bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Analysis of the Outcome of Malaria Case Surveillance Strategies in Sri Lanka in the Prevention of Re-establishment Phase
Authors: Gunasekera W. M. Kumudunayana T. de A. W , Premaratne Risintha , Fernando Deepika , Munaz Muzrif , Piyasena M. G. Y. , Perera Devika , Wickremasinghe Rajitha , Ranaweera K. D. N. Prasad , MENDIS KAMINI NIRMALA
Published: December 2020

BackgroundSri Lanka sustained its malaria-free status by implementing, among other interventions, three core case detection strategies. The outcomes of these strategies - namely Passive Case Detection (PCD) and, under the overall strategy of Active Case Detection (ACD), Reactive Case Detection (RACD) and Proactive Case Detection (PACD) - were analysed in terms of their effectiveness in detecting malaria infections for the period from 2017-2019.MethodsComparisons were made between the surveillance methods and between years, based on data obtained from the national malaria database and individual case reports of malaria patients. The number of blood smears examined microscopically was used as the measure of the volume of tests conducted. The yield from each case detection method was calculated as the proportion of blood smears which were positive for malaria. Within RACD and PACD, the yield of sub categories of travel cohorts and spatial cohorts was ascertained for 2019.Results A total of 158 malaria cases were reported in 2017-2019, during which between 666,325-725,149 blood smears were examined each year: PCD detected 95.6%, with a yield of 16.1 cases per 100,000 blood smears examined, making it the most effective case detection strategy, while RACD and PACD produced a yield of 11.2 and 0.3 respectively. The yield of screening the sub category of travel cohorts was very high for RACD and PACD being 806.5 and 44.9 malaria cases per 100,000 smears respectively. Despite over half of the blood smears examined being obtained by screening spatial cohorts within RACD and PACD, the yield of both was zero over all three years.Conclusions The PCD arm of case surveillance is the most effective, and therefore, has to continue and be further strengthened as the mainstay in malaria surveillance. Focus on travel cohorts within RACD and PACD should be even greater. Screening of spatial cohorts, on a routine basis and solely because people are resident in previously malarious areas, may be wasteful, except in situations where the risk of local transmission is very high, or is imminent.
Leaf Area Index Estimation Model for UAV Image Hyperspectral Data Based on Wavelength Variable Selection and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Zhang Juanjuan , Cheng Tao , Guo Wei , Xu Xin , Ma Xinming , Xie Yimin , Qiao Hongbo
Published: December 2020

Background In order to accurately estimate leaf area index (LAI) of winter wheat by using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) hyperspectral imagery.Methods The UAV hyperspectral imaging data, alternating slice-wise diagonalization (ASD) spectral data, and LAI were simultaneously obtained at main growth stages (jointing stage, booting stage, and filling stage) of various winter wheat varieties under various nitrogen fertilizer treatments.The characteristic bands related to LAI were extracted from UAV hyperspectral data with different algorithms including first derivative (FD), successive projections algorithm (SPA), competitive adaptive reweighed sampling (CARS), and competitive adaptive reweighed sampling combined with successive projections algorithm (CARS_SPA). Furthermore, three modeling machine learning methods including partial least squares regression (PLSR), support vector machine regression (SVR), and extreme gradient boosting (Xgboost) were used to build LAI estimation models.Results Our results show that the correlation coefficient between UAV and ASD hyperspectral data is greater than 0.99, indicating the UAV data can be used for estimation of wheat growth information.The LAI bands selected by using different algorithms were slightly different among the 15 models built in this study. The Xgboost model using nine consecutive characteristic bands selected by CARS_SPA algorithm as input was proved to have the best performance. This model yielded identical results of coefficient of determination (0.89) for both calibration set and validation set, indicating a high accuracy of this model.Conclusions The Xgboost modeling method in combine with CARS_SPA algorithm can reduce input variables and improve the efficiency of model operation. Our results provide reference and technical support for nondestructive and rapid estimation of winter wheat LAI by using UAV.
Discovery and mechanistic characterization of a novel AhR receptor ligand that induces apoptosis in cancer cells
Authors: O'Donnell Edmond , Jang Hyo Sang , Liefwalker Daniel , Kerkvliet Nancy , Kolluri Siva Kumar
Published: December 2020

Background: The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor and a member of the bHLH/PAS (basic Helix-Loop-Helix/Per-Arnt-Sim) family of proteins. The AhR was cloned and characterized for its role in mediating the toxicity of dioxins. Subsequent research has identified AhR’s role in the suppression of cancer cell growth. We hypothesized that that the AhR is a molecular target for therapeutic interventions, and that activation of the AhR by select AhR modulators in cancer cells could have anti-cancer properties including cell death. This study describes the discovery and characterization of a new class of anti-cancer agents targeting the AhR.Methods: We employed two independent small molecule screening approaches to identify novel modulators of the AhR with unique anti-cancer properties. We established the AhR selective effects of a highly selective modulator in cancer cells with or without the AhR expression and identified the mechanism of action of this anti-cancer compound.Results: We report the identification of CGS-15943, uniquely selective AhR modulator, that activates AhR signaling and induces apoptosis in an AhR-dependent manner in liver and breast cancer cell models. Investigation of the downstream signaling pathway of this newly identified modulator revealed novel upregulation of Fas-ligand, which is required for AhR-mediated apoptosis.Conclusions: We identified CGS-15943 as a novel AhR-selective modulator with anti-cancer properties using two parallel and distinct screening strategies. This compound induced AhR-dependent apoptosis in multiple mouse and human liver cancer cells. Our results provide a basis for the development of a new class of anti-cancer therapeutics targeting an underappreciated molecular target, the AhR.
The Motor Neuron Disease Mouse Model hSOD1-G93A Presents a Non-canonical Profile of Senescence Biomarkers in the Spinal Cord
Authors: Torres Pascual , Anerillas Carlos , Encinas Mario , Povedano Monica , Andrés-Benito Pol , Ferrer Isidro , Ayala Victòria , Pamplona Reinald , Portero-Otin Manuel
Published: December 2020

Recent evidence demonstrates a pathological role for senescent cells in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The present study aimed to show senescence mechanisms including senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) in the familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) transgenic mouse model hSOD1-G93A. We evaluated, as senescence biomarkers, the expression of p16 and p21 with reverse-transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), immunofluorescence (IF), and immunohistochemistry (IHC), as well as the senescence-associated β galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity in the lumbar spinal cords (LSC) of this model. As SASP markers, we quantified the mRNA levels of Il1a, Il6, Ifna, and Ifnb. Furthermore, we explored if an alteration of alternative splicing is associated with senescence phenomena in this model. Thus, we quantified the Adipor2 cryptic exon inclusion levels, a specific splicing variant repressed by TAR-DNA binding of 43 kDa (TDP-43), using RT-qPCR. Our results show an atypical senescence-profile in LSC from transgenic mice, increasing p16 and p21 mRNA and protein levels in glial cells with a mostly cytoplasmic pattern, without the canonical increase in SA-beta-gal activity in these cells. Consistent with enhanced SASP, there is an increase in Il1a and Il6 expression. Also, TDP-43 splicing activity is compromised in this ALS model, in a direct relationship with the increase in p16 expression. However, senolytic drug Navitoclax -with reported benefits in Alzheimer and Parkinson disease mouse models - does not alter the present model’s disease progression. Navitoclax neither eliminates cells expressing senescence and nor represses the expression of SASP related genes. Globally, our findings support the existence of a non-canonical profile of senescence biomarkers in the LSC of the ALS model hSOD1-G93A.
TJCYR ameliorates embryo implantation dysfunction through PI3K/Akt/eNOS signalling to improve endometrial receptivity
Authors: Huang Hong-li , Xia Lei , Xia Yan-qiu , Yan Yun-ping , Jiang Zhuo-jun , zhao pei , Dong Li
Published: December 2020

Backgroud: In our clinical practice, we found that Tiao Jing Cu Yun Recipe (TJCYR), which was composed of Dangshen, Danshen, Danggui, Huangqi, Shudihuang, Bajitian and Yinyanghuo, had obviously enhanced the rate of pregnancy in the women with infertility. Although the application effects are desirable and satisfactory, the therapeutic mechanism of TJCYR remains poorly understood. In this study, we evaluated the effect of TJCYR on embryo implantation dysfunction (EID)-induced damage of endometrial receptivity in mice and investigated the mechanisms underlying the effect. Methods: Pregnant mice were randomly divided into six groups: Control, EID only, Progesterone (Prog)+EID, TJCYR-low-dose+EID , TJCYR-medium-dose+EID, TJCYR-high-dose+EID. Mifepristone was injected to make EID model. On the eighth day of pregnancy, the mice were sacrificed and the number of uterus-implanted blastocysts was counted. On the fourth day of pregnancy, the serum was to analyze the level of hormone by radioimmunoassay, the uterus was to analyze morphology by H&E and SEM, the combination of immunofluorescence and western blot were to identify the related proteins. Results: Compared with the EID group, the mice treated with high-dose TJCYR had a greater number of implanted sites, so we choose that dose of TJCYR as treatment in the following study. The mice treatment with TJCYR could significantly enhance the level of P 4 , and inhibite the decrease in the expression of PR that induced by EID. Compared with the EID only, the SEM showed that a marked increase in the number of well-developed pinopodes in the TJCYR treatment group. Except morphological marker, several molecules in relation to pinopodes that could be used as biomarkers. TJCYR abrogated the EID-induced weakened in those biomarkers. Additionally, the vascular density and VEGF were decreased in the EID group, it appeared severe tissue hypoxia, while TJCYR reversed that change. Compared with the control, the p-Akt and p-eNOS were decreased in EID group, accompanied with decline of NO. While TJCYR promoted the activation of Akt and eNOS, to improve the poor microvascular environment of endometrium. Conclusion: TJCYR has therapeutic potential against poor endometrial receptivity via activation of the PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling pathway.
An Easy Method for Identifying 315 Categories of Commonly-Used Chinese Herbal Medicines Based on Automated Image Recognition Using AutoML Platforms
Authors: Chen Wenting , Tong Jiayun , He Rui , Chen Peiting , Chen Zixin , Liu Xiaoli
Published: December 2020

Background: The identification and authentication of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) are directly related to their safety and efficacy in clinical treatment. However, the limited number of qualified professionals with expertise fails to meet the demand of the vast CHMs market. To make the CHMs identification more convenient and accurate, this study aimed at assessing the feasibility of the state-of-art automated machine learning (AutoML) technology in CHMs image recognition.Methods: This study presented an experimental AutoML model built on the one-stop Huawei ModelArts platform instead of a handcrafted neural network. A rich and representative dataset of 31,460 images consisting of 315 categories of commonly-used CHMs was built and used for the model creation. Furthermore, the Huawei ModelArts model was compared with a model built on the Baidu EasyDL platform using the same dataset to investigate their ability to recognize CHMs images. Three professionals were also invited to recognize images of 315 categories of CHMs.Results: During the model evaluation, high accuracies of 99.2% and 98.4% were achieved by ModelArts and EasyDL, respectively. In the subsequent held-out tests, the accuracies of ModelArts and EasyDL models were 91.2% and 91.85%, respectively. Both models performed very well individually and no statistically significant difference was found in model performance between these two platforms. However, the model-training time was only approximately 41 minutes on ModelArts platform but 118 minutes on EasyDL. The mean accuracy of the manual recognition for 315 CHMs was 97.46±1.58%.Conclusion: Results revealed that AutoML technology is a fast and simple approach and has great practical potential in the field of CHMs image recognition. Since the Huawei ModelArts platform requires less training time, we recommend it as a priority.
Effectiveness of Joint 3+1 Malaria Strategy Along China-Myanmar Cross Border Areas
Authors: Lin Zu-rui , Li Shi-gang , Sun Xiao-dong , Guo Xiang-rui , Zheng Zhi , Yang Jie , Pian Hong-ru , Tian Peng , Chen Qi-yan , Sun Xiao-ying , Ding Chun-li , Duan Kai-xia , Chen Hong-wei , Bee Dakhidam Yaw , Zhou Hong-ning
Published: December 2020

Background: Cross-border malaria in Laiza City of Myanmar seriously compromised the achieving goal of malaria elimination in Yingjiang County of China. A pilot project on 3+1 strategy of joint cross-border malaria prevention and control was carried out in building border malaria buffer area in the both sides since 2017; Here, 3 was the three preventive lines in Yingjiang County to strengthen targeted measures of elimination malaria in China and +1 was a defined border area in Laiza City to adopt the integrated measures of malaria control in Myanmar. Methods: A retrospective analysis from 2015 to 2019 was conducted and the descriptive statistics was used to analyze and compare the data of malaria case detection, parasite prevalence and vector surveillance. Results: In +1 area of Myanmar from 2015 to 2019, the average of annual parasite incidence was (59.11±40.73) / 1000 and plasmodium vivax accounted for 96.27 % of total confirmed cases. After the pilot project, the annual parasite incidence, microscopic parasite prevalence rate and density of An. Minimus reduced by 89%,100% and 93.93% respectively, but the submicroscopic parasite prevalence rate was no significant difference between the two surveys (p =0.084). In Yingjiang County of China, neither indigenous nor introduced case was reported and 100% cases were imported from Myanmar since 2017. The average of annual importation rate from 2015 to 2019 was (0.47±0.15)/1000. After the pilot project, it reduced by 53% of whole county, 67% of the first preventive line, 52% of the second preventive line and 36% of the third preventive line respectively. Conclusion: The pilot project on 3+1 strategy has made remarkable effectiveness and a buffer area of border malaria was successfully established between Laiza City of Myanmar and Yingjiang County of China. The combined use and expanded coverage of indoor residual spraying and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) was more effective than only use of LLINs in reducing the transmission of plasmodium vivax caused by An. Minimus. It is necessary to adopt submicroscopic infection interventions to eliminate potential sources of infection in Laiza City of Myanmar.
Characterization of Chromosome Constitution in Three Wheat-Thinopyrum intermedium Amphiploids Revealed Frequent Rearrangement of Alien and Wheat Chromosomes
Authors: Cui Yu , Xing Piyi , Qi Xiaolei , Bao Yinguang , Wang Honggang , Wang Richard R.-C. , Li Xingfeng
Published: December 2020

Background: Thinopyrum intermedium (2n=6x=42) is an important wild perennial Triticeae species exhibiting many potentially favorable traits for wheat improvement. Wheat-Th. intermedium partial amphiploids serve as a bridge to transfer desirable genes from Th. intermedium into common wheat. Results: Three octoploid Trititrigia accessions (TE261-1, TE266-1, and TE346-1) with good resistances to stripe rust, powdery mildew and aphids were selected from hybrid progenies between Th. intermedium and the common wheat variety ‘Yannong 15’ (YN15). Genomic in situ hybridization (GISH), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and multicolor GISH (McGISH) analyses demonstrated that the three octoploid Trititrigia possess 42 wheat chromosomes and 14 Th. intermedium chromosomes. The 14 alien (Th. intermedium) chromosomes belong to a mixed genome consisting of J-, JS- and St-genome chromosomes rather than a single J, JS or St genome. Different types of chromosomal structural variation were also detected in the 1A, 6A, 6B, 2D and 7D chromosomes via FISH, McGISH and molecular marker analysis. The identity of the alien chromosomes and the variationes in the wheat chromosomes in the three Trititrigia octoploids were also different. Conclusions: The wheat-Th. intermedium partial amphiploids possess 14 alien chromosomes which belong to a mixed genome consisting of J-, JS- and St- chromosomes, and 42 wheat chromosomes with different structural variations. These accessions could be used as genetic resources in wheat breeding for the transfer of pest resistance genes from Th. intermedium to common wheat.
Associations of Obesity-metabolic Status With Insulin Resistance and Chronic Inflammation Level: Results From the CNTR Study
Authors: Liao Chunxiao , Gao Wenjing , Cao Weihua , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Wang Shengfeng , Pang Zengchang , Cong Liming , Wang Hua , Wu Xianping , Li Liming
Published: December 2020

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) and inflammation are the potential mechanism linking obesity and cardiometabolic risk. The aim of this work was to examine the joint relations of obesity and metabolic status with IR and chronic inflammation level among Chinese adult twins.Methods: The analyses used data from 1113 adult twins in 4 provinces (Shandong, Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Sichuan) from Chinese National Twin Registry (CNTR) which collected detailed information. Those with 0 or 1 metabolic syndrome (MetS) components excluding waist circumference were considered metabolically healthy, and those with waist circumference≥90 cm in men and ≥85 cm in women as obese. All participants were categorized into four phenotypes: metabolically healthy non-obesity (MHNO), metabolically healthy obesity (MHO), metabolically unhealthy non- obesity (MUNO), metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO). High sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP) was measured to assess underlying inflammation and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated as surrogate measure of insulin resistance. Results: In observational analyses of 1113 individuals (mean [SD] age, 46.6 [12.9] years; 463 obese [41.6%]). 20.3% obese twins were metabolic healthy. Serum HOMA-IR level was higher in MUNO (β=0.42, 95% CI: 0.21–0.64), MHO (β=0.68, 95% CI: 0.36–1.00) and MUO (β=0.69, 95% CI: 0.46–0.91) twins, compared with their MHNO counterparts. The chronic inflammation level, evaluated by hsCRP was similar between MHO and MUO, which differed significantly to metabolic healthy non-obesity (MHNO). Within twin-pair analysis indicated there might exist common genetic influence between HOMA-IR and MHO/MUO phenotype.Conclusions: Among Chinese adult twins, metabolic status were independently associated with higher IR while development of chronic inflammation might closely relate to central obesity. It is necessary for the different risk assessment based on metabolic status in obese population.
Multilevel Factors Impacting Mammography Screening Decisions in the Elderly: A Clinician and Patient Pilot
Authors: Chicaiza Anthony Marcelo , Lopez Katherine , Lin Kenneth W. , Mishori Ranit , Zhang Dongyu , Schoenborn Nancy , Braithwaite Dejana , O'Neill Suzanne C.
Published: December 2020

Background

For women age 75 and older, there is insufficient evidence to recommend routine breast cancer screening, as the benefits may not outweigh harms. The objective of this study was to identify variables that clinicians consider influential when making screening mammography recommendations for these women and to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a patient print intervention designed to support patient decision-making and patient-clinician communication about stopping mammography.
Methods

Primary care clinicians who were part of a practice-based research network and patients aged 74–85 from this network completed surveys online and by phone, respectively.
Results

Twenty-two clinicians (18% response rate) completed the survey. The mean age at which clinicians reported that they would stop recommending screening mammography was 77.14 years. Clinicians were most likely to cite patient comorbidity [86.4%], functional status [77.3%], and cancer family history [63.6%], as well as U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines [81.8%] and new research regarding screening mammography [77.3%] as factors influencing their recommendations. Fourteen patients (70% enrollment rate) completed baseline surveys and received personalized booklets. Eleven (79% retention) completed follow-up surveys, reporting high intervention acceptability. Decreases in perceived breast cancer risk were significant for lifetime perceived risk (M = 26.91 vs. 4.18, p = < 0.01). Cancer worry decreased slightly (M = 1.27 vs. 1.09, p = 0.77).
Conclusions

An intervention that addresses a patients’ cancer risk and comorbidities that aligns with USPSTF guidelines appears feasible and acceptable to patients and aligns with clinicians’ values.
Development, Piloting and Evaluation of an evidence-based informed consent form for total knee arthroplasty (EvAb-Pilot): A protocol for a mixed methods study
Authors: Weise Alina , Lühnen Julia , Bühn Stefanie , Steffen Felicia , Zacher Sandro , Julia Lauberger , Ates Deha Murat , Böhmer Andreas , Rosenau Henning , Steckelberg Anke , Mathes Tim
Published: December 2020

Background: Practitioners frequently use informed consent forms to support the physician-patient communication and the informed consent process. Informed consent for surgery often focuses on risk centered information due to high liability risks for treatment errors. This may affect patients’ anxiety of adverse events and the nocebo effect. This study focuses on the optimization of pre-surgical information on risks and complications, and at the same time reconcile these information with legal requirements. Methods: The development, piloting and evaluation of evidence-based informed consent forms for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and related anesthesia procedures will follow the UK MRC Framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions. Conducting different sub-studies, we will (I) qualitatively explore the information acquisition and decision making processes, (II) develop and pilot test evidence-based informed consent forms on the example of TKA and related anesthesia procedures, (III) conduct a monocentric interrupted time series (ITS) pilot study to evaluate the effects of evidence-based informed consent forms in comparison with standard consent forms and (IV) perform a process evaluation to identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the intervention and to analyze mechanisms of impact.Discussion: The evidence-based and understandable presentation of risks in informed consent forms aims at avoiding distorted risk depiction and strengthening the patients’ competences to correctly assess the risks of undergoing surgery. This might reduce negative expectations and anxiety of adverse events, which in turn might reduce the nocebo effect. At the same time, the practitioners’ acceptance of evidence-based informed consent forms meeting legal requirements could be increased.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04669483. Registered 15 December 2020, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04669483?term=NCT04669483&draw=2&rank=1German Clinical Trials Registry, DRKS00022571. Registered 15 December 2020, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00022571
Effect of enhanced recovery after surgery in the managements of ankle fracture patients: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yao Yuefeng , Li Guoqing , Liu Su , Xiong Ao , Xu Chang , Wang Deli , Zeng Hui
Published: December 2020

Background

Ankle fracture is common and the treatment is embarrassed. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) has been successfully adopted for the improvement of efficacy and quality. However, application of ERAS in ankle fracture patients especially at the early stage is variable and remains to be clarified. We intent to explore the effect of ERAS among ankle fracture patients.
Methods

There were 29 male and 51 female patients aged 41.71 ± 14. 51 years who were consecutively grouped into non-ERAS group (n = 40) and ERAS group (n = 40). Univariate analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were applied to assess the association in outcomes and variables.
Results

AOFAS at post-operative 3 month (PO3M) and post-operative 6 month (PO6M), costs, length of stay (LOS), and pre-operative LOS were verified significantly in univariate analysis. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that ERAS can improve American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) at PO3M (β = 7.06, 95% CI, 4.45–9.65) and PO6M (β = 5.08, 95% CI, 2.35–7.80), reduce costs (β = -6885.13, 95% CI, -12089.40 - -1680.85) and LOS (β = -3.27, 95% CI, -4.97 - -1.57) among ankle fracture patients. With the numbers available, no significant differences were observed (p༞0.05) for the AOFAS at post-operative 12 month (PO12M) and post-operative 24 month (PO24M), complications, or opioids consumption.
Conclusion

We found ERAS is superior to general protocol among proper ankle fracture patients, which can enhance rehabilitation especially at the early stage and improve medical quality and efficiency by reducing costs and LOS. ERAS protocol may have a promising future and worth promoting.
The Clinical Significance of Preoperative Plasma Fibrinogen Levels and Platelet Count in Resectable Colon Cancer
Authors: Kundaktepe Berrin Papila , Papila Cigdem
Published: December 2020

Background and aims: There is still much unknown about the relationship between colon cancer and markers of hemostasis. İn these study, whether or not preoperative platelet (PLT) counts, plasma fibrinogen levels were associated with postoperative lymph node involvement and venous invasion was evaluated in patients of colon cancer.Methods: Eighty patients (mean age: 58.09 years, 37% females, 63% male) were retrospectively included in this study.Results: PLT and fibrinogen values in patients with lymph node and venous invasion negative colon cancer; were significantly lower than patients with positive lymph node (p<0.001, all of them) and venous invasion (p<0.001, all of them). A positive correlation was found between the venous invasion and lymphatic involvement with PLT count and plasma fibrinogen levels (r=0.640, p<0.001; r=0.810, p<0.001, respectively).Conclusion: It was concluded that preoperative PLT count and plasma fibrinogen levels may be useful marker for monitoring postoperative lymph node involvement and venous invasion in patients with colon cancer.
Relatively Reduced Default Mode Network Connectivity in Comparison to The Severity of White Matter Involvement is Associated With Severe Memory Deficits and Poor Cognitive Outcomes in Patients With Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus.
Authors: Kanno Shigenori , Ogawa Kun-ichi , Kikuchi Hiroaki , Toyoshima Masako , Abe Nobuhito , Sato Kazushi , Miyazawa Koichi , Oshima Ryuji , Ohtomo Satoru , Arai Hiroaki , Shibuya Satoshi , Suzuki Kyoko
Published: December 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate whether default mode network (DMN) connectivity and brain white matter integrity at baseline were associated with severe cognitive impairments at baseline and poor cognitive outcomes after shunt placement in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH).Methods: Twenty consecutive patients with iNPH whose symptoms were followed for 6 months after shunt placement and 10 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. DMN connectivity and brain white matter integrity in patients with iNPH at baseline were detected by performing resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging with independent component analysis and by using diffusion weighted imaging with tract-based spatial statistics, respectively. Performance on the neuropsychological tests for memory and executive functions and gait test was assessed in patients with iNPH at baseline and 6 months after shunt placement.Results: The mean DMN connectivity in the iNPH group was significantly reduced compared with that in the HC group and was significantly positively correlated with the scores of the Rey auditory verbal learning test (RAVLT) immediate recall and the frontal assessment battery (FAB). The mean fractional anisotropy of the whole-brain white matter skeleton in the iNPH group was significantly lower than that in the HC group. We divided the patients with iNPH into relatively preserved and reduced DMN connectivity groups using the indexes of DMN connectivity and white matter integrity. The reduced DMN connectivity group showed significantly worse performance on RAVLT at baseline and significantly worse improvement of RAVLT immediate recall and FAB scores compared with the preserved DMN connectivity group. Moreover, the RAVLT immediate score/the FAB score ratio highly distinguished the patients with relatively preserved DMN connectivity from those with relatively reduced DMN connectivity.Conclusions: Our findings indicated that iNPH patients with relatively reduced DMN connectivity in comparison to the severity of brain white matter involvement are associated with severe memory deficits at baseline and poorer cognitive outcomes after shunt placement. In addition, DMN connectivity/brain white matter integrity and RAVLT immediate score/FAB score ratios are useful predictors of poor cognitive outcomes after shunt placement.
Non-Oil Revenue and Economic Growth on major net oil exporters? Evidence from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almarzoqi Raja , MAHMAH Assil EL
Published: December 2020

This research paper attempts to assess the impact of the economic reforms on the fiscal policy adopted recently by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), which aim to increase non-oil revenues and diversify the government income away from oil. To this end, a small-scale macroeconomic model comprising several econometric equations has been estimated using the OLS method over the period 1990-2018, in order to take into account numerous channels through which macroeconomic drivers can affect economic growth for the KSA’s economy. The results show that, on one hand, increasing non-oil revenue has led to a surge in government spending, which contributed, to a lesser extent, to boost total consumption and private investment. However, this continued rise in revenue, through cutting subsidies, implementing VAT and introducing fees and taxes, has on the other hand put more pressure on the private sector and disposable income starting to weaken the investment and consumption. These measures eventually will increase the cost of living as well as the cost of labor, which contradicts the vision 2030 goals to increase the non-oil export. Our finding revealed also that enhancing non-oil revenue would probably not offset its negative side effects, if the government is still aggressive with these types of policy reforms.JEL codes: E62, O40, O53, Q48
Empirical Evaluation of Typical Sparse Fast Fourier Transform Algorithms
Authors: Li Bin , Jiang Zhikang , Chen Jie
Published: December 2020

Computing the Sparse Fast Fourier Transform(sFFT) of a K-sparse signal of size N has emerged as a critical topic for a long time. The sFFT algorithms decrease the runtime and sampling complexity by taking advantage of the signal's inherent characteristics that a large number of signals are sparse in the frequency domain. More than ten sFFT lgorithms have been proposed, which can be classfied into many types according to filter, framework, method of location, method of estimation. In this paper, the technology of these algorithms is completely analyzed in theory. The performance of them is thoroughly tested and verified in practice. The theoretical analysis includes the following contents: five operations of ignal, three methods of frequency bucketization, five methods of location, four methods of estimation, two problems caused by bucketization, three methods to solve these two problems, four algorithmic frameworks. All the above technologies and methods are introduced in detail and examples are given to illustrate the above research. After theoretical research, we make experiments for computing the signals of different SNR, N, K by a standard testing platform and record the run time, percentage of the signal sampled and L0;L1;L2 error with eight different sFFT algorithms. The result of experiments satisfies the inferences obtained in theory.
Ureteral Dissection is a Transient Process Before Ureteral Rupture: A Case Report
Authors: Xia Kun , Wang Rongpin , Shen zhiyan , Zeng Xianchun , Zhang Zhuxue
Published: December 2020

Background: Ureteral dissection（UD）is a rare condition which occurs when injury through the intima and occasionally the media allows entry of urine and separation of the inner and medial ureteral layer just like the formation of aortic dissection. Ureteral rupture (UR) is generally caused by ureteral calculus, operation of ureteral endoscope, trauma, tumors, iatrogenic injury and easy to cause peritonitis, so patients usually show symptoms of peritonitis prior to signs of urinary tract. Ureteral rupture caused by ureteral dissection is rarely reported. Case presentation:21-year-old male and 43-year-old female were both admitted into hospital because of abdominal pain. Enhanced CT and retrograde pyelography showed “double lumen sign” in the right proximal ureter and contrast extravasation in the perinephric gap. The male is dead due to serious condition but the female is in good condition without complication after correct and timely therapy. Conclusions: UD is a transient process viewed by enhanced CT or retrograde pyelography offering a warning sign of UR in order to improve prognosis.
Gains and Losses in Life Expectancy with Care Needs from the Elimination of Diseases in Japan
Authors: Kawado Miyuki , Hashimoto Shuji , Yamada Hiroya , Seko Rumi , Ojima Toshiyuki , Tsuji Ichiro
Published: December 2020

Background: Evaluating the impact of diseases on expected years of life with care needs is important in older populations. We examined gains or losses in expected years with care needs at age 65 years in Japan.Methods: We used Japanese national health statistics data, including care needs, based on long-term care insurance. The number of expected years with and without care needs at age 65 years, after the elimination of five selected diseases in 2010, 2013, and 2016 were calculated using a proposed method.Results: Expected years without care needs at age 65 years increased from 17.15 years in 2010 to 17.82 years in 2016 for men and from 20.24 to 20.74 years for women; expected years with care needs were between 1.70 and 1.73 years for men and between 3.59 and 3.66 years for women. Elimination of malignant neoplasms and heart diseases led to gains in expected years with and without care needs. Elimination of cerebrovascular diseases, arthropathies, and dementia showed gains in expected years without care needs and losses in expected years with care needs. Gains and losses from elimination of dementia expanded each year but those from elimination of other diseases compressed.Conclusions: Our results suggest that the prevention of dementia, cerebrovascular diseases, and arthropathies lead to more expected years without care needs and fewer expected years with care needs. The impact of dementia might increase and that of other diseases might decrease each year.
High Expression of PRMT6 Associated With Prognosis and Immune Infiltration in Glioma
Authors: Yang Yi , Wang Zhenshuang , Long Shengrong , Huang Jinhai , Xu Chengran , Yao Mingze , Li Lun , Li Guangyu
Published: December 2020

Background: Gliomas are characterised by easy invasion of surrounding tissues, high mortality and poor prognosis. Moreover, with the increase of grade, the prognosis of glioma is increasingly poor and not optimistic. Therefore, biological markers for glioma are needed in clinical work, which can be utilized to detect and evaluate the situation and prognosis of glioma patients. Many studies have found that the protein arginine methyltransferase 6 (PRMT6) expression is elevated in various tumors and is associated with patient prognosis. However, the role of PRMT6 in glioma has not been reported or analyzed. Methods: In this study, we used a variety of tumor related databases to analyze the mechanism of PRMT6 in tumors, especially gliomas, from the perspective of bioinformatics, and carried out relevant experimental verification with tumor tissues extracted from patients during surgery. In addition, we analyzed the relationship between PRMT6 expression and immune infiltration and immune-related cells, and discussed the possible mechanisms. We also discussed the role of PRMT6 expression in glioma from the perspectives of mutation, clinical indicators, enrichment analysis, and immunohistochemical results. Results: PRMT6 is significantly differentially expressed in a variety of tumors and is associated with survival and prognosis. Especially in gliomas, the expression of PRMT6 gradually increased with the increase of grade. In addition, PRMT6 can be used as an independent prognostic risk factor in the nomogram and has been verified in a variety of databases. Conclusions: Our results indicate that high expression of PRMT6 is a potential biomarker for predicting glioma prognosis and progression.
Expression Profiles of NOD-Like Receptors and Regulation of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Toxoplasma Gondii-Infected Human Small Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: CHu Jia-Qi , Gao Fei Fei , Wu Weiyun , Li Chunchao , Pan Zhaobin , Sun Jinhui , Wang Hao , Huang Cong , Lee Sang Hyuk , Quan Juan-Hua , Lee Young-Ha
Published: December 2020

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that majorly infects through the oral route. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors (NLRs) play crucial roles in the immune responses generated during the parasitic infection and also drive the inflammatory response against invading parasites. However, little is known about the regulation of NLRs and inflammasome activation in T. gondii-infected human small intestinal epithelial (FHs 74 Int) cells. Methods: FHs 74 Int cells infected with T. gondii were subsequently evaluated for morphological changes, cytotoxicity, expression profiles of NLRs, inflammasome components, caspase-cleaved interleukins (ILs), and the mechanisms of NLRP3 and NLRP6 inflammasome activation. Immunocytochemistry, lactate dehydrogenase assay, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), real-time quantitative RT-PCR, and western blotting techniques were utilized for the analysis purpose. Results: Under normal and T. gondii-infected conditions, members of the NLRs, inflammasome components, and caspase-cleaved ILs were expressed in the FHs Int 74 cells, except for NLRC3, NLRP5, and NLRP9. Among the NLRs, mRNA expression of NOD2, NLRP3, NLRP6, and NAIP1 were significantly increased in T. gondii-infected cells, whereas that of NLRP2, NLRP7, and CIITA mRNAs decreased significantly in a time-dependent manner. In addition, T. gondii infection induced NLRP3, NLRP6 and NLRC4 inflammasome activation and production of IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-33 in FHs 74 Int cells. T. gondii-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation was strongly associated with the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK but not JNK1/2. NLRP6 inflammasome activation was not related to the MAPK pathway in FHs 74 Int cells. Conclusions: This study highlighted the expression profiles of NLRs and unraveled the underlying mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in T. gondii-infected FHs 74 Int cells. These findings may contribute to understanding of the mucosal and innate immune responses induced by the NLRs and inflammasomes during T. gondii infection in FHs 74 Int cells.
Successful treatment of bilateral multiple pulmonary arteriovenous malformations in a patient with brain abscess and severe hypoxemia using a combination of transcatheter embolotherapy and surgical resection: a case report
Authors: Ochi Takahiro , Chiyo Masako , Ito Takamasa , Furumoto Hideharu , Sugiura Toshihiko , Saitoh Yukio
Published: December 2020

Background: A pulmonary arteriovenous malformation is an abnormal dilated blood vessel that makes direct communication between a pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein and can be associated with hypoxemia or neurological complications, including brain abscess and cerebral infarction. Treatment of pulmonary arteriovenous malformation includes surgical resection and transcatheter embolotherapy, however the adaptation of therapies should be considered when a patient is in bad condition.Case presentation: A 51-year-old man was admitted after developing fever, consciousness disorder, and hypoxemia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed a brain abscess. Bilateral pulmonary arteriovenous malformations were found by contrast computed tomography. Because of a family history of PAVM, a history of epistaxis, and the existence of oral mucosa telangiectasia, he was diagnosed with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and brain abscess caused by right-to-left shunt. The brain abscess improved with antibiotic treatment; however, the administration of oxygen did not ameliorate his hypoxemia. His hypoxemia was exacerbated by positive pressure ventilation. Considering his systemic and respiratory condition, we considered surgery to involve a high degree of risk. After controlling his brain abscess and pneumonia, transcatheter embolotherapy was performed. This improved his systemic condition, enabling surgical treatment.Conclusions: This middle-aged patient suffering from brain abscess and severe hypoxemia with multiple pulmonary arteriovenous malformations was successfully treated by a combination of transcatheter embolotherapy and surgery. The adaptation and combination of therapies, as well as the sequence of treatments, should be considered depending on the patient status and lesions.
Risk factors for critical outcome of COVID-19 differ according to location: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Hyung-Jun , Hwang Hyeontaek , Hong Hyunsook , Yim Jae-Joon , Lee Jinwoo
Published: December 2020

Background

The mortality rates of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) differ across the globe. While some risk factors for poor prognosis of the disease are known, regional differences are suspected. We reviewed the risk factors for critical outcomes in extensive number of studies according to the study location.
Methods

We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science literature databases from January 1, 2020 to June 8, 2020. We defined the critical outcome as death, admission to the intensive care unit, or critical type of COVID-19. Candidate variables to predict the critical outcome included patient demographics, underlying medical condition, symptoms, and laboratory findings. Pooled relative risks (RRs) and standardized mean differences were calculated for each variable and were also determined according to the study’s continent.
Results

A total of 80 studies were included from Asia (n = 48), Europe (n = 22), and North America (n = 10). The risk factors for the critical outcome in the overall population included male sex, age, and all inspected underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of dyspnea, anorexia, dizziness, fatigue, and certain laboratory findings were also indicators of the critical outcome. Subgroup analysis was performed according to study location, and we found several discrepancies. Underlying respiratory disease was associated higher risk of the critical outcome in studies from Asia (pooled RR 2.16 [1.60–2.92] and Europe (pooled RR 1.50 [1.32–1.69]), but not North America. Underlying hepatic disease was associated with a higher risk of the critical outcome from Europe (pooled RR 1.34 [1.15–1.56]), but not from Asia and North America. Symptoms of vomiting (pooled RR 2.43 [1.60–3.69]), anorexia (pooled RR 2.38 [1.45–3.91]), dizziness (pooled RR 2.23 [1.51–3.28]), and fatigue (pooled RR 1.92 [1.23–3.02]) were significantly associated with the critical outcome in studies from Asia, but not from Europe and North America. Hemoglobin and platelet count affected patients differently in Asia compared to those in Europe and North America.
Conclusions

There are several discrepancies among risk factors for critical outcomes among patients with COVID-19 according to the location of the infected patient.
Comparative study of hematological and radiological feature of severe/critically ill patients with COVID-19, Influenza A H7N9 and H1N1 pneumonia
Authors: Kong Jindan , Wan Shan , Shi Sensen , Cui Songchao , Zong Xiangping , Wang Jun , Jin Jun , Zhu Mo , Zou Di , Wu Depei , Fu Jianhong
Published: December 2020

Objectives
This study aimed to explore useful clinical indexes for management of severe/critically ill patients with COVID-19, Influenza A H7N9 and H1N1 pneumonia by comparing hematological and radiological characteristics between them.
Methods
Severe/critically ill patients with confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, Influenza A H7N9 and H1N1 pneumonia were retrospectively enrolled. The demographic data, clinical manifestations, hematological parameters, and radiological characteristics of three groups were compared. The influenza A was divided into two groups with/without patient death.
Results
In this study, 16 cases of COVID-19, 10 cases of influenza A (H7N9), and 13 cases of influenza A (H1N1) who met severe/critically ill criteria were included. Compared with COVID-19, the Influenza A (H7N9 and H1N1) groups had relatively more chronic diseases (80% and 92.3% vs 25%, P༜0.05), higher APACHE Ⅱ scores (16.00 ± 8.63 and 15.08 ± 6.24, vs 5.50 ± 2.58, P༜0.05) and higher mortality rates (40% and 46.2% vs 0%, P༜0.05). The hematological finding indicated that Influenza A H7N9 and H1N1 patients had more significant lymphocytopenia (0.59 ± 0.31 × 109/L and 0.56 ± 0.35 × 109/L vs 0.97 ± 0.33 × 109/L, P < 0.05), elevated neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR; 14.67 ± 6.10 and 14.64 ± 10.36 vs 6.29 ± 3.72, P < 0.05) compared to COVID-19. Especially in influenza A patients, NLR was significant different between the patients with or without death. Compared with the H7N9 group, ground glass opacity (GGO) on chest CT was more common in the COVID-19 group (P = 0.028), while pleural effusion was relatively rare (P = 0.001).
Conclusion
Compared to COVID-19, patients with Influenza A (H7N9 and H1N1) had more underlying chronic diseases and higher mortality rates. The NLR can be used as a clinical parameter for the predication of risk stratification and outcome in COVID-19 and Influenza A pneumonia. Manifestations of pleural effusion or GGO in chest CT may be helpful for the identification of different viral pneumonia.