bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Markers Associated with Antimalarial Drug Resistance and Haemoglobin Genotypes Among Malaria Patients in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Benjamin Gideon Yakusak , Inabo Helen Ileigo , Muhammad Hassan Isa Doko , Olayinka Busayo O
Published: June 2020

Background Malaria is a disease of public health concern in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. The emergence of drug resistance, particularly among P. falciparum strains, has been a major contributor to the global burden of malaria. This research was aimed at detecting genetic markers associated with antimalarial drug resistance and assessing the distribution of haemoglobin genotypes among malaria patients in of Kaduna State, Nigeria.Methods Three hundred (300) blood samples were collected from consenting individuals attending selected hospitals, in the three senatorial districts of Kaduna State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain relevant data from the study participants. The samples were screened for malaria parasites by microscopy and malaria rapid diagnostic test kit. Deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted from one third of the malaria positive samples, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used for detection of the drug resistance genes. Pfcrt, pfmdr1, pfdhfr, pfdhps and pfatpase6 genes were detected at expected amplicon sizes from the malaria positive samples. The pfatpase6 PCR amplicons were sequenced and a phylogenetic tree was created using MEGA X to determine their relatedness to published sequences.Results Pfcrt (80%) had the highest prevalence, followed by pfdhfr (60%), pfmdr1 (36%) and pfdhps (8%). Pfatpase6 was also detected in 73.3% of the samples. The phylogenetic tree showed that all the pfatpase6 gene sequences (both the ones from this study and those published in NCBI Genbank) had the same origin and were closely related. However, the sequences from NCBI Genbank were from one clade; arising from a common ancestor (monophyletic) thus they were more closely related to themselves, than to the pfatpase6 sequences obtained in this study. Of all the malaria positive participants, those with HbAA (73%) haemoglobin genotype had the highest percentage followed by HbAS (23%), HbAC (3%) and HbSS (1).Conclusion We detected Plasmodium falciparum genes associated with drug resistance to commonly used antimalarials in the study area. Expression of these genes could have serious consequences in the treatment of malaria. Persons with HbAS, HbAC and HbSS may enjoy some protection from falciparum malaria than those with HbAA.
Next Generation Exome Sequencing of paediatric Asthma Identifies Rare and Novel Variants in Candidate Genes
Authors: Bogari Neda , Amin Amr A , Rayes Husni H , Abdelmotelb Ahmed , Taher Mohiuddin M , Al-Allaf Faisal A. , Bouazzaoui Abdellatif , O’Gorman Luke , Holloway John W
Published: June 2020

Background: Multiple genes have been implicated to have a role in asthma predisposition by association studies. Paediatric patients often manifest more extensive disease and a particularly severe disease course. It is likely that genetic predisposition could play a more substantial role in this group. This study aims to identify the spectrum of rare and novel variation in known paediatric asthma susceptibility genes using whole exome sequencing-analysis in nine individual cases of childhood onset allergic asthma. Data were processed through an analytical pipeline to align sequence reads, conduct quality checks, identify and annotate variants where patient sequence differed from the reference sequence. Results: DNA samples from the nine children with a history of bronchial asthma diagnosis underwent targeted exome capture and sequencing. For each patient, the entire complement of rare variation within strongly associated candidate genes was catalogued. The analysis showed 21 variants in the subjects, 13 had been previously identified and 8 were novel. Also, amongst of which, nineteen were non-synonymous and 2 were nonsense. With regard to the novel variants, the 2 non-synonymous variants in the PRKG1 gene (PRKG1: p.C519W and PRKG1: p.G520W) were presented in 4 cases, and a non-synonymous variant in the MAVS gene (MAVS: p.A45V) was identified in 3 cases. The variants we found in this study will enrich the variants spectrum and build up the database in the Saudi population. Novel eight variants were identified in the study which provides more evidence in the genetic susceptibility in asthma among Saudi children.Conclusion: Screening a cohort of Saudi children for molecular identification of polymorphisms associated with allergic asthmatic response. These, together with the clinical phenotypes, revealed genetic determinants for paediatric asthma and also we compared to the similar previous reports. Providing a genetic screening map for the molecular genetic determinants of allergic disease in Saudi children, with the goal of reducing the impact of chronic diseases on the health and the economy. We belief that the advanced specified statistical filtration/annotation programs used in this study succeeded to release such results in preliminary study, exploring the genetic map of that disease in Saudi children.
Valgus Knee Braces May Have No Long-term Effect on Pain Improvement and Functional Activity in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Fan Yinuo , Li zhongfeng , Zhang Haitao , Hong Guoju , Wu Zhongshu , Li Weifeng , Chen Lixin , Wu Yunlong , Wei Qiushi , He Wei , Chen Zhenqiu
Published: June 2020

Background:KOA as a high incidence of old age seriously affects the quality of life of the elderly. The valgus knee bracesareaimportantphysical therapy for KOA, but its specific effect is not clear.This meta-analysisis to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of valgus knee braces on pain and function improvement in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).Methods :A meta-analysis of clinical randomized controlled trials(RCTs) on pain and functional changes in patients with KOA after using valgus knee braces. The search period is from the self-built database to May 2020, and the search range is PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. First, two authors independently screened the literature, formulated inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria, and determined the included literature. The researchers then extracted the interventions and outcome indicators of included literature, and assessed the risk of bias through Cochrane Handbook 5.0.1. Finally, Revman5.3 was used for data analysis.Results :A total of 10 articles were included in this study, including 739 patients. 8 articles related to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score, the results showed that RR = -0.29, 95% CI [-0.73, 0.15], P = 0.20; There were 4 articles on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) function score, the results showed that RR = -0.15, 95% CI [-0.41,0.11], P = 0.26; Two articles related to the impact of Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) score, the results showed that RR = 0.58, 95% CI [-4.25, 5.42], P = 0.81; 3articles were related to KOOS activities of daily living (KOOS-ADL) score, the results showed that RR = 0.04, 95% CI [-0.62,0.69], P = 0.91.These results indicated that the valgus knee braces have no statistically significant in pain and functional activity improvement of patients with KOA. The subgroup analysis showed that the follow-up time was the source of the heterogeneity of the VAS pain score. Conclusion :The current evidence suggests that valgus knee braces may not effectively improve pain symptom and functional activity in KOA patients in the long-term, but only benefit KOA patients in the short-term.
Effects of long-term and brain-wide colonization of peripheral bone-marrow derived myeloid cells in the CNS
Authors: Hohsfield Lindsay A. , Najafi Allison R. , Ghorbanian Yasamine , Soni Neelakshi , Hingco Edna E. , Kim Sung Jin , Jue Ayer Darling , Swarup Vivek , Inlay Mathew A. , Green Kim
Published: June 2020

Background
Microglia, the primary resident myeloid cells of brain, play critical roles in immune defense by maintaining tissue homeostasis and responding to injury or disease. However, microglial activation and dysfunction has been implicated in a number of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, thus developing tools to manipulate and replace these myeloid cells in CNS is of therapeutic interest.
Methods
Using whole body irradiation, bone marrow transplant, and colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibition, we achieve long-term and brain-wide (~ 80%) engraftment and colonization of peripheral bone marrow-derived myeloid cells (i.e. monocytes) in the brain parenchyma and evaluated the long-term effects of their colonization in the CNS.
Results
Here, we identify a monocyte signature that includes an upregulation in Ccr1, Ms4a6b, Ms4a6c, Ms4a7, Apobec1, Lyz2, Mrc1, Tmem221, Tlr8, Lilrb4a, Msr1, Nnt, and Wdfy1, and a downregulation of Siglech, Slc2a5, and Ccl21a/b. We demonstrate that irradiation and long-term (~ 6 months) engraftment of the CNS by monocytes induces brain-region dependent alterations in transcription profiles, astrocytes, neuronal structures, including synaptic components, and cognition. Although our results show that microglial replacement with peripheral derived myeloid cells is feasible and that irradiation-induced changes can be reversed by the replacement of microglia with monocytes in the hippocampus, we also observe that brain-wide engraftment of peripheral myeloid cells (relying on irradiation) can result in cognitive and synaptic deficits.
Conclusions
These findings provide insight into better understanding the role and complexity of myeloid cells in the brain, including their regulation of other CNS cells and functional outcomes.
Microbial Predominance and Antimicrobial Resistance in a Tertiary Hospital: A Six-year Retrospective study from Outpatients and Patients Visiting the Emergency Department
Authors: Wang CaiFeng , Li Wen , Gao Juanjuan , Zhang Dancheng , Li Yali , Li Fang , Lei Jine
Published: June 2020

Objective: To assessing the characteristics of of microbial species and the antimicrobial resistance in a Tertiary Hospital with 49 outpatient clinics and emergency department in Northwestern China, of six years. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using HIS database of a tertiary hospital between the full-year period of 2013 and 2018. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were conducted by automated systems and/or the Kary-Bauer disc diffusion method. Data were analyzed using the WHONET 5.6 software. The Cochran–Armitage test was used to study the trends over the period. Results: A total of 19,028 specimens were submitted for the laboratory tests of microbiology. Among 49 units, only Emergency Department and Kidney Transplantation Clinic with the number of submission showed a significant increase annually (P<0.001). A total of 3,849 non-repetitive isolates were identified, covering more than 200 species, of which gram-positive cocci accounted for 46.4% and gram-negative bacilli 45.3%. The methicillin-resistant rates of S. aureus and S. epidermidis were 25.1% and 74.6%, respectively. The isolates of 60.9% of E. coli and 33.5% of K. pneumonia contained extended spectrum β lactamases. Moreover, there were no Staphylococci and Enterococci resistant to linezolid, vancomycin and tigecycline. In addition, the percentages of E. coli, K. pneumonia and P. aeruginosa isolates resistant to carbapenems were low (0.0%, 1.1% and 18.7%, respectively). Conclusion: Vancomycin, linezolid and tigecycline are among the most effective treatment for outpatients with gram-positive infection. Carbapenems are among the most effective for gram-negative infection. There is no significant annual increase of common multidrug resistances.
Postnatal inactivation of Shank3 expression is insufficient to produce behavioral phenotypes associated with germline deficiency
Authors: Hulbert Samuel William , Yan Haidun , Wang Xiaoming , Bey Alexandra L. , Lin Mary S. , Jiang Yong-hui
Published: June 2020

Background: The developmental origins of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) remain largely unknown. To begin to answer this question, a few studies have implemented conditional gene expression technology to induce or rescue ASD-causing mutations at different times during mouse development. Methods: In the current study, we crossed a ubiquitously-expressed inducible Cre line with mice containing loxP sites surrounding Shank3 exons 4-22 (Shank3 e4-22flox). We then delivered tamoxifen to determine the effects of disrupting Shank3 expression during two different time periods in development. Results: We found that reducing Shank3 expression in fully developed mice had minimal effects on behaviors that are characteristic of the conventional knockout mice. Similarly, disrupting Shank3 expression during an earlier time period (postnatal day 10-21) did not induce behaviors associated with germline deficiency. However, we observed differences in electrophysiological phenotypes for the two groups of conditional knockout mice. Conclusions: Because inducing mutations in adult mice or during early postnatal development is insufficient to cause ASD-like behaviors, Shank3 may play a role even earlier in development, but limited efficiency of the disruption could have contributed to our negative results. We also report considerable mortality when delivering tamoxifen across several different routes of administration, bringing further attention to caution the use of this type of conditional gene expression technology in future studies.
Polyporus Polysaccharide Regulates Proliferation, Apoptosis and Migration of Bladder Cancer Cells by Polarizing Macrophages to M1 Subtype in Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Jia Wenyu , Luo Siwan , Lai Gena , Li Shiqi , Huo Shuai , Li Meifang , Zeng Xing
Published: June 2020

BackgroundPolyporus polysaccharide, an active ingredient of traditional Chinese medicinal Polyporus umbellatus, has multiple biological functions, such as anti-cancer, immune-regulating and hepatoprotective activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of PPS activated macrophages in the treatment of bladder cancer.Methods100ng/mL Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) was used to induce THP-1 human leukemic cells as a macrophage model. Flow cytometry was used to detect the expression of CD14 and CD68 to verify the establishment of macrophage model. After that, Macrophages derived from THP-1 were treated with different concentrations of PPS (1,10 and 100ug/mL). Flow cytometry and RT-PCR were used to detected the expression of CD16, CD23, CD86, CD40 and interleukin (IL)-Iβ, INOS, IL-6 mRNA. ELISA was used to test the change of IL-1β in macrophage after the treatment with PPS. The conditioned medium from PPS-polarized macrophages was used to detect the effect of activated macrophages on bladder cancer. MTT assay, 5-ethynyl-2¢-deoxyuridine assay, flow cytometry, Transwell assay, and Western blot analysis were used to detect the effects of polarized macrophages on the viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of bladder cancer cells. Western blot was also used to analysis the change of JAK2/NF-κB pathway protein.ResultsPPS promoted the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, such as IL-Iβ and IL-6, and surface molecules CD86, CD16, CD23, and CD40 in macrophages and then polarized macrophages to M1 type. The results demonstrated that activated macrophages inhibited the proliferation of bladder cancer cells, regulated their apoptosis, and inhibited migration and epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT). JAK2/NF-κB pathways were downregulated in the anti-bladder cancer process of activated macrophages. ConclusionThe findings indicated that PPS inhibited the proliferation and progression of bladder cancer by the polarization of macrophages to M1 type, and the JAK2/NF-κB pathway was involved in the anti-tumor process of bladder cancer.
Application of Seismic Multi-Attribute Inversion Based on Wireless Network Sensor in Dongying Delta Foreset
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Wang Cui
Published: June 2020

Seismic attributes, which are extracted from seismic information, are physical indexes used specificallyfor the measurement of geometric, dynamic, or statistical characteristics of seismic data. Current methods for seismic multi-attribute inversion include linear and nonlinear methods. By adopting the wireless module of NFC24l01, combined with the seismic data acquisition sensor, constitutes an intelligent network sensor, and then it sends the collected data to the topmost machine for analysis. Methods for the nonlinear inversion of seismic multi-attributes usually employ tools such as neural networks and support vector machines (SVMs)for mapping. Hence, inversion results obtained via nonlinear methodsare more accurate than those obtained via linear methods. In this work, with spontaneous-potential (SP) curves as the objective of nonlinear inversion, an optimized seismic attribute combination for the inversion of SP curves was identified, and the nonlinear inversion of seismic multi-attributes was achieved via the use of a deep neural network (DNN) to obtain 3D SP data. Finally, the foresetting process of a sand body of the intermediate section in Member 3 of the Shahejie Formation in the Dongying Delta was illustrated via the horizon slice of the SP data.
Psychological Distress and Its Associated Risks Among People Who Use Drugs in Cambodia
Authors: Saing Chan Hang , Prem Kiesha , Uk Ponha , Chann Navy , Chhoun Pheak , Mun Phalkun , Tuot Sovannary , Yi Siyan
Published: June 2020

Background: People who use drugs are at a disproportionately higher risk of mental disorders as a consequence of prolonged exposures to social and psychological issues. However, studies on mental health among people who use drugs in resource-constrained countries are scarce. This study sheds lights on the prevalence and correlates of psychological distress among people who use drugs in Cambodia.Methods: This national survey was conducted in 12 provinces in 2017 using the Respondent Driven Sampling method. A structured questionnaire was used for face-to-face interviews. Psychological distress was measured using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). A total score of GHQ-12 > 2 indicated high psychological distress. A multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to examine factors associated with psychological distress.Results: This study included 1677 people who use drugs who had an average age of 28.6 years (SD = 7.8). Of the total sample, 41.9% had high psychological distress – 49.7% in women and 37.3% in men. In the regression model, the odds of having high psychological distress was significantly higher among participants who were 25–34 years old (AOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.01–1.70) and 35 years and above (AOR 1.68, 95% CI 1.19–2.35), had been to a drug rehabilitation center (AOR 2.06, 95% CI 1.48–2.86), had been insulted by family members (AOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.62–2.70), and had been sexually harassed/abused by someone (AOR 1.80, 95% CI 1.38–2.36). The odds of having high psychological distress was significantly lower among participants who were male (AOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.41–0.69), lived in own dwelling (AOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.41–0.77), reported injecting as the mode of first drug use (AOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.34–0.91), and had someone taking care of when getting sick when they were growing up (AOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.47–0.99).Conclusions: This study documents a high prevalence of psychological distress among people who use drugs in Cambodia. Older people who use drugs and those in more vulnerable subpopulations were more likely to exhibit a higher level of psychological distress. Interventions that attempt to address mental health issues among people who use drugs should be gender- and age-sensitive and target more marginalized subpopulations.
Sulfasalazine Modifies Metabolic Profiles and Enhances Cisplatin Chemosensitivity on Cholangiocarcinoma Cells in in vitro and in vivo models
Authors: Thanee Malinee , Padthaisong Sureerat , Suksawat Manida , Dokduang Hasaya , Phetcharaburanin Jutarop , Klanrit Poramate , Titapun Attapol , Namwat Nisana , ngiamwibool Prakasit Sa- , Khuntikeo Narong , Saya Hideyuki , Loilome Watcharin
Published: June 2020

Background: Sulfasalazine (SSZ) is widely known as an xCT inhibitor suppressing CD44v9 expressed cancer stem like cells (CSCs) being related to redox regulation. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) has a high recurrence rate and no effective chemotherapy. A recent report revealed high levels of CD44v9 positive cells in CCA patients. Therefore, a combination of drugs could prove a suitable strategy for CCA treatment via individual metabolic profiling. Methods: We examined the effect of xCT-targeted CD44v9-CSCs using sulfasalazine combined with cisplatin (CIS) or gemcitabine in CCA in vitro and in vivo model and did NMR-based metabolomics of xenograft mice tumor tissues. Results: Our findings suggest that combined SSZ and CIS leads to a higher inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of cell death than CIS alone in both in vitro and in vivo models. Xenograft mice showed that the CD44v9-CSC marker and CK-19-CCA proliferative marker were reduced in the combination treatment. Interestingly, different metabolic signatures and the significant metabolites were observed in the drug treated group compared with the control group that revealed the cancer suppression mechanisms. Conclusions: Taken together, SSZ could improve CCA therapy by sensitization to CIS through killing CD44v9-positive cells and modifying the metabolic pathways, in particular tryptophan degradation (i.e. kynurenine pathway, serotonin pathway) and nucleic acid metabolism.
Mixed Type of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection: Outcomes and Novel Classification
Authors: xiang ming , Wu Chun , Pan Zhengxia , Wang Quan , Xi Linyun
Published: June 2020

PurposeTo summarize the diagnosis and treatment of 13 patients with mixed-type total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) and propose a novel classification for mixed TAPVC.MethodsA retrospective review of 13 patients with mixed TAPVC undergoing repair at a single institution was conducted between January 2000 and November 2019. The diagnosis of mixed-type TAPVC was made in all patients using echocardiography combined with computed tomography angiography. According to the mixed TAPVC anatomy, there were 3 patients with type I TAPVC (2+2 veins), 10 patients with type II TAPVC (3+1 veins) and no patients with type III TAPVC. Correspondingly, there was 1 patient with the “SVC+VV” subtype, 2 patients with the “CS+C” subtype, 8 patients with the “CS+VV” subtype, 1 patient with the “CS+SVC” subtype and 1 patient with the “RA+SVC” subtype according to our classification system. All patients underwent cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.ResultsThe median weight at surgery was 4.6±1.0 kg (3.4-7.3 kg), and the median age at surgery was 96.2±81.2 days (10-242 days). The median cardiopulmonary bypass time was 132.7±25.1 minutes (range, 100 to 190 min). The cross-clamping time was 69.2±14.4 minutes (range, 45 to 88 min). The hospital mortality rate was 7.7% (1 of 13), with late mortality occurring in 1 patient because of pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) 7 months after surgery. The average follow-up after surgery was 3.4 ± 2.2 years (range, 5 months to 8 years). The survival rates at 3 and 5 years were both 90.9% ± 8.7% (95% CI: 73.8%-108%). All remaining surviving patients were asymptomatic.ConclusionMixed TAPVC can be repaired with good results in children and can be correctly diagnosed with echocardiography combined with computed tomography angiography. The classification system we propose is pragmatic and can guide the surgical approach.
Comparison of the Shear bonding Strength of ION-Z GIC to a Resin Composite Using Different Adhesive Systems: RCT Study
Authors: Lala Sana , Lazkani Thuraya
Published: June 2020

Background:In restorative dentistry we usually use Sandwich Technique for posterior restorations where GIC is placed below and a resin composite is placed over it. The bonding strength between these two materials are low. We are looking for the best adhesive system to put it in between. We think that the self-etching bond will give the best bonding strength between them whereas total etch will give lower bonding strength than self-etching system. Methods:ION-Z GIC was bonded to resin composite by using two different bonding agents. The thirty specimens used were prepared by using acrylic blocks with holes in each hole to retain the ION-Z GIC. The specimens were randomly divided into three groups:Group I: Control group.Group II: Total-etch adhesive was applied and cured over ION-Z GIC.Group III: Self-etch adhesive was applied and cured.The composite resin placed over the ION-Z GIC and cured. The shear bond strength was measured by shearing of the bonded specimens on Universal Testing Machine (Model 114) using speed of 0.1mm / minute. The reading was tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA and Tukey's test.Results:The test showed statistically significant difference between Group III and Group I and between Group III and Group II. Group III had the highest shear bonding strength.Conclusion:Self-etch adhesive agent produces have better shear bond strength to ION-Z than total-etch adhesive and to the group without any bonding agent.
Security and Efficiency of Percutaneous Microwave Ablation using Combined Computed Tomography and Ultrasound-Guided Imaging in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective Study
Authors: Zhao Wenpeng , Guo Jiang , Li Honglu , Cai Liang , Duan Youjia , Hou Xiaopu , Du Hongliu , Shao Xihong , Diao Zhenying , Li Changqing
Published: June 2020

Background: We prospectively evaluated the security and efficiency of percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) using combined computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound (US)-guided imaging in patients with BCLC-A1-3 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) given that they have shortcomings when used alone.Methods: We included 88 consecutive patients with single HCC who were treated with transcatheter hepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE). The patients were divided into 3 groups at random by using draw lots 1 week after TACE. The combination group (34 patients) received MWA under the guidance of CT and US, while the single group (CT group, 30 patients; US group, 24 patients) received MWA under the guidance of CT or US alone. Contrast-enhanced MRI or CT scans were performed in all patients 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure. The study endpoints included the treatment time, puncture time, local recurrence rate, and adverse events.Results: The median diameter of the lesions was 3.1 (1.5-4.2) cm. The median treatment time was 38.6 (30-45) min and 36.7 (30-47) min in the combination group and US group, respectively. The median puncture number was 1.2 (1-2) times and 1.1 (1-2) times, respectively. Both were significantly less than in the CT group (45.8 min and 4.2 times). The local recurrence rate was 5.9% in the combination group, which was significantly inferior to that in the US group (16.7%). The grade C complication rate in the combination group was 5.9%, while it was 13.3% and 8.3% in the CT group and US group, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the combination group and CT group.Conclusions: Using CT- and US-guided microwave ablation in patients with BCLC-A1-3 hepatocellular carcinoma appeared to be much better in terms of security and efficiency than the use of microwave ablation under the guidance of CT or US alone.
Deep Post-GWAS Analysis Identifies Potential Risk Genes and Causal Variants for Alzheimer’s Disease, Providing New Insights Into Its Disease Mechanisms
Authors: WANG ZHEN , Zhang Quanwei , Lin Jhih-Rong , Jabalameli M.Reza , Mitra Joydeep , Nguyen Nha , Zhang Zhengdong
Published: June 2020

Background:Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a genetically complex, multifactorial neurodegenerative disease. It affects more than 45 million people worldwide and currently remains untreatable. Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified many AD-associated common variants, only about 25 genes are currently known to affect the risk of developing AD, despite its highly polygenic nature. Moreover, the causal variants underlying GWAS AD-association signals remain unknown.Methods:We developed a computational pipeline that integrates 936 AD-associated SNPs, linkage disequilibrium and genomic data from multiple sources – e.g., disease genes databases, functional annotation of genetic variants, GTEx, and the 1000 Genomes Project – to predict both AD risk genes and their causal variants.Results:We identified 342 putative AD risk genes in 203 risk regions spanning 502 AD-associated common variants. 246 AD risk genes have not been identified as AD risk genes by previous GWAS, and 115 of them are outside the risk regions, likely under the regulation of transcriptional regulatory elements contained therein. Even more significantly, for 109 AD risk genes, we predicted 150 causal variants, of both coding and regulatory (in promoters or enhancers) types, and 85 (57%)of them are supported by functional annotation. In-depth functional analyses showed that AD risk genes were overrepresented in AD-related pathways or GO terms – e.g., the complement and coagulation cascade andphosphorylation and activation of immune response – and their expression was relatively enriched in microglia, endothelia, and pericytes of the human brain. We found nine AD risk genes – e.g., IL1RAP, PMAIP1, LAMTOR4 – as predictors for the prognosis of AD survival and genes such as ARL6IP5with altered network connectivity between AD patients and normal individuals involved in AD progressionConclusions: Our findings provide novel biological insights into the genetic architecture, expression profiles, functional pathways involved in the AD etiology, and open new strategies for developing therapeutics targeting AD risk genes or causal variants to influence AD pathogenesis.
Treatment of Probable Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada with Single Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide
Authors: Kalavar Meghana , Patel Nimesh A , Al-Khersan Hasenin , Ale Anibal , Yannuzzi Nicolas A , Swaminathan Swarup S , Albini Thomas A
Published: June 2020

Background A 36-year-old woman with a history of poorly controlled diabetes was diagnosed with probable Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH). We are reporting the use of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (0.4 mg) to both eyes to successfully treat the ocular manifestations of VKH.Findings Nine days after injection, subretinal fluid in the right eye improved and 13 days later, the serous detachment had almost completely resolved. One month after injections, both the right and left eye showed decreased leakage and fewer punctate lesions on fluorescein angiography. Ocular examination remained stable other than development of ocular hypertension bilaterally, which was treated with topical hypertensive drops. Two years later, patient developed a cataract in the right eye, for which the patient underwent phacoemulsification. Three years after treatment, visual acuity remains 20/20 while imaging studies and bilateral full field electroretinogram remained normal.Conclusion Intravitreal steroids can be considered as treatment in VKH in situations where systemic corticosteroids are contraindicated, such as patients with a history of poorly controlled diabetes. Complications of local steroids need to be carefully considered, even after a single injection. In some patients short-term treatment of VKH with local corticosteroid may result in long-term visual stability.
Quality of life in patients with nasal obstruction after septoplasty: a single institution prospective observational study
Authors: Dabrowska-Bien Justyna , Skarzynski Henryk , Gorski Sebastian Filip , Skarzynski Piotr Henryk
Published: June 2020

Background

Nasal obstruction is a common symptom in otorhinolaryngological practice. It can impact significantly on the individual’s quality of life. The primary goal of the study was to evaluate quality of life after septoplasty in adults with nasal obstruction. A secondary goal was to assess the effectiveness of septoplasty.
Methods

This was a single institution prospective observational study. Patients had experienced septal deviation and symptomatic nasal obstruction with no benefit from medical treatment. There were 51 patients who completed the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE-POL) scale as well as a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before undergoing septoplasty, 3 months later, and finally 7 months after surgery. Patients evaluated changes in their nasal obstruction and changes in their quality of life using the Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI-S).
Results

There was significant improvement in nasal obstruction after septoplasty. Before septoplasty the mean score on NOSE was 60.3 ± 20.4; 3 months after surgery it was 32.9 ± 16.8; and 7 months after surgery it was 39.6 ± 33.2. VAS results also proved a significant enhancement in nasal obstruction after septoplasty. Patients reported an improvement in nasal obstruction as well as a positive change in quality of life, confirming the effectiveness of septoplasty.
Conclusions

In patients with deformed septum, septoplasty contributes to high satisfaction of the patient and a compelling improvement in disease-specific quality of life. The NOSE-POL questionnaire is a useful tool for measuring the outcomes of this procedure.
Clinical Practice Guidelines of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine for Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19): Protocol of a Systematic Review
Authors: Li Yuxi , Li Juan , Zhong Dongling , Zhang Yue , Zhang Yonggang , Guo Yan , Clarke Mike , Jin Rongjiang
Published: June 2020

Background: The World Health Organization declared on 11 March 2020 that thespread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) had escalated from epidemic into pandemic. As the initial outbreak area, China has taken multiple active measures to deal with the epidemic. Updated versions of diagnosis and treatment guideline for novel coronavirus (COVID-19)patients have been issued, and traditional Chinese herbal medicine has been recommended as a treatment.Methods: In this systematic review, we will search for guidelines, expert consensuses and policy documents published since December 2019 in electronic databases and on websites of governments or organizations. Eligible documents will be independently selected, and relevant data will be independently extracted by two reviewers. We will also independently evaluate the methodological quality and reporting quality of the included guidelines, using the Appraisal of Guidelines for REsearch& Evaluation (AGREE) II tool and Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in healthcare (RIGHT) statement, respectively. Any discrepancies will be discussed and resolved through discussion among the reviewers. We will use the extracted information to summarize their recommendationsfor traditional Chinese herbal formulae and Chinese patent medicine for COVID-19 patients, and to summarize the strength and quality of these recommendations with reference to the findings from the AGREE II and RIGHT tools.Discussion: This review will summarize the recommendations in current clinical practice guidelines andprovide insight into the implementation strategies for traditional Chinese herbal medicine in COVID-19 patients. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020179205
Azole-acridine hybrids as potential enzymatic inhibitors of coronavirus-2 main protease and RNA polymerase by molecular modeling strategy
Authors: Rono Charles K. , Makhubela Banothile C.E.
Published: June 2020

SARS-CoV-2 has been identified as the cause of the current outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). As part of the efforts to develop potential drugs with promise for clinical use, a molecular docking study on azole (triazole and pyrazole) based molecules on the main protease Mpro and RNA polymerase as possible inhibitors that could be elected for further experimental bioassays. Autodock has been employed to identify azole derivatives 1-6 preferred conformations in the active site of the enzyme and to estimate their binding affinities to the protease and RNA polymerase targets. From the molecular docking strategy, these new azole compounds though nonpeptides in nature display possible inhibition of Mpro activity with comparable affinities (-4.7 kcal/mol to -6.5 kcal/mol) to the recently reported peptide-like inhibitors such as α-ketoamide inhibitor 13b (-5.0 k/cal/mol). They also exhibit improved binding affinities to RNA polymerase (-6.3 to -7.1 kcal/mol) comparable to remdesivir (-6.6 kcal/mol). Based on the observed binding energies, these compounds may possess anti-coronavirus bioactivity through inhibition of the virus main protease as well as RNA polymerase activities in living cells.
Can Hyperperfusion of Nonaerated Lung Explain COVID-19 Hypoxia?
Authors: Herrmann Jacob , Mori Vitor , Bates Jason H.T. , Suki Béla
Published: June 2020

Early stages of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have been associated with ‘silent hypoxia’ and poor oxygenation despite relatively small fractions of afflicted lung. Although it has been speculated that such paradoxical findings may be explained by impairment of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in infected lungs regions, no studies have confirmed this hypothesis nor determined whether such extreme degrees of perfusion redistribution are physiologically plausible. Here, we present a mathematical model which provides evidence that the extreme amount of pulmonary shunt observed in patients with early COVID-19 is not plausible without hyperperfusion of the relatively small fraction of injured lung, with three-fold increases in regional perfusion to afflicted regions. Although underlying perfusion heterogeneity (e.g., due to gravity or pulmonary emboli) exacerbated existing shunt in the model, the reported severity of hypoxia in early COVID-19 patients could not be replicated without considerable reduction of vascular resistance in nonoxygenated regions.
ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITIES DURING A PANDEMIC PERIOD IN THE SPHERE OF CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Škorupová Michaela
Published: June 2020

Taking a broad-based view on the global health crisis, this paper examines the feasibility of cultural sector reaction on radical changes on an unexpected situation with an unknown deadline.

The paper summarized the theoretical basis in public relations, presented by Slovak, Czech and foreign authors that explain the meaning, aims and value of PR in the cultural sector. It refers to three basic goals of PR – building an image, routine publicity and crisis PR. The author emphasizes on signification settings of effective communicative tools in new circumstances between cultural organizations and audiences. The aim of this paper is to analyze, how organizations in the cultural sector in Slovakia use available tools to sustain existing audiences and at the same time how to attract new target groups by digital PR tools during the pandemic period. The objects are examined in the paper - theatres, galleries, and philharmonic orchestra in Slovakia. The methodology of this study will be addressed through analytical study. This will be revealed through discussion, investigation, analysis that can be detected through detailed content interrogation of the objects, elements and structure of the content of this study. The content of this article is intended for other cultural organizations that strategically plan their activities in digital form in the future
Newton’s Laws, G-forces and the impact on the brain
Authors: Evans Vicki
Published: June 2020

The thrill to go fast and push boundaries is something that many seek. From John Stapp’s rocket sled at Edwards Air Force Base in the late 1950’s to todays’ Formula 1 drivers, the “need for speed” is broadcast across TV screens weekly. So too are the horror stories of crashes, many at over 300km/hr. Yet “need for speed” continues. It appears that the higher and faster the rollercoaster, the better. This leads to several questions. How does the brain stand up to speed and G-forces? Do Newton’s Laws still have reference in today’s world?

There has been much attention in the general press on the possibility that high G-force rollercoasters are inducing brain injury in riders. However, research does not wholeheartedly support this notion, but rather the risk of brain injury from a rollercoaster is not in the rides, but in the rider – caused by previously undetected brain or neck conditions. That said there is some truth that high G-forces do affect the brain at a chemical and structural level.

This paper will discuss the mechanism of head injury at speed and generally what Newton’s Law means in a neurological setting in todays’ world. Formula 1 racing and rollercoaster rides will be evaluated within a neuroscience context.
Vale Sharryn Byers
Authors: Wallace Lynette
Published: June 2020

The Australasian Neuroscience Nurses Association recently lost a valued member and more importantly a great friend in Sharryn Byers. Sharryn was a long serving member of the association, a passionate Neuroscience nurse, patient and nursing advocate. She was a highly committed ANNA executive member over many years at both federal and state levels and was a proud life member.

Sharryn was more than just a run of the mill member who paid her annual fees. She fell into Neurosurgical nursing early in her career and fell in love with the specialty – a love that never left her.
How privacy may be protected in optional randomized response surveys
Authors: Pal Sanghamitra , Chaudhuri Arijit , Patra Dipika
Published: June 2020

There are materials in literature about how privacy on stigmatizing features like alcoholism, history of tax-evasion, or testing positive in AIDS-related testing may be partially protected by a proper application of randomized response techniques (RRT). The paper demonstrates what amendments are necessary for this approach while applying optional RRTs covering qualitative characteristics, permitting a sampled respondent either to directly reveal sensitive data or choose a randomized response respectively with complementary probabilities. Only a few standard RRTs are illustrated in the text.
A comparison study on a new five-parameter generalized Lindley distribution with its sub-models
Authors: Tharshan Ramajeyam , Wijekoon Pushpakanthie
Published: June 2020

In recent years, modifications of the classical Lindley distribution have been considered by many authors. In this paper, we introduce a new generalization of the Lindley distribution based on a mixture of exponential and gamma distributions with different mixing proportions and compare its performance with its sub-models. The new distribution accommodates the classical Lindley, Quasi Lindley, Two-parameter Lindley, Shanker, Lindley distribution with location parameter, and Three-parameter Lindley distributions as special cases. Various structural properties of the new distribution are discussed and the size-biased and the length-biased are derived. A simulation study is conducted to examine the mean square error for the parameters by means of the method of maximum likelihood. Finally, simulation studies and some real-world data sets are used to illustrate its flexibility in terms of its location, scale and shape parameters.
Application of iterated filtering to stochastic volatility models based on non-Gaussian Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process
Authors: Szczepocki Piotr
Published: June 2020

Barndorff-Nielsen and Shephard (2001) proposed a class of stochastic volatility models in which the volatility follows the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process driven by a positive Levy process without the Gaussian component. The parameter estimation of these models is challenging because the likelihood function is not available in a closed-form expression. A large number of estimation techniques have been proposed, mainly based on Bayesian inference. The main aim of the paper is to present an application of iterated filtering for parameter estimation of such models. Iterated filtering is a method for maximum likelihood inference based on a series of filtering operations, which provide a sequence of parameter estimates that converges to the maximum likelihood estimate. An application to S&P500 index data shows the model perform well and diagnostic plots for iterated filtering ensure convergence iterated filtering to maximum likelihood estimates. Empirical application is accompanied by a simulation study that confirms the validity of the approach in the case of Barndorff-Nielsen and Shephard’s stochastic volatility models.
New linear model for optimal cluster size in cluster sampling
Authors: Shukla Alok Kumar , Yadav Subhash Kumar
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a nonlinear model is proposed for improving the relationship between the size of a cluster and the variance within the cluster. This model describes the most appropriate functional relation between the within-cluster variance and the cluster size. Through this model, we can obtain the optimum size of a cluster and an estimate of the variance between clusters. The proposed model leads to further improvement in the estimation of the optimum size of a cluster, and the formula for the determination of optimum cluster size leads to explicit solution of models.
New Mineral Names
Authors: Belakovskiy Dmitriy I. , Cámara Fernando , Uvarova Yulia
Published: June 2020

In this issue

This New Mineral Names has entries for 6 new minerals, including, beusite-(Ca), graftonite-(Ca), graftonite-(Mn), hyršlite, magnesiobeltrandoite-2N3S, and zincovelesite-6N6S.
Determination of the efficacy of monensin capsule (continuous release capsule) on metabolic parameters in transition dairy cows
Authors: KASAP SEVIM , ERTURK MELIH , MECITOGLU ZAFER , DULGER HUSEYIN , BABAESKI SERDAR , KENNERMAN ENGIN
Published: June 2020

Monensin is an ionophore antibiotic that changes the population of rumen bacteria. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of monensin controlled capsule administered 3 wk before calving on blood metabolites (serum beta-hydroxybutiric acid (BHBA), cholesterol (CHOL), urea, creatinine (CREA), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein (TP), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg+), calcium (Ca++), glucose (GLU) and plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentration) and milk yield in the pre and post-calving term. 50 Holstein-Friesian cows were selected from the same flock. Blood samples were taken 3 weeks before the expected calving date and during weeks 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 post calving. Cows were divided into two group: a study group (Group M, n:40) and a control group (Group C, n: 10). The group M orally received a cylindrical device (Kexxtone, ELANCO Animal Health, Guelph, ON, Canada) and the group C received no treatment. BHBA and NEFA was lower (P˂0,.05) in group M compared with group C in the 6 and 8 week post-calving. GLU was higher (P˂0.05) in group M compared with group C in the 4 week post-calving. Urea was higher (P˂0.05) in group M compared with group C in the 1 week post-calving. There was no statistically difference between two groups (P˂0.05) in milk yields. Although milk yield was similar in both groups, the change in concentration of BHBA, NEFA, GLU and urea showed that monensin CRC could be as a glycogenic precursor.
Interaction of village and school latrines on educational outcomes in India
Authors: Orgill-Meyer Jennifer
Published: June 2020

Research has shown that improved sanitation environments can lead to better educational outcomes. Similarly, there is some evidence that school latrines may also improve school enrollment and attendance, particularly for girls. This paper explores the interaction effect of village-level latrine coverage and school latrines on child educational outcomes. The overall improved sanitation conditions from higher latrine coverage and the presence of school latrines might produce an additive effect and improve educational outcomes even further. Using multiple years of data from the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) in India, this paper shows that there is no evidence of an additive effect. However, across multiple models, village-level latrine coverage is associated with lower school dropout rates and higher test scores, particularly among girls. School latrines do not appear to have a strong positive association with educational outcomes.