bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Compressed sensing time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography with high spatial resolution for evaluating intracranial aneurysms: comparison with digital subtraction angiography
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Heo Young Jin , Jeong Hae Woong , Baek Jin Wook , Shin Gi Won , Jin Sung-Chul , Baek Hye Jin , Ryu Kyeong Hwa , Kim Kang Soo , Kim InSeong 
Published: January 2021

Background and purpose Compressed sensing is used for accelerated acquisitions with incoherently under-sampled k-space data, and intracranial time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography is suitable for compressed sensing. Compressed sensing time-of-flight is beneficial in decreasing acquisition time and increasing spatial resolution while maintaining acquisition time. In this retrospective study, we aimed to evaluate the image quality and diagnostic performance of compressed sensing time-of-flight with high spatial resolution and compare with parallel imaging time-of-flight using digital subtraction angiography as a reference. Material and methods In total, 39 patients with 46 intracranial aneurysms underwent parallel imaging and compressed sensing time-of-flight in the same imaging session and digital subtraction angiography before or after magnetic resonance angiography. The overall image quality, artefacts and diagnostic confidence were assessed by two observers. The contrast ratio, maximal aneurysm diameters and diagnostic performance were evaluated. Results Compressed sensing time-of-flight showed significantly better overall image quality, degree of artefacts and diagnostic confidence in both observers, with better inter-observer agreement. The contrast ratio was significantly higher for compressed sensing time-of-flight than for parallel imaging time-of-flight in both observers (source images, P < 0.001; maximum intensity projection images, P < 0.05 for both observers); however, the measured maximal diameters of aneurysms were not significantly different. Compressed sensing time-of-flight showed higher sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and positive and negative predictive values for detecting aneurysms than parallel imaging time-of-flight in both observers, with better inter-observer agreement. Compressed sensing time-of-flight was preferred over parallel imaging time-of-flight by both observers; however, parallel imaging time-of-flight was preferred in cases of giant and large aneurysms. Conclusions Compressed sensing-time-of-flight provides better image quality and diagnostic performance than parallel imaging time-of-flight. However, neuroradiologists should be aware of under-sampling artefacts caused by compressed sensing.
The effect of monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors on the alleviation of depressive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Huang Yao Hsien , Chen Jia Hung , Loh El Wui , Chan Lung , Hong Chien Tai 
Published: January 2021

Background: Depression is a major nonmotor symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, few treatments exist for PD depression. Monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors (MAOB-Is) provide symptomatic relief for the motor symptoms of PD and exert antidepressive effects. The present meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigated the effects of MAOB-Is on depressive symptoms in patients with PD. Methods: Articles on PD-management-related RCTs using one of three MAOB-Is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, that is, selegiline, rasagiline, and safinamide, were identified. The primary outcomes were the benefits of MAOB-Is for depressive symptoms. Subgroup analysis included the effects of MAOB-Is on patients in the early versus middle-to-late stages of PD and the effect of short-term versus long-term treatment. Results: Overall, six studies were included, four of which were conducted on patients with early stage PD. Overall, MAOB-Is significantly reduced the severity of depressive symptoms [standardized mean difference (SMD): −0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.21 to −0.06, p < 0.001]. Subgroup analysis indicated that the positive effect of MAOB-Is was significant in patients with early stage PD (SMD: −0.20, 95% CI: −0.31 to −0.09, p < 0.001), but not in those with middle-to-late-stage PD (SMD: −0.07, 95% CI: −0.17 to 0.03, p = 0.18). The antidepressive effect was significant for short-term treatment, that is, 90–120 days (SMD: −0.23, 95% CI: −0.35 to −0.10, p < 0.001), but not long-term treatment, that is, 24 weeks to 18 months (SMD: −0.08, 95% CI: −0.18 to 0.01, p = 0.09). Conclusion: In addition to the treatment of PD motor symptoms, MAOB-Is may help reduce the severity of depressive symptoms in PD, especially in patients with early stage PD. Considering the tolerability and simultaneous benefits of MAOB-Is, further RCTs are warranted to confirm their therapeutic effects in moderate-to-severe PD depression.
Investigation on Reduction of Pressure Fluctuation for a Double-Suction Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Li Qianqian , Li Shiyang , Wu Peng , Huang Bin , Wu Dazhuan 
Published: January 2021

AbstractDouble-suction centrifugal pumps have been applied extensively in many areas, and the significance of pressure fluctuations inside these pumps with large power is becoming increasingly important. In this study, a double-suction centrifugal pump with a high-demand for vibration and noise was redesigned by increasing the flow uniformity at the impeller discharge, implemented by combinations of more than two parameters. First, increasing the number of the impeller blades was intended to enhance the bounding effect that the blades imposed on the fluid. Subsequently, increasing the radial gap between the impeller and volute was applied to reduce the rotor-stator interaction. Finally, the staggered arrangement was optimized to weaken the efficacy of the interference superposition. Based on numerical simulation, the steady and unsteady characteristics of the pump models were calculated. From the fluctuation analysis in the frequency domain, the dimensionless pressure fluctuation amplitude at the blade passing frequency and its harmonics, located on the monitoring points in the redesigned pumps (both with larger radial gap), are reduced a lot. Further, in the volute of the model with new impellers staggered at 12°, the average value for the dimensionless pressure fluctuation amplitude decreases to 6% of that in prototype pump. The dimensionless root-mean-square pressure contour on the mid-span of the impeller tends to be more uniform in the redesigned models (both with larger radial gap); similarly, the pressure contour on the mid-section of the volute presents good uniformity in these models, which in turn demonstrating a reduction in the pressure fluctuation intensity. The results reveal the mechanism of pressure fluctuation reduction in a double-suction centrifugal pump, and the results of this study could provide a reference for pressure fluctuation reduction and vibration performance reinforcement of double-suction centrifugal pumps and other pumps.
Correlation of prostate volume with severity of lower urinary tract symptoms as measured by international prostate symptoms score and maximum urine flow rate among patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Awaisu Mudi , Ahmed Muhammed , Lawal Ahmad Tijjani , Sudi Abdullahi , Tolani Musliu Adetola , Oyelowo Nasir , Muhammad Muhammad Salihu , Bello Ahmad , Maitama Hussaini Yusuf 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of the study is to find the correlation between the prostate volume and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) as measured by international prostate symptoms score and maximum urine flow rate among patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).MethodsThe study was a prospective correlational study conducted between June 2016 and November 2017. A total of 290 patients who presented with LUTS suggestive of BPH and satisfied the inclusion criteria were consecutively recruited. Clinical evaluation including digital rectal examination of the prostate was done. Symptoms severity was assessed using the self-administered international prostate symptoms score (IPSS) questionnaire. Prostate volume was determined by transrectal ultrasound scan, and the urine flow rate was measured using uroflowmeter. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0, andpvalue < 0.05 was taken to be statistically significant.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 64.22 ± 9.04 years with a range of 40 to 95 years. Most of the patients had moderate symptoms (55%) on IPSS with the mean IPSS value of 16.41 ± 7.43. The mean Qmax value was 16.55 ± 7.41 ml/s, and the median prostate volume (IQR) was 45.05 (35, 59). There was a positive significant correlation between prostate volume and IPSS (r = 0.179,p = 0.002) and a negative significant correlation between prostate volume and Qmax (r = − 0.176,p = 0.003).ConclusionThis study showed a significant correlation between the prostate volume and IPSS, and also between prostate volume and maximum flow rate (Qmax).
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in Chinese drinking water: risk assessment and geographical distribution
Authors: Liu Liquan , Qu Yingxi , Huang Jun , Weber Roland 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
In recent years, the widespread presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the environment and the related exposures and adverse health effects has received increasing attention. However, PFASs are not routinely monitored in drinking water in many parts of the world, including China. PFAS data are mainly generated by research studies. This paper provides an overview of the available research studies on PFASs in Chinese drinking water to better understand the current status of PFAS contamination and the potential for exposure.

Results
The available studies provided PFAS data from 526 drinking water samples across 66 cities in China with a total of approximately 452 million inhabitants. We mapped the risk distribution associated with PFAS-contaminated drinking water in China by comparing the measured levels with recent international guidelines. The PFAS concentrations reported in more than 20% of the studied cities, likely affecting 98.5 million people, were above the maximum contaminant level issued by Vermont in 2019. Furthermore, we also investigated the human exposure to PFASs in drinking water by estimating total daily intakes based on Exposure Factors Handbook of Chinese Population. This study revealed that East China and the Southwest regions posed a relatively higher risk to the Chinese population and some cities in the Yangtze River basin such as Zigong, Jiujiang, Lianyungang and a considerable share of other cities have exceeded the health-based guidelines issued by EU and US agencies.

Conclusion
Drinking water in many cities and regions in China is contaminated with PFASs at levels of concern. PFAS elimination of PFASs from drinking water in contaminated cities and affected regions in China is urgently needed. PFAS releases from industries and other sources need better control and reduction. Further monitoring in remote Chinese regions is needed to overcome the knowledge gaps for a more comprehensive understanding of population exposure. The current risk assessment of PFASs in China should be re-evaluated considering the most recent toxicological studies, to clarify if the guidelines need to be lowered as recently done in Europe and the United States. This is necessary to have the best national base for risk assessment and a science-based driver for countermeasures.
The role of Zur-regulated lipoprotein A in bacterial morphology, antimicrobial susceptibility, and production of outer membrane vesicles in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Kim Nayeong , Kim Hyo Jeong , Oh Man Hwan , Kim Se Yeon , Kim Mi Hyun , Son Joo Hee , Kim Seung Il , Shin Minsang , Lee Yoo Chul , Lee Je Chul 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Zinc uptake-regulator (Zur)-regulated lipoprotein A (ZrlA) plays a role in bacterial fitness and overcoming antimicrobial exposure in Acinetobacter baumannii. This study further characterized the zrlA gene and its encoded protein and investigated the roles of the zrlA gene in bacterial morphology, antimicrobial susceptibility, and production of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) in A. baumannii ATCC 17978.

Results
In silico and polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that the zrlA gene was conserved among A. baumannii strains with 97–100% sequence homology. Recombinant ZrlA protein exhibited a specific enzymatic activity of D-alanine-D-alanine carboxypeptidase. Wild-type A. baumannii exhibited more morphological heterogeneity than a ΔzrlA mutant strain during stationary phase. The ΔzrlA mutant strain was more susceptible to gentamicin than the wild-type strain. Sizes and protein profiles of OMVs were similar between the wild-type and ΔzrlA mutant strains, but the ΔzrlA mutant strain produced 9.7 times more OMV particles than the wild-type strain. OMVs from the ΔzrlA mutant were more cytotoxic in cultured epithelial cells than OMVs from the wild-type strain.

Conclusions
The present study demonstrated that A. baumannii ZrlA contributes to bacterial morphogenesis and antimicrobial resistance, but its deletion increases OMV production and OMV-mediated host cell cytotoxicity.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of NBS-encoding genes in Raphanus sativus L. and their roles related to Fusarium oxysporum resistance
Authors: Ma Yinbo , Chhapekar Sushil Satish , Lu Lu , Oh Sangheon , Singh Sonam , Kim Chang Soo , Kim Seungho , Choi Gyung Ja , Lim Yong Pyo , Choi Su Ryun 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
The nucleotide-binding site–leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) genes are important for plant development and disease resistance. Although genome-wide studies of NBS-encoding genes have been performed in several species, the evolution, structure, expression, and function of these genes remain unknown in radish (Raphanus sativus L.). A recently released draft R. sativus L. reference genome has facilitated the genome-wide identification and characterization of NBS-encoding genes in radish.

Results
A total of 225 NBS-encoding genes were identified in the radish genome based on the essential NB-ARC domain through HMM search and Pfam database, with 202 mapped onto nine chromosomes and the remaining 23 localized on different scaffolds. According to a gene structure analysis, we identified 99 NBS-LRR-type genes and 126 partial NBS-encoding genes. Additionally, 80 and 19 genes respectively encoded an N-terminal Toll/interleukin-like domain and a coiled-coil domain. Furthermore, 72% of the 202 NBS-encoding genes were grouped in 48 clusters distributed in 24 crucifer blocks on chromosomes. The U block on chromosomes R02, R04, and R08 had the most NBS-encoding genes (48), followed by the R (24), D (23), E (23), and F (17) blocks. These clusters were mostly homogeneous, containing NBS-encoding genes derived from a recent common ancestor. Tandem (15 events) and segmental (20 events) duplications were revealed in the NBS family. Comparative evolutionary analyses of orthologous genes among Arabidopsis thaliana, Brassica rapa, and Brassica oleracea reflected the importance of the NBS-LRR gene family during evolution. Moreover, examinations of cis-elements identified 70 major elements involved in responses to methyl jasmonate, abscisic acid, auxin, and salicylic acid. According to RNA-seq expression analyses, 75 NBS-encoding genes contributed to the resistance of radish to Fusarium wilt. A quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that RsTNL03 (Rs093020) and RsTNL09 (Rs042580) expression positively regulates radish resistance to Fusarium oxysporum, in contrast to the negative regulatory role for RsTNL06 (Rs053740).

Conclusions
The NBS-encoding gene structures, tandem and segmental duplications, synteny, and expression profiles in radish were elucidated for the first time and compared with those of other Brassicaceae family members (A. thaliana, B. oleracea, and B. rapa) to clarify the evolution of the NBS gene family. These results may be useful for functionally characterizing NBS-encoding genes in radish.
Association between normalized lactate load and mortality in patients with septic shock: an analysis of the MIMIC-III database
Authors: Chen Han , Gong Shu-Rong , Yu Rong-Guo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
An index of dynamic lactate change that incorporates both the magnitude of change and the time interval of such change, termed “normalized lactate load,” may reflect the hypoxic burden of septic shock. We aimed to evaluate the association between normalized lactate load and 28-day mortality in adult septic shock patients.

Methods
Patients with septic shock were identified from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-III database. Lactate load was defined as the sum of the area under the curve (AUC) of serial lactate levels using the trapezoidal rule, and normalized lactate load was defined as the lactate load divided by time. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were constructed to determine the performance of initial lactate, maximum lactate and normalized lactate load in predicting 28-day mortality.

Results
A total of 1371 septic shock patients were included, and the 28-day mortality was 39.8%. Non-survivors had significantly higher initial lactate (means ± standard deviations: 3.9 ± 2.9 vs. 2.8 ± 1.7 mmol/L), maximum lactate (5.8 ± 3.8 vs. 4.3 ± 2.2 mmol/L), lactate load (94.3 ± 71.8 vs. 61.1 ± 36.4 mmol·hr./L) and normalized lactate load (3.9 ± 3.0 vs. 2.5 ± 1.5 mmol/L, all p <  0.001). The AUCs of initial lactate, maximum lactate and normalized lactate load were 0.623 (95% confidence interval: 0.596–0.648, with a cut-off value of 4.4 mmol/L), 0.606 (0.580–0.632, with a cut-off value of 2.6 mmol/L) and 0.681 (0.656–0.706, with a cut-off value of 2.6 mmol/L), respectively. The AUC of normalized lactate load was significantly greater than both initial lactate and maximum lactate (all p <  0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model, normalized lactate load was identified as an independent risk factor for 28-day mortality.

Conclusions
Normalized lactate load is an independent risk factor for 28-day mortality in adult septic shock patients. Normalized lactate load had better accuracy than both initial and maximum lactate in determining the prognosis of septic shock patients.
The association of erythropoietin-stimulating agents and increased risk for AV-fistula dysfunction in hemodialysis patients. A retrospective analysis
Authors: Wärme Anna , Hadimeri Henrik , Nasic Salmir , Stegmayr Bernd 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackgroundPatients in maintenance hemodialysis (HD) need a patent vascular access for optimal treatment. The recommended first choice is a native arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Complications of AVF are frequent and include thrombosis, stenosis and infections leading to worsening of dialysis efficacy. Some known risk factors are age, gender and the presence of diabetes mellitus. The aim was to investigate if further risk variables are associated with dysfunctional AVF.MethodsThis retrospective observational study included 153 chronic HD patients (Cases) referred to a total of 473 radiological investigations due to clinically suspected complications of their native AVF. Another group of chronic HD patients (n = 52) who had a native AVF but were without history of previous complications for at least 2 years were controls. Statistical analyses included ANOVA, logistic regression, parametric and non-parametric methods such as Student’s T-test and Mann-Whitney test.ResultsAmong Cases, at least one significant stenosis (> 50% of the lumen) was detected in 348 occasions. Subsequent PTA was performed in 248 (71%). Median erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) weekly doses were higher in Cases than in Controls (8000 vs 5000 IU,p < 0.001). Cases received higher doses of intravenous iron/week than the Controls before the investigation (median 50 mg vs 25 mg,p = 0.004) and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH,p = 0.028). Compared to Controls, Cases had a lower level of parathyroid hormone (median 25 vs 20 ρmol/L,p = 0.009). In patients with diabetes mellitus, HbA1c was higher among Cases than Controls (50 vs 38 mmol/mol,p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis revealed significant associations between Cases and female gender, prescription of doxazocin, and doses of ESA and LMWH.There was no difference between the groups regarding hemoglobin, CRP or ferritin.ConclusionIn conclusion, the present study indicated that the factors associated with AVF problems were high doses of ESA, iron administration, and tendency of thromboembolism (indicated by high LMWH doses); the use of doxazocin prescription, however, requires further investigation.
Evolution of body composition following successful kidney transplantation is strongly influenced by physical activity: results of the CORPOS study
Authors: Moreau Karine , Desseix Aurélie , Germain Christine , Merville Pierre , Couzi Lionel , Thiébaut Rodolphe , Chauveau Philippe 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background
Weight gain (mainly gain of fat mass) occurs quickly after successful kidney transplantation and is associated with metabolic complications (alterations of glycaemic control, hyperlipidaemia). Determinants of weight gain are multifactorial and are mainly related to the transplant procedure itself (glucocorticoid use, increased appetite). In the modern era of transplantation, one challenge is to limit these metabolic alterations by promoting gain of muscle mass rather than fat mass. This prospective study was performed to assess determinants of fat mass, fat-free mass and body cell mass changes after kidney transplantation with a focus on physical activity and nutritional behaviour before and after transplantation.

Methods
Patients were included at the time of listing for deceased donor kidney transplantation. Body composition was determined using dual X-ray absorptiometry and bioimpedance spectroscopy to assess fat mass, fat-free mass and body cell mass (= fat-free mass − extracellular water) at the time of inclusion, 12 months later, and 1, 6, 12 and 24 months after transplantation. Recall dietary data and physical activity level were also collected.

Results
Eighty patients were included between 2007 and 2010. Sixty-five had a complete 24-month follow-up after kidney transplantation. Fat mass, fat-free mass and body cell mass decreased during the waiting period and early after kidney transplantation. The nadirs of body cell mass and fat-free mass occurred at 1 month and the nadir for fat mass occurred at 6 months. Maximum levels of all parameters of body composition were seen at 12 months, after which body cell mass and fat-free mass decreased, while fat mass remained stable. In multivariate analysis, male recipients, higher physical activity level and lower corticosteroid dose were significantly associated with better body cell mass recovery after kidney transplantation.

Conclusions
Lifestyle factors, such as physical activity level, together with low dose of corticosteroids seem to influence body composition evolution following kidney transplantation with recovery of body cell mass. Specific strategies to promote physical activity in kidney transplant recipients should be provided before and after kidney transplantation.