Systemic immune-inflammation index,neutrophilto-lymphocyte ratio,and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with type 2 diabetes at different stages of diabetic retinopathy

AIM:To investigate systemic immune-inflammation index(SII),neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR),and plateletto-lymphocyte ratio(PLR)levels in patients with type 2 diabetes at different stages of diabetic retinopathy(DR).METHODS:This retrospective study included 141 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM):45 without diabetic retinopathy(NDR),47 with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy(NPDR),and 49 with proliferative diabetic retinopathy(PDR).Complete blood counts were obtained,and NLR,PLR,and SII were calculated.The study analysed the ability of inflammatory markers to predict DR using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curves.The relationships between DR stages and SII,PLR,and NLP were assessed using multivariate logistic regression.RESULTS:The average NLR,PLR,and SII were higher in the PDR group than in the NPDR group(P=0.011,0.043,0.009,respectively);higher in the NPDR group than in the NDR group(P<0.001 for all);and higher in the PDR group than in the NDR group(P<0.001 for all).In the ROC curve analysis,the NLR,PLR,and SII were significant predictors of DR(P<0.001 for all).The highest area under the curve(AUC)was for the PLR(0.929 for PLR,0.925 for SII,and 0.821 for NLR).Multivariate regression analysis indicated that NLR,PLR,and SII were statistically significantly positive and independent predictors for the DR stages in patients with DM[odds ratio(OR)=1.122,95%confidence interval(CI):0.200–2.043,P<0.05;OR=0.038,95%CI:0.018–0.058,P<0.05;OR=0.007,95%CI:0.001–0.01,P<0.05,respectively).CONCLUSION:The NLR,PLR,and SII may be used as predictors of DR.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio:Markers predicting immune-checkpoint inhibitor efficacy and immune-related adverse events

We conducted a comprehensive review of existing prediction models pertaining to the efficacy of immune-checkpoint inhibitor(ICI)and the occurrence of immune-related adverse events(irAEs).The predictive potential of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR)in determining ICI effectiveness has been extensively investigated,while limited research has been conducted on predicting irAEs.Furthermore,the combined model incor-porating NLR and PLR,either with each other or in conjunction with additional markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen,exhibits superior predictive capabilities compared to individual markers alone.NLR and PLR are promising markers for clinical applications.Forthcoming models ought to incorporate established efficacious models and newly identified ones,thereby constituting a multifactor composite model.Furthermore,efforts should be made to explore effective clinical application approaches that enhance the predictive accuracy and efficiency.

Prognostic role of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with non-metastatic and metastatic prostate cancer:A meta-analysis and systematic review

Objective: To analyze data available in the literature regarding a possible prognostic value of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients stratified in non-metastatic and metastatic diseases.Methods: A literature search process was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. In our meta-analysis, the pooled event rate estimated and the pooled hazard ratio were calculated using a random effect model.Results: Forty-two articles were selected for our analysis. The pooled risk difference for non-organ confined PCa between high and low NLR cases was 0.06 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.03-0.15) and between high and low PLR cases increased to 0.30 (95% CI: 0.16-0.43). In non-metastatic PCa cases, the pooled hazard ratio for overall mortality between high and low NLR was 1.33 (95% CI: 0.78-1.88) and between high and low PLR was 1.47 (95% CI: 0.91-2.03), whereas in metastatic PCa cases, between high and low NLR was 1.79 (95% CI: 1.44-2.13) and between high and low PLR was 1.05 (95% CI: 0.87-1.24).Conclusion: The prognostic values of NLR and PLR in terms of PCa characteristics and responses after treatment show a high level of heterogeneity of results among studies. These two ratios can represent the inflammatory and immunity status of the patient related to several conditions. A higher predictive value is related to a high NLR in terms of risk for overall mortality in metastatic PCa cases under systemic treatments.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios alone or combined with prostate-specific antigen for the diagnosis of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer

Objective:We evaluated whether the blood parameters before prostate biopsy can diagnose prostate cancer(PCa)and clinically significant PCa(Gleason score[GS]7)in our hospital.Methods:This study included patients with increased prostate-specific antigen(PSA)up to 20 ng/mL.The associations of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)and platelet-tolymphocyte ratio(PLR)alone or with PSA with PCa and clinically significant PCa were analyzed.Results:We included 365 patients,of whom 52.9%(193)had PCa including 66.8%(129)with GS of≥7.PSA density(PSAD)and PSA had better the area under the curve(AUC)of 0.722 and 0.585,respectively with pZ0.001 for detecting PCa compared with other blood parameters.PSA combined with PLR(PsPLR)and PSA with NLR(PsNLR)had better AUC of 0.608 and 0.610,respectively with p<0.05,for diagnosing GS≥7 population,compared with PSA,free/total PSA,NLR,PLR,and PsNPLR(PSA combined with NLR and PLR).NLR and PLR did not predict PCa on multivariate analysis.For GS≥7 cancer detection,in the multivariate analysis,separate models with PSA and NLR(Model 1:PsNLRþbaseline parameters)or PSA and PLR(Moder 2:PsPLRþbaseline parameters)were made.Baseline parameters comprised age,digital rectal exam-positive lesions,PSA density,free/total PSA,and magnetic resonance imaging.Model 2 containing PsPLR was statistically significant(odds ratio:2.862,95% confidence interval:1.174-6.975,p=0.021)in finding aggressive PCa.The predictive accuracy of Model 2 was increased(AUC:0.734,p<0.001)than that when only baseline parameters were used(AUC:0.693,p<0.001).Conclusion:NLR or PLR,either alone or combined with PSA,did not detect PCa.However,the combined use of PSA with PLR could find the differences between clinically significant and insignificant PCa in our retrospective study limited by the small number of samples.

Prognostic value of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in upper tract urothelial carcinoma patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy:A metaanalysis

Objective:To evaluate the prognostic value of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR)in upper tract urothelial carcinoma(UTUC)patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy.Methods:This study was pre-registered in PROSPERO(No.CRD42020186645).Two reviewers independently performed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed,Web of Science,EMBASE,Cochrane Library databases,China Biology Medicine disc(CBM),Wanfang database,and China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI)from inception to May 2021 for prospective or retrospective cohort studies evaluating the prognostic value of PLR.Literature was analyzed with inclusion and exclusion criteria.Data and other useful clinicopathological features were extracted and analyzed with fixed or random-effect models when applicable.Heterogeneity was assessed on the basis of Cochran’s Q test and I2 statistic.Publication bias was assessed with funnel plots and precisely assessed by Egger's tests.Results:A total of ten studies involving 3287 UTUC patients were included.Meta-analysis showed that elevated preoperative PLR was associated with worse overall survival(HR=1.51,95%CI 1.17-1.94,P=0.001),cancer specific survival(HR=1.52,95%CI 1.21-1.90,P<0.001),disease free survival(HR=1.32,95%CI 1.12-1.56,P=0.001),and progression free survival(HR=1.88,95%CI 1.41-2.52,P<0.001).Furthermore,the sensitivity analyses validated the stability and reliability of the results.Conclusion:The present meta-analysis demonstrates a significant association between elevated preoperative PLR and poor prognosis of UTUC patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy.Hence,PLR could be helpful as a potential prognostic biomarker to guide clinical decision-making and select individualized treatment strategies for UTUC patients.However,more prospective and large-scale trials are needed to provide more evidence.

Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in the setting of liver transplantation for hepatocellular cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR) as a risk factor for post-transplant hepatocellular cancer(HCC) recurrence. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using PubM ed. Participants of any age and sex, who underwent liver transplantation for HCC were considered following these criteria:(1) studies comparing pre-transplant low vs high PLR values;(2) studies reporting post-transplant recurrence rates; and(3) if more than one study was reported by the same institute, only the most recent was included. The primary outcome measure was set for HCC recurrence after transplantation. RESULTS A total of 5 articles, published between 2014 and 2017, fulfilled the selection criteria. As for the quality of the reported studies, all the investigated articles presented an overall high quality. A total of 899 cases were investigated: 718 cases(80.0%) were males. Three studies coming from European countries and one from Japan presented HCV as the main cause of cirrhosis. On the opposite, one Chinese study presented a greater incidence of HBV-related cirrhotic cases. In all the studies apart one, the PLR cut-off value of 150 was reported. At meta-analysis, high PLR value was associated with a significant increase in recurrence after transplantation(OR = 3.33; 95%CI: 1.78-6.25; P < 0.001). A moderate heterogeneity was observed among the identified studies according to the Higgins I^2 statistic value.CONCLUSION Pre-transplant high PLR values are connected with an increased risk of post-operative recurrence of hepatocellular cancer. More studies are needed for better clarify the biological mechanisms of this results.

Combined preoperative platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and serum carbohydrate antigen 19–9 level as a prognostic factor in patients with resected pancreatic cancer

Background: Carbohydrate antigen 19–9(CA19-9) is the most frequently used tumor marker and serves as a prognostic indicator in patients with pancreatic cancer(PC). The platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR) is thought to be an inflammation-related serum marker. An elevated PLR represents increased inflammatory status and is associated with poor prognosis in patients with various cancers including PC. Methods: This study involved 103 patients with a histopathological diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreatectomy. The patients were assessed to determine the prognostic significance of the combination of the PLR and CA19-9 level. Results: Based on the receiver operating characteristic analysis results, the patients were divided into PLR H igh(PLR ≥ 129.1) andPLRLow(PLR < 129.1) groups and into CA19-9High(CA19-9 ≥ 74.0 U/mL) and CA19-9Low(CA19-9 < 74.0 U/mL) groups. The cumulative 5-year overall survival(OS) and disease-specific survival(DSS) rates significantly differed by both the PLR(PLR H igh group: 19.5% and 22.9%;PLRLow group: 39.1% and 45.9%) and CA19-9(CA19-9 H igh group: 19.1% and 25.6%;CA19-9Low group: 41.0% and 41.0%). We then divided the patients into Groups A(PLR L ow/CA19-9Low), B(PLR Low/CA19-9High or PLRHigh/CA19-9Low), and C(PLR H igh/CA19-9High). The cumulative 5-year OS rates in Groups A, B, and C were 44.0%, 31.9%, and 11.9%, respectively( P = 0.002). The cumulative 5-year DSS rates in Groups A, B, and C were 47.7%, 36.4%, and 16.8%, respectively( P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis revealed that the combination of the PLR and CA19-9 was an independent prognostic factor in patients with resected PC. Conclusions: The combination of the PLR and CA19-9 is useful for predicting the prognosis of patients with resected PC.

The combined prognostic value of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in stage IE/IIE extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma

Objective This study aimed to explore the combined prognostic value of pretreatment neutrophil-tolymphocyte ratio(NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio(LMR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR) in newly diagnosed IE/IIE extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma(ENKTL) treated with a P-Gemox regimen combined with radiotherapy or radiotherapy alone.Methods A total of 132 patients from 2009 to 2017 at the Sichuan Cancer Hospital were enrolled in the study. The cutoff values of NLR, LMR, and PLR using overall survival(OS) rate as an endpoint were obtained by the receiver operating curve. Results The cutoff value of NLR was 3.5. Patients with high NLR had significantly shorter progressionfree survival(PFS)(P < 0.001) and OS(P < 0.001) than those with low NLR. Similarly, the cutoff value of LMR was 3.0. The high LMR group had significantly longer PFS(P=0.001) and OS(P < 0.001) than the low LMR group. Similarly, the cutoff value of PLR was 191.7. The high PLR group was significantly associated with poor PFS(P < 0.001) and OS(P < 0.001) than the low PLR group. Furthermore, combining NLR, LMR, and PLR to build a new model to stratify patients into low-, intermediate-, intermediate-high-, and high-risk groups, there were also significant differences in PFS(P < 0.001) and OS(P < 0.001). The univariate analysis showed that presenting B symptoms, stage IIE, local tumor invasion, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score ≥ 2, elevated lactate dehydrogenase level, elevated NLR, decreased LMR, and elevated PLR were significantly associated with poor survival. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that PLR was an independent prognostic factor for both PFS(hazard ratio [HR]= 2.073, 95% confidence interval [CI]= 1.080–3.981, P = 0.028) and OS(HR = 2.127, 95% CI = 1.102–4.107, P = 0.025).Conclusion Elevated pretreatment PLR was a novel simple predictor of poor survival in patients with stage IE/IIE ENKTL. Combining NLR, LMR, and PLR could provide additional stratification.

Preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio plus platelet-to-lymphocyte ratioin predicting survival for patients with stage Ⅰ-Ⅱgastric cancer

Background:The preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR) and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR) are associated with poor prognosis of gastric cancer.We aimed to determine whether the combination of NLR and PLR(NLR-PLR) could better predict survival of patients after curative resection for stage Ⅰ-Ⅱ gastric cancer.Methods:We collected data from the medical records of patients with stage Ⅰ-Ⅱ gastric cancer undergoing curative resection between December 2000 and November 2012 at the Sun Yat-sen Cancer Center.The preoperative NLRPLR was calculated as follows:patients with both elevated NLR(≥2.1) and PLR(≥ 120) were given a score of 2,and patients with only one or neither were given a score of 1 or 0,respectively.Results:Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank tests revealed significant differences in overall survival(OS) among patients with NLR-PLR scores of 0,1 and 2(P < 0.001).Multivariate analysis showed that OS was independently associated with the NLR-PLR score[hazard ratio(HR) = 1.51,95%confidence interval(CI) 1.02-2.24,P = 0.039]and TNM stage(HR = 1.36,95%CI 1.01-1.83,P= 0.041).However,other systemic inflammation-based prognostic scores,including the modified Glasgow prognostic score,the prognostic nutritional index,and the combination of platelet count and NLR,were not.In TNM stage-stratified analysis,the prognostic significance of NLR-PLR was maintained in patients with stage Ⅰ(P < 0.001) and stage Ⅱ cancers(P= 0.022).In addition,the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the NLR-PLR score was higher than those of other systemic inflammation-based prognostic scores(P = 0.001).Conclusion:The preoperative NLR-PLR score is a useful predictor of postoperative survival in the patients with stage l-ll gastric cancer and may help identify high-risk patients for rational therapy and timely follow-up.

Regorafenib combined with programmed cell death-1 inhibitor against refractory colorectal cancer and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio’s prediction on effectiveness

BACKGROUND The effectiveness of regorafenib plus programmed cell death-1(PD-1)inhibitor in treating microsatellite stable(MSS)metastatic colorectal cancer(mCRC)remains controversial.AIM To investigate the benefits of regorafenib combined with PD-1 inhibitor in treating MSS mCRC and explore indicators predicting response.METHODS This retrospective study included a total of 30 patients with microsatellite stable metastatic colorectal cancer treated with regorafenib combined with programmed cell death-1 inhibitor at Henan Provincial People’s Hospital between December 2018 and December 2020.During a 4-wk treatment cycle,regorafenib was performed for 3 continuous weeks.PD-1 inhibitor was intravenously injected starting on the first day of the oral intake of regorafenib.We reviewed tumor response,progression-free survival(PFS),overall survival,and treatment-related adverse events(TRAEs)and evaluated association between platelet-tolymphocyte ratio(PLR)and outcomes in this retrospective study.RESULTS Stable disease and progressive disease were found in 18(60.0%)and 12(40.0%)patients,respectively.The disease control rate was 60.0%.The median follow-up time was 12.0 mo,and median PFS was 3.4 mo[95%confidence interval(CI):2.2-4.6 mo].Of the 12 patients with progressive disease,10(83.3%)had liver metastasis before starting the combined treatment.Among the 18 patients with SD,10(55.6%)did not have liver metastases.One patient without liver metastases at baseline was found with a substantially prolonged PFS of 11.2 mo.The liver metastasis,the choice of programmed cell death-1 inhibitor other than nivolumab or pembrolizumab and previous exposure to regorafenib was’t associated with treatment outcome.The median PFS in the low-PLR group was 4.2 mo(95%CI:3.5-4.9 mo),compared with 2.8 mo(95%CI:1.4-4.2 mo)in the high-PLR group(P=0.005).The major TRAEs included hand-foot syndrome(33.3%),hypertension(23.3%),malaise(20.0%),and gastrointestinal reaction(16.7%).The incidence of grade 3 TRAEs was 13.3%(4/30),which comprised abnormal capillary proliferation(n=1),transaminase elevation(n=1),and hand-foot syndrome(n=2).No grade 4 or higher toxicity was observed.CONCLUSION Regorafenib combined with PD-1 inhibitor could lead to a longer PFS in some patients with MSS mCRC.The PLR might be a prediction of the patient response to this therapy.

An elevated platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio is associated with a higher risk of intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis

Background:Previous studies have shown that inflammation plays an important role in intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis(ICAS).The platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR)has recently emerged as a potential inflammatory biomarker.This study aimed to explore the association of the PLR with ICAS in a Chinese Han population.Methods:A total of 2134 participants(518 with ICAS,1616 without ICAS)were enrolled in this study.ICAS was defined as atherosclerotic stenosis>50%or the occlusion of several main intracranial arteries.Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association of the PLR with ICAS.Additional subgroup analyses were performed according to age(<60 vs.≥60 years)and acute ischemic stroke.Results:Multivariate regression analysis showed that a high PLR was associated with a higher risk of ICAS in all participants(P<0.001).Compared with the lowest quartile,the fourth PLR quartile was significantly associated with ICAS(OR 1.705,95%confidence interval 1.278–2.275,P<0.001).In the subgroups stratified by age,an association between the PLR and ICAS was found in the late-life group(P<0.001),but not in the mid-life group(P=0.650).In the subgroups stratified by acute ischemic stroke,the relationship between an elevated PLR and a higher risk of ICAS remained unchanged(stroke group,P<0.001;non-stroke group,P=0.027).Conclusions:An elevated PLR was associated with a higher risk of ICAS in a Chinese Han population.The PLR might serve as a potential biomarker for ICAS in the elderly population.

Stratified Platelet-to-lymphocyte Ratio:A Novel Target for Prognostic Prediction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Curative Liver Resection

Background and Aims:Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR)has been shown to predict prognosis of cancers.We aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of stratification of PLR in patients after curative liver resection(CLR)for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Methods:A total of 1804 patients who underwent CLR for suspected HCC between January 2007 and January 2014 were screened for the study.All of the patients were categorized into equal tertiles according to the number of patients and the distribution of PLR.Prognostic significance was determined for overall survival(OS)and was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis.Univariate and multi-variate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were evaluated for association of all independent parameters with disease prognosis.Results:The optimal cut-off points of preoperative PLR were:(T1)11.98-75.00,(T2)75.00-113.33 and(T3)113.33-567.50.There were obvious differences in each PLR tertile with mortality within 36 months of CLR(Plog-rank<0.001).Multivariable analysis suggested that the level of PLR(HR=1.004,95%CI:1.001-1.008,P=0.006),portal vein thrombosis(HR=3.406,95%CI:1.185-9.794,P=0.023),number of nodules(HR=1.810,95%CI:1.345-2.437,P<0.001),Child-Turcotte-Pugh score(HR=1.741,95%CI:1.129-2.684,P=0.012)and microvascular invasion(HR=2.730,95%CI:1.777-4.196,P<0.001)were significant predictors of mortality.Kaplan-Meier analysis of overall survival(OS)demonstrated that each PLR tertile showed a progressively worse OS and apparent separation(Plog-rank=0.016).The highest 5-year OS rate following CLR(58%)was revealed in tertile 1.In contrast,the lowest 5-year OS rate(30%)was revealed in tertile 3.Conclusion:Stratified preoperative PLR could strengthen the predictive power for OS in HCC patients with CLR.

Clinical study of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-tolymphocyte ratio in hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis and acute biliary pancreatitis with persistent organ failure

BACKGROUND The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR)are novel inflammatory indicators that can be used to predict the severity and prognosis of various diseases.We categorize acute pancreatitis by etiology into acute biliary pancreatitis(ABP)and hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis(HTGP).AIM To investigate the clinical significance of NLR and PLR in assessing persistent organ failure(POF)in HTGP and ABP.METHODS A total of 1450 patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis(AP)for the first time at Shanxi Bethune Hospital between January 2012 and January 2023 were enrolled.The patients were categorized into two groups according to the etiology of AP:ABP in 530 patients and HTGP in 241 patients.We collected and compared the clinical data of the patients,including NLR,PLR,and AP prognostic scoring systems,within 48 h of hospital admission.RESULTS The NLR(9.1 vs 6.9,P<0.001)and PLR(203.1 vs 160.5,P<0.001)were significantly higher in the ABP group than in the HTGP group.In the HTGP group,both NLR and PLR were significantly increased in patients with severe AP and those with a SOFA score≥3.Likewise,in the ABP group,NLR and PLR were significantly elevated in patients with severe AP,modified computed tomography severity index score≥4,Japanese Severity Score≥3,and modified Marshall score≥2.Moreover,NLR and PLR showed predictive value for the development of POF in both the ABP and HTGP groups.CONCLUSION NLR and PLR vary between ABP and HTGP,are strongly associated with AP prognostic scoring systems,and have predictive potential for the occurrence of POF in both ABP and HTGP.

基于改进Ratio统计量的重尾AR(p)时间序列均值变点检验

文章提出两个改进的Ratio统计量来研究重尾AR(p)时间序列均值变点检验问题,在原假设下推导了统计量的渐近分布,且在备择假设下证明了其一致性。由于重尾指数未知且难以估计,因此结合Wild Bootstrap重抽样方法来确定渐近分布的临界值;在均值变点存在的情形下,给出了变点位置的一致估计量。数值模拟结果表明:统计量的临界值均不受重尾指数和自回归系数的影响,其经验水平和经验势均取得满意的效果;尤其在原假设下,积分型Ratio统计量的经验水平表现出更好的稳健性,而在备择假设下,最值型Ratio统计量则具备更好的显著性。最后,基于一组股票数据,从实际应用角度进一步阐明所提方法的有效性和可行性。

Yields,growth and water use under chemical topping in relations to row configuration and plant density in drip-irrigated cotton

Background Water deficit is an important problem in agricultural production in arid regions.With the advent of wholly mechanized technology for cotton planting in Xinjiang,it is important to determine which planting mode could achieve high yield,fiber quality and water use efficiency(WUE).This study aimed to explore if chemical topping affected cotton yield,quality and water use in relation to row configuration and plant densities.Results Experiments were carried out in Xinjiang China,in 2020 and 2021 with two topping method,manual topping and chemical topping,two plant densities,low and high,and two row configurations,i.e.,76 cm equal rows and 10+66 cm narrow-wide rows,which were commonly applied in matching harvest machine.Chemical topping increased seed cotton yield,but did not affect cotton fiber quality comparing to traditional manual topping.Under equal row spacing,the WUE in higher density was 62.4%higher than in the lower one.However,under narrow-wide row spacing,the WUE in lower density was 53.3%higher than in higher one(farmers’practice).For machine-harvest cotton in Xinjiang,the optimal row configuration and plant density for chemical topping was narrow-wide rows with 15 plants m-2 or equal rows with 18 plants m-2.Conclusion The plant density recommended in narrow-wide rows was less than farmers’practice and the density in equal rows was moderate with local practice.Our results provide new knowledge on optimizing agronomic managements of machine-harvested cotton for both high yield and water efficient.

A gated recurrent unit model to predict Poisson’s ratio using deep learning

Static Poisson’s ratio(vs)is crucial for determining geomechanical properties in petroleum applications,namely sand production.Some models have been used to predict vs;however,the published models were limited to specific data ranges with an average absolute percentage relative error(AAPRE)of more than 10%.The published gated recurrent unit(GRU)models do not consider trend analysis to show physical behaviors.In this study,we aim to develop a GRU model using trend analysis and three inputs for predicting n s based on a broad range of data,n s(value of 0.1627-0.4492),bulk formation density(RHOB)(0.315-2.994 g/mL),compressional time(DTc)(44.43-186.9 μs/ft),and shear time(DTs)(72.9-341.2μ s/ft).The GRU model was evaluated using different approaches,including statistical error an-alyses.The GRU model showed the proper trends,and the model data ranges were wider than previous ones.The GRU model has the largest correlation coefficient(R)of 0.967 and the lowest AAPRE,average percent relative error(APRE),root mean square error(RMSE),and standard deviation(SD)of 3.228%,1.054%,4.389,and 0.013,respectively,compared to other models.The GRU model has a high accuracy for the different datasets:training,validation,testing,and the whole datasets with R and AAPRE values were 0.981 and 2.601%,0.966 and 3.274%,0.967 and 3.228%,and 0.977 and 2.861%,respectively.The group error analyses of all inputs show that the GRU model has less than 5% AAPRE for all input ranges,which is superior to other models that have different AAPRE values of more than 10% at various ranges of inputs.

Serum cystatin C,monocyte/high-density lipoprotein-C ratio,and uric acid for the diagnosis of coronary heart disease and heart failure

BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease(CHD)and heart failure(HF)are the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide.Early and accurate diagnoses of CHD and HF are essential for optimal management and prognosis.However,conventional diagnostic methods such as electrocardiography,echocardiography,and cardiac biomarkers have certain limitations,such as low sensitivity,specificity,availability,and cost-effectiveness.Therefore,there is a need for simple,noninvasive,and reliable biomarkers to diagnose CHD and HF.AIM To investigate serum cystatin C(Cys-C),monocyte/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR),and uric acid(UA)diagnostic values for CHD and HF.METHODS We enrolled 80 patients with suspected CHD or HF who were admitted to our hospital between July 2022 and July 2023.The patients were divided into CHD(n=20),HF(n=20),CHD+HF(n=20),and control groups(n=20).The serum levels of Cys-C,MHR,and UA were measured using immunonephelometry and an enzymatic method,respectively,and the diagnostic values for CHD and HF were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve analysis.RESULTS Serum levels of Cys-C,MHR,and UA were significantly higher in the CHD,HF,and CHD+HF groups than those in the control group.The serum levels of Cys-C,MHR,and UA were significantly higher in the CHD+HF group than those in the CHD or HF group.The ROC curve analysis showed that serum Cys-C,MHR,and UA had good diagnostic performance for CHD and HF,with areas under the curve ranging from 0.78 to 0.93.The optimal cutoff values of serum Cys-C,MHR,and UA for diagnosing CHD,HF,and CHD+HF were 1.2 mg/L,0.9×10^(9),and 389μmol/L;1.4 mg/L,1.0×10^(9),and 449μmol/L;and 1.6 mg/L,1.1×10^(9),and 508μmol/L,respectively.CONCLUSION Serum Cys-C,MHR,and UA are useful biomarkers for diagnosing CHD and HF,and CHD+HF.These can provide information for decision-making and risk stratification in patients with CHD and HF.

Predictive Ability of Hypertriglyceridemic Waist,Hypertriglyceridemic Waist-to-Height Ratio,and Waist-to-Hip Ratio for Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Clustering Screening among Chinese Children and Adolescents

Objective Hypertriglyceridemic waist(HW),hypertriglyceridemic waist-to-height ratio(HWHtR),and waist-to-hip ratio(WHR)have been shown to be indicators of cardiometabolic risk factors.However,it is not clear which indicator is more suitable for children and adolescents.We aimed to investigate the relationship between HW,HWHtR,WHR,and cardiovascular risk factors clustering to determine the best screening tools for cardiometabolic risk in children and adolescents.Methods This was a national cross-sectional study.Anthropometric and biochemical variables were assessed in approximately 70,000 participants aged 6–18 years from seven provinces in China.Demographics,physical activity,dietary intake,and family history of chronic diseases were obtained through questionnaires.ANOVA,χ2 and logistic regression analysis was conducted.Results A significant sex difference was observed for HWHtR and WHR,but not for HW phenotype.The risk of cardiometabolic health risk factor clustering with HW phenotype or the HWHtR phenotype was significantly higher than that with the non-HW or non-HWHtR phenotypes among children and adolescents(HW:OR=12.22,95%CI:9.54-15.67;HWHtR:OR=9.70,95%CI:6.93-13.58).Compared with the HW and HWHtR phenotypes,the association between risk of cardiometabolic health risk factors(CHRF)clustering and high WHR was much weaker and not significant(WHR:OR=1.14,95%CI:0.97-1.34).Conclusion Compared with HWHtR and WHR,the HW phenotype is a more convenient indicator with higher applicability to screen children and adolescents for cardiovascular risk factors.

Effect of length-width ratio of rounded rectangle aquaculture tank in dual-diagonal-inlet layout on hydrodynamics

To adapt to the change of aquaculture workshop site,optimize the shape of aquaculture tanks and improve the utilization rate of breeding space,it is necessary to determine the appropriate length width ratio parameters of aquaculture tanks.In this paper,computational fluid dynamics(CFD)technology is adopted to study the flow field performance of aquaculture tanks with different L/B ratios(L:the length;B:the width,of aquaculture tank)and different jet direction conditions(lengthways jet and widthways jet).A three-dimensional numerical calculation model of turbulence in rounded rectangle aquaculture tanks in dual-diagonal-inlet layout was established.Jet directions are arranged lengthways and widthways,and the water flow velocity,resistance coefficient change,vorticity,etc.are analyzed under two working conditions.Results show that the flow field performance in aquaculture tank decreases with the increase of the L/B ratio.The flow field performed well when L/B was 1.0-1.3,sharply dropped at 1.4-1.6,and poor at 1.7-1.9.The results provided a theoretical basis for the design and optimization in flow field performance of the industrialized circulating aquaculture tanks.

Experimental Study of Local Scour Around Four Piles Under Different Attack Angles and Gap Ratios

In an effort to investigate and quantify the patterns of local scour,researchers embarked on an in-depth study using a systematic experimental approach.The research focused on the effects of local scour around a set of four piles,each subjected to different hydromechanical conditions.In particular,this study aimed to determine how different attack angles—the angles at which the water flow impinges on the piles,and gap ratios—the ratios of the spacing between the piles to their diameters,influence the extent and nature of scour.A comprehensive series of 35 carefully designed experiments were orchestrated,each designed to dissect the nuances in how the gap ratio and attack angle might contribute to changes in the local scour observed at the base of pile groups.During these experimental trials,a wealth of local scour data were collected to support the analysis.These data included precise topographic profiles of the sediment bed around the pile groups,as well as detailed scour time histories showing the evolution of scour at strategic feature points throughout the test procedure.The analysis of the experimental data provided interesting insights.The study revealed that the interplay between the gap ratio and the attack angle had a pronounced influence on the scouring dynamics of the pile groups.One of the key observations was that the initial phases of scour,particularly within the first hour of water flow exposure,were characterized by a sharp increase in the scour depth occurring immediately in front of the piles.After this initial rapid development,the scour depth transitioned to a more gradual change rate.In contrast,the scour topography around the piles continuously evolved.This suggests that sediment displacement and the associated sculpting of the seabed around pile foundations are sustained and progressive processes,altering the underwater landscape over time.The results of this empirical investigation have significant implications for the design and construction of offshore multi-pile foundations,providing a critical reference for engineers and designers to estimate the expected scour depth around such structures,which is an integral part of decisions regarding foundation design,selection of structural materials,and implementation of scour protection measures.