bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C8 polymorphisms on the efficacy and tolerability of artesunate-amodiaquine treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Zanzibar
Authors: Pernaute-Lau Leyre , Morris Ulrika , Msellem Mwinyi , Mårtensson Andreas , Björkman Anders , Gil Jose Pedro 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe antimalarial drug amodiaquine, a commonly used long acting partner drug in artemisinin-based combination therapy, is metabolized to active desethyl-amodiaquine (DEAQ) by cytochrome P450 2C8 (CYP2C8). The CYP2C8 gene carries several polymorphisms including the more frequent minor alleles CYP2C8*2 and CYP2C8*3. These minor alleles have been associated with decreased enzymatic activity, slowing the amodiaquine biotransformation towards DEAQ. This study aimed to assess the influence of these CYP2C8 polymorphisms on the efficacy and tolerability of artesunate-amodiaquine treatment for uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Zanzibar.MethodsWe analysed data from 618 children under 5 years of age with uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria enrolled in two randomized clinical trials comparing artesunate-amodiaquine and artemether-lumefantrine in 2002-2005 in Zanzibar. CYP2C8*2 and CYP2C8*3 genotype frequencies were determined by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Statistical associations between CYP2C8*2 and/or CYP2C8*3 allele carriers and treatment outcome or occurrence of adverse events were assessed by Fisher’s Exact test.ResultsThe allele frequencies of CYP2C8*2 and CYP2C8*3 were 17.5% (95% CI 15.4-19.7%) and 2.7% (95% CI 1.8-3.7%), respectively. There was no significant difference in the proportion of subjects carrying either CYP2C8*2 or CYP2C8*3 alleles amongst those with reinfections (44.1%; 95% CI 33.8-54.8) or those with recrudescent infections (48.3%; 95% CI 29.4-67.5), compared to those with an adequate clinical and parasitological response (36.7%; 95% CI 30.0-43.9) (P = 0.25 and P = 0.31, respectively). However, patients carrying either the CYP2C8*2 or CYP2C8*3 alleles were significantly associated with an increased occurrence of non-serious adverse events, when compared with CYP2C8 *1/*1 wildtype homozygotes (44.9%; 95% CI 36.1-54.0 versus 28.1%; 95% CI 21.9-35.0, respectively; P = 0.003). ConclusionsCYP2C8 genotypes did not influence treatment efficacy directly, but the tolerability to AS-AQ may be reduced in subjects carrying the CYP2C8*2 and CYP2C8*3 alleles. The importance of this non-negligible association with regards to amodiaquine-based malaria chemotherapy warrants further investigation.
Breastfeeding duration modified the effects of neonatal and familial risk factors on childhood asthma and allergy: A population-based study
Authors: Hu Yabin , Chen Yiting , Liu Shijian , Jiang Fan , Wu Meiqin , Yan Chonghuai , Tan Jianguo , Yu Guangjun , Hu Yi , Yin Yong , Qu Jiajie , Li Shenghui , Tong Shilu 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Childhood asthma and allergic diseases are a significant global problem. There are inconsistent findings on the associations of delivery mode, the number of children in the household and breastfeeding with childhood asthma and allergic diseases. We assessed these associations and examined whether breastfeeding modified the effects of neonatal and familial risk factors on childhood asthma and allergic diseases.Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Shanghai, China. A total of 17 primary schools were randomly selected from 13 districts of Shanghai in this study. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire was adopted to assess the childhood asthma and allergic diseases. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations between neonatal and familial factors and childhood asthma and allergic diseases, and to examine the modification effects of breastfeeding on the associations assessed.Results: Of 10,464 primary school children aged 6-11 years, the overall prevalence of childhood asthma, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, food allergy and drug allergy was 13.9%, 22.7%, 15.3%, 8.1% and 4.6%, respectively. Male sex, high socioeconomic status, cesarean section delivery, only one child in the household and having family history of allergy were associated with increased odds ratio (OR) of childhood asthma and allergic diseases while longer breastfeeding duration (＞6 months) was inversely associated with these diseases. Longer breastfeeding duration also attenuated the OR of neonatal and familial risk factors on childhood asthma and allergic diseases. For instance, the adjusted OR of childhood asthma in the group of vaginal delivery and breastfeeding duration > 6 months was lowest (0.78, 95% confidence interval: 0.66, 0.92).Conclusions: Longer breastfeeding duration was inversely associated with childhood asthma and allergic diseases, and also reduced the OR of neonatal and familial risk factors on these diseases. Giving the prevalence of childhood asthma and allergic diseases is rapidly rising across the globe, these findings may have important clinical and public health implications.
Class Center-Based Firefly Algorithm for Handling Missing Data
Authors: Nugroho Heru , Utama Nugraha Priya , Surendro Kridanto 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
A significant advancement that occurs during the data cleaning stage is estimating missing data. Studies have shown that improper data handling leads to inaccurate analysis. Furthermore, most studies indicate the occurrence of missing data irrespective of the correlation between attributes . However, an adaptive search procedure helps to determine the estimates of the missing data when correlations between attributes are considered in the process. Firefly Algorithm (FA) implements an adaptive search procedure in the imputation of the missing data by determining the estimated value closest to others' value. Therefore, this study proposes a class center-based adaptive approach model for retrieving missing data by considering the attribute correlation in the imputation process (C3-FA). The result showed that the class center-based firefly algorithm (FA) is an efficient technique for obtaining the actual value in handling missing data with the Pearson correlation coefficient ( r ) and root mean squared error (RMSE) close to 1 and 0, respectively. In addition, the proposed method has the ability to maintain the true distribution of data values. This is indicated by the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, which stated that the value of DKS for most attributes in the dataset is generally closer to 0. Furthermore, the accuracy evaluation results using three classifiers showed that the proposed method produces good accuracy.
Tilt and strain change during the explosion at Minami-dake, Sakurajima, on November 13, 2017
Authors: Hotta Kohei , Iguchi Masato 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
We herein propose an alternative model for deformation caused by an eruption at Sakurajima, which have been previously interpreted as being due to a Mogi-type spherical point source beneath Minami-dake. On November 13, 2017, a large explosion with a plume height of 4,200 m occurred at Minami-dake. During the three minutes following the onset of the explosion (November 13, 2017, 22:07–22:10 (Japan standard time (UTC+9); the same hereinafter), phase 1, a large strain change was detected at the Arimura observation tunnel (AVOT) located approximately 2.1 km southeast from the Minami-dake crater. After the peak of the explosion (November 13, 2017, 22:10–24:00), phase 2, a large deflation was detected at every monitoring station due to the continuous Strombolian eruption. Subsidence toward Minami-dake was detected at five out of six stations whereas subsidence toward the north of Sakurajima was detected at the newly installed Komen observation tunnel (KMT), located approximately 4.0 km northeast from the Minami-dake crater. The large strain change at AVOT as well as small tilt changes of all stations and small strain changes at HVOT and KMT during phase 1 can be explained by a very shallow deflation source beneath Minami-dake at 0.1 km below sea level (bsl). For phase 2, a deeper deflation source beneath Minami-dake at a depth of 3.3 km bsl was found in addition to the shallow source beneath Minami-dake which turned inflation after the deflation obtained during phase 1. However, this model cannot explain the tilt change of KMT. Adding a spherical deflation source beneath Kita-dake at a depth of 3.2 km bsl can explain the tilt and strain change at KMT and the other stations. The Kita-dake source was also found in a previous study of long-term ground deformation. Not only the deeper Minami-dake source MD but also the Kita-dake source deflated due to the Minami-dake explosion.
In Vitro Evaluation of Cerebrospinal Fluid Velocity Measurement Agreement, Reliability, and Reproducibility in Type I Chiari Malformation Using 2D Phase Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging and 4D Flow Imaging
Authors: Williams Gwendolyn , Thyagaraj Suraj , Fu Audrey , Oshinski John , Giese Daniel , Bunck Alexander C. , Fornari Eleonora , Santini Francesco , Luciano Mark , Loth Francis , Martin Bryn A. 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging, PC MRI, is a valuable tool allowing for non-invasive quantification of CSF dynamics, but has lacked adoption in clinical practice for Chiari malformation diagnostics. To improve these diagnostic practices, a better understanding of PC MRI based measurement agreement, repeatability, and reproducibility of CSF dynamics is needed.Methods: An anatomically realistic in vitro subject specific model of a Chiari malformation patient was scanned three times at five different scanning centers using 2D PC MRI and 4D Flow techniques to quantify intra-scanner repeatability, inter-scanner reproducibility, and agreement between imaging modalities. Peak systolic CSF velocities were measured at nine axial planes using 2D PC MRI, which were then compared to 4D Flow peak systolic velocity measurements extracted at those exact axial positions along the model. Results: Comparison of measurement results showed good overall agreement of CSF velocity detection between 2D PC MRI and 4D Flow (p = 0.86), fair intra-scanner repeatability (confidence intervals ±1.5 cm/s), and poor inter-scanner reproducibility. On average, 4D Flow measurements had a larger variability than 2D PC MRI measurements (standard deviations 1.83 and 1.04 cm/s, respectively). Conclusion: Agreement, repeatability, and reproducibility of 2D PC MRI and 4D Flow detection of peak CSF velocities was quantified using a patient-specific in vitro model of Chiari malformation. In combination, the greatest factor leading to measurement inconsistency was determined to be a lack of reproducibility between different MRI centers. Overall, these findings may help lead to better understanding for application of 2D PC MRI and 4D Flow techniques as diagnostic tools for CSF dynamics quantification in Chiari malformation and related diseases.
Surge Effects and Survival to Hospital Discharge in Critical Care Patients with COVID-19 During the Early Pandemic: A Cohort Study
Authors: Dale Christopher , Starcher Rachael , Chang Shu Ching , Robicsek Ari , Parsons Guilford , Goldman Jason D , Vovan Andre , Hotchkin David , Gluckman Ty 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe early months of the COVID-19 pandemic were fraught with much uncertainty and some resource constraint. We assessed the change in survival to hospital discharge over time for intensive care unit patients with COVID-19 during the first three months of the pandemic and the presence of any surge effects on patient outcomes.MethodsRetrospective cohort study using electronic medical record data for all patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 admitted to intensive care units from February 25, 2020 to May 15, 2020 at one of 26 hospitals within an integrated delivery system in the Western United States. Patient demographics, comorbidities and severity of illness were measured along with medical therapies and hospital outcomes over time. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to assess temporal changes in survival to hospital discharge during the study period.ResultsOf 620 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU (mean age 63.5 years (SD 15.7) and 69% male), 403 (65%) survived to hospital discharge and 217 (35%) died in the hospital. Survival to hospital discharge increased over time, from 60.0% in the first two weeks of the study period to 67.6% in the last two weeks. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, the risk-adjusted odds of survival to hospital discharge increased over time (bi-weekly change, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.22, 95%CI 1.04-1.40, P = 0.02). Additionally, an a priori-defined explanatory model showed that after adjusting for both hospital occupancy and percent hospital capacity by COVID-19 positive individuals and persons under investigation (PUI), the temporal trend in risk-adjusted patient survival to hospital discharge remained the same (bi-weekly change, aOR 1.18, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.38, P = 0.04). The presence of greater rates of COVID-19 positive/PUI as a percentage of hospital capacity was, however, significantly and inversely associated with survival to hospital discharge (aOR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92 to 0.98, P < 0.01). ConclusionsDuring the early COVID-19 pandemic, risk-adjusted survival to hospital discharge increased over time for critical care patients. An association was also seen between a greater COVID-19 positive/PUI percentage of hospital capacity and a lower survival rate to hospital discharge.
Intra-articular Magnesium to Alleviate Postoperative Pain After Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shi Lijun , Zhu Haiyun , Ma Jinhui , Shi Li-Li , Gao Fuqiang , Sun Wei 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Objective: We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-articular (IA) magnesium (Mg) for postoperative pain relief after arthroscopic knee surgery. Methods. We searched PubMed, Embase, Medline, Cochrane library, and Web of Science to identify randomized controlled trials that compared postoperative pain outcomes with or without IA Mg after knee arthroscopy. The primary outcomes were pain intensity at rest and with movement at different postoperative time points and cumulative opioid consumption within 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes included the time to first analgesic request and side effects. Results. In total, 11 studies involving 677 participants met the eligibility criteria. Pain scores at rest and with movement 2, 4, 12, and 24 h after surgery were significantly lower, doses of supplementary opioid consumption were smaller, and the time to first analgesic requirement was longer in the IA Mg group compared with the control group. No significant difference was detected regarding adverse reactions between the groups. Conclusions. Intra-articular magnesium is an effective and safe coadjuvant treatment for relieving postoperative pain intensity after arthroscopic knee surgery.Protocol registration at Prospero: CRD42020156403.
Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 antigen-based rapid diagnostic kits in Pakistan: formulation of COVID-19 national testing strategy.
Authors: Saeed Umar , Uppal Sara Rizwan , Piracha Zahra Zahid , Rasheed Azhar , Aftab Zubair , Zaheer Hafsah , Uppal Rizwan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Rapid diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 during pandemic enables timely treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Evaluating the accuracy and reliability of rapid diagnostic testing kits is crucial for surveillance and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infections in general population, injection drug users, multi-transfused populations, healthcare workers, prisoners, barbers and other high risk populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate performance and effectiveness of nasopharyngeal swab (NSP) and saliva based rapid antigen detection testing kits in comparison with USFDA approved triple target gold standard real-time polymerase chain reaction. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 33,000 COVID-19 suspected patients. From RT-PCR positive patients, nasopharyngeal swab (NSP) and saliva samples were obtained for evaluation of rapid COVID-19 testing kits (RDT). 100/33000 (0.3%) of specimens were RT-PCR positive for SARS-CoV-2. Among RT-PCR positive, 62% were males, 34% were females, and 4% were children. The NSP-RDT (Lepu Medical China) analysis revealed 53% reactivity among males, 58% reactivity among females, and 25% reactivity among children. However saliva based RDT (Lepu Medical China) analysis showed 21% reactivity among males and 23% among females, and no reactivity in children. False negative results were significantly more pronounced in saliva based RDT as compared to NSP-RDT. The sensitivity of these NSP-RDT and saliva based RDT were 52% and 21% respectively. The RDTs evaluated in this study showed limited sensitivities in comparison to gold standard RT-PCR, indicating that there is a dire need in Pakistan for development of suitable testing to improve accurate COVID-19 diagnosis in line with national demands.
Distribution and utilization of homestead windbreak Fukugi (Garcinia subelliptica Merr.) trees: An ethnobotanical approach
Authors: Chen Bixia , Akamine Hikaru 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Garcinia subelliptica (Fukugi in Japanese) is an evergreen tropical tree, first identified in Batanes, the Philippines, which has been planted as a homestead windbreak and in coastal forests extensively on the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. This article focuses on the traditional uses and cultural values of Fukugi trees and provides ethnobotanical information for the conservation scheme of this important tree species.Methods: A combination of ecological and ethnobotanical approaches was applied in this study. Extensive field surveys were conducted to collect dimensions of relatively large trees, and in-depth interviews with the village leaders and knowledgeable persons were conducted to collect ethnobotanical data. Results: Fukugi trees have been primarily planted as homestead or farmland windbreaks. Timber was harvested during difficult times, for example, after WWII, and used for recreational purposes for children or farmers. The fruits were also eaten on some remote islands. Old-growth Fukugi trees are widely found in sacred sites, within cities, and as symbolic trees. The older generations respect Fukugi trees; however, the cultural significance valued by older generation seems to be lacking in the younger generation. We argue that Fukugi is a cultural keystone species in Okinawa, which underpins Ryukyu culture and has transformed islands into a pleasant land, a unique place, and shared identity for the community.Conclusions: Fukugi windbreaks provide significant ecosystem services, such as biodiversity in the forest, reducing soil erosion, and spiritual and cultural values. A combination of biophysical environment, as well as tradition and custom, has played an essential role in tree species selection for windbreaks. The positive impacts that anthropogenic activities have had on the sustainability of woody species, namely, the active utilization of tree species, may have enabled the species to sustain. Strategies for protecting old-growth Fukugi trees, in addition to restoration of damaged trees, are needed to improve the sustainable management of Fukugi trees in Okinawa.
Low Hepatitis E virus prevalence among blood donor in Dali in China
Authors: Fu Ping , Lin Baochai , Wu Bingting , Ke Ling , Yang Tianfu , Du Yue’e , Cheng Lishan , Li Zhou , Li Tiancheng , Liu Yu 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a nonenveloped RNA virus causing Hepatitis E worldwide. An increasing transfusion transmission cases of HEV infections from asymptomatic blood donors which causing serious illnesses in immunosuppressed recipients have been reported in the past few years. China is one of the highly prevalent regions of HEV, it is important to evaluate the risk of HEV transmission from blood transfusion. METHODS: A total of 1864 serum samples from blood donors and demographic characteristics were randomly collected from Feb to Mar 2018 in Dali city. Anti-HEV IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies and HEV antigen were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). HEV RNA was detected by real-time PCR. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was used to examine risk factors associated with HEV prevalence.RESULTS: Overall, the positive rate of anti-HEV IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies was 13.36% (249/1864), 1.13%(21/1864), and 1.82%(34/1864), respectively. However, none of the 1864 serum samples was detected as HEV antigen-positive nor HEV RNA positive. The positive rate of anti-HEV IgG antibody is high as 28.57% (2/7) in the donors with isolated elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Females (16.69%) had a significantly higher HEV seroprevalence than males (13.04%) (odds ratio [OR]: 1.34 [95% CI, 1.02-1.75]). Other ethnic minority (24.32%) and Bai (18.85%) donors had a significantly higher HEV seroprevalence when compared to Han (12.21%) blood donors (odds ratio [OR], 2.25 [95% CI, 1.04-4.88] for other ethnic minority, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.24-2.19] for Bai). Conclusions: Dali, Yunnan province, China is an endemic region f of hepatitis E virus, and women, Bai and other ethnic minorities may be potential risk factors for hepatitis E virus infection.. The risk of transmission of hepatitis E virus through blood transfusion is relatively low, and the specific risk value needs to be further tested by expanding the sample size. Whether to formulate the strategy for HEV screening in blood center needed further researched.