bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SEMIÓTICA APLICADA AO ESTUDO DA METROPOLIZAÇÃO DO ESPAÇO NO CONTEXTO DA REGIÃO METROPOLITANA DE MANAUS
Authors: Silva Fredson Bernardino Araújo da , De Lima Marcos Castro
Published: December 2020

A Região Metropolitana de Manaus - RMM é juridicamente estabelecida, porém, no que tange a expressão socioespacial, ainda se encontra em desenvolvimento. O recorte consta da metrópole e a parte sul região metropolitana, principalmente o município de Iranduba. A presente proposta tem o objetivo de entender as dinâmicas internas da RMM por meio do processo de metropolização do espaço associado ao discurso que procura justificá-lo. Trata-se de uma análise geográfica, a partir da semiótica, da estrutura da linguagem, ou melhor, do discurso da metropolização na RMM por parte do Estado. Não obstante, sem olvidar a importância dos consumidores e modeladores do espaço urbano para os processos de extensificação da metrópole. Esta pesquisa, portanto, discute elementos da metropolização do espaço e como ela aparece por meio do discurso, muito evidenciado como um aspecto do moderno tendo como principal agente (na Amazônia Ocidental), o Estado.
NOTA EDITORIAL: REVISTA GEONORTE, V.11, N.38, JUL-DEZ, 2020
Authors: Silva Neto João Cândido André da
Published: December 2020

NOTA EDITORIAL: REVISTA GEONORTE, V.11, N.38, JUL-DEZ, 2020
The Iranian Version of Theory-Based Intention for Cesarean Section (IR-TBICS) Scale: Development and First Evaluation
Authors: Naghibi Seyed Abolhassan , Khazaee-Pool Maryam , Moosazadeh Mahmood
Published: December 2020

Background: The rate at which mothers experience a cesarean section in the absence of medical signs is growing worldwide. Women’s beliefs and intentions play an essential role in the request or choice of a delivery method. At present, there is no comprehensive, validated scale for assessing pregnant women’s beliefs about cesarean section in the Iranian population. This study was performed to develop and assess the validity and reliability of the intention-based cesarean section scale using the theory of reasoned action (TRA) constructs as a theoretical framework for measuring intention toward the selection of a delivery method.Methods: In this cross-sectional validation study, 480 pregnant women were recruited from Sari, in northern Iran, through a multistage random sampling approach. Content validity was examined using the content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR). Furthermore, both exploratory factor analyses (EFA) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were applied to assess the construct validity of the developed scale. Reliability was measured by internal consistency and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Quality criteria for floor and ceiling effects were derived from existing guidelines and consensus within our research group.Results: The results obtained from the factor analysis showed that the data were fit to the model (χ2 = 2298.389, P < 0.001). The TRA comprised 24 items assessing five domains, which described 62.46% of the common variance. The CFA showed a model with suitable fitness for the data. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the domains of the scale ranged from .609 to .843, and the ICC value ranged from .71 to .84, which is within the satisfactory range. The IR-TBICS scale had no floor or ceiling effect on the total score or any of the dimensions.Conclusion: The belief-based cesarean section scale appears to be a reliable instrument. It is considered suitable and can be applied in other research in Iran.
Sources of Variation in Cell-Type RNA-Seq Profiles
Authors: Gustafsson Johan , Held Felix , Robinson Jonathan , Björnson Elias , Jörnsten Rebecka , Nielsen Jens
Published: December 2020

Cell-type specific gene expression profiles are needed for many computational methods operating on bulk RNA-Seq samples, such as deconvolution of cell-type fractions and digital cytometry. However, the gene expression profile of a cell type can vary substantially due to both technical factors and biological differences in cell state and surroundings, reducing the efficacy of such methods. Here, we investigated which factors contribute most to this variation. We evaluated different normalization methods, quantified the variance explained by different factors, evaluated the effect on deconvolution of cell type fractions, and examined the differences between UMI-based single-cell RNA-Seq and bulk RNA-Seq. We investigated a collection of publicly available bulk and single-cell RNA-Seq datasets containing B and T cells, and found that the technical variation across laboratories is substantial, even for genes specifically selected for deconvolution, and has a confounding effect on deconvolution. Tissue of origin is also a substantial factor, highlighting the challenge of applying cell type profiles derived from blood on mixtures from other tissues. We also show that much of the differences between UMI-based single-cell and bulk RNA-Seq methods can be explained by the number of read duplicates per mRNA molecule in the single-cell sample. Our work shows the importance of either matching or correcting for technical factors when creating cell-type specific gene expression profiles that are to be used together with bulk samples.
The first 100 days of the COVID-19 epidemic in Mali: a descriptive analysis
Authors: Ly Birama Apho , Ahmed Mohamed Ali Ag , Millimouno Tamba Mina , Cissoko Yacouba , Faye Christophe Laba , Traoré Fatoumata Bintou , Diarra Niélé Hawa , Berthé Ibrahima , Boly Ahmadou , Sangho Hamadoun , Doumbia Seydou
Published: December 2020

Background Since the detection of the first cases of COVID-19 in Mali, the ministry of health provides daily released of information and situation report including information on the number of testing, confirmed cases, case-contacts, recovered patients, COVID-19 related deaths; and the geographic locations affected by the epidemic. The objective of this study was to analyze this information and to examine the relation between the number of confirmed cases and the number of testing, case-contacts, recovered patients and COVID-19 related deaths. Method From the daily released of information and situation reports, the data related to the number of testing, confirmed cases, case-contacts, recovered patients, COVID-19 related deaths; and the affected geographic locations were extracted on an Excel file before being analyzed with SPSS 25 software. The analyses were essentially descriptive including Spearman correlation test and Chi 2 test for statistical significance (p≤0, 05).Results The analyses include 14,938 testing, 2,260 PCR confirmed cases, 12, 864 case-contacts, 1,502 recovered patients and 117 deaths reported during the first 100 days of the epidemic, particularly from March 25 to July 2, 2020. The results show low level of testing and demonstrate a positive correlation between the number of confirmed cases and the number of testing, case-contacts, recovered patients and deaths. These results suggest that Mali could have more confirmed cases by increasing testing, particularly among case-contacts.Conclusion The results can help to understand the evolution of the epidemic, call for more testing and contact tracing of COVID-19 cases. They can also contribute to improving data quality and response to COVID-19.
Ultrasound-guided Parasternal Intercostal Nerve Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Mediastinal Mass Resection by Median Sternotomy: a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial
Authors: Chen Hexiang , Song Wenqin , Wang Wei , Peng Yawen , Zhai Chunchun , Yao Lihua , Xia Zhongyuan
Published: December 2020

Background: Ultrasound-guided parasternal intercostal nerve block is rarely used for postoperative analgesia, and its value remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided parasternal intercostal nerve block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing median sternotomy for mediastinal mass resection.Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial performed in Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, enrolled 41 participants aged 18-65 years. The patients scheduled for mediastinal mass resection by median sternotomy were randomly assigned were randomized into 2 groups, and preoperatively administered 2 injections of ropivacaine (PSI) and saline (control) groups, respectively, in the 3rd and 5th parasternal intercostal spaces with ultrasound-guided (USG) bilateral parasternal intercostal nerve block. Sufentanil via patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) was administered to all participants postoperatively. Pain score, total sufentanil consumption, and postoperative adverse events were recorded within the first 24 hours.Results: There were 20 and 21 patients in the PSI and control group, respectively. The PSI group required 20% less PCIA-sufentanil compared with the control group (54.05 ± 11.14 μg vs. 67.67 ± 8.92 μg; P < 0.001). In addition, pain numerical rating scale (NRS) scores were significantly lower in the PSI group compared with control patients, both at rest and upon coughing within 24 postoperative hours. Postoperative adverse events were generally reduced in the PSI group compared with controls. Conclusions: USG bilateral parasternal intercostal nerve block effectively reduces postoperative pain and adjuvant analgesic requirement, with good patient satisfaction, therefore constituting a good option for mediastinal mass resection by median sternotomy.
Elevated mature monocytes in bone marrow accompanied with a higher IPSS-R score predicts a poor prognosis in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Wu An , Gao Panpan , Wu Ningning , Shi Cong , Huang Zhenya , Rong Chunmeng , Sun Ye , Sheng Lixia , Ouyang Guifang , Mu Qitian
Published: December 2020

Background: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) is a group of heterogeneousmyeloid clonal diseases originating from hematopoietic stem cells. Clinically, elevated mature monocyte is often observed, but its clinical value still remains unclear.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 235 MDS patients to explore the prognostic value of the percentage of mature monocyte in bone marrow (PMMBM). All patients were divided into elevated PMMBM group and the normal group by 6% PMMBM as the cut-off value. Results: Our results showed that PMMBM>6% was associated with inferior overall survival (OS) (P=0.007) and leukemia-free survival (LFS) (P=0.016) along with higher Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R) score (P<0.0001) and higher frequency of IDH2 mutation (P=0.001). Multivariate analyses showed that besides older age (>60 years), lower hemoglobin level (<10 g/dl), higher bone marrow blast percentage (>5%), poorer karyotype, elevated PMMBM was also an independent adverse prognostic factor for OS in MDS (P=0.049). Conclusions: These findings indicate that increased PMMBM accompanied with a higher IPSS-R score may predict a poor outcome and provide a novel evaluation factor for MDS patients especially when their karyotype analyses fail.
Inflammation and its association with oxidative stress in dogs with heart failure
Authors: Svete Alenka Nemec , Verk Barbara , Čebulj-Kadunc Nina , Salobir Janez , Rezar Vida , Petrič Aleksandra Domanjko
Published: December 2020

Background

Inflammation and oxidative stress can contribute to the development and progression of heart failure. This study aimed to investigate the association between inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF). Associations between the disease severity marker N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress were also determined.
Results

Thirty-seven dogs with cardiovascular diseases (dilated cardiomyopathy (16 dogs), myxomatous mitral valve disease (21 dogs)) and ten healthy dogs were included in this prospective study. The patients were further divided into groups with (26) and without CHF (11). We found a significantly higher serum concentration of C-reactive protein (P = 0.012), white blood cell (P = 0.001), neutrophil (P = 0.001) and monocyte counts (P = 0.001) in patients with CHF compared to control dogs. The concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was significantly higher in patients with CHF compared to patients without CHF (P = 0.030). In patients with CHF, TNF-α correlated positively with malondialdehyde (P = 0.014, r = 0.474) and negatively with glutathione peroxidase (GPX) (P = 0.026, r = − 0.453), and interleukin-6 correlated negatively with GPX (P = 0.046, r = − 0.412). NT -proBNP correlated positively with malondialdehyde (P = 0.011, r = 0.493). In patients without CHF none of the inflammatory and oxidative stress markers correlated significantly. Furthermore, in the group of all cardiac patients, GPX activity significantly negatively correlated with NT-proBNP (P = 0.050, r = − 0.339) and several markers of inflammation, including TNF–α (P = 0.010, r = − 0.436), interleukin-6 (P = 0.026, r = − 0.382), white blood cell (P = 0.032, r = − 0.369), neutrophil (P = 0.027, r = − 0.379) and monocyte counts (P = 0.024, r = − 0.386).
Conclusion

Inflammatory and oxidative stress markers are linked in canine CHF patients, but not in patients without CHF. These results suggest complex cross communication between the two biological pathways in advanced stages of CHF.
Knowledge towards Cervical Cancer Screening and Associated Factors among Urban Health Extension Workers at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ararsa Tiruneh , Tadele Niguse , Ayalew Yohannes , Gela Debela
Published: December 2020

Background: Cervical cancer is preventable and remains a leading cause of avoidable death among women in the world. In a developing country, the knowledge of screening for cervical cancer behavior still very low. However, little is known about the knowledge towards cervical cancer screening of urban health extension workers in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess knowledge towards cervical cancer screening and associated factors among urban health extension workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2020. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 312 urban health extension workers completed the survey in the Amharic language. Data collected using a structured questionnaire face to face interview. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted using SPSS version 26. Results: The mean age of the urban health extension workers was 20.41±3.73 years and 55.1% were married. The majority of the participants (75.6%) had diploma educational level, and 38.1% of them had 1-2 years of work experience. More than half (51.6%) of the participants had poor knowledge about cervical cancer screening. Participants with work experience of 5-6 years (AOR=4.32: 95% CI=1.71,10.94) and those who had a monthly income of 5,000-10,000 ETB (AOR=3.75: 95% CI=1.49,9.41) and greater than >10,000ETB (AOR=3.08: 95% CI =1.06, 8.98) were positively associated with knowledge towards cervical cancer screening among urban health extension workers, p-value< 0.05. Conclusion: This study indicated that the knowledge towards cervical cancer screening of urban health extension workers was inadequate. Urban health extension workers’ work experiences and monthly income were found to be independent predictors of the knowledge towards cervical cancer screening of respondents. Therefore, urban health extension workers with low work experiences and those with small monthly income could be targeted for cervical cancer screening information and training interventions.
Neuroprotective effect of a new free radical scavenger HL-008 against ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Liu Yahong , Cheng Ying , Zhang Wei , Tian Hongqi
Published: December 2020

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. We previously developed a powerful antioxidant, HL-008, and this study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective function of HL-008. The in vitro and in vivo efficacy of HL-008 was evaluated using a PC-12 cell oxidative stress model induced by hydrogen peroxide and a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion, respectively. The MTT assay was used to analyze cell viability. TTC staining, HE staining, immunofluorescence, western blot, and proteomics were used to evaluate the infarction volume, brain tissue morphology, apoptosis, inflammation, and related pathways. Indicators related to oxidative levels were mainly detected using commercial kits. HL-008 significantly reduced the cerebral infarction area induced by ischemia-reperfusion, improved the neurological score, alleviated oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain tissue, reduced glial cell activation, inhibited brain tissue apoptosis by influencing multiple signaling pathways, and had a neuroprotective effect. If HL-008 is successfully developed, it can significantly improve the quality of life of stroke patients.
Research on Speaker Recognition of DRNN in Different Noise Environment
Authors: lan chaofeng , Zhang yuanyuan , Zhao hongyun
Published: December 2020

This paper draws on the training method of Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), By increasing the number of hidden layers of RNN and changing the layer activation function from traditional Sigmoid to Leaky ReLU on the input layer, the first group and the last set of data are zero-padded to enhance the effective utilization of data such that the improved reduction model of Denoise Recurrent Neural Network (DRNN) with high calculation speed and good convergence is constructed to solve the problem of low speaker recognition rate in noisy environment. According to this model, the random semantic speech signal with a sampling rate of 16 kHz and a duration of 5 seconds in the speech library is studied. The experimental settings of the signal-to-noise ratios are − 10dB, -5dB, 0dB, 5dB, 10dB, 15dB, 20dB, 25dB. In the noisy environment, the improved model is used to denoise the Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC) and the Gammatone Frequency Cepstral Coefficents (GFCC), impact of the traditional model and the improved model on the speech recognition rate is analyzed. The research shows that the improved model can effectively eliminate the noise of the feature parameters and improve the speech recognition rate. When the signal-to-noise ratio is low, the speaker recognition rate can be more obvious. Furthermore, when the signal-to-noise ratio is 0dB, the speaker recognition rate of people is increased by 40%, which can be 85% improved compared with the traditional speech model. On the other hand, with the increase in the signal-to-noise ratio, the recognition rate is gradually increased. When the signal-to-noise ratio is 15dB, the recognition rate of speakers is 93%.
Exploration for olive fruit fly parasitoids across Africa - regional distributions and dominance of co-evolved parasitoids
Authors: Wang Xingeng , Walton Vaughn , Hoelmer Kim , Pickett Charles , Blanchet Arnaud , Straser Robert , Kirk Alan , Daane Kent
Published: December 2020

The olive fruit fly, Bactrocera oleae, has been a key pest of olives in invaded regions Europe and North America. We conducted the largest modern exploration for the fly’s co-evolved parasitoids across Sub-Saharan Africa (Kenya, Namibia, and South Africa) and some of the fly’s expanded regions (Canary Islands, China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Réunion Island and Tunisia). From Sub-Saharan regions, four native braconids, Psytallia lounsburyi, P. humilis, Utetes africanus and Bracon celer were collected. Principal Component Analysis showed that the regional dominance of these parasitoid species was related to climate niches, with P. lounsburyi the dominant species in the more tropical areas of Kenya, P. humilis dominant in the hot semi-arid areas of Namibia and U. africanus prevalent in Mediterranean climates of South Africa. Psytallia concolor was found in the Canary Islands, Moroccan and Tunisian, and the Afrotropical braconid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata in Réunion Island. In South Africa, seasonal monitoring of B. oleae showed consistently low infestation in unripe or ripe fruits. Multivariate analyses suggest that fruit maturity, seasonal climates and interspecific interactions shape the local parasitoid diversity that effectively regulates fly populations at low levels. The results are discussed with regard to ecological adaptations of co-evolved parasitoids, and how their adaptations impact biocontrol.
Development of an efficient tef-1α RNA hairpin structure to efficient management of lasiodiplodia theobromae
Authors: Nili Omid , Azizi Abdolbaset , Abdollahzadeh Jafar
Published: December 2020

Lasiodiplodia theobromae is a serious worldwide-distributed plant pathogenic fungus with a wide host range in temperate and tropical climates. L. theobromae causes fruit rot, canker, and dieback of twigs in various woody plants. Protection of pruning wounds using fungicides is the prevalent strategy to management of the diseases caused by L. theobromae. Chemical control of plant diseases is not environmentally safe and the residues of fungicides are a threat to nature. Furthermore, genetic resources of resistance to plant diseases in woody plants are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of RNA silencing using an efficient hairpin structure based on tef-1α gene to management of L. theobromae. Hairpin structure of tef-1α was cloned in pFGC5941 binary vector and the recombinant construct was named pFGC-TEF-d. Transient expression of pFGC-TEF-d using Agrobacterium LBA4404 in grapevine (Bidaneh Sefid cv.) and strawberry cultivars (Camarosa and Ventana) led to reduction in disease progress. The disease reduction in grapevine was estimated by 55% and in strawberries cultivars Camarosa and Ventana by 58% and 93%, respectively. Here we introduce RNAi silencing using pFGC-TEF-d construct as an efficient strategy to management of L. theobromae for the first time.
Novel Color Orthogonal Moments-Based Image Representation and Recognition
Authors: He Bing , Liu Jun , Yang Tengfei , Xiao Bin , Peng Yanguo
Published: December 2020

Inspired by quaternion algebra and the idea of fractional-order transformation, we propose a new set of quaternion fractional-order generalized Laguerre orthogonal moments (QFr-GLMs) based on fractional-order generalized Laguerre polynomials. Firstly, the proposed QFr-GLMs are directly constructed in Cartesian coordinate space, avoiding the need for conversion between Cartesian and polar coordinates; therefore, they are better image descriptors than circularly orthogonal moments constructed in polar coordinates. Moreover, unlike the latest Zernike moments based on quaternion and fractional-order transformations, which extract only the global features from color images, our proposed QFr-GLMs can extract both the global and local color features. This paper also derives a new set of invariant color-image descriptors by QFr-GLMs, enabling geometric-invariant pattern recognition in color images. Finally, the performances of our proposed QFr-GLMs and moment invariants were evaluated in simulation experiments of correlated color images. Both theoretical analysis and experimental results demonstrate the value of the proposed QFr-GLMs and their geometric invariants in the representation and recognition of color images.
Dynamic Evaluation of Compound Ento-PB for the Repair of Mucosal Ulcer in Dogs With Acetic Acid-induced Experimental Colitis 
Authors: Chen Jin-hu , Zhao Jian-ting , Yu Zheng-yong , Che Yi-hao , Wang Yu-jia , Lu Qian , Geng Fu-neng , Liu Heng , Zhang Cheng-gui , Wu Xiu-mei , Zhao Yu , He Miao
Published: December 2020

Background: Mucosal inflammation and ulcer play important roles in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. As as traditional Chinese medicine compound composed of Periplaneta americana and Taraxacum mongolicum, Ento-PB is always prescribed for the treatment of ulcer and inflammatory diseases. As for the significant role of P. americana in terms of promoting mucosal healing, the compatibility of the anti-inflammatory drug T. mongolicum may enable Ento-PB to simultaneously play anti-inflammatory and promote mucosal healing effects on the treatment of UC. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential and possible mechanism of Ento-PB for UC by establishing an acetic acid-induced colitis model in dogs.Methods: Preliminary identification to the chemical components of compound Ento-PB was carried out through high performance liquid chromatography. A cross-bred dogs model of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis was established to evaluate the efficacy of compound Ento-PB. The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines C-reactive protein (CRP), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in plasma were measured by carrying out enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results: With the extension of treatment time, Ento-PB could effectively improve clinical symptoms of UC cross-bred dogs. Colonoscopy displayed that mucosal redness, swelling and congestion decreased gradually, and obviously repaired after mucosal injury. The intestinal texture was gradually clear, and the colonoscopy score gradually reduced. Histopathological examination revealed that the structure of colon was restored significantly, the infiltration of inflammatory cells was reduced, and the histological score was remarkably reduced. At the same time, the results of dynamic monitoring of inflammatory cytokines in plasma proved that Ento-PB can gradually down-regulate the activity of CRP, iNOS and COX-2, reduce the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β, and gradually restore anti-inflammatory and the expression level of cytokine IL-10.Conclusions: Ento-PB reduces the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in a dose- and time-dependent manner and inflammation, improves colon tissue lesions and the repair of intestinal mucosa after injury, and effectively increases acetic acid-induced colon inflammation in UC cross-bred dogs.
Facilitators, Barriers, and Strategies for Health-system Guidance Implementation: A Protocol for a Critical Interpretive Synthesis
Authors: Wang Qi , Chu Xiajing , Zhu Ying , Kibria Mohammad Golam , Guo Qiangqiang , Belal Ahmed Atef , Li Yanfei , Zhang Jingyi , Chen Yaolong , Yang Kehu , Schünemann Holger J. , Wilson Michael G. , Lavis John N.
Published: December 2020

Background: As systematically developed statements about possible courses of action, health-system guidance (HSG) can assist with making decisions and developing policies to address problems or achieve goals in health systems. However, there are conceptual and methodological challenges related to HSG implementation due to the complexity of health systems and policymaking, the diversity of available evidence, and vast differences in contexts. To address these gaps, we aim to develop a theoretical framework for supporting the implementation of HSG as part of an effort to promote evidence-informed policymaking about health systems. Methods: To develop a theoretical framework about facilitators, barriers, and strategies to the implementation of HSG, we will apply a critical interpretive synthesis (CIS) approach to synthesize the findings from a range of relevant literature. We will search eleven electronic databases and grey literature websites to identify relevant published and grey literature. We will check the references of included studies and papers recommended by experts. Finally, we will conduct purposive searches to identify literature that fills any identified conceptual gaps. We will use relevance and a general five-items quality criteria to assess included papers. A standardized form will be developed for extracting information. We will use an interpretive analytic approach to synthesize the findings from included papers, including the constant comparative method throughout the analysis. The literature screening and relevance assessment will be conducted by two independent reviewers and disagreements will be resolved through discussion. Data extraction and synthesis will be extracted by the principal investigator and the sample of extracted data will be checked by a second reviewer for consistency and accuracy. Discussion: A new theoretical framework about facilitators, barriers, and strategies for HSG implementation will be developed using the CIS approach. The HSG implementation framework could be widely used for different HSG with varied topics and in different contexts (including low-, middle-, high-income countries and settings). In later work we will develop a tool for supporting HSG implementation based on the theoretical framework. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRDXXXX (Pending)
Microtubule Disruption Reduces Metastasis More Effectively Than Primary Tumor Growth
Authors: Thompson Keyata , Ju Julia , Ory Eleanor , Pratt Stephen , Lee Rachel , Mathias Trevor , Lee Cornell , Goloubeva Olga , Bailey Patrick , Chakrabarti Kristi , Jewell Christopher , Vitolo Michele , Martin Stuart
Published: December 2020

Background: Clinical breast cancer imaging inevitably focuses on tumor growth rather than the metastatic dissemination that is a greater challenge for patient survival. Emerging preclinical evidence indicates that chemotherapy can elevate levels of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and increase metastatic recurrence. Targeting metastatic phenotypes of CTCs could reveal therapeutic strategies to reduce metastasis that would be overlooked by measurements of tumor growth.Methods: We investigated how the FDA-approved microtubule-depolymerizing Vinca alkaloid, Vinorelbine, affects three metastatic phenotypes of reattachment, clustering and microtentacles (McTNs). Microfluidic cell tethering technology (TetherChip) was used to measure Vinorelbine effects on McTNs and clustering while xCelligence impedance was used for reattachment assays. Bioluminescence imaging monitored tumor growth and metastasis in mice. ANGLE Parsortix and Vortex Biosciences VTX-1 were used to capture live tumor cells from blood samples for confocal microscopy to rapidly measure tumor cell responses to Vinorelbine.Results: We demonstrate that a focused (1h) Vinorelbine treatment is sufficient to inhibit reattachment, clustering and McTNs in non-adherent breast tumor cells. Quantitative analysis of treated non-adherent cells reveals that McTNs are significantly lower in number (p= 0.012) and shorter in length (p= 0.000034). Treating mice with Vinorelbine (5mg/kg) for only 24h did not significantly affect primary tumor survival. However, median metastatic tumor survival after injection of circulating tumor cells extended from 8 weeks to 30 weeks after a focused 24h treatment with Vinorelbine. Microtentacle inhibition by Vinorelbine was also detectable within 1h, using live tumor cells isolated from blood samples and analyzed with confocal microscopy for McTNs on TetherChip microfluidic surfaces. As few as 11 tumor cells were sufficient to yield 90% power to detect this 1h Vinorelbine drug response, demonstrating feasibility with the small number of tumor cells available from patient biopsies.Conclusions: This study establishes a proof-of-concept that targeted microtubule disruption can selectively inhibit metastasis and reveals that existing FDA-approved therapies could have anti-metastatic actions that are currently overlooked when focusing exclusively on tumor growth. Moreover, the anti-metastatic actions of Vinorelbine could be detected in less than one hour using microfluidic TetherChip technology, establishing a new approach for precision medicine aimed at reducing metastasis.
LiF Assisted Synthesis Perovskite-type Li0.35La0.55TiO3 Solid Electrolyte for Rechargeable Lithium-metal Batteries
Authors: Yao Zhongran , Zhang Jie , Zhu K.J. , Li Jun , Li Xia , Wang Jing , Yan Kang , Liu Jinsong
Published: December 2020

Perovskite-type solid-state electrolytes, Li0.35La0.55TiO3-xwt% LiF (LLTO-Fx, x = 0, 2, 4 and 6), were successfully synthesized through solid-state reaction method. The effects of LiF addition amount on LLTO crystal structure, morphologies and ionic conductivity have been investigated. All samples formed perovskite structure and the grain sizes were gradually increased with the increase of LiF content. Moreover, owing to the highest relative density (95.4%), LLTO-F2 electrolyte exhibited a highest total conductivity of 1.02×10-4 S/cm with a relative low activation energy of 0.26 eV, which is suitable for use in solid-state batteries. The cell Li/LLTO-F2/V2O5 exhibited a specific capacity about 270 mAh/g in the first few cycles and maintained 156 mAh/g after 100 cycles, demonstrating good cycling properties. Moreover, cells assembled with different cathodes, such as LiFePO4 and LiCoO2, also displayed excellent electrochemical performances. The results suggest that sintering additive (LiF) is very effective step towards ultimately achieve a safe solid-state lithium battery system.
Patient-specific 3D-printed Helmet for Post-craniectomy Defect – A Case Report
Authors: Pang Sherby Suet-Ying , Fang Evan , Chen Kam Wai , Leung Matthew , Chow Velda Ling-Yu , Fang Christian
Published: December 2020

Background: Patients who undergo decompressive craniectomy (DC) are often fitted with a protective helmet that protects the craniectomy site from injury during rehabilitation. However, conventional “one-size-fits-all” helmets may not be feasible for certain craniectomy defects. We describe the production and use of a custom 3D-printed helmet for a DC patient where a conventional helmet was not feasible due to the craniectomy defect configuration.Case presentation: A 65-year-old male with ethmoid sinonasal carcinoma underwent cranionasal resection and DC with free vastus lateralis flap reconstruction to treat cerebrospinal fluid leakage. He required an external helmet to protect the craniectomy site, however, the rim of a conventional helmet compressed the craniectomy site, and the straps compressed the vascular pedicle of the muscle flap. Computed topography (CT) scans of the patient’s cranium were imported into 3D modelling software and used to fabricate a patient-specific, strapless helmet using fused deposition modelling (FDM). The final helmet fit the patient perfectly and circumvented the compression issues, while also providing better cosmesis than the conventional helmet. Four months postoperatively, the helmet remains intact and in use.Conclusions: 3D printing can be used to produce low-volume, patient-specific external devices for rehabilitation where standardized adjuncts not optimal. Once initial start-up costs and training are overcome, these devices can be produced by surgeons themselves to meet a wide range of clinical needs.
Estimation of Income Levels in Individual Buildings Using Satellite Imagery and Household Interview Survey Data
Authors: Okuda Kohei , Kawasaki Akiyuki
Published: December 2020

Leaving no one behind is a worldwide goal, but it is difficult to make policy to address this issue because we do not have a thorough knowledge of where poverty exists and in what forms due to lack of data, particularly in developing countries. Here, we show a novel method for estimating income levels by building. That is effective in places that are difficult to access. The combination of high-resolution satellite imagery and household interview survey data obtained by visiting households on the ground makes it possible to estimate income levels at a detailed scale for the first time. Using the results, we can determine the number and location of poor people at the local scale. We can also identify areas with particularly high concentrations of poor people. This information enables planning and policy making for more effective poverty reduction and disaster prevention measures tailored to local conditions.
Bibliometric Analysis of the Hundred Most-Cited Publications on Bone Metastases Research
Authors: Zhao Tingxiao , Zhang Yuan , Lv Jun , Ge Meng , Dai Zhanqiu , Shao Haiyu , Ding Xiaoyan , Huang Yazeng , Zhang Jun , Kang Yao
Published: December 2020

BackgroundBone metastases (BM) represents a common complication of cancer, patients with BM may experience skeletal complications, such as pathological fractures, spinal cord compression, hypercalcemia, and persisting pain. Currently, there are a large number of publications available on this topic. The purpose of this study was to identify and analyze the 100 most-cited publications on BM research. MethodAll databases from the Web of Science were searched in a three-step approach. First, the 100 most-cited BM studies were identified using only one term “bone metastases” to allow for comprehensive keyword identification. Second, ten keywords identified from the results of the first search were used to conduct a second search of the databases to yield a separate list of the top 100 cited BM publications. Finally, the results of the two searches were overlapped and duplicated articles were removed. After overlapping, the top 100 most-cited articles on BM were selected for further analysis of title, authorship, source journal, publication year, geographic origin, research institution, number of citations, and subspecialty. ResultsThe 100 most-cited articles were published from 1959 to 2014 in 44 different journals and were cited from 250 to 1707 times. The most influential period was from 2001–2010, which produced 50 out of the top 100 publications. A total of 12 countries contributed to the 100 articles, and the United States topped the list with 48 articles. The majority of publications were in Journal of Clinical Oncology, which published 16 articles. In terms of institutional support, a total of 13 institutions each supported at least 2 articles, and the first ranked institution was University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (USA) with 8 articles. Regarding subspecialty of the studies, the most frequent studies were “clinical description” with 30 articles, followed by “clinical trial” with 20 articles. ConclusionIn this comprehensive review, we identified and analyzed the 100-most-cited articles on BM research by measuring their citation number, and recognized some of the most important contributions by authors, institutions and countries. Furthermore, our study will help researchers and orthopedic surgeons understand the research trends for BM and as an efficient guide for future BM-related research.
Modified Posterior Short-Segment Pedicle Screw Fixation at The Fracture Level for Treatment of Upper Lumbar Burst Fracture
Authors: Chen Xubiao , Lu Shixin , Yang Songjie , Huang Junshen , Huang Jiajun , Liang Yuwei , Liu Xiangge , Cheng Ziying , Li Yuxi , Huang Lin
Published: December 2020

Introduction Upper lumbar burst fractures (L1or L2) are often followed by bilateral pedicle screw fixation at the level of fracture using posterior short-segment pedicle instrumentation. However, it can aggravate the trauma to the fractured vertebra. We have introduced a modified technique of posterior short-segment instrumentation for the treatment of upper lumbar burst fracture. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiologic results of modified technique versus conventional technique using posterior short-segment pedicle instrumentation in the treatment of upper lumbar burst fractures. Methods The data from 64 patients with upper lumbar burst fracture who had undergone posterior short-segment instrumentation from April 2014 to November 2018 in our clinic were evaluated in the present retrospective study. All the patients were divided into 2 groups according to the surgical technique, including 27 patients (modified order of intraoperative pedicle screw placement) in modified group and 37 patients (conventional order of intraoperative pedicle screw placement) in conventional group. The clinical outcomes and radiological parameters were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, at 3-month follow-up and final follow-up.Results Technical success was achieved in all 64 patients. The operation time of modified group(130.4±32.4min) is significantly longer than conventional group (115.3±26.8min, p<0.05). Significant improvement in the anterior vertebral height(AVH) ratio (97.9%±6.7% in modified group, 94.1%±7.8% in conventional group, p<0.05) was found postoperatively, (100.1%±9.7% in modified group, 89.6%±6.7% in conventional group, p<0.01) at the 3-month follow-up and(98.8%±7.7% in modified group, 90.9%±7.6% in conventional group, p<0.01) at the final follow-up. And post-operative correction of AVH ratio was significantly better in modified group (45.0%) than in conventional group (38.8%, p<0.01). There was 1 case of wound infection in both groups respectively. No instrument loosening or failure, or breakage was observed during follow-up.Conclusions Modified technique and conventional technique of posterior short-segment pedicle screw fixation for upper lumbar burst fractures both provided immediate stability and reduction of post-traumatic segmental kyphosis. In addition, modified technique of posterior short-segment pedicle screw fixation seems to be a promising method for upper lumbar burst fractures because it led to better reduction of fractured vertebra than in patients who received conventional technique.
Mid-Term Results of Bilateral Synchronous Total Hip Arthroplasty for Bone Ankylosis in Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: HAN Lei , Quan Renfu , Pei Zhenle , Cao Guoping , Liu Jingjing , Hu Yungen
Published: December 2020

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) for bony ankylosis is technically challenging in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). This study aimed to determine the mid-term results of bilateral synchronous THA for bony ankylosis in patients with AS. Methods: Nineteen cases of bony ankylosis in patients with AS who received bilateral synchronous THA were included in this study (17 males and 2 females, mean age 49.2 years). Disease duration was 5–38 years (mean 18 years and 6 months). All patients received cementless THA. Intraoperative blood loss, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, and complications were assessed. Harris hip scores evaluated the clinical effect. Results: Patients were followed up for 62–98 months (mean 82.5 months). VAS score decreased from 7.42±0.92 to 2.42±0.83, Harris hip score improved from 21.8±7.2 to 80.3±6.5, and the flexion-extension range of the hip improved from 0°to 142.3±6.2°. One patient with septum bronchiale had a fracture intraoperatively and was treated with wire strapping. One patient had a traction injury of the femoral nerve postoperatively and recovered 1 year after the operation. Loosening and subsidence were not observed in all patients. Heterotopic bone formation was noted in 3 patients. No complications such as joint dislocation, acute infection, and deep vein thrombosis were found. Conclusion：Bilateral synchronous THA was effective for bony ankylosis of the hip in patients with AS because it improved patients’ quality of life, and had satisfactory mid-term outcomes.
Biochar Amendment Alters The Nutrient-Use Strategy of Moso Bamboo Under N Additions
Authors: Gao Jinpei , Li Quan , Zhang Junbo , Cui Kunkai , Wu Zhizhuang , Shi Man , Song Xinzhang
Published: December 2020

Background: While we know that N and biochar fertilizers affect soil nutrient concentrations and plant nutrient uptake, our understanding of how combined applications of N and biochar affect plant nutrient resorption in plantations is largely inadequate. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of N (0, 30, 60, and 90 kg N ha-1 yr-1 or N0, N30, N60, and N90), in combination with biochar (0, 20, and 40 t biochar ha-1 or BC0, BC20, and BC40) on N and P resorption by young and mature bamboo plants as well as the relationship between nutrient resorption and leaf nutrient and soil concentrations. Fresh and senescent leaf samples were collected in July 2016 and March 2017, respectively.Results: Young bamboo showed significantly greater foliar N resorption efficiency (NRE) and P resorption efficiency (PRE) than mature bamboo. N additions alone significantly increased the N resorption proficiency (NRP) and P resorption proficiency (PRP) but decreased the NRE and PRE of both young and mature bamboo. In both the N-free (control) and N addition treatments, biochar amendments significantly reduced the foliar NRE and PRE of young bamboo but had the opposite effect on mature bamboo. Foliar NRE and PRE were significantly correlated with fresh leaf N and P concentrations and soil total P concentration. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that N addition inhibits plant nutrient resorption and alters the nutrient-use strategy of young and mature bamboo from “conservative consumption” to “resource spending.” Furthermore, biochar amendment enhanced the negative priming effect of N addition on nutrient resorption of young bamboo but reduced the negative effect on that of mature bamboo. This study provides new insights into the combined effects of N and biochar additions on the nutrient resorption of Moso bamboo and may assist in improving fertilization strategies in Moso bamboo plantations.
Adrenomedullin 2 improves bone regeneration in type 1 diabetic rats by restoring imbalanced macrophage polarization and impaired osteogenesis
Authors: Wang Feng , Kong Lingchi , Wang Wenbo , Shi Li , Wang Mengwei , Chai Yimin , Xu Jia , Qinglin Kang
Published: December 2020

Background

Both advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and AGE-mediated M1 macrophage polarization contribute to bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) dysfunction, leading to impaired bone regeneration in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Adrenomedullin 2 (ADM2), an endogenous bioactive peptide belonging to the calcitonin gene-related peptide family, exhibits various biological activities associated with the inhibition of inflammation and reduction of insulin resistance. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of ADM2 in AGE-induced macrophage M1 polarization, BMSC dysfunction, and impaired bone regeneration remain poorly understood.
Methods

The polarization of bone marrow-derived macrophages was verified by flow cytometry analysis. In addition, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, ALP activity detection, and alizarin red staining were performed to assess the osteogenesis of BMSCs. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining were used to assess polarization markers, PPARγ/IκBα/NF-κB signaling, and osteogenic markers. In vivo, a distraction osteogenesis (DO) rat model with T1DM was established, and the tibia samples were collected at different time points for radiological, biomechanical, and histological analyses, to verify the effects of ADM2 in terms of bone regeneration and M2 polarization under diabetic conditions.
Results

ADM2 treatment reversed the M1 macrophage polarization induced by AGEs towards the M2 phenotype, which was partially achieved by the PPARγ-mediated inhibition of NF-κB signaling. The PPARγ inhibitor GW9662 significantly attenuated the effects of ADM2. Besides, ADM2 treatment improved the AGE-impaired osteogenic potential of BMSCs in vitro. Furthermore, ADM2 accelerated bone regeneration, as revealed by improved radiological and histological manifestations and biomechanical parameters, accompanied by improved M2 macrophage polarization in diabetic DO rats, and these effects were partially blocked by GW9662 administration.
Conclusions

These results indicate that ADM2 enhances diabetic bone regeneration during DO, by attenuating AGE-induced imbalance in macrophage polarization, partly through PPARγ/IκBα/NF-κB signaling, and improving AGE-impaired osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs simultaneously. These findings reveal that ADM2 may serve as a potential bioactive factor for promoting bone regeneration under diabetic conditions, and imply that management of inflammation and osteogenesis, in parallel, might be a promising therapeutic strategy for diabetic patients during DO treatment.