bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The feasibility, acceptability and benefit of interventions that target eating speed in the clinical treatment of children and adolescents with overweight or obesity: A Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Cox Jennifer S , Elsworth Rebecca , Perry Rachel , Hamilton-Shield Julian P. , Hinton Elanor C.
Published: July 2020

Background: Eating speed is positively correlated with higher BMI. Thus, modifying pace of eating may provide a treatment opportunity for those with overweight and obesity, which may have additional, longitudinal benefits if established in childhood. Researchers have designed interventions to help both adults and children reduce eating speed as a mechanism for weight-loss. These interventions include those that change the food that is eaten, those that use technology to support a slower eating speed, and those that work to change eating speed by cognitive means. This review seeks to understand the feasibility, acceptability and benefit to using eating speed in paediatric populations who have experienced such methods as part of a clinical weight-management programme.Methods: Clinical studies that use eating speed interventions as a treatment for paediatric patients (age 5–18 years) with overweight or obesity will be included in this review. No limits to language or search date will be implemented. A systematic search of the literature will be conducted using the following databases - MEDLINE, PyschINFO and EMBASE via OVID, Web of Science and JBI, Database of systematic reviews and Implementation reports, along with trial registers NICE, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. A grey literature search will be conducted via OpenGrey, and by writing to experts in the field. Study quality will be assessed and meta-analyses for trials that use similar interventions and report similar outcomes will be undertaken where possible.Discussion: This review will synthesise evidence regarding the feasibility, acceptability and benefit of using eating speed interventions to develop a narrative review. An assessment of heterogeneity will be assessed and where there is sufficient data, we will carry out a meta-analysis; for example, on the secondary outcomes of BMISDS or eating speed change following the interventions.
Impacts Of Tumor Location On Prognosis Of Patients With Gallbladder Carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Zhencheng , Luo Kunlun , Zhu Qingzhou , Xie Weixuan
Published: July 2020

Objective: To investigate the impacts of tumor location on the prognosis of patients with T1-3N0-1M0 gallbladder carcinoma(GBC) after radical surgery.Methods: Totally, 136 patients with stage T1-3 gallbladder carcinoma after radical surgery from 2000 to 2018 were enrolled and divided into two groups according to anatomic location of GBC (neck /body and fundus). The clinicopathological features and survival time were compared between these two groups. At last, in combination with the difference between the liver side and the peritoneal side of the tumor, survival analysis and multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression models were performed in GBC patients with survival differences between gallbladder neck and body/fundus tumors.Results: The bile duct invasion, lymph node metastasis, tumor growth pattern, jaundice, albumin, and tumor markers were significantly related to the tumors in neck of gallbladder(P<0.05). Besides, patients with GBC in body and fundus of gallbladder had a higher rate of appearing microscopic liver metastasis(P<0.05). Survival analysis showed that there was significant difference on patients with stage T2 GBC in different tumor location (neck /body and fundus), but no significant difference on stage T1 and T3. Further combining the differences between the liver side and the peritoneal side of the tumor, tumor location, lymph node metastasis, bile duct invasion, microscopic liver metastasis, tumor differentiation, and jaundice were deemed as prognostic factors according to univariable survival analysis. Among these factors, multivariable Cox analysis showed that lymph node metastasis and tumor location were independent prognostic factors for survival of patients with T2 GBC (P <0.05).Conclusions: Tumor location is an important prognostic factor for GBC, especially for the patients with T2 stage. Besides the survival differences between the hepatic-side and peritoneal-side tumors, tumor in neck is also one of the factors predicting the poor prognosis at T2 stage. GBC in neck was more prone to cause bile duct invasion, lymph node metastasis and jaundice. However, tumors in body and fundus were more likely to appear microscopic liver metastasis. Further refinement of the surgery for T2 GBC according to the tumor location may improve their survival time.
Fear of Childbirth in Chinese Pregnant Women and Their Preferred Mode of Delivery: Validation Study of the Chinese Version of Wijma Delivery Expectancy/experience Questionnaire Version A
Authors: Lai Hei Tung Theodora , Kwok Shuk Tak , Wang Weilan , Seto Mimi Tin Yan , Cheung Ka Wang
Published: July 2020

Background

Fear of childbirth causes significant distress and impact on women’s wellbeing. It also contributes to the rising trend of non-medically indicated Caesarean sections worldwide. The Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire (Version A) (W-DEQ-A) is a comprehensive instrument for the assessment of fear of childbirth among antenatal women.
Methods

Hong Kong Chinese women at the antenatal booking clinic completed the translated questionnaire, Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale, State-trait Anxiety Inventory and indicated their preferred mode of delivery. The validity and reliability of the translated questionnaire were analysed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient respectively. The subscales of the questionnaire were determined using exploratory factor analysis. The relationship between demographic data, preferred mode of delivery and the W-DEQ-A score were analysed using student’s t test, Mann-Whitney test or Pearson’s correlation.
Results

One hundred and fifty women completed the study. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and test-retest reliability of the Chinese version were 0.907 and 0.867 respectively. Convergent validity was demonstrated with other psychological measures at expected levels. The mean W-DEQ-A score among the Hong Kong Chinese population is 65 out of 165, which is negatively correlated with gravidity, parity and partner support. Using a standard cut-off of 85, 11.3% women were found to suffer from fear of childbirth and it is associated with a history of psychiatric history. 72% and 22.7% women preferred vaginal delivery and Caesarean section respectively. Nulliparous women who preferred a vaginal delivery have a significantly lower score than those who preferred a Caesarean section, with mean (SD) W-DEQ-A scores of 67.1 (14.8) compared to 75.9 (15.9) (p = 0.036).
Conclusion

The Chinese version of Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire (Version A) is a reliable and valid instrument to measure antenatal fear of childbirth among Chinese women. Clinicians can use this measure to assess the severity of women’s fear over the course of their pregnancy, and to monitor the success of any medical or psychological interventions for women with fear of childbirth in the future.
The Spatial and Temporal Probability of Dust Storm Activity in Chryse, One of the Tentative Landing Areas of Tianwen-1 Mission
Authors: Li Bo , Zhang Jiang , Yue Zongyu , Yao Peiwen , Li Chenfan , Wang Biao , Fu Xiaohui , Ling Zongcheng , Chen Shengbo
Published: July 2020

Dust storms, observed in all seasons, are among the most momentous Mars atmosphere activities. The Entry-Descent-Landing (EDL) activity of a Martian landing mission is influenced by local atmospheric conditions, especially the dust storm activity probability. It is of great significance to know well the dust storm situation that China's first Mars mission (Tianwen-1) may encounter in EDL season in the Chryse area, one of the tentative landing areas. Firstly, based on four Martian years’ Mars Orbiter Camera (MOC) Mars Daily Global Maps (MDGMs), 1172 dust storms were identified within Chryse’s 1600 km radius ring with their shape parameters extracted, including center, range and area. Secondly, the daily mean dust storm probability was calculated binned by 1° of solar longitude in the Chryse area during EDL season. Dust storm activity frequency was closely interrelated with the seasonal ebb and flow of the arctic polar ice cap, consequently, most of dust storms occurring in either the cap’s grow or the recession. The dust storm activity in the Chryse area mainly came from the northern polar cap region, Acidalia and Chryse, with some contribution from the southern hemisphere (Argyre and Bosprous) northward. Thirdly, we divided the Chryse area into many square grids of 0.5° and computed the average occurrence probability of dust storm in each grid during EDL season. The dust storm activity probability in space was also in-homogeneous, low in the west and south but high in the east and north, which was mainly affected by three factors: topography, the origin and the path of dust storm sequence. Based on Empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis, of the storms in the Chryse area we’ve discovered, 40.5% are cap-edge storms in the northern hemisphere and 17.5% are textured dust storms. Finally, according to the temporal and spatial probability of dust storm activity in the Chryse area during EDL season, we held that the preferred landing time of the Tianwen-1 mission in 2021 was in Ls=18°-65° and three preferred landing areas were selected with low dust storm probability.
Perceived social support and coping style as mediators between resilience and health-related Quality of Life in women newly diagnosed with breast cancer: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhou Kaina , Li Lulu , Zhao Wenqian , Bai Xue , Zhang Mengyue , Han Dongfang , Li Xiaomei
Published: July 2020

Background: Breast cancer may impair health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We examined the mediating roles of perceived social support (PSS) and coping style (CS) in the relationship between resilience and HRQoL in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. Methods: Four-hundred thirty-one patients completed a survey at two hospitals in Shaanxi Province, China using self-report measures assessing HRQoL, resilience, PSS, and CS. A one-sample t-test analyzed differences between resilience, PSS, and CS in breast cancer patients and the corresponding norm. Multivariate linear regression analyzed the independent predictors of HRQoL. The mediating roles of PSS and CS between resilience and HRQoL were investigated using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Participants had significantly lower scores for resilience and PSS, and higher scores for the avoidance and resignation CSs than their corresponding norm. SEM analysis showed resilience had significant direct effects on PSS (B = 0.59, 95% CI [0.49, 0.68], P = 0.003), CS (confrontation: B = 0.53, 95% CI [0.44, 0.62], P = 0.001; resignation: B = -0.66, 95% CI [-0.74, -0.57], P = 0.002), and HRQoL (B range from 0.54–0.58). Resilience had significant indirect effects (B range from 0.09–0.27), and PSS and CS had significant direct effects on HRQoL (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Newly diagnosed breast cancer patients had lower resilience and PSS, and higher negative CSs. PSS and CS appeared to mediated the influence of resilience on HRQoL. Multimodal intervention programs focusing on PSS and CS might increase the influence of resilience on HRQoL in breast cancer patients.
Economic cost-benefit analysis for the agricultural use of sewage sludge treated with lime and fly ash
Authors: Hadas Efrat , Mingelgrin Uri , Fine Pinchas
Published: July 2020

A tool for calculating the economic and environmental impacts of the use of byproducts of industrial processes that can substitute for perishable resources is presented. This is exemplified by fly ash (the fine fraction of ash originating from coal burned to generate electricity and collected by filtering exhaust gases leaving the furnace), added to soil as a component of sewage sludge stabilized with fly ash and lime (NVS). Application to soil of NVS has potential agricultural and environmental advantages and disadvantages. The costs and benefits of such application were calculated using both a database and expert opinions. The calculations assumed a representative assemblage of soils and crops, with weights assigned to each crop type and soil characteristic. The annual weighted benefits (additional income for the farmer) and costs per hectare reached 324 $/He and 131 $/He respectively. Major potential benefits include: Chemical fertilizer replacement, 159 $/He; Improvement to the soil's physical properties, 75 $/He; Supply of vital trace elements, 33 $/He. Major potential costs are: Regulatory limitations on marketing of crops pending proof of absence of risk of heavy metals or radionuclides accumulation in these crops, (17 $/He and 36 $/He respectively); Application and incorporation cost, 50 $/He. The presented estimates of the costs and benefits refer to a hypothetical “representative soil” depicting a typical Israeli soil. It is possible to maximize potential benefits by applying fly ash only to the most suitable agricultural soils while improper use of fly ash will increase the costs incurred from its use.
Normal values and associated factors in high-resolution anorectal manometry in healthy Vietnamese adults
Authors: Anh Nguyen Ngoc , Tung Le Dinh , Khoa Ngo Xuan , Cuong Le Manh , Hung Nguyen Xuan , Hang Nguyen Thi Thu , Khanh Pham Phuc , Huy Nguyen Van , Kien Vu Duy
Published: July 2020

Background

This study aims to identify normal HRAM values and related factors in healthy Vietnamese adults.
Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at Viet Duc hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam, during April and May, 2019. Healthy volunteers were recruited to participate in the study. Anorectal measurement values including pressure and an electromyographical signal from the digestive tract were recorded. Differences between groups were analyzed using paired t-tests, and linear regression models was used to compare anorectal values between men and women.
Results

A total of the 76 healthy volunteers was recruited. The mean functional anal canal length was 4.2 ± 0.5 cm while the mean anal high-pressure zone (HPZ) length was 3.4 ± 0.5 cm. The mean defecation index was 1.4 ± 0.8, with values ranging from 0.3 to 5.0. The mean threshold volume to elicit RAIR was 18.1 mL. Mean rectal sensation values were 32.4 mL, 81.6 mL, and 159 mL at the first sensation, the desire to defecate, and the urge to defecate, respectively. Dyssynergic patterns occurred in approximately 50% of study participants and included mainly types I (27.6%) and III (14.6%). There were significant differences between males and females in maximum anal squeeze pressure, maximum anal cough pressure, maximum anal strain pressure, maximum rectal cough pressure, and maximum rectal strain pressure (all p < 0.01).
Conclusions

This study establishes normal HRAM values in healthy Vietnamese adults, particularly with regards to normal values of anorectal pressure and rectal sensation. Further studies that include larger sample sizes should be conducted in order to further confirm the constants and their relationships.
Does Household Perceptions Influence Enrolment Decisions into Community-Based Health Insurance Schemes in Tanzania?
Authors: Kagaigai Alphoncina , Anaeli Amani , Mori Amani Thomas , Grepperud Sverre
Published: July 2020

Background: Several countries including Tanzania, have established voluntary non-profit insurance schemes, commonly known as community-based health insurance schemes (CBHIs), that typically target rural populations and the informal sector. This paper considers the importance of household perceptions towards a CBHIs in Tanzania and their role in explaining the enrolment decision of households. Methods: This is a cross-sectional household survey that involves 722 households located in Bahi and Chamwino districts in Dodoma region. A three-stage sampling procedure was used, and the data were analyzed using both factor analysis (FA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Statistical tests such as Bartlett’s test of sphericity, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) for sampling adequacy, and the Cronbach’s alpha to measure internal consistency and scale reliability were performed to examine the suitability of the data for PCA and FA. Finally, multivariate logistic regressions were run to determine the associations between the identified factors and the insurance enrolment status. Results: PCA identified 7 perception factors while FA identified 4 factors. The quality of healthcare services, preferences (social beliefs), and accessibility to insurance scheme administration (convenience) were the common most important factors identified by the two methods. Multivariate logistic regressions showed that the factors identified from the two methods differed somewhat in importance when considered as independent predictors of the enrollment status. The most important perception factors in terms of strength of association (odds ratio) and statistical significance were accessibility to insurance scheme administration (convenience), preferences (beliefs), and the quality of health care services. Age and income were the only demographic characteristics that were significant. Conclusion: Household perceptions influence households’ decisions to enroll in CBHIs. Policymakers should recognize and consider the role of perceptions when designing policies that aim to increase the enrolment into CBHIs.
The Design and Implementation of an Undergraduate Health Professional Degree Elective Course on Scientific Writing, Peer Assessment and Critical Appraisal
Authors: Osman Aisha , Al-Badriyeh Daoud , Hussain Farhat Naz , Riaz Sadaf , Elewa Hazem , Mraiche Fatima
Published: July 2020

Background.

Describe the design, delivery and impact of a course delivered in an undergraduate pharmacy program with students whose first language is not English. The aim of this course is to develop pharmacy students’ scientific writing, peer assessment and critical appraisal skills.
Methods.

The course is offered in the final year of an undergraduate pharmacy program. In this course, students wrote two structured pharmacy review articles (PRA) based on assigned scientific research articles and peer assessed each others’ written PRAs. Students also critically appraised scientific research articles on a weekly basis, completed one pre-journal club written reflective critique based on a assigned scientific research article and moderated one journal club session.
Results.

Course rubrics were developed and validated by the course coordinators. A survey that was administered to students enrolled in the course identified that 85% of the students perceived that they gained adequate writing skills in the course. More than 70% of the students indicated they had the necessary skills to evaluate their peers’ written assessments and 93% felt comfortable providing and receiving feedback from peers. More than 90% of the students indicated that their understanding of the primary research articles assigned improved as a result of their contribution to the peer assessment process and writing of PRAs.
Conclusion.

This course improved students scientific writing, peer assessment and critical appraisal skills. Further practice is required to reinforce the skills learned and to strengthen the writing skills of students.
Research on the diagnosis and treatment of the dominant diseases of traditional Chinese medicine based on machine learning
Authors: tang yuqi , Yang Dongdong , Li Zechen , Fang Yu , Gao Shanshan
Published: July 2020

Background: Insomnia as one of the dominant diseases of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been extensively studied in recent years. To explore the novel approaches of research on TCM diagnosis and treatment, this paper presents a strategy for the research of insomnia based on machine learning. Methods: First of all, 654 insomnia cases have been collected from an experienced doctor of TCM as sample data. Secondly, in the light of the characteristics of TCM diagnosis and treatment, the contents of research samples have been divided into four parts: the basic information, the four diagnostic methods, the treatment based on syndrome differentiation and the main prescription. And then, these four parts have been analyzed by three analysis methods, including frequency analysis, association rules and hierarchical cluster analysis. Finally, a comprehensive study of the whole four parts has been conducted by random forest. Results: Researches of the above four parts revealed some essential connections. Simultaneously, based on the algorithm model established by the random forest, the accuracy of predicting the main prescription by the combination of the four diagnostic methods and the treatment based on syndrome differentiation was 0.85. Furthermore, having been extracted features through applying the random forest, the syndrome differentiation of five zang-organs was proven to be the most significant parameter of the TCM diagnosis and treatment.Conclusions: The results indicate that the machine learning methods are worthy of being adopted to study the dominant diseases of TCM for exploring the crucial rules of the diagnosis and treatment.
Interobserver and Intraobserver Repeatability and Reliability of Three-Dimensional Postoperative Evaluation Software in Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Konno Kenta , Hagiwara Shigeo , Nakamura Junichi , Yoh Satoshi , Yoshino Kensuke , Nawata Kento , Sugano Masahiko , Kawarai Yuya , Orita Sumihisa , Eguchi Yawara , Ohtori Seiji
Published: July 2020

Background: We investigated the reliability of measurement of the alignment and position of the prosthetic components after total hip arthroplasty (THA) using three-dimensional computed tomography (CT)-based postoperative evaluation software.Methods: We evaluated the postoperative CT data from 20 hips in 20 patients, using postoperative evaluation software. The alignment and three-dimensional positioning of the cup and stem were assessed by eight orthopedic surgeons for repeatability (intraobserver reliability) and reproducibility (interobserver reliability) of postoperative evaluation software using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC). The radiographic inclination (RI) and radiographic anteversion (RA) of the cup, and anteversion, varus-valgus angle and flexion-extension angles of the stem were measured for alignment. The implant positioning was measured along three axes, X-axis (transverse), Y-axis (sagittal), and Z-axis (longitudinal).Results: The intra- and inter-observer ICC of alignment measurement were very good for both cup and stem (0.86–1.00). The intra-observer and inter-observer ICC of cup positioning were very good in X-axis and Y-axis (0.91–0.94) and good in Z-axis (0.68–0.80). The intra-observer and inter-observer ICC of implant positioning were very good for the stem (0.98–0.99) for all axes.Conclusion: CT-based postoperative evaluation software was able to evaluate the position of total hip implants with high reproducibility.
The Relationship Between Household Food Insecurity With Food and Nutrition Literacy Among Children in Mashhad, Iran: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rouz Fateme Khorram , Doustmohammadian Azam , Eslami Omid , Khadem-Rezaiyan Majid , Pourmohammadi Parisa , Amini Maryam , Khosravi Maryam
Published: July 2020

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the relationship between household food insecurity (HFI) with food and nutrition literacy (FNLIT) in a sample of Iranian children. This cross sectional study was performed on 315 children aged 9 to 12 years recruited from the primary schools throughout Mashhad, Iran.The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) was used to assess the HFI. Also, overall FNLIT score and its sub-categories were evaluated using a validated 40-item questionnaire.Results The prevalence of HFI in the total sample was about 56 %. Also, almost 14 % of students had a low FNLIT score. HFI was inversely associated with overall FNLIT score (β= - 0.12, p= 0.006), as well as nutritional health knowledge (β= - 0.08, p=0.01), and food label literacy (β= - 0.15, p< 0.001). Furthermore, food-insecure children had a higher likelihood of having low FNLIT score (OR = 2.89, CI: 1.03-8.09; p = 0.04) than the food-secure subjects. In conclusion, there is a negative association between HFI and FNLIT in children. Further studies to confirm this finding are needed.
Endobronchial Metastasis Of Ovarian Cancer: A Case Report And Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Dong Rui , Yang Li , Jia Wei
Published: July 2020

Background: Metastasis to the endobronchial from primary ovarian carcinoma (OC) is very rare. To enhance our understanding of this disease, we report a case of endobronchial metastasis from primary OC and review the literature. Case presentation: This is a case report and retrospective analysis of bronchial tumor patient secondary form primary OC. The patient was a 51-year-old woman who presented intermittent cough and expectoration for 3 month, and suffocating pneumonia for 3 weeks. Multiple nodular masses at the right upper lobe and thickening soft tissue with surrounding invasion of bronchi at the left upper lobe were found. The chest X ray scan demonstrated that enlarged right and left upper hilar, spreading mediastinum, elevated right septum were observed. Bronchoscopy showed that stenosis of the opening of right main bronchus and apical, middle and posterior segmental bronchi at right lobe was identified and the opening of left main bronchus was almost completely blocked by some visible neoplasm. The pathological result indicated that the disease was bronchial tumor derived from primary OC. Until now, only 12 cases were reported. The latent period ranged from 2 months to 21 years and the overall survival time ranged from 1.5 months to 5.5 years. Conclusions: The endobronchial is one of metastasis site of OC. The latent period of the disease is long and after active treatment, good prognosis can be acquired. This is the first study on endobronchial metastasis from primary OC, in China.
Burn Ointment Promoted Cutaneous Wound for Burns and Scalds by Modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Gan Da li , Yao Yan , Su Qi yuan , Yang Su qin , Wu Li , Su Han wen , xiang mei
Published: July 2020

Background: Burn injury is common, burn ointment (BO) is a common preparation used to treat burns and scalds in folk as an effective remedy for burn healing. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the healing effect and related underlying mechanisms of BO in a model of deep second-degree thermal burn by animal experiments. Methods: BO is was made up of a combination of extracts from several traditional Chinese medicine and borneol, solid paraffin, rapeseed oil, and and its quality control was assessed. The acute toxicity test and skin irritation test were evaluated by rats. The anti-inflammatory effect was revealed by using inflammation animal models, including the xylene-induced auricle swelling in mice and carrageenan-induced toe swelling in rats. The hot plate test was used to evaluate its analgesic activity. Moreover, the experiments of knife and a deep second-degree burn wound were used to explore the effect of BO in promoting wound healing. On days 7, 14 and 28, the wounds were digitally photographed by a camera and after sacrifice of the SD rats, skin samples were obtained for performing H&E staining, immunohistochemical staining and Western Blotting examination. In addition, The expressed of TNF-α, TGF-β1 and VEGF in serum were detected by ELISA kits. Results: BO had no toxicity or side effects on the skin and liver or kidney function. BO could significantly inhibit auricular swelling in mice, paw welling in rats and markedly prolonged the latencies of licking paws in mice; it also could accelerate the process of wound healing and repair scar by promoting the formation of new epithelial tissue. In addition, BO significantly reduced the content of TNF-α and markedly increased the content of VEGF and TGF-β1 in the serum. Moreover, BO promoted the expression of collagen I. Furthermore, it increased the ratio of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT and p-mTOR/mTOR in the PI3K / AKT / mTOR pathway.Conclusions: BO could effectively reduce inflammation and pain, and effectively accelerate the healing process of deep second-degree burn wounds. And the mechanism of BO promoting wound healing may be related to activate PI3K / AKT / mTOR pathway. therefore, it may be recommended as a promising topical medication for treating burn wounds in the future clinical trials.
Machine Learning Classification of Traumatic Brain Injury Patients and Healthy Controls Using Multiple Indices of Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Abdelrahman Hiba Abuelgasim Fadlelmoula , Ubukata Shiho , Ueda Keita , Fujimoto Gaku , Oishi Naoya , Aso Toshihiko , Murai Toshiya
Published: July 2020

Background: Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) indices provide quantitative measures of white matter microstructural changes following traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, there is still insufficient evidence for their use as predictive measures. Recently, there has been growing interest in using machine learning (ML) approaches to aid the diagnosis of many neurological and psychiatric illnesses including TBI. The aim of this study is to examine the potential of using multiple DTI indices in conjunction with ML to automate the classification of healthy subjects and patients with TBI across a spectrum of TBI severity.Methods: Participants were adult patients with chronic TBI (n=26) and age and gender-matched healthy controls (n=26). DTI images were obtained from all the participants. Tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) analysis was applied to the DTI images. Classification models were built using principle component analysis (PCA) and support vector machines (SVM). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess the classification performance of the different classifiers.Results: The whole-brain white matter TBSS analyses showed significantly decreased FA, as well as increased MD, AD, and RD in TBI patients compared with healthy controls (all p-value < 0.01). The PCA and SVM-based ML classification using combined DTI indices classified TBI patients and healthy controls with the accuracy of 90.5% with an area under the curve (AUC) of 93 +/- 0.09.Conclusion: This study demonstrates the potential of a joint DTI and ML approach for objective classification of TBI patients and healthy controls.
Clostridium acetobutylicum bacterial membrane responses to carbon ion beam irradiation perturbations
Authors: Gao Yue , Zhou Xiang , Zhang Miaomiao , Liu Yajun , Guo Xiaopeng , Lei Cairong , Li Wenjian , Lu Dong
Published: July 2020

Background

Clostridium acetobutylicum is an important strain during acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation. However, butanol has toxic effects on cells, limiting the application of ABE fermentation. Accordingly, in this study, we aimed to elucidate the metabolic mechanisms through which Clostridium adapts to butanol stress to facilitate the industrial utilization of Clostridium.
Results

First, using cell morphology, cell membrane permeability and membrane potential, cell surface hydrophobicity, and cell membrane fatty acid composition analyses in wild-type (ATCC 824) and butanol-tolerant (Y217) strains under butanol stress, we explored the responses in the cell membrane to evaluate the damage caused by butanol poisoning. After 2.0% (v/v) butanol treatment, the extracellular conductivity of ATCC 824 increased, intracellular proteins and nucleotides were released in large quantities, the fluorescein diacetate staining rate decreased, the membrane potential decreased, and the cell membrane permeability increased. Under butanol shock, the cell surface of Y217 cells remained intact, and its butanol tolerance mechanism increased the integrity of cell membrane and reduced leakage of cell contents caused by changed in cell membrane permeability, thereby preventing butanol damage to the cell membrane. When stimulated with butanol, Y217 cells showed reduced surface hydrophobicity, thereby improving cellular tolerance to butanol. A comparison of differences in fatty acid compositions between ATCC 824 and Y217 cell membranes under butanol stress further demonstrated that maintenance of the normal physiological characteristics of cell membranes played important roles in resisting the impact of organic solvents.
Conclusions

Our findings clarified the changes in physiological and biochemical characteristics of the mutant Y217 cell membrane stimulated with butanol to enhance its tolerance. These results may provide important theoretical guidance for further accelerating the acquisition of bacteria with high butanol tolerance and promoting butanol production. Moreover, our study provided a scientific basis for improving the industrial and environmental adaptability of Clostridium.
Fracture Electric Field: A Synthetic Model for Seismogenic Process and its Relationship with Preseismic Electric Anomalies and Earthquakes
Authors: Chen Zhen , Chen Guo-neng
Published: July 2020

Unobservability of the seismogenic process in a causative fault that makes earthquake (EQ) prediction difficult. Although the relationship between the preseismic electric anomaly (PSEA) and the mainshock indicates that both the PSEA and EQ may originate from same course proceeding in the seismogenic zone, as evidenced by experiments on stressed granite, geological interpretation of those observations, and experiments was limited by the traditional granite formation theory. Based on new information from studies of granite genesis and geotransects, we present a synthetic model, the fracture electric field (FEF), to elucidate the seismogenic process on a causative fault and its logical linkage with the PSEA and EQ. The model is constrained with various data from the 1975 Haicheng EQ and verified by survey data from an FEF monitor station constructed in 2012 in Guangzhou, China. The main conclusions are as follows:(1) An uneven or undulant fault-plane is the prerequisite for stress-accumulation in the locality of the plane to form a seismogenic zone;(2) The position of the continental seismic layer corresponds to that of the crustal granite layer, suggesting that the seismogenic process of any causative fault in continents may produce the PSEA;(3) A normal FEF exists in a causative fault and can be measured beyond the preseismic situation. Thus, it is possible to detect the seismogenic process of a fracture through monitoring the variation of its FEF when the fracture enters a preseismic situation.
In vitro inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 by commonly used disinfection products and methods
Authors: xiling Guo , Yin Chen , Ling Wang , xiaosong Wu , jingjing Fan , fang Li , xiaoyan Zeng , yiyue Ge , ying Chi , lunbiao Cui , liubo Zhang , Hong Sun , Yan Xu
Published: July 2020

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is currently a global pandemic, and there is a lack of laboratory studies targeting pathogen resistance.Objective To investigate the effect of selected disinfection products and methods on the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2.Methods We used quantitative suspension testing to evaluate the effectiveness of the disinfectant/method.Results Available chlorine of 250 mg/L, 500 mg/L, and 1000 mg/L required 20 min, 5 min, and 0.5 min to efficiently inactivate SARS-CoV-2, respectively. A 600-fold dilution of 17% concentration of di-N-decyldimethylammonium bromide (283 mg/L) and the same concentration of di-N-decyldimethylammonium chloride required only 0.5 min to efficiently inactivate the virus. Ethanol, at 30% concentration for 1 min, and 40% and above for 0.5 min, could efficiently inactivate SARS-CoV-2. Heat takes approximate 30 min at 56°C, or 10 min above 70°C, or 5 min above 90°C to inactivate the virus.Conclusions The chlorinated disinfectants, Di-N-decyldimethylammonium bromide / chloride, ethanol, and heat were effective in inactivating SARS-CoV-2. The response of SARS-CoV-2 to disinfectants is very similar to that of SARS-CoV.
Inhibition of circRNA circVPS33B reduces cell malignant behaviors and Warburg effect through regulation of the miR-873-5p/HNRNPK axis in infiltrative gastric cancer
Authors: Lu Yizhuo , Cheng Jia , Cai Wangyu , Zhuo Huiqin , Wu Guoyang , Cai Jianchun
Published: July 2020

Background

Circular RNA VPS33B (circVPS33B) is upregulated in gastric cancer (GC) tissues. However, the role of circVPS33B in infiltrative GC is indistinct.
Methods

Expression of circVPS33B, miR-873-5p, and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (HNRNPK) mRNA was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of infiltrative GC cells (XGC-1) were determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT), plate clone, wound healing, or transwell assays. Several protein levels were examined by western blotting. The extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) of XGC-1 cells were evaluated by XF96 extracellular flux analyzer. Glucose uptake and lactate production were analyzed by glycolysis assay. The relationship between circVPS33B or HNRNPK and miR-873-5p was verified by dual-luciferase reporter and/or RNA pull-down assays. In vivo tumorigenesis assay was executed for verifying the in vitro results.
Results

CircVPS33B and HNRNPK were upregulated while miR-873-5p was downregulated in infiltrative GC tissues and XGC-1 cells. CircVPS33B silencing decreased tumor growth in vivo and inhibited proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and Warburg effect of XGC-1 cells in vitro. CircVPS33B regulated HNRNPK expression via sponging miR-873-5p. The inhibitory influence of circVPS33B knockdown on the malignancy and Warburg effect of XGC-1 cells was overturned by miR-873-5p inhibitor. HNRNPK overexpression reversed the repression of the malignancy and Warburg effect of XGC-1 cells caused by miR-873-5p mimic.
Conclusions

CircVPS33B accelerated infiltrative GC progression through regulating the miR-873-5p/HNRNPK axis, manifesting that circVPS33B might be a promising target for infiltrative GC treatment.
Urinary Retention Following General Anesthesia for Endoscopic Nasal Surgery in Men Aged Over 60 Years: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lee Yong Won , Kim Bum Sik , Chung Jihyun
Published: July 2020

Background: Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) after anesthesia and surgery is influenced by many factors, and its reported incidence rate varies widely. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence and risk factors for urinary retention following general anesthesia for endoscopic nasal surgery in male patients aged over 60 years. Methods: Retrospective review of medical records between January 2015 and December 2019 identified 253 subjects for inclusion in our study. Age, body mass index, history of diabetes/hypertension, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, and urologic history were included as patient-related factors. Urologic history was subdivided into three groups according to history of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)/lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and current medication. The following were analyzed as perioperative variables for the development of POUR: duration of anesthesia and surgery; amount of fluid administered; rate of fluid administration; intraoperative requirement for fentanyl, ephedrine, and dexamethasone; postoperative pain; and analgesic use. Preoperatively measured prostate size and uroflowmetry parameters of patients on medication for symptoms were compared according to the incidence of urinary retention.Results: Thirty-seven patients (15.7%) had urinary retention requiring catheterization. Among analyzed variables, only urologic history was identified as a predisposing factor. The incidence rate among patients without urologic issues was 5.9%. This compared to 19.8% among patients with a history of BPH/LUTS, which was not reduced by taking medical treatment. Among patients taking medication for symptoms, the maximal and average velocity of urine flow were significantly lower in subjects with POUR. Conclusions: General anesthesia for endoscopic nasal surgery is a potent trigger of urinary retention in male patients aged over 60 years. The urological history of the patient was the most important risk factor, and the occurrence of POUR appears to be affected by urinary conditions. The present study is helpful in understanding the occurrence of POUR following general anesthesia in elderly male patients.
Tibial Spurs (Pes Anserinus Bony Spurs) in Children and Adolescents: A Case Series of 21 Patients
Authors: Matsunobu Tomoya , Maekawa Akira , Fukushima Suguru , Nabeshima Akira , Iwamoto Yukihide
Published: July 2020

Background: Icicle-like bony spurs that originate from the proximal medial surface of the tibia in young persons have been referred to by various names in the literature. This tibial spur, called pes anserinus bony spurs (PABSs), can present as exostoses, but lacks a cartilage cap which is characteristic feature of osteochondroma. To date, there are only two small case series about the tibial spur, and little information is available. The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of PABSs in children and adolescents. Methods: This retrospective study analysed patients diagnosed with PABSs on an orthopaedic oncology service from 2013 to 2020. Additionally, in order to estimate the prevalence of PABSs in children and adolescents, we retrospectively reviewed knee X-rays of patients who visited our hospital for other reasons from 2008 to 2020.Results: Thirteen male and 8 female patients with PABSs, with a mean age of 11.7 years, were evaluated. Bilateral spurs were observed in 7 of the 21 patients. Among 28 PABSs in 21 patients, 6 were incidentally identified. Radiological evaluation showed that the average PABS length was 10.6 mm. There was a statistically significant difference in the spur length between incidentally detected PABSs and symptomatic PABSs at the first visit. The prevalence rate of PABSs among children and adolescents was 0.94%. Computed tomography examinations showed that no PABSs occurred at the site of the tendinous insertion of the pes anserinus. Surgical resection was performed in only 2 patients, both of whom were high-performing athletes.Conclusions: This is the first study to describe the clinical and radiological features of PABSs in detail and to report their prevalence in children and adolescents. Although longer PABSs are symptomatic, most PABSs are non-problematic and surgical resection of PABSs should be considered only if pain persists despite conservative treatment.
Machine Learning Dimensionality Reduction Showed Marginal Performance Benefit Over Stepwise Regression for Risk Stratification of Chest Pain Patients in the Emergency Department
Authors: Liu Nan , Chee Marcel Lucas , Koh Zhi Xiong , Leow Su Li , Ho Andrew Fu Wah , Guo Dagang , Ong Marcus Eng Hock
Published: July 2020

Background: Chest pain is among the most common presenting complaints in the emergency department (ED). Swift and accurate risk stratification of chest pain patients in the ED may improve patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary costs. Traditional logistic regression with stepwise variable selection has been used to build risk prediction models for ED chest pain patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate if machine learning dimensionality reduction methods can achieve superior performance than the stepwise approach in deriving risk stratification models. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of patients >20 years old who presented to the ED of Singapore General Hospital with chest pain between September 2010 and July 2015. Variables used included demographics, medical history, laboratory findings, heart rate variability (HRV), and HRnV parameters calculated from five to six-minute electrocardiograms (ECGs). The primary outcome was 30-day major adverse cardiac events (MACE), which included death, acute myocardial infarction, and revascularization. Candidate variables identified using univariable analysis were then used to generate the stepwise logistic regression model and eight machine learning dimensionality reduction prediction models. A separate set of models was derived by excluding troponin. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and calibration analysis was used to compare model performance.Results: 795 patients were included in the analysis, of which 247 (31%) met the primary outcome of 30-day MACE. Patients with MACE were older and more likely to be male. All eight dimensionality reduction methods marginally but non-significantly outperformed stepwise variable selection; The multidimensional scaling algorithm performed the best with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.901. All HRnV-based models generated in this study outperformed several existing clinical scores in ROC analysis.Conclusions: HRnV-based models using stepwise logistic regression performed better than existing chest pain scores for predicting MACE, with only marginal improvements using machine learning dimensionality reduction. Moreover, traditional stepwise approach benefits from model transparency and interpretability; in comparison, machine learning dimensionality reduction models are black boxes, making them difficult to explain in clinical practice.