bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (Eras) Program for Elderly Patients With Short-level Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Qiang , Kong Chao , Teng Ze , Li Zhongen , Zhang Sitao , Sun Wenzhi , Feng Mingli , Lu Shibao
Published: June 2020

Background:Degenerative disorders of the lumbar spinedecrease the mobility and quality of life of elderly patients.Lumbar fusion surgery is the primary methodof treating degenerative lumbar spine disorders; however, the surgical stress response associated with major surgery has been linked to pathophysiological changes in the elderly,resulting in undesirable postoperative morbidity, complications, pain, fatigue, and extended convalescence. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) significantly improvedsatisfaction and outcomes in elderly patients(>65 years old) with short-level lumbar fusion.Methods:A total of 192 patients were included, 96 in the ERAS group and 96 case-matched patients in the non-ERAS group.Data including demographic, comorbidity and surgical informationwere collected from electronic medical records. ERAS interventionswere categorisedas preoperative,intraoperative and postoperative. We also evaluated primary outcome,surgicalcomplication, length of stay (LOS), postoperative pain scores and 30-day readmissionrates.Results:There were no statistically significant intergroup differences in regards to demographics, comorbidities、American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade、or the number of fusion levels. There were also no differences between mean surgery time of intraoperative blood loss between the ERAS and non-ERAS groups. In addition, the mean preoperative Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score、Visual Analogue Score (VAS) for the back and legs and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score were not significantly different between the two groups. Overall, ERAS pathway compliance was 92.1%. There were no significant differences inthe number of complicationsor themortality rates between the ERAS and non-ERAS groups. Furthermore, the mean postoperative JOA score、VAS for the back and legs,ODI and readmission ratesscore revealed no significant differencesbetween the groups at 30-day- follow-up point. However, we observed a statistically significant decrease in LOS in the ERAS group (12.30±3.03 of ERAS group versus 15.50±1.88 in non-ERAS group, p=0).Multivariable linear regression showed thatcomorbidities (p=0.023) and implementation of ERAS program (p=0.002) were correlated with prolonged LOS.Multivariable logistic regression showed that no characteristics were associated with complications.Conclusions:This report describes the first ERAS protocol used in elderly patients after short-level lumbar fusion surgery. Our ERAS program is safe and could help decreases LOS in elderly patients with short-level lumbar fusion.
Leprosy physical disabilities in the 100 Million Brazilian Cohort
Authors: Sanchez Mauro Niskier , Nery Joilda Silva , Pescarini Júlia Moreira , Mendes André Alves , Ichihara Maria Yury , Teixeira Camila Silveira Silva , Penna Maria Lúcia Fernandes , Smeeth Liam , Rodrigues Laura Cunha , Barreto Maurício Lima , Brickley Elizabeth B. , Penna Gerson Oliveira
Published: June 2020

Background
Leprosy continues to be an important cause of physical disability in endemic countries such as Brazil. Knowledge of determinants of these events may lead to better control measures, as targeted interventions may mitigate their impact on affected individuals. This study investigated such determinants among the most vulnerable portion of the Brazilian population.
Methods
A large cohort was built from secondary data originated from a national registry of applicants to social benefit programs, spanning the period 2001 to 2015 and including over 114 million individuals. Data were linked to the Leprosy disease notification system utilizing data from 2007 until 2014. Descriptive and bivariate analyses lead to the multivariate analysis using a multinomial logistic regression model with cluster-robust standard errors. Associations were reported as Odds Ratios with their respective 95% confidence intervals
Results
21,565 new leprosy cases were identified among the original cohort members from the study period. Most of the cases (63.1%) had grade zero disability. Grades 1 and 2 represented 21 and 6%, respectively. Factors associated with increasing odds of grades 1 and 2 disability were age over 15 years old (ORs 2,39 and 1,95 respectively), having less schooling (with a clear dose response effect), being a multibacillary patient (ORs 3,5 and 8,22). Protective factors for both grades were being female (ORs 0,81 and 0,61) and living in a high incidence municipality (ORs 0,85 and 0,65).
Conclusions
Worse socioeconomic conditions might act as barriers to early diagnosis, which increases the risk of developing physical disabilities. Early diagnosis is paramount to decrease the incidence of leprosy-related disability, and our findings point to the need for strengthening these actions in non-endemic areas, where cases may be missed when presented at early stages in disease progression. In addition, data linkage proved to be useful in generating evidence for improving policy target at leprosy control in Brazil.
Norovirus GII.P16/GII.2 Strain in Shenzhen, China: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Jing , Jin Miao , Zhang Hailong , Zhu Yanan , Yang Hong , Yao Xiangjie , Chen Long , Meng Jun , Hu Guifang , He Yaqing , Duan Zhaojun
Published: June 2020

Background

Norovirus (NoV) is the main cause of non-bacterial acute gastroenteritis (AGE) outbreaks worldwide. From September 2015 through August 2018, 203 NoV outbreaks with 2,500 patients were reported to the Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Methods

Fecal specimens were collected from the 203 outbreaks and epidemiological data were collected through the AGE outbreak surveillance system in Shenzhen. The genotypes were determined by sequencing analysis. To gain a better understanding of evolutionary characterization of NoV in Shenzhen, the molecular evolution was analyzed by time-scale evolutionary phylogeny and amino acid mutations.
Results

Most of these outbreaks were associated with NoV GII.P16/GII.2 strain (45.3%,92/203) and occurred in school settings (91.6%,186/203). The timescale phylogeny suggested that the GII.P16/GII.2 strain was recombination strain and were still stable. The amino acid mutations suggested that the nonstructural proteins of the recombination strain might play a more significant role than VP1 gene in these GII.P16/GII.2 recombination strain outbreaks.
Conclusions

This study illustrated the characteristics of the molecular epidemiological patterns in Shenzhen, China during September 2015 to August 2018 and provided the evidence that the GII.P16/GII.2 strain was static and the epidemic trend had fade.
Is There a Health Inequality in Gambling Related Harms? A Systematic Review
Authors: Raybould Jodie , Larkin Michael , Tunney Richard
Published: June 2020

Background: Here we present a systematic review of the existing research into gambling harms, in order to determine whether there are differences in the presentation of these across demographic groups such as age, gender, culture, and socioeconomic status, or gambling behaviour categories such as risk severity and play frequency.Primary and Secondary Outcome Measures: Inclusion criteria were: 1) focus on gambling harms; 2) focus on harms to the gambler rather than affected others; 3) discussion of specific listed harms and not just harms in general terms. Exclusion criteria were: 1) research of non-human subjects; 2) not written in English; 3) not an empirical study; 3) not available as a full article.Methods: We conducted a systematic search using the Web of Science and Scopus databases in February 2020. Assessment of quality took place using Standard Quality Assessment Criteria.Results: 56 studies published between 1994 and 2019 met the inclusion criteria. These were categorised into thematic groups for comparison and discussion. There were replicated differences found in groups defined by age, socioeconomic status, education level, ethnicity and culture, risk severity, and gambling behaviours.Conclusion: Harms appear to be dependent on specific social, demographic and environmental conditions that suggests there is a health inequality in gambling related harms. Further investigation is required to develop standardised measurement tools and to understand confounding variables and co-morbidities. With a robust understanding of harms distribution in the population, Primary Care Workers will be better equipped to identify those who are at risk, or who are showing signs of Gambling Disorder, and to target prevention and intervention programmes appropriately.
Efficient and customizable WebGIS system based on edge computing
Authors: he honglei
Published: June 2020

WebGIS currently has a wide range of application requirements and can generate greater economic value. Therefore, there are many units that need to build their own WebGIS system. At present, the way to build a system is usually to purchase professional software and hire professionals to complete the development. Such a construction method requires a high cost, and many of the WebGIS system applications are the same or similar, and repeated construction is also a waste of resources. In order to solve this problem, a WebGIS system based on edge computing is proposed. Comprehensive use of SAAS mode and edge computing methods to solve the needs of users can customize the system. And the system load is reasonably distributed between the server and the browser, which improves the performance of the system. In addition, the system uses edge computing to share map tiles among WebGIS users, reducing the pressure on the server and increasing the speed of use of the WebGIS system. Therefore, the WebGIS system based on edge computing can not only be personalized and customized, but also has good usability and can deal with a large number of visits. After experimental verification, in the case of more than 5 concurrent user requests per second, the system response speed increased by more than 38.6%.
Internal Consistency and Test-retest Reliability of the Visual Memory Associative Test TMA-93
Authors: FRANCO-MACÍAS EMILIO , Rodrigo-Herrero Silvia , Luque-Tirado Andrea , Medina-Rodriguez Manuel , Graciani-Cantisán Eugenia , Maillet Didier , Sánchez-Arjona María Bernal
Published: June 2020

Background: Memory tests focused on binding may be more sensitive to diagnose Alzheimer´s disease (AD) at an early phase. TMA-93 examines binding by pairs of drawings of semantically-related objects. Preliminary validation studies have confirmed good diagnostic accuracy for the test to discriminate between patients with cognitive impairment and healthy controls (HCs) in low-educated populations. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability) of the TMA-93ina clinic setting with a high proportion of individuals with low-educational attainment. Methods.-The study was undertaken in a memory clinic of a university hospital in Southern Spain. The internal consistency of the 10 items that compose the TMA-93 was estimated on a cross-sectional, case-control study. 35 patients with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and 40 healthy controls (HCs) matched by age, gender, and educational attainment were tested by the TMA-93. The participant’s performance on each of the 10 items was scored from 0 to 3, according to the instructions for the test (maximum total score= 30 points). The internal consistency was estimated by Cronbach’s alpha. In addition, “split-half reliability”, by Spearman-Brown coefficient;“corrected item-total correlations”, and item redundancy, by “Cronbach’s alpha if item deleted”, were analyzed. The test-retest reliability for the TMA-93 total score was studied in 51HCstested by the same examiner 2-4 months apart and quantified by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results.-Internal consistency was “optimal” (Cronbach’s alpha=0.936). Split-half reliability was also high (Spearman-Brown coefficient= 0.911). The item-total score correlations were always above 0.660. No item was redundant as Cronbach’s alpha did not increase at deleting anyone. Test-retest reliability was “good” [ICC=0.802 (CI 95%=0.653-0.887)].Conclusion.-The internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the TMA-93 are “good”. In addition to other psychometric properties, these results support the test for examining memory binding,particularly in contexts of low-educational attainment.
Identification and Validation of a Predictive Immune-Related Genes Signature for the Prognosis of Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Rui , Chen Chen , Li Qi , Fu Jialu , Zhang Dong , Li Wenzhi , Geng Zhimin
Published: June 2020

Background: Immune-related genes (IRGs) play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). However, immune signatures have rarely been used to predict prognosis of CCA. The aim of this study was to construct a novel model for CCA to predict survival based on IRGs expression data. Methods: The gene expression profiles and clinical data of CCA patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were integrated to establish and validate prognostic IRG signatures. Differentially expressed immune-related genes were screened. Univariate and multivariate Cox analysis were performed to identify prognostic IRGs, and the risk model that predicts outcomes was constructed. Furthermore, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and Kaplan-Meier curve were plotted to examine predictive accuracy of the model, and a nomogram was constructed based on IRGs signature, combining with other clinical characteristics. Finally, CIBERSORT was used to analyze the association of immune cells infiltration with risk score. Results: We identified that 223 IRGs were signiﬁcantly dysregulated in patients with CCA, among which five IRGs (AVPR1B, CST4, TDGF1, RAET1E and IL9R) were identified as robust indicators for overall survival (OS), and a prognostic model was built based on the IRGs signature. Meanwhile, patients with high risk had worse OS in training and validation cohort, and the area under the ROC was 0.898 and 0.846, respectively. Nomogram demonstrated that immune risk score contributed much more points than other clinicopathological variables, with a C-index of 0.819 (95% CI, 0.727-0.911). Finally, we found that IRGs signature was positively correlated with the proportion of CD8+ T cells, neurophils and T gamma delta, while negatively with that of CD4+ memory resting T cells. Conclusions: We established and validated an effective five IRGs-based prediction model for CCA, which could accurately classify patients into groups with low and high risk of poor prognosis.
Immune-Related LncRNAs as Predictors of Survival in Breast Cancer: A Prognostic Signature
Authors: ma wei , zhao fangkun , yu xinmiao , guan shu , suo huandan , tao zuo , qiu yue , wu yunfei , cao yu , jin feng
Published: June 2020

Background: Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease, this poses challenges for classification and management. Long non-coding RNAs play acrucial role in the breast cancers development and progression, especially in tumor-related immune processes which have become the most rapidly investigated area. Methods: We obtained breast cancer patient samples and corresponding clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Immune-related lncRNAs were screened by co-expression analysis of immune-related genes which were downloaded from the Immunology Database and Analysis Portal (ImmPort). Clinical patient samples were randomly separatedinto training and testing sets. In the training set, univariate Cox regression analysis and LASSO regression were utilized to build a prognostic immune-related lncRNA signature. The signature was validated in the training set, testing set, and whole cohorts by the Kaplan–Meier log-rank test, time-dependent ROC curve analysis, principal component analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Results: A total of 937 immune- related lncRNAs were identified, 15 candidate immune-related lncRNAs were significantly associated with overall survival (OS). Eight of these lncRNAs (OTUD6B-AS1, AL122010.1, AC136475.2, AL161646.1, AC245297.3, LINC00578, LINC01871, AP000442.2) were selected for establishment of the risk prediction model. The OS of patients in the low-risk group was higher than that of patients in the high-risk group( p= 1.215e−06 in the training set; p =0.0069 in the validation set; p =1.233e−07 in whole cohort). The time-dependent ROC curve analysis revealed that the AUCs for OS in the first, eighth, and tenth year were 0.812, 0.81, and 0.857, respectively, in the training set, 0.615, 0.68, 0.655 in the validation set, and 0.725, 0.742, 0.741 in the total cohort. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated the model was a reliable and independent indicator for the prognosis of breast cancer in the training set (HR= 1.432; 95% CI 1.204−1.702, p <0.001), validation set (HR= 1.162; 95% CI 1.004−1.345, p = 0.044), and whole set (HR=1.240; 95% CI 1.128−1.362, p <0.001). GSEA analysis revealed a strong connection between the signature and immune-related biological processes and pathways. Conclusions: We constructed and verified a robust signature of 8 immune-related lncRNAs for the prediction of breast cancer patient survival.
Evaluation Relationship Among Dental Fear, SRP Pain and Periodontal Status Using Periodontitis Stages: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Yeungyeung , Zhang Caimei , Wu Jingyi , Yu Huimin , Xu Duoling , Xie Chengjie
Published: June 2020

Background: The present study used the new classification of periodontitis and validated questionnaires to assess the relationship among dental fear, SRP pain and periodontal status for clinical evaluation.Methods: An amount of 120 periodontitis patients were retrospective analyzed and staged according to the new classification of periodontitis. Scaling and root planning (SRP) was performed and Visual analogue scales (VAS) applied immediately after SRP treatment. Application of questionnaires including Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scales (DAS), Dental Fear Survey (DFS), and the short-form Dental Anxiety Inventory (S-DAI) were adopted at the time of first attendance and consequent visit after 6 months to assess dental fear level. The scores of each dental fear scale and combination scales were recorded. Patients were divided into two categories according to DAS value (low dental fear group: DAS<13; high dental fear group: DAS≥13). The statistical analysis was performed by t-test, chi-square, pearson and spearman correlative analysis to evaluated the relationship and differences among dental fear, SRP pain and periodontal status.Results: Compared to pre-SRP treatment, dental fear level of DFS and combination scales were significantly decreased in post-treatment in all periodontitis stage. There were no statistical significance on dental fear level of S-DAI and DFS between patients pre and post-treatment in periodontitis stage I and II, while statistical significance were shown in stage III and IV. Correlation were statistical significance among dental fear level assessed by DAS, DFS and S-DAI, VAS and periodontitis stages. Significant differences of patient amount were shown between two categories according to DAS.Conclusions: SRP can reduce dental fear level in all periodontitis stages, especially stage III and IV. Correlations exist among periodontal status, dental fear and SRP pain. High dental fear relates to poor periodontal status.
Data quality of the routine health management information system at the primary healthcare facility and district levels in Tanzania
Authors: RUMISHA SUSAN F. , LYIMO EMANUEL P. , MREMI IRENE R. , TUNGU PATRICK K. , MWINGIRA VICTOR S. , MBATA DORIS , MALEKIA SIA E. , JOACHIM CATHERINE , Mboera Leonard
Published: June 2020

Background

Effective planning for disease prevention and control requires accurate, adequately-analysed, interpreted and communicated data. This study assessed the quality of routine Health Management Information System (HMIS) data at healthcare facility (HF) and district levels in Tanzania.
Methods

HMIS tools used at primary health care facilities (dispensary, health centre, hospital) and district office were reviewed to assess their availability, completeness, and accuracy of collected data. The assessment involved seven health service areas namely, Outpatient department, Inpatient department, Antenatal care, Family Planning, Post-natal care, Labour and Delivery and Provider-initiated Testing and Counselling.
Results

A total of 115 HFs in 11 districts were assessed. Registers (availability rate = 91.1%; interquartile range (IQR):66.7%-100%) and report forms (86.9%; IQR:62.2%-100%) were the most utilized tools. There was a limited use of tally-sheets (77.8%; IQR:35.6%-100%). Tools availability at dispensary was 91.1%, health-centre 82.2% and hospital 77.8%, and was poor in urban districts. The availability rate at the district level was 65% (IQR:48%-75%). Reports were highly over-represented in comparison to registers’ records, with large differences observed at HF phase of the data journey and more profound in hospitals. Tool availability and data quality varied by service-areas, indicators, facility level, and districts, however, with a remarkable improvement over the years.
Conclusion

There are high variations and improvements in the tool utilisation and data accuracy at facility and district levels. The routine HMIS is weak and data at district level inaccurately reflects what is available at the HFs. These results highlight the need to design tailored and inter-service strategies for improving data quality.
Outcomes of male circumcision performed by medical doctors and non–doctor health workers in central Uganda
Authors: Matumaini Hope Kibansha , Batte Anthony , Otwombe Kennedy , Lebotsa Emily , Luboga Sam
Published: June 2020

Objective: Task shifting for male circumcision is still a challenge. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of circumcision conducted by doctors compared to non-doctors in Kampala, UgandaResults: In this prospective cohort study, we observed and followed 274 males at 3 health facilities in Kampala, Uganda. Each participant was observed during the circumcision procedure, monitored for 2 hours post-surgery and assessed at 24hours, 3 days and after one week for adverse events. The mean age of the circumcised men was 24.82 (6.36) years. Of the circumcisions, 19.3% (53/274) were carried out by doctors while 80.7% (221/274) by non-doctor health workers. About 5.47% (15/274) experienced adverse events and the proportions by cadre were similar; medical doctors (5.66% [3/53]) and non-doctor health workers (5.43% [12/221]), p=0.99. Seven patients had evidence of pus discharge (all had been operated by non-doctors), only 2 patients had bleeding at 2 hours (one by medical doctor and one by non-doctor), 4 patients had evidence of excessive skin removal (2 by medical doctor vs 2 by non-doctors). There was no reported urethral injury or glans amputation. These results indicate that non-doctor health workers can offer circumcision services safely with low adverse event rates.
VDAC1 Conversely Correlates with Cytc Expression and Predicts Poor Prognosis in Human Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Chen Fangfang , Yin Shuai , Luo Bin , Wu Xiaoyan , Yan Honglin , Yan Dandan , Chen Chuang , Guan Feng , Yuan Jingping
Published: June 2020

AIM: The main objectives of this article were to evaluate the association of voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) expression with Cytochrome C (Cytc) protein, various clinicopathological features and prognosis in patients diagnosed with breast cancer (BC). Meanwhile, the correlation of Cytc expression with various clinical features and 5-year disease-free survival (5-DFS) of BC is also investigated. Methods: Expression of VDAC1 protein and Cytc protein was conducted in 219 BC patients and 60 benign breast lesions by immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. Results: In our study, VDAC1 protein expression was significantly increased while Cytc protein was decreased in breast tumor tissues (P = 0.015 and P = 0.029, respectively). High expression of VDAC1 is conversely associated with Cytc expression in BC, especially in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) (P = 0.011 and P = 0.004, respectively). Interestingly, high expression of VDCA1 not only had a significant association with advanced TNM stage, histological grade, LNM, HER2 gene amplification and recurrence (P < 0.05), but also displayed a poorer 5-DFS (P < 0.001) in BC. The multivariate Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated VDAC1 as a novel independent poor prognostic factor in BC (P = 0.001). Strikingly, our study also showed the prognostic significance of VDAC1 in triple-negative breast cancer in particular. Furthermore, low expression of Cytc was found to be correlated with histological grade, ER status, PR status and recurrence in BC (P < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that low Cytc expression was associated with poorer survival and high mortality rate (P = 0.007). Cytc protein expression also served as a novel independent prognosis parameters in BC patients (P = 0.035). Conclusion: Our findings firstly revealed that VDAC1 was elevated in BC tissues and conversely associated with Cytc. Furthermore, high VDAC1 protein was associated with reduced 5-DFS and could be acted as an independent poor prognostic factor not only in breast cancer in general, but also in TNBC in particular. All in all, VDAC1 can be exploited as a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target in BC, especially in TNBC.
Three-Dimensional Length from the Center of the Liver is a Prognostic Factor of Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastasis: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Bong Jun Woo , Ju Yeonuk , Seo Jihyun , Kang Sang Hee , Park Pyoung-Jae , Choi Sae-Byeol , Lee Sun Il , Oh Sang Cheul , Min Byung Wook
Published: June 2020

Background Resectability of liver metastasis is important to establish a treatment strategy for colorectal cancer patients. We aimed to evaluate the effect of distance from metastasis to the center of the liver on the resectability and patient outcomes after hepatectomy. Methods Clinical data of a total of 124 patients who underwent hepatectomy for colorectal cancer with liver metastasis were retrospectively reviewed. We measured the minimal length from metastasis to the bifurcation of the portal vein at the primary branch of the Glissonean tree and defined it as “Centrality”. Predictive effects on positive resection margin and overall survival of centrality were statistically analyzed. Results The value as a predictive factor for the positive resection margin of centrality was analyzed by the receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve = 0.72, P<0.001). In multivariate analysis, total number of metastases ≥ 3 and centrality ≤ 1.5 cm were significant risk factors of overall survival. Patients with these two risk factors (n=21) had worse 5-year overall survival (10.7%) than patients with one (n=35, 58.3%) or no risk factor (n=68, 69.2%). In subgroups analysis, neoadjuvant chemotherapy improved overall survival in patients with these two risk factors. Conclusion Centrality was related with a positive resection margin and had a negative effect on survival. By combining the total number of metastases with centrality, we could determine disease prognosis and neoadjuvant chemotherapy indications for advanced colorectal cancer with liver metastasis.
Etiological Detection for Cerebral Parenchymal Opportunistic Infections in AIDS Patients by PCR
Authors: Liang Bo , Yang Siyuan , Liang Tingyu , Zhao Hongxin , Ding Xinghuan , Wang Fang , Feng Enshan
Published: June 2020

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) opportunistic infections (OIs) is one of the most important complication in Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) patients. As far as the cerebral parenchymal OIs (encephalitis) are concerned, the sensitivity and specificity of pathogens routine test methods are not highly acceptable at present.Objective: Detect the pathogens of cerebral parenchymal OIs in AIDS patients by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to evaluate the utility of this method, and observe the etiology characteristics of cerebral parenchymal OIs and their impact on the prognosis in AIDS patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study design involving 33 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPET) samples of cerebral inflammatory lesions in AIDS patients from 2012 to 2020 were retrieved from the Department of Pathology, Beijing Ditan hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University. Pathogen-specific primers were used to detect DNA from cytomegalovirus (CMV), toxoplasma gondii (TG) and John Cunningham virus (JCV), via real-time PCR. Follow-up visits were conducted by telephone and outpatient service. Survival time after operation was counted.Results: Of 33 samples sent for PCR, 90.91% (30/33) were positive, 33 pathogens detected. JCV accounted for 60.61% (20/33) of all causes of cerebral parenchymal OIs, 21.21% (7/33) for CMV, 18.18% (6/33) for TG. IgG antibody against TG in serum (P=0.005) and in CSF (P=0.013) obviously correlated with TG expression in FFPET. The 0 pathogen patients tend to suffer from solitary lesion (P=0.018). JCV positive patients in FFPET tended to have higher odds of death (P=0.0096), whereas patients with TG positive showed lower odds of death (P=0.0431). Conclusion: JCV is the most prevalent pathogen of cerebral parenchymal OIs among AIDS patients, and tend to have a poor prognosis. The utility of the diagnostic method for pathogen identification by PCR combined with the investigation of etiological characteristics may improve the diagnosis and prognosis of AIDS related cerebral parenchymal OIs patients.
Tenofovir Based First Line Therapy in Newly Diagnosed Case of HIV Infection: An Experience from a Tertiary Care Hospital in India
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Arkapal , Palepu Sarika , Saini Bhavna , Chaurasia Rakesh Chandra , Yadav Rakesh Kumar
Published: June 2020

Introduction: India has a huge burden of HIV/AIDS infection. Tenofovir based first line therapy is the preferred treatment for newly diagnosed cases with HIV infection. Methodology: The present prospective study was done among newly diagnosed cases of HIV infection. The patients were followed up for a period of 6 months from the day of enrolment. Sociodemographic parameters, CD4 counts and adverse drug reactions were analysed at baseline and after 6 months. Bi-variate and multi-variate logistic regression was performed with the outcome variable as occurrence of adverse drug reactions. Result: In this study, 67 patients were enrolled with mean age 32.75 (± 14.39) years. Mean CD4 count at start of treatment was 241.5/mm3. Mean difference in CD4 count was 383.05/mm3 (SD = 274.9). Dizziness, tingling, numbness of extremities and muscle cramps were most common adverse effects. On multi-variate logistic regression, occurrence of ADRs was seen to be significantly higher only in illiterate patients. Conclusion: The present study highlights the importance of long-term follow-up of the patients on antiretroviral therapy. Adequate monitoring of the treatment parameters is of utmost importance.
Association between cardiometabolic health and objectively-measured, free-living sleep parameters in a rural African setting: a pilot study.
Authors: Cook Ian , Mohlabe Matlawa , Makgopa Herbert Mabalane
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between objectively-measured, free-living sleep quantity and quality, and cardiometabolic health, in a rural African setting in 139 adults (≥40 years, female: n=99, male: n=40). Wrist-mounted, tri-axial accelerometry data was collected over nine days. Measures of sleep quantity and quality, and physical activity were extracted from valid minute-by-minute data. Self-reported data included behavioural, health and socio-demographic variables. Biological data included body composition, resting blood pressure and fasting blood glucose, insulin and lipids. Regression models were constructed with insulin resistance (IR), Cardiometabolic (CM) risk and a metabolic z-score, as dependent variables, adjusting for socio-demographic, behavioural and biological factors.

Results

Nocturnal sleep time was longer in females (p=0.054) and sleep quality was better in males (p≤0.017). Few participants slept >9 hours/night (4-5%), and 46-50% slept <7 hours/night. IR and CM risk was higher in females (p≤0.006). In adjusted models, sleep variables were independently associated with IR (p<0.05). Sleep quantity was linearly (p<0.05) and non-linearly (p≤0.0196) associated with IR, and non-linearly (p≤0.0398) associated with CM risk. Sleep quality was linearly related with IR (p<0.05). A number of non-sleep behavioural variables were independently associated with CM risk (alcohol and tobacco use, p≤0.034) and IR (physical activity, sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, p<0.05).
Neutrophils Mediated Multistage Nanoparticle Delivery for Prompting Tumor Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Qiao Jianou , Ye Bo , Zhao Bao , Wang Kun , Guo Yilong , Lu Qinguo , Zheng Longpo , Li Ang
Published: June 2020

Background
Neutrophil-based drug delivery system possesses excellent advantages in targeting at tumour because neutrophils are easily recruited by chemotactic factor in tumor microenvironment. Herein, we developed a novel tactic of multistage neutrophils-based nanoparticle delivery system for promoting photothermal therapy (PTT) of lung cancer.
Results
Au nanorod (AuNR) was successfully modified with bovine serum albumin (AuNRB) and further conjugated with RGD (AuNRBR), followed by neutrophil internalisation to obtain neutrophils-based delivery system (AuNRBR/N). The engineered neutrophils efficiently migrated across the epithelial cells due to inflammatory signal. They exhibited better toxicity against Lewis cells with laser irradiation in vitro. Moreover, AuNRBR/N showed significantly more targetability to tumour tissue compared with cell carrier-free AuNRBR, as demonstrated in Lewis tumour-bearing mice. The enhanced tumour homing efficiency of AuNRBR/N together with subsequently released AuNRBR from the neutrophils was favourable for further deep tissue diffusion and contributed to the inhibition of the tumour growth in PTT and improved survival rate (over 120 days).
Conclusions
Overall results illustrated that the design of cell-based nanoparticle delivery system for PTT of cancer is promising.
Machine learning-based CT radiomics model Distinguishes COVID-19 from other viral pneumonia
Authors: Chen Hui Juan , Chen Yang , Yuan Li , Wang Fei , Mao Li , Li Xiuli , Cai Qinlei , Qiu Jie , Tian Jie , Chen Feng
Published: June 2020

Purpose To develop a machine learning-based CT radiomics model is critical for the accurate diagnosis of the rapid spread Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).Methods In this retrospective study, a machine learning-based CT radiomics model was developed to extract features from chest CT exams for the detection of COVID-19. Other viral-pneumonia CT exams of the corresponding period were also included. The radiomics features extracted from the region of interest (ROI), the radiological features evaluated by the radiologists, the quantity features calculated by the AI segmentation and evaluation, and the clinical parameters including clinical symptoms, epidemiology history and biochemical results were enrolled in this study. The SVM model was built and the performance on the testing cohort was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity. Results For the SVM model that built on the radiomics features only, it reached an AUC of 0.688(95% CI 0.496 to 0.881) on the testing cohort. After the radiological features were enrolled, the AUC achieved 0.696(95% CI 0.501 to 0.892), then the AUC reached 0.753(95% CI 0.596 to 0.910) after the quantity features were included. Our final model employed all the features, reached the per-exam sensitivity and specificity for differentiating COVID-19 was 29 of 38 (0.763, 95% CI: 0.598 to 0.886]) and 12 of 13 (0.923, 95% CI: 0.640 to 0.998]), respectively, with an AUC of 0.968(95% CI 0.911 to 1.000). Conclusion The machine learning-based CT radiomics models may accurately detect COVID-19 and differentiate it from other viral pneumonia.
Enhancing scour protection in river bends: a novel slotted bank-attached vane
Authors: Azizipour Mohamad , Meymani Farshid Amirsalari , Shooshtari Mohammad Mahmoodian
Published: June 2020

One of the most effective approaches for bank control erosion is using bank-attached vanes. In spite of the superiority of the bank-attached vanes to spur dikes, the vanes' tips are still vulnerable to local scour caused by flow–structure interaction. In this study, slotted bank-attached vanes are proposed to reduce local scour at the tip of the triangular submerged vane. For this, a rectangular slot is created parallel to the chord of the vane with an area of ten percent of the effective area of the vane surface. Two types of conventional vanes and slotted vanes were installed at different angles of attack of 23, 30, 40 and 60 degrees in an arch flume. Experiments were carried out in clear water conditions with different flow regimes with Froude numbers of Fr = 0.287, 0.304 and 0.322. The results show that the slotted vane outperforms the conventional vane by reducing maximum scour depth by about 70, 20, 17 and 54 percent for different angles of attack of 23, 30, 40 and 60 degrees, respectively. The proposed slotted vane also resulted in reduction of scour hole volume around the vane and formed the scour hole away from the outer bank.
Global Trends in Cannabis and Cannabidiol Research from the Year 1940 to 2019
Authors: Liu Jingting , Chen Haimei , Newmaster Steven , Wang Shubin , Liu Chang
Published: June 2020

Legalization of Cannabis in countries, like Canada, and global demand for non-hallucinating
chemical components, such as Cannabidiols (CBD), have stimulated the increased interest from academics,
industry, and regulatory agencies. Subsequent research publications in scientific journals in
this field are expected to grow rapidly. However, there have been few research reviews that have quantified
patterns in research publications concerning cannabis, nor a literature-based perspective on the
historical development, current status, and future direction of cannabis research. Here, a bibliometric
analysis is performed to address this gap in the scientific literature. A total of 1167 relevant articles
(Supplementary file 1) were screened and analyzed using three software tools: HistCite, CiteSpace,
and Bibliometric Online Analysis Platform. The performances of relevant countries, institutions, authors,
and journals were presented, and the evolutionary trends of different categories were revealed.
The historical development of cannabis and CBD research can be clearly divided into three stages,
which focus on the chemistry, pharmacology, and molecular biology aspects of Cannabis sativa in
general and then a focus on CBD related publications. A timeline was drawn to highlight the major
trends in the literature, including scientific discoveries. In the end, several suggestions for future research
directions in this field are provided.
Salient Features, Data and Algorithms for MicroRNA Screening from Plants: A Review on the Gains and Pitfalls of Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Ayachit Garima , Shaikh Inayatullah , Pandya Himanshu , Das Jayashankar
Published: June 2020

The era of big data and high-throughput genomic technology has enabled scientists to
have a clear view of plant genomic profiles. However, it has also led to a massive need for
computational tools and strategies to interpret this data. In this scenario of huge data inflow,
machine learning (ML) approaches are emerging to be the most promising for analysing
heterogeneous and unstructured biological datasets. Extending its application to healthcare and
agriculture, ML approaches are being useful for microRNA (miRNA) screening as well.
Identification of miRNAs is a crucial step towards understanding post-transcriptional gene
regulation and miRNA-related pathology. The use of ML tools is becoming indispensable in
analysing such data and identifying species-specific, non-conserved miRNA. However, these
techniques have their own benefits and lacunas. In this review, we will discuss the current scenario
and pitfalls of ML-based tools for plant miRNA identification and provide some insights into the
important features, the need for deep learning models and direction in which studies are needed.
A Phase I Study of OMN54 (Aneustat™) in Patients with Advanced Malignancies
Authors: Gelmon Karen A. , Kollmannsberger Christian , Chia Stephen , Tinker Anna V. , Mitchell Teresa , Lam Stephen , Joshi Teresa , Kwok David , Ostrem John , Sutcliffe Simon , Renouf Daniel J.
Published: June 2020

Background/Objective:

With the increasing interest in natural products, a phase I openlabel
study of OMN54 (Aneustat™) in patients with advanced malignancies was initiated to determine
toxicity, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose limiting toxicities (DLT), and pharmacokinetics (PK).
OMN54 is a multitargeted agent, combining three Chinese botanicals; Ganoderma lucidium, Salvia
miltiorrhiza and Scutellaria barbata.

Methods:

Eligible patients (pts) were >18 years of age with advanced solid tumors, able to swallow
oral capsules, ECOG performance status < 2, measurable disease as defined by RECIST 1.1 and adequate
organ function.

Results:

Twenty-two patients were enrolled in 6 dose levels, 2 with daily dosing and 4 with twicedaily
dosing ranging from 1 to 5 grams daily. All were evaluated for toxicity and 20 for response. No
treatment-related dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were reported and the recommended phase II dose
(RP2D) was determined to be 2.5 g twice daily. Seven adverse events in 5 patients were reported as
possibly drug-related; 6 were GI toxicity and 1 was a skin disorder. All were grade 1 except one grade
2 vomiting. No RECIST responses were seen. Six pts were treated with > 2 cycles; one for 8 cycles.
Four patients had reductions in TGF –β and EGF, exploratory biomarkers possibly suggestive of a
drug effect. Plasma half-lives of 1 -2 hours were noted for all parent drug chemical markers with no
accumulation over time.

Conclusion:

OMN54 was well tolerated, with no DLTs observed. Further studies at the RP2D will assess
the biological activity.
Development, Characterization and Pharmacological Evaluation of Antiblemish Cream Containing Herbal Oils
Authors: Krishnaraj Sathiya , Mahadevappa Komala , Narayanaswamy Radhika Muniyappa , Kamnoore Devanand , Lingutla Ramya , Ghosh Tanmoy
Published: June 2020

Background:

Many topical agents are available in the market, which interfere with the pigmentation
process at different levels. They are often known to cause side effects ranging from irritation
to tumor over chronic use.

Objective:

The present study was designed to develop and characterize an anti blemish cream containing
herbal oils.

Methods:

A herbal cream was formulated using dill, nagarmotha and black cumin oil and subjected to
evaluation of its anti blemish potential against stress augmented UV-B rays-induced hyperpigmentation.
Topical oil in water type of creams containing 2%, 4% and 6% of each oil was formulated using
herbal oils. The formulated cream was characterized for solubility, pH, particle size, grittiness, viscosity,
stability, phase separation, shelf life and spreadability, and found to be stable. Acute dermal toxicity
was carried out individually for dill, nagarmotha and black cumin oil according to the OECD guidelines
402. Hyperpigmentation was induced in all the experimental animals by stress-augmented UV-B
irradiation method. The animals were treated for 30 days (twice daily) with standard and test formulations
by topical administration, whereas the disease group was left untreated. The skin of the animals
was subjected to photographical study as well as grading for pigmentation and irritation before and
after treatment. After the treatment period, the serum antioxidant levels were estimated and histopathology,
histochemical studies of skin were performed.

Results:

The animals treated with test formulations containing 2%, 4%, and 6% of herbal oil showed
significant improvement in pigmentation compared to disease control as it is evident in photographic
biochemical, histopathological and histochemical studies.

Conclusion:

Thus, it was concluded that the developed anti-blemish cream containing herbal oils possesses
significant anti-blemish potential. This study necessitates further evaluations in human subjects
as it could have a high positive therapeutic value in the treatment of hyperpigmentation.
The Alcoholic Bark Extract of Terminalia Arjuna Exhibits Cytotoxic and Cytostatic Activity on Jurkat Leukemia Cells
Authors: Greco Giulia , Turrini Eleonora , Tacchini Massimo , Maresca Immacolata , Fimognari Carmela
Published: June 2020

Background:

Natural products are characterized by a complex chemical composition and
are capable of concurrently modulate several signalling pathways. Considering the biological complexity
of carcinogenesis, natural products represent key components of the therapeutic armamentarium
for oncological diseases. The bark of Terminalia arjuna is used in traditional Ayurvedic
medicine for its astringent, expectorant, cardiotonic, styptic, and antidysenteric properties. Alongside
its traditional uses, Terminalia arjuna exhibits different biological activities including antimutagenic
and anticarcinogenic.

Objective:

This study was designed to evaluate the toxic effects of an alcoholic extract obtained
from the bark of T. arjuna on a human T-lymphoblastic cell line (Jurkat). We explored the phytochemical
composition and investigated the cytotoxic, cytostatic, genotoxic, and anti-genotoxic effects.

Methods:

The phytochemical composition was analyzed using spectrophotometric methods; all the
biological endpoints were assessed through flow cytometry.

Results:

The phytochemical screening showed that polyphenols represent about 64% of the extract.
Moreover, the extract was cytotoxic on Jurkat cells by inducing both apoptosis and necrosis, and
blocked the cell cycle in the G2/M phase. Additionally, it was found that the extract lacks any genotoxic
effect, but was not effective in protecting Jurkat cells from the DNA damage induced by H2O2
and etoposide.

Conclusion:

The results of our study show the toxic effects of Terminalia arjuna on Jurkat cells
and confirm the pivotal role played by natural compounds in the oncological field. Further studies
should be performed to better understand its clinical potential and deepen its toxicological profile.