bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of Pemetrexed and Gefitinib in the Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhihao , Wang Xiyong , Xiao Huaiqing , Wu Dongqiang , Zhang Dongliang , Yu Qun , Yuan Linna
Published: April 2021

Object. This study is aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of pemetrexed and gefitinib in the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods. Databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, and Web of Science, were applied to search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about the use of pemetrexed and gefitinib in the second-line treatment of locally advanced and metastatic NSCLC from database foundation to April 2020. Meta-analysis was conducted using the RevMan 5.3 software. Primary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), and secondary outcomes included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and all grades of drug-related adverse events (AEs). Results. Totally, 14 RCTs and 1,334 patients were involved in the study. The results of meta-analysis showed that compared with pemetrexed, gefitinib was not superior in improving ORR (

P
=
0.21

), DCR (

P
=
0.52

), PFS (

P
=
0.41

), and OS (

P
=
0.79

). Subgroup analysis showed that in patients with mutant EGFR (

P
=
0.08

) and wild-type EGFR (

P
=
0.80

), both pemetrexed and gefitinib produced a similar effect on PFS. In terms of safety, the incidence of rash (

P
<
0.00001

) and diarrhea (

P
=
0.0005

) in the gefitinib group was significantly higher than those in the pemetrexed group, while the occurrence of neutropenia (

P
=
0.01

) and fatigue (

P
=
0.02

) was significantly lower. Conclusion. Gefitinib and pemetrexed showed similar efficacy and safety, regardless of the type of EGFR. Both gefitinib and pemetrexed can be used as conventional drugs for the second-line treatment of locally advanced and metastatic NSCLC.
Influence of Dietary Components and Traditional Chinese Medicine on Hypertension: A Potential Role for Gut Microbiota
Authors: Zhang Guo-Xin , Jin Ling , Jin Hua , Zheng Gui-Sen
Published: April 2021

Hypertension (HTN) is an important worldwide public health issue affecting human health. The pathogenesis of HTN involves complex factors such as genetics, external environment, diet, and the gut microbial dysbiosis. The gut microbiota, as a medium of diet and drug metabolism, is closely correlated to host’s health and disease (including HTN). Literatures were randomly collected from various databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). In this review, we elucidate the relationship between HTN and gut microbiota, as well as concerning the effects of different dietary components, diet-derived microbial metabolites, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on intestinal flora. These studies have shown that diet and TCM can regulate and balance the intestinal flora, which are inclined to increasing the abundance of Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides and reducing the ratio of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Moreover, monitoring the dynamic change of gut microflora may indicate patient prognosis and personalized response to treatment. This review aims to provide novel perspectives and potential personalized interventions for future HTN management from the perspective of gut microbiota.
Machine Learning-Based Model to Predict the Disease Severity and Outcome in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Aljameel Sumayh S. , Khan Irfan Ullah , Aslam Nida , Aljabri Malak , Alsulmi Eman S.
Published: April 2021

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak produced devastating effects on the global economy and the health of entire communities. Although the COVID-19 survival rate is high, the number of severe cases that result in death is increasing daily. A timely prediction of at-risk patients of COVID-19 with precautionary measures is expected to increase the survival rate of patients and reduce the fatality rate. This research provides a prediction method for the early identification of COVID-19 patient’s outcome based on patients’ characteristics monitored at home, while in quarantine. The study was performed using 287 COVID-19 samples of patients from the King Fahad University Hospital, Saudi Arabia. The data were analyzed using three classification algorithms, namely, logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGB). Initially, the data were preprocessed using several preprocessing techniques. Furthermore, 10-k cross-validation was applied for data partitioning and SMOTE for alleviating the data imbalance. Experiments were performed using twenty clinical features, identified as significant for predicting the survival versus the deceased COVID-19 patients. The results showed that RF outperformed the other classifiers with an accuracy of 0.95 and area under curve (AUC) of 0.99. The proposed model can assist the decision-making and health care professional by early identification of at-risk COVID-19 patients effectively.
The New Semianalytical Technique for the Solution of Fractional-Order Navier-Stokes Equation
Authors: Shah Nehad Ali , Areshi Mounirah , Chung Jae Dong , Nonlaopon Kamsing
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we introduce a modified method which is constructed by mixing the residual power series method and the Elzaki transformation. Precisely, we provide the details of implementing the suggested technique to investigate the fractional-order nonlinear models. Second, we test the efficiency and the validity of the technique on the fractional-order Navier-Stokes models. Then, we apply this new method to analyze the fractional-order nonlinear system of Navier-Stokes models. Finally, we provide 3-D graphical plots to support the impact of the fractional derivative acting on the behavior of the obtained profile solutions to the suggested models.
Boundary Value Problem for Nonlinear Implicit Generalized Hilfer-Type Fractional Differential Equations with Impulses
Authors: Salim Abdelkrim , Benchohra Mouffak , Lazreg Jamal Eddine , N’Guérékata Gaston
Published: April 2021

This article deals with some existence, uniqueness, and Ulam-Hyers-Rassias stability results for a class of boundary value problem for nonlinear implicit fractional differential equations with impulses and generalized Hilfer Fractional derivative. The results are obtained using the Banach contraction principle and Krasnoselskii’s and Schaefer’s fixed-point theorems.
Rapid Identification of Chemical Constituents in Artemisia argyi Lévi. et Vant by UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS
Authors: Cui Lili , Wang Xianzhong , Lu Jie , Tian Jing , Wang Li , Qu Jiaojiao , Liu Zhenhua , Wei Jinfeng
Published: April 2021

Artemisia argyi Lévi. et Vant is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history, and its buds and seedlings can be used as vegetables. However, the investigations on the chemical constituents of A. argyi are not sufficient. In this paper, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS) was used to identify the chemical constituents of A. argyi. The Q Exactive mass spectrometer was used to collect MS and MS2 data. Finally, 125 compounds were preliminarily identified in A. argyi by comparing the retention time and accurate molecular weight with standard databases such as MZVault, MZCloud, and BGI Library (self-built standard Library by BGI Co., Ltd), including flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, and organic acids.
Extensible Embedded Processor for Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Misko Joshua , Jadhav Shrikant S. , Kim Youngsoo
Published: April 2021

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) require significant computing power during inference. Smart phones, for example, may not run a facial recognition system or search algorithm smoothly due to the lack of resources and supporting hardware. Methods for reducing memory size and increasing execution speed have been explored, but choosing effective techniques for an application requires extensive knowledge of the network architecture. This paper proposes a general approach to preparing a compressed deep neural network processor for inference with minimal additions to existing microprocessor hardware. To show the benefits to the proposed approach, an example CNN for synthetic aperture radar target classification is modified and complimentary custom processor instructions are designed. The modified CNN is examined to show the effects of the modifications and the custom processor instructions are profiled to illustrate the potential performance increase from the new extended instructions.
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis as a Cause of Sudden-Onset Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Case Report and Recommendations for Initial Assessment
Authors: Ratmeyer Paul R. , Johnson Benjamin R. , Roldan Luis P. , Kraai Tania L.
Published: April 2021

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a severe systemic vasculitis that commonly affects the paranasal sinuses, upper and lower respiratory tracts, and kidneys. GPA has also been associated with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), through inflammation of the cochlear apparatus. Early recognition, diagnostic laboratory evaluation, and appropriate treatment are essential to improve outcomes and achieve remission for patients with GPA. Here, we present a case of bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) and distal symmetric polyneuropathy as the first presenting signs of GPA. A specific diagnostic work-up to rule out autoimmune inner-ear disease in patients with bilateral SSNHL is not clearly stated in the clinical practice guidelines from the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. The aim of this paper is to delineate an appropriate diagnostic work-up for patients with bilateral SSNHL when there is concern for autoimmune disease.
Hydrogen Sulfide in Skin Diseases: A Novel Mediator and Therapeutic Target
Authors: Xiao Qing , Xiong Lidan , Tang Jie , Li Li , Li Li
Published: April 2021

Together with nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is now recognized as a vital gaseous transmitter. The ubiquitous distributions of H2S‐producing enzymes and potent chemical reactivities of H2S in biological systems make H2S unique in its ability to regulate cellular and organ functions in both health and disease. Acting as an antioxidant, H2S can combat oxidative species such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and protect the skin from oxidative stress. The aberrant metabolism of H2S is involved in the pathogenesis of several skin diseases, such as vascular disorders, psoriasis, ulcers, pigment disorders, and melanoma. Furthermore, H2S donors and some H2S hybrids have been evaluated in many experimental models of human disease and have shown promising therapeutic results. In this review, we discuss recent advances in understanding H2S and its antioxidant effects on skin pathology, the roles of altered H2S metabolism in skin disorders, and the potential value of H2S as a therapeutic intervention in skin diseases.
Polydatin Attenuates OGD/R‐Induced Neuronal Injury and Spinal Cord Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Protecting Mitochondrial Function via Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhan Jiheng , Li Xing , Luo Dan , Yan Wanying , Hou Yonghui , Hou Yu , Chen Shudong , Luan Jiyao , Zhang Qing , Lin Dingkun
Published: April 2021

Spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury (SCII) is a devastating complication of spinal or thoracic surgical procedures and can lead to paraplegia or quadriplegia. Neuronal cell damage involving mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of SCII. Despite the availability of various treatment options, there are currently no mitochondria‐targeting drugs that have proven effective against SCII. Polydatin (PD), a glucoside of resveratrol, is known to preserve mitochondrial function in central nervous system (CNS) diseases. The aim of the present study was to explore the neuro‐ and mito‐protective functions of PD and its underlying mechanisms. An in vitro model of SCII was established by exposing spinal cord motor neurons (SMNs) to oxygen–glucose‐deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R), and the cells were treated with different dosages of PD for varying durations. PD improved neuronal viability and protected against OGD/R‐induced apoptosis and mitochondrial injury in a dose‐dependent manner. In addition, PD restored the activity of neuronal mitochondria in terms of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), intracellular calcium levels, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. Mechanistically, PD downregulated Keap1 and upregulated Nrf2, NQO‐1, and HO‐1 in the OGD/R‐treated SMNs. Likewise, PD treatment also reversed the neuronal and mitochondrial damage induced by SCII in a mouse model. Furthermore, the protective effects of PD were partially blocked by the Nrf2 inhibitor. Taken together, PD relieves mitochondrial dysfunction‐induced neuronal cell damage by activating the Nrf2/ARE pathway and is a suitable therapeutic option for SCII.
Electrical Stimulation Promotes Stem Cell Neural Differentiation in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Cheng Hong , Huang Yan , Yue Hangqi , Fan Yubo
Published: April 2021

Nerve injuries and neurodegenerative disorders remain serious challenges, owing to the poor treatment outcomes of in situ neural stem cell regeneration. The most promising treatment for such injuries and disorders is stem cell-based therapies, but there remain obstacles in controlling the differentiation of stem cells into fully functional neuronal cells. Various biochemical and physical approaches have been explored to improve stem cell-based neural tissue engineering, among which electrical stimulation has been validated as a promising one both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we summarize the most basic waveforms of electrical stimulation and the conductive materials used for the fabrication of electroactive substrates or scaffolds in neural tissue engineering. Various intensities and patterns of electrical current result in different biological effects, such as enhancing the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of stem cells into neural cells. Moreover, conductive materials can be used in delivering electrical stimulation to manipulate the migration and differentiation of stem cells and the outgrowth of neurites on two- and three-dimensional scaffolds. Finally, we also discuss the possible mechanisms in enhancing stem cell neural differentiation using electrical stimulation. We believe that stem cell-based therapies using biocompatible conductive scaffolds under electrical stimulation and biochemical induction are promising for neural regeneration.
Revision of the Protocol of the Telephone Triage System in Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Sakurai Atsushi , Oda Jun , Muguruma Takashi , Kim Shiei , Ohta Sachiko , Abe Takeru , Morimura Naoto
Published: April 2021

Introduction. The Emergency Telephone Consultation Center in Tokyo (#7119) was the first telephone triage system in Japan and has operated since 2007. This study examined the revision of the #7119 protocol by referring the linked data to each code of the triage protocol. Methods. We selected candidates based on the medical codes targeted by the revision, linking data from the nurses’ decisions in triage and the patients’ condition severity when the ambulance arrived at the hospital, gathering data from June 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017. Then, several emergency physicians evaluated the cases and decided whether the code should be moved to the more or less urgent category or if new protocols and codes would be established. Results. In this revision, 371 codes were moved to the less urgent category, 35 codes were moved to the more urgent category, and 128 codes were newly established. In all, 59 red codes (transfer to the ambulance dispatcher) were reduced, while 254 orange codes (attendance at hospital within 1 hour) and yellow codes (within 6 hours) were moved to less urgent, and 12 yellow and green codes (within 24 hours) were moved to more urgent. Conclusion. We adjusted the triage codes for the revision by linking the call data with the case data. This revision should decrease the inappropriate use of ambulances and reduce the primary care workload. To achieve a more accurate revision, we need to refine the process of evaluating the validity of patients’ acuity over the telephone during triage.
Electroacupuncture Attenuates Cognitive Impairment in Rat Model of Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion via miR-137/NOX4 Axis
Authors: Bi Xiaochen , Feng Yanfei , Wu Zemin , Fang Jianqiao
Published: April 2021

Electroacupuncture has shown protective effects on cognitive decline. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not clear. The present study was conducted to determine whether the cognitive function was ameliorated in cerebral hypoperfusion rats following electroacupuncture and to investigate the role of miR-137/NOX4 axis. In this study, chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) model was established by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion. Electroacupuncture treatment attenuated brain injury in CCH model group via regulating miR-137/NOX4 axis. Furthermore, the data of neuronal apoptosis and oxidative stress were observed. Our findings indicated that (1) neuronal apoptosis and oxidative stress in CCH rats were significantly increased compared with control group; (2) the animal cognitive performance was evaluated using the Morris water maze (MWM). The results showed that electroacupuncture therapy ameliorated spatial learning and memory impairment in cerebral hypoperfusion rats; and (3) electroacupuncture therapy reduces neuronal apoptosis and oxidative stress by activating miR-137/NOX4 axis. These results suggest that electroacupuncture therapy for CCH may be mediated by miR-137/NOX4 axis. Electroacupuncture therapy may act as a potential therapeutic approach for chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.
Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes and Elucidation of Pathophysiological Relevance of ABCA1 in HaCaT Cells Induced by PM2.5
Authors: Peng Fen , Xue Chen-Hong , Yang Xiao-Jing , Huang Jing-Yi , Chen Zhou , Zhang Jian-Zhong
Published: April 2021

Objective. In order to investigate the effects of PM2.5 on proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and potential mechanism of human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT. Methods. HaCaT cells were treated with different concentrations of PM2.5 suspension for 24 hours. Cell viability was detected by the CCK-8 method. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Microarray analyses were used to find out the microarray gene expression profiling; data processing included gene enrichment and pathway analysis. Western blot was conducted to validate the key pathways and regulators in the microarray analysis. Results. The cell activity decreased, and the cell cycle was significantly inhibited with the increase in PM2.5 concentration. Also, by conducting the gene expression microarray assay, we identified 541 upregulated genes and 935 downregulated genes in PM2.5-treated HaCaT cells. Real-time qPCR and western blot confirmed that PM2.5 treatment could induce the expression of ABCA1 while inhibiting that of END1 and CLDN1. Conclusion. Our results showed that PM2.5 could potentially regulate cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via ABCA1-, END1-, ID1-, and CLDN1-mediated pathways in human HaCaT cells, which laid a good foundation for follow-up drug intervention and drug development against skin damage caused by PM2.5 exposure.
Stability Assessment of High and Steep Cutting Rock Slopes with the SSPC Method
Authors: Tao Hongliang , Xu Guangli , Meng Jingwen , Ma Ronghe , Dong Jiaxing
Published: April 2021

The stability of high rock slopes has become a key engineering geological problem in the construction of important projects in mountainous areas. The original slope stability probability classification (SSPC) system, presented by Hack, has made obvious progress and been widely used in rock slope stability analysis. However, the selection and determination of some evaluation indexes in the original SSPC method are usually subjective, such as intact rock strength and weathering degree. In this study, the SSPC method based on geological data obtained in the prospecting tunnels was presented and applied. According to the field survey and exploration of the prospecting tunnels, the weathering degree of the slope rock mass was evaluated. The empirical equation for the maximum stable height of the slope was applied to the slope stability evaluation in the presented SSPC method. Then, the slope stability probability of numerous cutting slopes in the sandstone unit was evaluated using the presented system. Results of the Geostudio software based on the limited equilibrium analysis of the investigated slopes were compared with the results obtained by the SSPC method. The results indicate that the SSPC method is a useful tool for the stability prediction of high and steep rock slopes.
Common Fixed Points of Two
G
-Nonexpansive Mappings via a Faster Iteration Procedure
Authors: Khatoon Sabiya , Uddin Izhar , Ali Javid , George Reny
Published: April 2021

In this work, we study the convergence of a new faster iteration in which two

G

-nonexpansive mappings are involved in the setting of uniformly convex Banach spaces with a directed graph. Moreover, by constructing a numerical example, we show the fastness of our iteration procedure over other existing iteration procedures in the literature.
Diet of Grauer’s Gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri) in a Low-Elevation Forest
Authors: van der Hoek Yntze , Pazo Wadika Dumbo , Binyinyi Escobar , Ngobobo Urbain , Stoinski Tara S. , Caillaud Damien
Published: April 2021

Although the vast majority of critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri) inhabit low-elevation rain forests, current insights into this ape’s life history and ecology stem predominantly from 2 small populations ranging in highland habitats. Here, we provide an initial and non-exhaustive overview of food items of Grauer’s gorillas in the Nkuba Conservation Area (NCA), a lower-elevation (500–1,500 m) forest located between Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Maiko National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Community-based conservation efforts at the NCA aim to protect a population of unhabituated Grauer’s gorillas, which we have studied since 2014. Between 2014 and 2020, we simultaneously tracked 1–3 gorilla groups and recorded a total of 10,514 feeding signs on at least 100 plant species, ants, termites, and fungi. Vegetative plant parts (plant stems, leaves, pith, bark, and roots), especially of Marantaceae and Fabaceae, made up close to 90% of recorded feeding signs, with fruit accounting for most of the remainder and a small (<1%) number of feeding signs on invertebrates and fungi. We found that the most frequently recorded food items were consumed year-round, though fruit intake seems to peak in the September-December wet season, possibly reflecting patterns in fruit phenology. The diet of Grauer’s gorillas in the NCA differed from that of Grauer’s gorillas in highland habitat and instead showed similarities with Grauer’s gorillas at the lowland forest of Itebero and with western lowland gorillas (G. gorilla), which live under ecologically comparable conditions.
From Obesity to Chronic Kidney Disease: How Can Adipose Tissue Affect Renal Function?
Authors: Martin-Taboada Marina , Vila-Bedmar Rocío , Medina-Gómez Gema
Published: April 2021

Obesity is directly associated with an increased risk of developing CKD, regardless of other comorbid conditions. Although the molecular mechanisms that link both diseases are not well established, the role of adipose tissue (AT) is becoming increasingly important in obesity-associated kidney damage. In the context of obesity, lipotoxicity and the alteration of AT secretion profile promote inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in the kidney, which ultimately leads to impaired renal function. Different studies have highlighted the importance of body weight loss in the improvement of renal function markers. In this regard, bariatric surgery, rather than low-calorie diets, has been accepted as the most effective option to lose weight. In fact, a significant reduction in proteinuria and hyperfiltration has been observed in association with surgically induced weight loss. Detection of early signs of kidney dysfunction in patients with obesity has not been accomplished yet, though. Therefore, understanding the harmful effects within the adipo-renal axis is essential to prevent the progression to the irreversible renal insufficiency. MicroRNAs have recently been described as important modulators of normal kidney function. Some of these microRNAs could be potential early markers of kidney damage, which would help with the diagnosis and the prevention of CKD.
COVID-19 Transmission Dynamics: A Space-and-Time Approach
Authors: Moniz Marta , Soares Patrícia , Nunes Carla
Published: April 2021

Background: At the end of January 2021, Portugal had over 700,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases. The burden of COVID-19 varies between and within countries due to differences in contextual and individual factors, transmission rates, and clinical and public health interventions. Objectives: To identify high-risk areas, between April and October, on a weekly basis and at the municipality level, and to assess the temporal evolution of COVID-19, considering municipalities classified by incidence levels. Methods: This is an ecological study following a 3-step approach, i.e., (1) calculation of the relative risk (RR) of the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases, weekly, per municipality, using a spatial scan analysis; (2) classification of the municipalities according to the European Centre for Disease Control incidence categorization on November 19; and (3) characterization of RR temporal evolution by incidence groups. Results: Between April and October, the mean RR was 0.53, with a SD of 1.44, varying between 0 and 46.4. Globally, the north and Lisbon and Tagus Valley (LVT) area were the regions with the highest number of municipalities with a RR above 3.2. In April and beginning of May, most of the municipalities with an RR above 3.2 were from the north, while between May and August most municipalities with an RR above 3.2 were from LVT area. Comparing the incidence in November and retrospectively analyzing the RR showed the huge variation, with municipalities with an RR of 0 at a certain time classified as extremely high in November. Conclusions: Our results showed considerable variation in RR over time and space, with no consistent “better” or “worst” municipality. In addition to the several factors that influence COVID-19 transmission dynamics, there were some outbreaks over time and throughout the country and this may contribute to explaining the observed variation. Over time, on a weekly basis, it is important to identify critical areas allowing tailored and timely interventions in order to control outbreaks in early stages.
Risk of Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke After Bariatric Surgery in Patients With Morbid Obesity With or Without Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Dalmar Ahmed , Singh Maharaj , Heis Zoe , Cumpian Tabitha L. , Ceretto Cheryl , Mortada M. Eyman , Bhatia Atul , Niazi Imran , Chua Thomas Y. , Sra Jasbir , Jahangir Arshad
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose:

Weight loss in morbidly obese patients reduces atrial fibrillation (AF); however, it is unknown whether similar benefits are maintained in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We sought to determine whether incident AF and stroke rates are affected by OSA after weight loss and to identify predictors of AF and stroke.

Methods:

Differences in laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding–induced weight loss on incident AF and stroke events in those with and without OSA in the entire and in propensity-matched cohorts were determined longitudinally, and independent predictors of AF and stroke were identified.

Results:

Of 827 morbidly obese patients who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (mean age, 44±11 years; mean body mass index, 49±8 kg/m
2
), incident AF was documented in 4.96% and stroke in 5.44% of patients during a mean 6.0±3.2-year follow-up. Despite a similar reduction in body weight (19.6% and 21% in 3 years), new-onset AF was significantly higher in patients with OSA than without OSA in the entire (1.7% versus 0.5% per year;
P
<0.001) and propensity-matched cohorts. Incident stroke was higher in the OSA than in the non-OSA group (2.10% versus 0.47% per year;
P
<0.001), but only 20% of patients with stroke had documented AF. On multivariate analysis, OSA (hazard ratio, 2.88 [95% CI, 1.45–5.73]), age, and hypertension were independent predictors of new-onset AF, and OSA (hazard ratio, 5.84 [95% CI, 3.02–11.30]), depression, and body mass index were for stroke events.

Conclusions:

In morbidly obese patients who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, despite similar weight loss, patients with OSA had a higher incidence of AF and stroke than patients without OSA. Both non-AF and AF-related factors were involved in increasing stroke risk. Further investigation is warranted into whether OSA treatment helps reduce AF or stroke events in this population.
Amnesic Probing: Behavioral Explanation with Amnesic Counterfactuals
Authors: Elazar Yanai , Ravfogel Shauli , Jacovi Alon , Goldberg Yoav
Published: April 2021

A growing body of work makes use of probing in order to investigate the working of neural models, often considered black boxes. Recently, an ongoing debate emerged surrounding the limitations of the probing paradigm. In this work, we point out the inability to infer behavioral conclusions from probing results, and offer an alternative method that focuses on how the information is being used, rather than on what information is encoded. Our method, Amnesic Probing, follows the intuition that the utility of a property for a given task can be assessed by measuring the influence of a causal intervention that removes it from the representation. Equipped with this new analysis tool, we can ask questions that were not possible before, for example, is part-of-speech information important for word prediction? We perform a series of analyses on BERT to answer these types of questions. Our findings demonstrate that conventional probing performance is not correlated to task importance, and we call for increased scrutiny of claims that draw behavioral or causal conclusions from probing results.1
Playing dead: lizards show tonic immobility without human handling
Authors: Damas-Moreira Isabel
Published: April 2021

Tonic immobility, or the ability to play dead, is widespread among vertebrates. It is a last line of defence against a threat, and usually follows physical restraint. Here, I report two lizards exhibiting tonic immobility in the presence of humans, but remarkably, without any handling or physical contact. These two lizards belonged to an invasive population of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus), and both events took place in different years and situations, suggesting this behaviour may be more common than previously thought. There are rare documented cases of animals exhibiting this behaviour without handling; however, to my knowledge, this is the first description of a lizard displaying tonic immobility to humans, in the absence of handling. This is also the first incident of tonic immobility in the Italian Wall Lizard. I discuss these anecdotal events in the light of this invasive population inhabiting a highly urbanized location.
A taxonomic review of the genus Physopelta (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Largidae) from Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, with a new record of Ph. parviceps from China
Authors: SOUMA JUN , ISHIKAWA TADASHI
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we revised the physopeltine genus Physopelta Amyot & Serville, 1843 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Largidae) from Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Five species were recognized and diagnosed, including two new species, Ph. (Neophysopelta) lutaspidata sp. nov. from northern and central Taiwan and Ph. (N.) fusciscutellata sp. nov. from the Ryukyu Islands, Japan and Taiwan, and three known species, Ph. (N.) gutta gutta (Burmeister, 1834), Ph. (N.) parviceps Blöte, 1931, and Ph. (N.) quadriguttata Bergroth, 1894. Physopelta (Neophysopelta) fusciscutellata sp. nov., was previously regarded as either of the two species, Ph. (N.) cincticollis Stål, 1863 and Ph. (N.) parviceps, for populations from Taiwan. Previous records of Ph. (N.) cincticollis from Japan proper and Korea, and Ph. (N.) slanbuschii (Fabricius, 1787) from the Ryukyu Islands were considered as misidentifications of Ph. parviceps. A key to facilitate the identification of the five species known in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan is provided. Additionally, Ph. (N.) parviceps is recorded from China (Guangdong Province and Zhejiang Province) for the first time.
Risk Factors Associated to Residual Tumor in Re-excision for Positive Margins in Breast Conservative Surgery
Authors: Sarre-Lazcano Catherine , Clemente-Gutiérrez Uriel , Pastor-Sifuentes Francisco U. , Medina-Franco Heriberto
Published: April 2021

Background

Breast conservative surgery (BCS) is an adequate treatment for patients with early breast cancer. Local recurrence is associated with diverse factors. Our objective was to evaluate risk factors associated with finding residual tumor in patients with positive margins in BCS.

Methods

Observational retrospective study, including patients diagnosed with breast cancer undergoing BCS between 2000 and 2016. Clinicopathological and treatment variables were collected. Main outcome was the finding of residual tumor on re-excision. Positive margins were defined as tumor present on ink.

Results

Three hundred and six patients underwent BCS. Mean age was 57 ± 12.2 years. Positive margins were found in 84 (27.4%) patients, 15 (4.9%) had unknown margin status, and 207 (67.6%) had negative margins. Seventy-eight patients from the positive margin group and 23 patients from the unknown/negative margin group were reintervened. Residual tumor was present in 41% of patients with positive margins and in 45% of patients with negative margins ( P = .192). In univariate analysis, overweight (P = .04) and positive axillary lymph nodes ( P = .02) were associated with residual tumor on re-excision. In multivariate analysis, postmenopausal status was a protective factor (HR .047, P = .30). Mean follow-up was 58.4 months and mean local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) was 56.4 months (.1-203.2), with no difference regarding margin status or residual tumor.

Discussion

Postmenopausal status was associated with a decreased rate of residual tumor in patients with positive margins. The presence of residual tumor on re-excision was not associated with a lower LRFS. These factors must be considered when positive margins are present in BCS.
Surgical Control of Bleeding From Ovarian Torsion in the Setting of Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura Without Splenectomy
Authors: Shaw Taylor B. , Ma Brenda , Barazza Mark , Sawaya David
Published: April 2021

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disorder caused by autoimmune antibodies which target glycoprotein IIb/IIIa complex or other platelet membrane antigens leading to platelet destruction. These platelets are then cleared by the spleen resulting in thrombocytopenia. Immune thrombocytopenic purpura affects about 1 to 6.4 cases in 100 000 children making it one of the most common causes of symptomatic thrombocytopenia in the pediatric population. It is rare that children or adolescents present with serious bleeding due to ITP. Common presentations include petechiae, bleeding gums, or bruising. Bleeding requiring hospitalization or transfusions is unusual and only occurs in approximately 5% of children. Even more uncommon is the presentation of severe bleeding complications requiring surgery for resolution. We present a case of a 17-year-old girl with acute ITP complicated by intraperitoneal hemorrhage and refractory thrombocytopenia due to ovarian cyst requiring oophorectomy.
A Giant Congenital Mastoid Cholesteatoma With Extension to the Occipital Condyle
Authors: Heo Jae Hyung , Choi Jin Woong
Published: April 2021

A congenital mastoid cholesteatoma (CMC) is a keratinizing epithelium originating from embryological epithelial tissue of the mastoid. It is often not diagnosed until it becomes large because of its rarity and indolent nature. Although there are a few reports on giant CMC, its exact extensions have not been well described, and detailed information regarding surgical methods is lacking, especially in giant CMC involving the occipital condyle and the middle and posterior cranial fossae. In this article, we report a case involving a 70-year-old woman with a giant CMC that extended inferiorly to the occipital condyle. The CMC eroded the middle and posterior cranial fossae, sigmoid sinus plate, and fallopian canal of the facial nerve. For complete removal, we used a subtotal petrosectomy in conjunction with an exposure of the cranial cervical junction and a wide decompression of the suboccipit. The boundaries of exposure were similar to those of a petro-occipital transsigmoid approach which is usually used for management of tumor involving the jugular foramen. The wide exposure allowed for complete removal of the lesion without any complications. Thus, we recommend this surgical approach for management of the giant CMC involving the occipital condyle and the middle and posterior cranial fossae.
The Association Between Serum Vitamin D Levels and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Sarsitthithum Kanokporn , Wisupagan Tosapohn , Kiatthanabumrung Sivaporn , Jariengprasert Chanchai
Published: April 2021

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum vitamin D levels and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Participants and Methods:

This prospective study consisted of 137 participants. There were 69 participants in the BPPV group compared with 68 healthy participants. Blood samples from both groups were collected from all participants to assess serum vitamin D levels.

Results:

No significant difference in demographic data between BPPV and control groups. The results showed that the mean serum vitamin D levels in the BPPV group was lower than that of the control group ( P value = .001). Among BPPV participants, there was no statistically significant difference between mean serum vitamin D levels of participants with recurrent BPPV, and that of newly diagnosed BPPV participants ( P value = .313).

Conclusion:

A statistically significant association between lower mean serum vitamin D levels in the BPPV group compared with that of the control group. Therefore, low serum vitamin D levels may be one of the risk factors for BPPV.
Forget All Criteria
Authors: Szwabowski Oskar
Published: April 2021

This article is reaction of article Adams (2017) and call of establishing criteria. Author wants to say, that is not good call. Such call can bring poison fruits. Author say that we don’t need any criteria to do autoethongraphy, we just need safe space to meet and speak together.
BMI self-selection: Exploring alternatives to self-reported BMI
Authors: Shiely Frances , Millar Seán R
Published: April 2021

Background

Accurately measuring BMI in large epidemiological studies is problematic as objective measurements are expensive, so subjective methodologies must usually suffice. The purpose of this study is to explore a new subjective method of BMI measurement: BMI self-selection.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis of the Mitchelstown Cohort Rescreen study, a random sample of 1,354 men and women aged 51–77 years recruited from a single primary care centre. BMI self-selection was measured by asking patients to select their BMI category: underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese. Weight and height were also objectively measured.

Results

79% were overweight or obese: 86% of males, 69% of females (P < 0.001) and 59% of these underestimated their BMI. The sensitivity for correct BMI self-selection for normal weight, overweight and obese was 77%, 61% and 11% respectively. In multivariable analysis, gender, higher education levels, being told by a health professional to lose weight, and being on a diet were significantly associated with correct BMI self-selection. There was a linear trend relationship between increasing BMI levels and correct selection of BMI; participants in the highest BMI quartile had an approximate eight-fold increased odds of correctly selecting their BMI when compared to participants within the lower overweight/obese quartiles (OR = 7.72, 95%CI:4.59, 12.98).

Conclusions

BMI self-selection may be useful for self-reporting BMI. Clinicians need to be aware of disparities between BMI self-selection at higher and lower BMI levels among overweight/obese patients and encourage preventative action for those at the lower levels to avoid weight gain and thus reduce their all-cause mortality risk.
Microstructure and properties of in situ Ti–Al intermetallic compound-reinforced Al matrix composites with dispersive distribution of core–shell-like structure
Authors: Wan Qiong , Li Fuguo , Wang Wenjing , Hou Junhua , Cui Wanyue , Li Yongsheng
Published: April 2021

Recently, Ti–Al intermetallic compound-reinforced Al matrix composites have attracted increasing attention because of their high specific modulus, strength, and thermal stability. In this study, blended powders of Ti and Al were ball milled and fabricated to in situ Ti–Al intermetallic compound-reinforced Al matrix composites by cold-pressing and hot-pressing sintering. The microstructures and component of core–shell-like structure in reinforcement were observed and analyzed. Material properties including hardness, density, and compression performance were tested and analyzed according to experimental processes. The results indicate that the time point of compression in hot-pressing sintering is crucial to obtain the closed core–shell-like structures. Based on the orthogonal experimental data, entropy methods and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution were combined to select the process parameters (ratio of Ti and Al, milling time, sintering temperature, holding time, and compaction pressure) for the best comprehensive performance of Vickers hardness and compressive yield strength.
Human testis-expressed (TEX) genes: a review focused on spermatogenesis and male fertility
Authors: Bellil Hela , Ghieh Farah , Hermel Emeline , Mandon-Pepin Béatrice , Vialard François
Published: April 2021

Spermatogenesis is a complex process regulated by a multitude of genes. The identification and characterization of male-germ-cell-specific genes is crucial to understanding the mechanisms through which the cells develop. The term “TEX gene” was coined by Wang et al. (Nat Genet. 2001; 27: 422–6) after they used cDNA suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) to identify new transcripts that were present only in purified mouse spermatogonia. TEX (Testis expressed) orthologues have been found in other vertebrates (mammals, birds, and reptiles), invertebrates, and yeasts. To date, 69 TEX genes have been described in different species and different tissues. To evaluate the expression of each TEX/tex gene, we compiled data from 7 different RNA-Seq mRNA databases in humans, and 4 in the mouse according to the expression atlas database.

Various studies have highlighted a role for many of these genes in spermatogenesis. Here, we review current knowledge on the TEX genes and their roles in spermatogenesis and fertilization in humans and, comparatively, in other species (notably the mouse). As expected, TEX genes appear to have a major role in reproduction in general and in spermatogenesis in humans but also in all mammals such as the mouse. Most of them are expressed specifically or predominantly in the testis. As most of the TEX genes are highly conserved in mammals, defects in the male (gene mutations in humans and gene-null mice) lead to infertility. In the future, cumulative data on the human TEX genes’ physiological functions and pathophysiological dysfunctions should become available and is likely to confirm the essential role of this family in the reproductive process. Thirteen TEX genes are now referenced in the OMIM database, and 3 have been linked to a specific phenotype. TEX11 (on Xq13.1) is currently the gene most frequently reported as being associated with azoospermia.
The relationship between voluntary employer change and work ability among older workers: investigating the honeymoon-hangover effect
Authors: Garthe Nina , Hasselhorn Hans Martin
Published: April 2021

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of voluntary employer changes on self-reported work ability among older workers in Germany and whether a honeymoon-hangover effect (HHE) exists here. In research on job satisfaction, three typical periods around a voluntary employer change characterize a HHE: a deterioration in the old job (deterioration), an initial increase in the new job (honeymoon) and a subsequent decline over time (hangover). Whether a HHE exists in respect to work ability following a voluntary employer change remained open. The analyses are based on data from the first three waves of the lidA study (2011, 2014, 2018), a representative cohort study of older employees in Germany born in 1959 or 1965. Data from 2502 workers who participated in all three study waves was analyzed. Fixed-effects regression analyses including lag and lead variables were conducted. A deterioration, honeymoon and hangover period were found. Work ability increased substantially following the voluntary employer change. Our study shows that voluntary employer changes have the potential to maintain work ability at higher working age, but not to increase the work ability in the long-term perspective. However, despite the existence of a hangover period, the positive overall effect of the voluntary change should not be underestimated.
Gene-set distance analysis (GSDA): a powerful tool for gene-set association analysis
Authors: Cao Xueyuan , Pounds Stan
Published: April 2021

Background

Identifying sets of related genes (gene sets) that are empirically associated with a treatment or phenotype often yields valuable biological insights. Several methods effectively identify gene sets in which individual genes have simple monotonic relationships with categorical, quantitative, or censored event-time variables. Some distance-based methods, such as distance correlations, may detect complex non-monotone associations of a gene-set with a quantitative variable that elude other methods. However, the distance correlations have yet to be generalized to associate gene-sets with categorical and censored event-time endpoints. Also, there is a need to determine which genes empirically drive the significance of an association of a gene set with an endpoint.

Results

We develop gene-set distance analysis (GSDA) by generalizing distance correlations to evaluate the association of a gene set with categorical and censored event-time variables. We also develop a backward elimination procedure to identify a subset of genes that empirically drive significant associations. In simulation studies, GSDA more effectively identified complex non-monotone gene-set associations than did six other published methods. In the analysis of a pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) data set, GSDA was the only method to discover that event-free survival (EFS) was associated with the 56-gene AML pathway gene-set, narrow that result down to 5 genes, and confirm the association of those 5 genes with EFS in a separate validation cohort. These results indicate that GSDA effectively identifies and characterizes complex non-monotonic gene-set associations that are missed by other methods.

Conclusion

GSDA is a powerful and flexible method to detect gene-set association with categorical, quantitative, or censored event-time variables, especially to detect complex non-monotonic gene-set associations. Available athttps://CRAN.R-project.org/package=GSDA.