTSD, IFI44, ILF2, ILF, and STAT5A. In addition, some proteins related to iron metabolism were also involved in the repair of spleen against B. microti infection, including serotransferrin, lactoferrin, TfR1, and GCL. At the same time, the expression and phosphorylation of proteins related to the growth and development of the spleen also changed, including PKC-δ and MAPK3/1, Grb2, and PAK2. ConclusionsImmune-related proteins, iron metabolism-related proteins and growth and development-related proteins play an important important role in the regulation of spleen injury and maintenance of homeostasis. This study will provide important bases for the diagnosis and treatment of babesiosis.
Differential Transcriptional Regulation of the NANOG Gene in Chicken Primordial Germ Cells and Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Choi Hee Jung , Jin So Dam , Rengaraj Deivendran , Kim Jin Hwa , Pain Bertrand , Han Jae Yong
Published: September 2020

BackgroundNANOG is a core transcription factor (TF) in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and primordial germ cells (PGCs). Regulation of the NANOG gene by TFs, epigenetic factors, and autoregulatory factors is well characterized in ESCs, and transcriptional regulation of NANOG is well established in these cells. Although NANOG plays a key role in germ cells, the molecular mechanism underlying its transcriptional regulation in PGCs has not been studied. Therefore, we investigated the mechanism that regulates transcription of the chicken NANOG (cNANOG) gene in PGCs and ESCs. ResultsWe first identified the transcription start site of cNANOG by 5’-rapid amplification of cDNA ends PCR analysis. Then, we measured the promoter activity of various 5’ flanking regions of cNANOG in chicken PGCs and ESCs using the luciferase reporter assay. cNANOG expression required transcriptional cis-regulatory elements, which were positively regulated by POU5F3 (OCT4) and SOX2 and negatively regulated by TP53 in PGCs. The proximal region of the cNANOG promoter contains a positive cis-regulatory element (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (CEBP)-binding site) in ESCs. Furthermore, small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown demonstrated that POU5F3, SOX2, and CEBP played a role in cell type-specific transcription of cNANOG.ConclusionsWe show for the first time that different cis-regulatory elements control transcription of cNANOG in a cell type-specific manner. This finding might help to elucidate the mechanism that regulates cNANOG expression in PGCs and ESCs.
Antibiotic Potentiation of Natural Products: A Promising Target to Fight Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Sadeer Nabeelah Bibi , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi
Published: September 2020

Pathogenic microorganisms should be considered as the number one foe of human, as witnessed by recent outbreaks of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and with bacteria no longer sensitive to existing antibiotics. The resistance of pathogenic bacteria and deaths attributable to bacterial infections is increasing exponentially. Bacteria used different mechanisms to counterattack to existing antibiotics, namely (i) enzymatic inhibition, (ii) penicillin-binding protein modification, (iii) porin mutations, (iv) efflux pumps and (v) molecular modifications of antibiotic targets. Developing new antibiotics would be time-consuming to address such a situation, thus one of the promising approaches is by potentiating existing antibiotics. Plants used synergism to naturally defend and protect themselves from microbes. Using the same strategy, several studies have shown that the combinations of natural products and antibiotics could effectively prolong the lifespan of existing antibiotics and minimize the impact and emergence of antibiotic resistance. Combining essential oils constituents, namely uvaol, ferruginol, farnesol and carvacrol, with antibiotics, have proved to be efficient efflux pump inhibitors. Plant-derived compounds such as gallic acid and tannic acid are effective potentiators of various antibiotics, including novobiocin, chlorobiocin, coumermycin, fusidic acid, and rifampicin, resulting in a 4-fold increase in the potencies of these antibiotics. Several lines of research, as discussed in this review, have demonstrated the effectiveness of natural products in potentiating existing antibiotics. For this reason, the search for more efficient combinations should be an ongoing process with the aim to extend the life of the ones that we have and may preserve the life for the ones that are yet to come.
A Self-administered Version of the Functioning Assessment Short Test for Use in Population-based Studies: A Pilot Study
Authors: Riegler Christoph , Wiedmann Silke , Rücker Viktoria , Teismann Henning , Berger Klaus , Störk Stefan , Vieta Eduard , Faller Hermann , Baune Bernhard T , Heuschmann Peter U
Published: September 2020

Background:

The Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST) is an interviewer-administered scale assessing functional impairment originally developed for psychiatric patients.

Objectives:

To adapt the FAST for the general population, we developed a self-administered version of the scale and assessed its properties in a pilot study.

Methods:

The original FAST scale was translated into German via forward and backward translation. Afterwards, we adjusted the scale for self-administered application and inquired participants from two ongoing studies in Germany, ‘STAAB’ (Würzburg) and ‘BiDirect’ (Münster), both recruiting subjects from the general population across a wide age range (STAAB: 30-79 years, BiDirect: 35-65 years). To assess reliability, agreement of self-assessment with proxy-assessment by partners was measured via intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) over the FAST score. Construct validity was estimated by conducting correlations with validated scales of depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and health-related quality of life (SF-12) and regression analyses using these scales besides potentially disabling comorbidities (e.g. Chronic Back Pain (CBP)).

Results:

Participants (n=54) had a median age of 57.0 years (quartiles: 49.8, 65.3), 46.3% were female. Reliability was moderate: ICC 0.50 (95% CI 0.46-0.54). The FAST score significantly correlated with PHQ-9, GAD-7, and the mental sub-scale of SF-12. In univariable linear regression, all three scales and chronic back pain explained variance of the FAST score. In multivariable analysis, only CBP and the SF-12 remained significant predictors.

Conclusion:

The German self-administered version of the FAST yielded moderate psychometric properties in this pilot study, indicating its applicability to assess functional impairment in the general population.
Protective Effect of Isothiocyanates from Cruciferous Vegetables on Breast Cancer: Epidemiological and Preclinical Perspectives
Authors: Ngo Suong N.T. , Williams Desmond B.
Published: September 2020

Background:

The effect of cruciferous vegetable intake on breast cancer survival is controversial at present. Glucosinolates are the naturally occurring constituents found across the cruciferous vegetables. Isothiocyanates are produced from the hydrolysis of glucosinolates and this reaction is catalysed by the plant-derived enzyme myrosinase. The main isothiocyanates (ITCs) from cruciferous vegetables are sulforaphane, benzyl ITC, and phenethyl ITC, which had been intensively investigated over the last decade for their antibreast cancer effects.

Objective:

The aim of this article is to systematically review the evidence from all types of studies, which examined the protective effect of cruciferous vegetables and/or their isothiocyanate constituents on breast cancer.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted in Pubmed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from inception to 27 April 2020. Peerreviewed studies of all types (in vitro studies, animal studies, and human studies) were selected.

Results:

The systematic literature search identified 16 human studies, 4 animal studies, and 65 in vitro studies. The effect of cruciferous vegetables and/or their ITCs intake on breast cancer survival was found to be controversial and varied greatly across human studies. Most of these trials were observational studies conducted in specific regions, mainly in the US and China. Substantial evidence from in vitro and animal studies was obtained, which strongly supported the protective effect of sulforaphane and other ITCs against breast cancer. Evidence from in vitro studies showed that sulforaphane and other ITCs reduced cancer cell viability and proliferation via multiple mechanisms and pathways. Isothiocyanates inhibited cell cycle, angiogenesis and epithelial mesenchymal transition, as well as induced apoptosis and altered the expression of phase II carcinogen detoxifying enzymes. These are the essential pathways that promote the growth and metastasis of breast cancer. Noticeably, benzyl ITC showed a significant inhibitory effect on breast cancer stem cells, a new dimension of chemo-resistance in breast cancer treatment. Sulforaphane and other ITCs displayed anti-breast cancer effects at variable range of concentrations and benzyl isothiocyanate appeared to have a relatively lower inhibitory concentration IC50. The mechanisms underlying the cancer protective effect of sulforaphane and other ITCs have also been highlighted in this article.

Conclusion:

Current preclinical evidence strongly supports the role of sulforaphane and other ITCs as potential therapeutic agents for breast cancer, either as adjunct therapy or combined therapy with current anti-breast cancer drugs, with sulforaphane appeared to display the greatest potential.