bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Aboveground forest carbon stock in protected area: A case study of Bukit Tigapuluh National Park, Indonesia
Authors: Darmawan Arief , Warta Zulfira , Molidena Elis , Valla Alexandra , Firdaus Muhammad Iqbal , Hisan Hisan , Winarno Gunardi Djoko , Winarno Bondan , Rusolono Teddy , Tsuyuki Satoshi 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: At present, the role of protected areas has been expanded into climate change mitigation action, specifically on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+). Reliable and practical method for measuring, reporting and verifying carbon stock is an essential component for REDD+. This study aims at recognizing the characteristic and estimating aboveground forest carbon stock in the tropical protected area using a combination of terrestrial forest inventory and spatial data. Results: In the study area of Bukit Tigapuluh National Park in Central Sumatra, 168 cluster plots totaling 33.6 hectares were taken proportionally based on the percentage of forest cover types (dryland primary natural forest/DPF and dryland secondary natural forest/DSF) using a traditional forest inventory method (more than 5 cm dbh) in combination with the application of information technology. Results showed that Bukit Tigapuluh National Park secured a significant aboveground forest carbon stock which has been estimated to be 269.2 + 22.2 tC/ha or 35,823,639 + 2,951,071 tC in total, being sequestered in approximately 133,051 hectares of tropical rain forest. This result was higher than other studies located in non-protected areas, but slightly lower than other studies within protected area.Conclusion: This finding supported the argument that protected areas possess higher figure of aboveground carbon stock compared to other forest management units. High amount of forest carbon biomass in the protected areas shall be very important assets for conducting the role of conservation for REDD+.
Biomarker Discovery in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: RNA sequencing of Whole Blood in Discordant Twin and Case-Controlled Cohorts
Authors: McCaffrey Timothy A. , III Georges St. Laurent , Shtokalo Dmitry , Antonets Denis , Vyatkin Yuri , Jones Daniel , Battison Eleanor , Nigg Joel T. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: A variety of DNA-based methods have been applied to identify genetic markers of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the connection to RNA-based gene expression has not been fully exploited. Methods: Using well defined cohorts of discordant, monozygotic twins from the Michigan State University Twin Registry, and case-controlled ADHD cases in adolescents, the present studies utilized advanced single molecule RNA sequencing to identify expressed changes in whole blood RNA in ADHD. Multiple analytical strategies were employed to narrow differentially expressed RNA targets to a small set of potential biomarkers of ADHD. Results: RNA markers common to both the discordant twin study and case-controlled subjects further narrowed the putative targets, some of which had been previously associated with ADHD at the DNA level. The potential role of several differentially expressed genes, including ABCB5, RGS2, GAK, GIT1 and 3 members of the galactose metabolism pathway (GALE, GALT, GALK1) are substantiated by prior associations to ADHD and by established mechanistic connections to molecular pathways relevant to ADHD and behavioral control.Conclusions: The convergence of DNA, RNA, and metabolic data suggests these may be promising targets for diagnostics and therapeutics in ADHD.
Evaluation of retinal and choroidal variations in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Yu Lanchu , Jiao Qin , Cheng Yu , Zhu Yanji , Lin Zhongjing , Shen Xi 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the difference in retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, choroidal thickness (CT) and superficial retinal vessels between thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) patients and healthy controls. To identify the potential influencing factors for these parameters and evaluate their diagnostic abilities in TAO.Methods: 20 active TAO patients, 33 inactive TAO patients and 29 healthy participants were enrolled. TAO patients were divided according to the clinical activity score (CAS). RNFL thickness and CT were measured by HD-OCT, while foveal avascular zone (FAZ), vascular density and perfusion density were measured by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). SPSS software was used for statistical analysis.Results: Active TAO patients had thinner RNFL thickness than the other two groups (P<0.001, P<0.001). Both active and inactive TAO patients had significantly higher CT in the macular region (all P<0.05). The FAZ area in the active TAO group was significantly larger than the other two groups (P=0.045, P=0.001). The inactive TAO group had significantly higher vascular density than the other two groups (all P<0.05). With regard to the perfusion density, significant differences were observed in the temporal and inferior areas (P=0.045, P=0.001), as well as the average values (P=0.032). The FAZ area was positively correlated with intraocular pressure (r=0.274, P=0.013), while it was negatively correlated with axial length (r=-0.344, P=0.002). The vascular density and perfusion density were not significantly correlated with different clinical variables (all P>0.05). The AUC analysis indicated these parameters also exhibited a significant discriminatory power in TAO diagnosis.Conclusions: TAO patients had significant variations in RNFL thickness, choroidal thickness, FAZ area and superficial retinal vessels. These parameters appeared to be potential adjuncts in the evaluation of TAO patients.
­­­An Integrated Autophagy-Related Gene Signature Predicts Prognosis in Human Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jun , Wang Ziwei , Zhao Rong , An Lanfen , Zhou Xing , Zhao Yingchao , Wang Hongbo 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Globally, endometrial cancer is the fourth most common malignant tumor in women and the number of women being diagnosed is increasing. Tumor progression is strongly related to the cell survival-promoting functions of autophagy. We explored the relationship between endometrial cancer prognoses and the expression of autophagy genes using human autophagy databases.Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas was used to identify autophagy related genes (ARGs) that were differentially expressed in endometrial cancer tissue compared to healthy endometrial tissue. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes were referenced to identify important biological functions and signaling pathways related to these differentially expressed ARGs. A prognostic model for endometrial cancer was constructed using univariate and multivariate Cox, and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression analysis. Endometrial cancer patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups according to risk scores. Survival and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted for these patients to assess the accuracy of the prognostic model. Using immunohistochemistry the protein levels of the genes associated with risk were assessed.Results: We determined 37 ARGs were differentially expressed between endometrial cancer and healthy tissues. These genes were enriched in the biological processes and signaling pathways related to autophagy. Four ARGs (CDKN2A, PTK6, ERBB2 and BIRC5) were selected to establish a prognostic model of endometrial cancer. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis suggested that high-risk groups have significantly shorter survival times than low-risk groups. The area under the ROC curve indicated that the prognostic model for survival prediction was relatively accurate. Immunohistochemistry suggested that among the four ARGs the protein levels of CDKN2A, PTK6, ERBB2, and BIRC5 were higher in endometrial cancer than healthy endometrial tissue.Conclusions: Our prognostic model assessing four ARGs (CDKN2A, PTK6, ERBB2, and BIRC5) suggested their potential as independent predictive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for endometrial cancer.
Analysis of clinical characteristics of severe pertussis in infants and children: a retrospective&nbsp;study
Authors: Wang Caiying , Zhang Huimin , Zhang Yanlan , Xu Lin , Miao Min , Yang Hongling , Liu Yuhuan , He Shuxin , Pang Lin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: The incidence of pertussis shows an increasing trend in recent years, but some clinicians often lack sufficient understanding of the clinical characteristics and risk factors for severe pertussis, and more effective measures should be taken to reduce the incidence and mortality of pertussis in young infants.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, and 184 infants and children with pertussis who had been hospitalized in the Department of Pediatrics of Beijing Ditan Hospital affiliated with Capital Medical University from January 2016 to December 2017 were included. Clinical data of the patients were collected and the clinical characteristics were statistically analyzed.Results: Among the 184 patients, 41.85% were infants < 3 months of age, and 65.22% of the total patients were not vaccinated against pertussis. There were 22 critically ill children, among whom 4 died, and compared with mild cases, they had a higher proportion of children younger than 3 months of age and infants not vaccinated against pertussis (63.64% vs. 38.89% and 100% vs. 60.49%, respectively); a higher proportion of children with severe pneumonia (100% vs. 0%); higher leukocyte count(× 109/L , 35.80 ± 20.53 vs 19.41 ± 8.59); and a higher proportion of children with severe hyperleukocytosis (18.18% vs. 0%, respectively) (P<0.05).Conclusions: 1. Infants aged <3 months not vaccinated for pertussis appear more likely to become infected and have more severe disease. 2. Severe pneumonia and hyperleukocytosis are the main mechanisms underlying severe pertussis.
Perioperative patient-specific factors-based nomograms predict short-term periprosthetic bone loss after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Fu Guangtao , Li Mengyuan , Xue Yunlian , Li Qingtian , Deng Zhantao , Ma Yuanchen , Zheng Qiujian 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Although medical intervention of periprosthetic bone loss in the immediate postoperative period was recommended, not all the patients experienced periprosthetic bone loss after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Prediction tools that enrolled all potential risk factors to calculate an individualized prediction of postoperative periprosthetic bone loss were strongly needed for clinical decision-making. Methods: Data of the patients underwent primary unilateral cementless THA between April 2015 and October 2017 in our center were retrospectively collected. Candidate variables included demographic data and bone mineral density (BMD) in spine, hip and periprosthetic regions that measured 1 week after THA. Outcomes of interest included the risk of postoperative periprosthetic bone loss in Gruen zone 1, 7 and total zones in the 1st postoperative year. Nomograms were presented based on multiple logistic regressions via R language. 1000 Bootstraps were used for internal validation. Results: 563 patients met the inclusion criteria were enrolled, and the final analysis was performed in 427 patients (195 male and 232 female) after the exclusion. The mean BMD of Gruen zone 1, 7, and total were decreased by 4.1%, 6.4%, and 1.7% at the 1st year after THA, respectively. 61.1% of the patients (261/427) experienced bone loss in Gruen zone 1 at the 1st postoperative year, while there were 58.1% (248/427) in Gruen zone 7 and 63.0% (269/427) in Gruen zone total. Bias-corrected c-index for risk of postoperative bone loss in Gruen zone 1, 7 and total zones in the 1st postoperative year were 0.700, 0.785, and 0.696, respectively. The most highly influential factors for the postoperative periprosthetic bone loss were primary diagnosis and BMD in the corresponding Gruen zones at the baseline. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, our study represented the first time to use the nomograms in estimating the risk of postoperative periprosthetic bone loss with adequate predictive discrimination and calibration. Those predictive models would help surgeons to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from anti-bone-resorptive treatment on the early postoperative period effectively. It is also beneficial for patients, as they can choose the treatment options based on a reasonable expectation following surgery.
Confirmed or unconfirmed cases of 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia in Italian patients: a retrospective analysis of clinical features
Authors: De Angelis Giulia , Posteraro Brunella , Biscetti Federico , Ianiro Gianluca , Verme Lorenzo Zileri Dal , Cattani Paola , Franceschi Francesco , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Gasbarrini Antonio 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Since December 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged as a novel etiologic agent of viral pneumonia. We aimed to compare clinical features of 165 Italian patients with laboratory confirmed or unconfirmed 2019-nCoV pneumonia. Methods: On March 31 2020, hospitalized patients who presented with fever and/or respiratory symptoms, exposures, and presence of lung imaging features consistent with 2019-nCoV pneumonia, were included. Before admission to a hospital ward, patients underwent RT-PCR based SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection in their nasopharyngeal swab samples. Results: Of 165 patients studied, 119 had positive RT-PCR results and 46 were RT-PCR negative for two days or longer (i.e., when the last swab sample was obtained). The median age was 70 years (IQR, 58–78), and 123 (74.6%) of 165 patients had at least one comorbidity. The majority of patients (101/165, 61.2%) had a mild pneumonia, and the remaining patients (64/165, 38.8%) a severe/critical pneumonia. We did not find any substantial difference in symptoms, incubation periods, and radiographic/CT abnormalities as well as in many of the biological abnormalities recorded. However, at multivariable analysis, higher concentrations of hemoglobin (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.11‒1.65; P = 0.003) and lower counts of leukocytes (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72‒0.90; P <0.001) were statistically associated with confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. While mortality rates were similar, patients with confirmed diagnosis were more likely to receive antivirals (95% vs 19.6%, P <0.001) and to develop ARDS (63% vs 37%, P = 0.003) than those with unconfirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that unconfirmed 2019-nCoV pneumonia cases may be actually COVID-19 cases and that clinicians should be cautious when managing patients with presentations compatible with COVID-19.
Preoperative AminoIndex Cancer Screening (AICS) abnormalities predict postoperative recurrence in patients undergoing curative resection for non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Higashiyama Masahiko , Miyazaki Ryohei , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Anayama Takashi , Kikuchi Shinya , Hirohashi Kentaro , Okami Jiro , Maniwa Tomohiro , Kimura Toru , Orihashi Kazumasa , Imamura Fumio 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
[Background] AminoIndexTM Cancer Screening (AICS (lung)) was developed as a screening test for lung cancer using a multivariate analysis of plasma-free amino acid (PFAA) profiles. According to the developed index composed of PFAA, the probability of lung cancer was categorized into AICS (lung) ranks A, B, and C in order of increasing risk. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the preoperative AICS (lung) rank and surgical outcomes in patients who underwent curative resection for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).[Methods] Preoperative blood samples were collected from 297 patients who underwent curative resection for NSCLC between 2006 and 2015. PFAA concentrations were measured. The relationship between the preoperative AICS (lung) rank and clinicopathological factors was examined. The effects of the preoperative AICS (lung) rank on postoperative outcomes were also analyzed.[Results] The AICS (lung) rank was A in 93 patients (31.3%), B in 82 (27.6%), and C in 122 (41.1%). The AICS (lung) rank did not correlate with any clinicopathological factors, except for age. Based on follow-up data (median follow-up period of 6 years), postoperative recurrence was observed in 22 rank A patients (23.7%), 15 rank B (18.3%) and 49 rank C (40.2%). In the univariate analysis, preoperative AICS (lung) rank C was a worse factor of recurrence-free survival (p=0.0002). The multivariate analysis identified preoperative AICS (lung) rank C (HR: 2.17, p=0.0005) as a significant predictor of postoperative recurrence, particularly in patients with early-stage disease or adenocarcinoma.[Conclusion] Preoperative AICS (lung) rank C is a high-risk predictor of postoperative recurrence in patients undergoing curative resection for NSCLC.
Minimally invasive versus open right hepatectomy: Comparative study with propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Duarte Vinicius Campos , Coelho Fabricio , Valverde Alain , Danoussou Divia , Kruger Jaime , Zuber Kevin , Fonseca Gilton , Jeismann Vagner , Herman Paulo , Lupinacci Renato 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Minimally invasive liver resections (MILRs) have been increasingly performed in recent years. However, the majority of MILRs are actually minor or limited resections of peripheral lesions. Due to the technical complexity major hepatectomies remain challenging for minimally invasive surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the short and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing minimally invasive right hepatectomies (MIRHs) with contemporary patients undergoing open right hepatectomies (ORHs). Methods: Consecutive patients submitted to anatomic right hepatectomies between January 2013 and December 2018 in two tertiary referral centers were studied. Study groups were compared on an intention-to-treat basis after propensity score matching (PSM). Overall survival (OS) analyses were performed for the entire cohort and specific etiologies subgroups. Results: During study period 178 right hepatectomies were performed. After matching, 37 patients were included in MIRH group and 60 in ORH group. The groups were homogenous for all baseline characteristics. MIRHs had significant lower blood loss (400 ml vs. 500 ml, P=0.01), lower rate of minor complications (13.5% vs. 35%, P=0.03) and larger resection margins (10 mm vs. 5 mm, P=0.03) when compared to ORHs. Additionally, a non-significant decrease in hospital stay (ORH 9 days vs. MIRH 7 days, P=0.09) was observed. No differences regarding the use of Pringle’s maneuver, operative time, overall morbidity or perioperative mortality were observed. OS was similar between the groups (P=0.13). Similarly, no difference in OS was found in subgroups of patients with primary liver tumors (P=0.09) and liver metastasis (P=0.80). Conclusions: MIRHs are feasible and safe in experienced hands. Minimally invasive approach was associated with less blood loss, a significant reduction in minor perioperative complications, and did not negatively affect long-term outcomes.
Influence of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) on patients receiving lung resection: a retrospective study of 1,749 cases
Authors: Wang Chunmei , Lai Yutian , Li Pengfei , Su Jianhua , Che Guowei 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background The study aimed to evaluate the outcomes following the implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) for patients undergoing lung cancer surgery.Method A retrospective cohort study involving 1,749 patients with lung cancer undergoing pulmonary resection was conducted. The patients were divided into two time period groups for analysis(routine pathway and ERAS pathway). Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the risks of developing postoperative pulmonary complications.Results Among the 1,749 patients, 691 were stratified into the ERAS group, and 1,058 in to the routine group. The ERAS group presented with shorter postoperative in-hospital length of stay (LOS) (4.0 vs 6.0, P<0.001), total LOS (10.0 VS. 13.0 days, P<0.001), and lower total in-hospital costs (P<0.001), including material (P<0.001) and drug expenses (P<0.001). Furthermore, the ERAS group also presented with a lower occurrence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) than the routine group (15.2% vs. 19.5%, P=0.022). Likewise, a significantly lower occurrence of pneumonia (8.4% vs. 14.2%, P<0.001) and atelectasis (5.9% vs. 9.8%, P=0.004) was found in the ERAS group. Regarding the binary logistic regression, the ERAS intervention was the sole independent factor for the occurrence of PPCs (OR: 0.601, 95% CI: 0.434-0.824, P=0.002). In addition, age (OR: 1.032, 95% CI: 1.018-1.046), COPD (OR: 1.792, 95% CI: 1.196-2.686), and FEV1(OR: 0.205, 95% CI: 0.125-0.339) were also independent predictors of PPCs. Conclusion Implementation of an ERAS pathway shows improved postoperative outcomes, including shortened LOS, lower in-hospital costs, and reduced occurrence of PPCs, providing benefits to the postoperative recovery of patients with lung cancer undergoing surgical treatment.
Loss of skeletal muscle mass affects the incidence of minimal hepatic encephalopathy: A case control study
Authors: Tateyama Masakuni , Naoe Hideaki , Tanaka Motohiko , Tanaka Kentaro , Narahara Satoshi , Tokunaga Takayuki , Kawasaki Takeshi , Yoshimaru Yoko , Nagaoka Katsuya , Watanabe Takehisa , Setoyama Hiroko , Sasaki Yutaka , Tanaka Yasuhito 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Sarcopenia is a syndrome characterized by progressive and systemic decreases in skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength. The influence or prognosis of various liver diseases in this condition have been widely investigated, but little is known about whether sarcopenia and/or muscle mass loss are related to minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE).Methods: To clarify the relationship between MHE and sarcopenia and/or muscle mass loss in patients with liver cirrhosis.Methods: Ninety-nine patients with liver cirrhosis were enrolled. MHE was diagnosed by a neuropsychiatric test. Skeletal mass index (SMI) and Psoas muscle index (PMI) were calculated by dividing skeletal muscle area and psoas muscle area at the third lumbar vertebra by the square of height in meters, respectively, to evaluate muscle volume.Results: This study enrolled 99 patients (61 males, 38 females). MHE was detected in 48 cases (48.5%) and sarcopenia in 6 cases (6.1%). Patients were divided into two groups, with or without MHE. Comparing groups, no significant differences were seen in serum ammonia concentration or rate of sarcopenia. SMI was smaller in patients with MHE (46.4 cm2/m2) than in those without (51.2 cm2/m2, P = 0.027). Similarly, PMI was smaller in patients with MHE (4.24 cm2/m2) than in those without (5.53 cm2/m2, P = 0.003). Skeletal muscle volume, which is represented by SMI or PMI was a predictive factor related to MHE (SMI ≥ 50 cm2/m2; odds ratio 0.300, P = 0.002, PMI ≥ 4.3 cm2/m2; odds ratio 0.192, P = 0.001).Conclusions: Muscle mass loss was related to minimal hepatic encephalopathy, although sarcopenia was not. Measurement of muscle mass loss might be useful to predict MHE.