bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs) on Patient Employment and Income: Findings From the Living with MPNs Survey
Authors: Condliffe Simon , Yu Jingbo , Paranagama Dilan , Parasuraman Shreekant
Published: November 2019

Background The objective of this analysis was to evaluate income loss resulting from disease-related employment changes among patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Methods Patients aged 18 to 70 years diagnosed with an MPN were eligible to participate in the online Living with MPNs survey (April–November, 2016). Respondents employed at the time of diagnosis were asked questions about changes in employment status related to their MPN and their salaries before and after those changes. Cumulative income loss resulting from disease-related employment changes up to the time of the survey was calculated based on the timing of changes in employment and salary, which was reported in inflation-adjusted 2018 US dollars. Results Among 904 patients with an MPN who responded to the survey, 299 were employed at the time of MPN diagnosis and reported ≥1 disease-related employment change. For nearly half (144/299 [48.2%]) of employed patients who reported a change in employment status, the first change occurred within 1 year of diagnosis, and most (229/299 [76.6%]) had ≥1 change within 2 years. Employment status changes and the associated impact on income were greatest among patients who took early retirement ($517,866 lost income), followed by those who took medical disability leave ($289,910) or left a job because of their disease ($257,178). Conclusions Disease-related employment changes contributed to considerable income loss among patients with MPNs. Similar to other chronic conditions, potential exists for disease-related employment changes and income loss among patients with MPNs that should be considered during disease management.
Access to Institutional Delivery Services and Associated Factors among Mothers in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Kayrite Qaro Qanche , Salgedo Waju Beyene , Weldemarium Tesfaye Dagne
Published: November 2019

Background Poor utilization of institutional delivery services has been identified as a major contributory factor to poor maternal and newborn outcomes. Previous studies have tried to measure access in terms of utilization while it has different dimensions that need to be measured separately. Therefore, this study assessed the four dimensions of access (geographic accessibility, perceived availability, affordability, and acceptability) and associated factors.Methods A community based cross-sectional study design was used to undertake this study from March 16 to April 15, 2018, in Jimma Zone. The sample size for this study was 605 mothers who had given birth in the last six months preceding the study. Multi-variable binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the four dimensions of access by using AOR with 95% CI. Ethical clearance was obtained from Jimma University Institutional Review Board.Results Five hundred and ninety-three mothers participated in this study resulting in a response rate of 98%. Four hundred five (68%), 273(46%), 279(47%) and 273(46%) had geographic, perceived availability, affordability and acceptability access to institutional delivery services respectively. Antenatal [AOR=3.74(1.56, 8.98)], occupation of mother [AOR=5.10(1.63, 15.88)], and residence [AOR=1.93(1.13, 3.29)] were independently associated with geographic accessibility. Household graduation [AOR=1.46(1.03, 2.06)], residence [AOR=1.74(1.17, 2.59)] and ANC [AOR=3.80(1.38, 10.50)] were independently associated with perceived availability. Moreover, wealth quintile [AOR=11.60(6.02, 22.35)], ANC [AOR=3.48(1.36, 9.61)] and occupation of husband [AOR=3.63(1.51, 8.74)] were independently associated with affordability. Lastly, mother’s education [AOR=2.69(1.42, 5.09)], residence [AOR=2.60(1.66, 4.08)] and household graduation [AOR=3.12(2.16, 4.50)] were independently associated with acceptability of institutional delivery services.Conclusions Moderate proportions of mothers have geographic accessibility to institutional delivery services but access to the other three dimensions was low. ANC visits of 4 and above, occupation of mothers' husbands, urban residence, graduation of mother’s household as a model family, higher wealth quintiles of mother’s household, and maternal educational level of secondary school and above significantly affect access to institutional delivery services. Thus, it was recommended that concerned bodies should give special attention to ANC service, female education, training of model families, and enhancement of household wealth through job creation opportunities to improve access to institutional delivery services.
Dezocine prevents sufentanil-induced cough during general anesthesia induction: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Xiong Zhencheng , Yi Ping , Song Jipeng , Tan Mingsheng
Published: November 2019

Background Sufentanil is one of the opioids currently used to induce general anesthesia, and cough is one of the most common complications. Many drugs have been used to prevent sufentanil-induced cough (SIC), and dezocine is one of them. The purpose of our meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of dezocine on SIC.Methods We searched multiple databases including PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, the Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases (CNKI) to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis focused on the incidence and severity of SIC after dezocine intervention, as well as adverse effects.Results Five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified, including 890 patients. Each study was a comparison of dezocine with an equal volume of 0.9% saline. When the injection dose of dezocine was 0.1 mg/kg, the incidence (pooled risk ratio [RR]=0.03, [95% CI: 0.02 to 0.07], P<0.00001, I2=0%) and severity (mild: RR=0.07, [95% CI: 0.03 to 0.18], P<0.00001, I2=0%; moderate: RR=0.05, [95% CI: 0.02 to 0.16], P<0.00001, I2=0%; severe: RR=0.04, [95% CI: 0.01 to 0.16], P<0.00001, I2=0%) of SIC were significantly decreased. There were no statistically significant differences in vital signs between the two groups based on the results of the pooled analysis.Conclusion This meta-analysis showed that dezocine significantly reduced the incidence and severity of SIC in the induction of general anesthesia, but had no significant effect on vital signs. More high-quality RCTs are needed to complement existing conclusions.
Constructing Stability – A Classic Grounded Theory Of Next-Of-Kin In Palliative Cancer Care
Authors: Harstade Carina Werkander , Sandgren Anna
Published: November 2019

Background: Being next-of-kin to someone with cancer requiring palliative care involves a complex life situation. Changes in roles and relationships might occur and the next-of-kin thereby try to adapt by being involved in the ill person’s experiences and care even though they can feel unprepared for the care they are expected to provide. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a classic Grounded Theory of next-of-kin in palliative cancer care. Method: Forty-two next-of-kin to persons with cancer in palliative phase or persons who had died from cancer were interviewed. Theoretical sampling was used during data collection. The data was analysed using classic Grounded Theory methodology to conceptualize patterns of human behaviour. Results: Constructing stability emerged as the pattern of behaviour through which next-of-kin deal with their main concern; struggling with helplessness. This helplessness includes an involuntary waiting for the inevitable. The waiting causes sadness and frustration, which in turn increases the helplessness. The theory involves; Shielding, Acknowledging the reality, Going all in, Putting up boundaries, Asking for help, and Planning for the inescapable. These strategies can be used separately or simultaneously and they can also overlap each other. There are several conditions that may impact the theory Constructing stability, which strategies are used, and what the outcomes might be. Some conditions that emerged in this theory are time, personal finances, attitudes from extended family and friends and availability of healthcare resources. Conclusions: The theory shows the complexities of being next-of-kin to someone receiving palliative care, while striving to construct stability. This theory can increase healthcare professionals’ awareness of how next-of-kin struggle with helplessness and thus generates insight into how to support them in this struggle. Keywords cancer, constructing stability, grounded theory, next-of-kin, palliative care
Genome sequencing of Mycobacterium pinnipedii strains: genetic characterization and evidence of superinfection in a South American sea lion (Otaria flavescens)
Authors: Author) Taiana Silva Pereira(Former Corresponding , Ikuta Cássia Y. , Zimpel Cristina K. , Camargo Naila C. S. , Filho Antônio F. de Souza , Neto José S. Ferreira , Heinemann Marcos B. , Author) Ana M. S. Guimarães(New Corresponding
Published: November 2019

Background: Mycobacterium pinnipedii, a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTBC), is capable of infecting several host species, including humans. Recently, ancient DNA from this organism was recovered from pre-Columbian mummies of Peru, sparkling debate over the origin and frequency of tuberculosis in the Americas prior to European colonization. Results: We present the first comparative genomic study of this bacterial species, building from the genome sequencing of two M. pinnipedii isolates (MP1 and MP2) obtained from different organs of a stranded South American sea lion. Our results indicate that MP1 and MP2 differ by 113 SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and 46 indels, constituting the first report of a mixed-strain infection in a sea lion. SNP annotation analyses indicate that genes of the VapBC family, a toxin-antitoxin system, and genes related to cell wall remodeling are under evolutionary pressure for protein sequence change in these strains. OrthoMCL analysis with seven modern isolates of M. pinnipedii shows that these strains have highly similar proteomes. Gene variations was only marginally associated with hypothetical proteins and PE/PPE (proline-glutamate and proline-proline-glutamic, respectively) gene families. We also detected large deletions in ancient and modern M. pinnipedii strains, including few occurring only in modern strains, indicating a process of genome reduction occurring over the past 1,000 years. Our phylogenomic analyses suggest the existence of two modern clusters of M. pinnipedii associated with geographic location, and possibly host species, and one basal node associated with the ancient M. pinnipedii strains. Previously described MiD3 and MiD4 deletions may have occurred independently, twice, over evolutionary course of the MTBC. Conclusion:The presence of superinfection (i.e. mixed-strain infection) in this sea lion suggests that M. pinnipedii is highly endemic in this population. In contrast to the human-adapted M. tuberculosis strains, M. pinnipedii proteomes of the studied isolate showed high degree of conservation, despite being under genomic decay when compared to M. tuberculosis. This finding indicates that further genomes need to be sequenced and analyzed to increase the chances of finding variably present genes among strains or that M. pinnipedii genome remodeling occurred prior to bacterial speciation.
Damage identification research on beam structures by integrating multiple modal parameters
Authors: Duan Jingbo , Wang Wenjie , Zhou Weiyong
Published: November 2019

A new damage identification method with a fusion index to locate the damage position and identify the damage extent of beam structures is presented by integrating the modal strain energy and natural frequency sensitivity. The modal strain energy, which is with the limitation on obtaining the damage extent, is adopted to locate the damage position with avoiding the interference of structure itself. The natural frequency sensitivity, which is with false detection and interference happening when solely used, is adopted for identifying the damage extent. In order to further improve the precision of the damage quantification, additional masses are added on the beam structure to obtain more information about the natural frequency sensitivity. Then, the fusion index for damage identification is established through combining the modal strain energy and the natural frequency sensitivity before and after adding masses on beam structures. The results obtained by finite element analysis and experimental tests show that the presented method can locate and quantify damages on beam structures in an accurate and convenient way.
Economic benefit analysis of low-level high vacuum compaction method from the perspective of low carbon
Authors: Yuan Liangrong , Song Menglan
Published: November 2019

In order to discuss the superiorities of High Vacuum Drubbing Means (HVDM) in soft foundation treatment of roads, this paper takes the soft foundation treatment project of Wucheng Road in Wuwei County of Wanjiang City Belt in China as an example. By comparing and analyzing the economic benefit differences between HVDM method and traditional powder injection pile method in soft soil foundation treatment, the following conclusions are drawn: Low-level high-vacuum compaction method soft base processing method is better than traditional powder-jet pile method in soft foundation treatment. The method can better reduce the consumption of raw materials such as cement and stone, avoid the pollution of the social environment caused by cement production, shorten the construction period by about 50 % and save the direct labor cost. Compared with the traditional powder-sprayed pile method, total cost of the project can be saved by more than 30 % and the construction quality is controllable. The construction process is green and its social and economic benefits are remarkable.
Migrantes profesionistas mexicanos en Estados Unidos: Análisis de las desigualdades de género
Authors: Domínguez Villalobos Lilia , Brown Grossman Flor , Nava Bolaños Isalia
Published: November 2019

Este trabajo analiza comparativamente los determinantes de la integración en el mercado de trabajo estadunidense por nivel de calificación de la ocupación de  los y las migrantes profesionistas mexicanos. Para cumplir con el objetivo estimamos dos modelos econométricos multinomiales  que examinan las probabilidades de no ocuparse o de emplearse en puestos de distinto nivel de calificación. Con base en estos resultados se construyen escenarios. En el primero que combina el grado académico con la presencia de hijos, fue contundente la alta probabilidad para la población femenina de estar fuera de la fuerza de trabajo, con la salvedad de contar con doctorado. En el segundo escenario, en el que se relacionan las condiciones migratorias, la escolaridad y el dominio del inglés, se ilustra la vulnerabilidad como inmigrantes que se intersecta con la vulnerabilidad de género, cuando no están presentes las condiciones óptimas.
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity Evaluation of the Polybenzimidazole Derivatives with Different Dicarboxylic Acid Moieties
Authors: Eren Bilge , Koçak Fadime Özdemir , Erdoğan Gülcan
Published: November 2019

A series of polybenzimidazole was synthesized by the solution polycondensation reaction of
3,3´-diaminobenzidine (DAB) with dicarboxylic acid derivatives. The synthesized polybenzimidazoles
were characterized by using IR, 1H-NMR, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC). TGA and DSC studies showed that the polybenzimidazoles have good thermal stability
and are generally amorphous in nature. Glass transition temperature (Tg) values were found to be
in the range of 300-410°C. This is the first detailed study to investigate the antimicrobial activities of
the polybenzimidazoles. The synthesized polybenzimidazoles have high antimicrobial activity compared
to benzimidazole molecules. It was also found that they are more effective against bacterial species
than fungal species. The polymers 2, 5, 6, 7, having -1,3-phenyl, vinyl, -1-OH-3,5-phenyl and 4,4´-
oxybisphenyl rings, showed remarkable activity against tested bacterial species (MIC = 32-500
μg/mL). Among these polymers, the polymers 6 and 7 having additional electronegative moiety have
the highest activity against tested bacterial species.
Characteristics of Nano-metal Colloid Prepared by Electrical Spark Discharge Method
Authors: Tseng Kuo-Hsiung , Chung Meng-Yun
Published: November 2019

Background:

This study used Electrical Spark Discharge Method (ESDM) to fabricate the
nano-Au, nano-Ag and nano-Cu colloid. The spark wears down the surface of the electrodes and gets
nano-metal particles at standard temperature and pressure and without adding any other chemical
materials in the deionized water.

Methods:

The nano-metal particles are examined by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Zetasizer, Transmission
Electron Microscope, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis and are proven to be nano-metal
colloid. Under the comparison of different parameters (discharge pulse width, HV, Ip), the size of
nano-metal particles increases with the level of Ip.

Results:

Under the experiment of light or dark, most of the Absorbance of the nano-Au and nano-Ag
colloid is higher than that of the environment under strong light irradiation as long as it is prepared in
a pure black environment. The nano-Au and nano-Ag colloid prepared by ESDM have a zeta potential
exceeding the absolute value of 30 mV, no matter which parameter is applied or whether there is
illumination or not.

Conclusion:

It represents a good suspension stability of the nano-Au and nano-Ag colloid, but the
nano-Cu colloid does not have this feature. The suspension stability is not good.
Analysis of Oncogene Protein Structure Using Small World Network Concept
Authors: Kumari Neetu , Verma Anshul
Published: November 2019

Background:

The basic building block of a body is protein which is a complex system
whose structure plays a key role in activation, catalysis, messaging and disease states. Therefore,
careful investigation of protein structure is necessary for the diagnosis of diseases and for the drug
designing. Protein structures are described at their different levels of complexity: primary (chain),
secondary (helical), tertiary (3D), and quaternary structure. Analyzing complex 3D structure of
protein is a difficult task but it can be analyzed as a network of interconnection between its
component, where amino acids are considered as nodes and interconnection between them are
edges.

Objective:

Many literature works have proven that the small world network concept provides
many new opportunities to investigate network of biological systems. The objective of this paper is
analyzing the protein structure using small world concept.

Methods:

Protein is analyzed using small world network concept, specifically where extreme
condition is having a degree distribution which follows power law. For the correct verification of
the proposed approach, dataset of the Oncogene protein structure is analyzed using Python
programming.

Results:

Protein structure is plotted as network of amino acids (Residue Interaction Graph (RIG))
using distance matrix of nodes with given threshold, then various centrality measures (i.e., degree
distribution, Degree-Betweenness correlation, and Betweenness-Closeness correlation) are
calculated for 1323 nodes and graphs are plotted.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, it is concluded that there exist hubs with higher centrality degree but less
in number, and they are expected to be robust toward harmful effects of mutations with new
functions.
Barriers to Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence in One of the Prisons in Iran
Authors: Farhoudi Behnam , Seyedalinaghi SeyedAhmad , Jafarinasab Masoud , Ghavam Seyed Mohammad , Dadras Omid , Alipour Amin , Alijani Mohsen
Published: November 2019

Background:

Antiretroviral medications have improved the survival and life quality of
people living with HIV and turned HIV into a chronic controllable disease. However, the success
of HIV treatment depends on many factors; patient adherence is one the most important indicators.
In this study, we explored the potential barriers to an effective adherence antiretroviral therapy
(ART) among the HIV-positive prisoners of Ghezel-Hesar prison, Iran.

Methods:

To explore and identify the barriers toward ART adherence, a focus group discussion
was held with six prisoners eligible for ART but rejected to be treated or did not retain on ART.
The prisoners were recruited through purposive sampling method. All the words, behaviors and
even body languages were precisely recorded and analyzed to reach the final results.

Results:

The most reported obstacles toward ART adherence were the lack of trust in the effectiveness
of medications and drug complications. Other reasons were inadequate nutrition, lack of
amenities, social stigma, lack of economic and psychological support, misbehavior of prison staff
and inadequate methadone prescription for those with opium addiction.

Conclusion:

Due to the results and the fact that adequate Methadone prescription for opium addiction,
improving life quality and receiving emotional and medical support from staff could improve
adherence to HIV medication in prisoners,comprehensive education of prisoners about their
health condition along with staff education may improve the life condition of HIV infected prisoners
and may cause dramatic improvement in ART adherence and prisoners health.
FAT10: Function and Relationship with Cancer
Authors: Xiang Senfeng , Shao Xuejing , Cao Ji , Yang Bo , He Qiaojun , Ying Meidan
Published: November 2019

Posttranslational protein modifications are known to be extensively involved in cancer, and a
growing number of studies have revealed that the ubiquitin-like modifier FAT10 is directly involved in
cancer development. FAT10 was found to be highly upregulated in various cancer types, such as
glioma, hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer and gastrointestinal cancer. Protein FAT10ylation and
interactions with FAT10 lead to the functional change of proteins, including proteasomal degradation,
subcellular delocalization and stabilization, eventually having significant effects on cancer cell proliferation,
invasion, metastasis and even tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge
on FAT10 and discussed its biological functions in cancer, as well as potential therapeutic strategies
based on the FAT10 pathway.
Molecular Interactions within the Crystal Packing of Busulfan (DNA Cross-Linking Agent) by Hirshfeld Surface Analysis
Authors: Rajaniverma Datla , Rao Dasari J. , Begum Shaikh R. , Seetaramaiah Vishnubolta , Ramakrishna Yajjala , Tondon Poonam , Thangavel Karthick
Published: November 2019

Background:

Non-Covalent Interactions (NCIs) play a vital role in the chemical
process. Certain Experimental and theoretical approaches provide information about the
stronger and weaker interactions. In the present work, we have implemented Hirshfeld
charges based surface mapping to find the weaker interactions between the molecules of
busulfan.

Objective:

The main objective of this work is to recognize the non-covalent interactions
which are not simply drawn from the experimental and conventional theoretical approach.
It aims to provide more insightful information into the crystallographic structure.

Methods:

In the present work, we have implemented a Hirshfeld surface mapping which
incorporates periodic boundary conditions of the crystalline geometry. Each point of the
isosurface is defined by two distances i.e. de, the distance from the point to the nearest atom
outside to the surface and di, the distance to the nearest atom inside the surface. Also,
for precise identification of intermolecular interactions, mapping by normalized contact
distance dnorm is also considered. Fingerprint plot di vs de for various types of interactions
were also provided.

Results:

The Hirshfeld surface and fingerprint plot show the very weak H···H interactions in
addition to the O···H interactions. This enables the visualization of very weak interactions.

Conclusion:

This proposed work on Hirschfeld surface analysis accounts for the solidstate
environment of the busulfan, crystallographic parameters and packing information.
Hence, the interactions obtained for monomer and extended molecular framework in this
work are more reliable to study the intermolecular interactions. The 2D finger print plots
revealed the predominant O⋅⋅⋅H interactions within the crystal packing. In addition to O⋅⋅⋅H
interactions, H⋅⋅⋅H interaction were also identified.
Characterization of Streptomyces sp. UK-201 from Lachhiwala Reserve Forest, a Biodiversity Hot Spot of the Himalayas
Authors: Srivastava Nidhi , Gupta Sanjay , Sarethy Indira P.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Multi-drug resistance among pathogens is emerging due to slow pace of development of new antimicrobials by combinatorial chemistry. Natural products from microorganisms from under-explored habitats can be lead molecules for such discoveries.

Objective:

The major objectives were to characterize isolate UK-201, taxonomically identify UK-201 based on 16S rDNA sequencing and execute metabolite fingerprinting of ethyl acetate extract of UK-201 by GC-MS.

Methods:

Isolate UK-201 was characterized by phenotypic, biochemical/physiological methods and
identified by 16S rDNA sequencing. Ethyl acetate extract of this isolate exhibited antimicrobial activity
against the selected panel of gram-positive, gram-negative bacteria and fungi. The extract was
partially purified by column chromatography. Active fractions were pooled and analysed by GCMS.
The obtained compounds were tentatively identified by collated data analysis based on Similarity
Index, and observed and calculated Retention Indices.

Results:

Isolate UK-201 showed 97.46% similarity to Streptomyces niveiscabiei, 96.88% to S. sasae
and S. puniciscabiei, 96.72% to S. capoamus and S. yaanensis. A low similarity percentage indicated
the taxonomic novelty of the isolate and was confirmed by comparing it with phenotypic characteristics
with the nearest matches. Metabolite fingerprinting showed the presence of twenty-four novel
compounds.

Conclusion:

This study showed that bioprospection from under-explored habitats conferred novel
bio and chemodiversity.
Non-Cooperative Iris Segmentation: A Two-Stage Approach
Authors: Kumar M. Rajeev , Arthi K.
Published: November 2019

Aim:

The accuracy of the non-cooperative iris recognition is highly dependent on the
proper segmentation of the iris region from the input eye image. The traditional non-cooperative iris
segmentation algorithms decrease significantly because of several noise factors such as specular reflections,
occlusions, eyelashes, and eyelids. However, several techniques are developed to overcome
these drawbacks in the iris segmentation process; it is still a challenging task to localize the
iris texture regions.

Background:

Recently, segmentation of iris image is the most important process in a robust iris
recognition system due to the images captured from non-cooperative environments which introduce
occlusions, blur, specular reflections, and off-axis. However, several techniques are developed to
overcome these drawbacks in the iris segmentation process; it is still a challenging task to localize
the iris texture regions. In this research, an effective two-stage of iris segmentation technique is proposed
in a non-cooperative environment.

Objective:

To proposed an effective two-stage of iris segmentation technique in a non-cooperative
environment.

Methods:

Modified Geodesic Active Contour-based level set segmentation with Particle Swarm Optimization
(PSO) is employed for iris segmentation. In this, the PSO algorithm is used to minimize
the energy of the gradient descent equation in a region-based level set segmentation algorithm. The
global threshold-based segmentation (enhanced Otsu’s method) is employed for pupil region segmentation.

Results:

The experiment considered two well-known databases such as UBIRIS.V1 and UBIRIS.V2.
The simulation outcomes demonstrate that the proposed novel approach attained more accurate and
robust iris segmentation under non-cooperative conditions. Also, the results of the modified Geodesic
Active Contour-based level set segmentation with the PSO algorithm attained better results than
the conventional segmentation techniques.

Conclusion:

An effective two-stage of iris segmentation is proposed in a non-cooperative environment
using Geodesic active contour-based level set segmentation with particle swarm optimization
and an enhanced Otsu method is employed for pupil segmentation. The proposed two-stage of iris
segmentation technique segments the iris in its genuine shape which will provide a more robust and
precise iris recognition system.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Men Who Have Sex With Men in Mainland China: Social App Capture-Recapture Method
Authors: Hu Maogui , Xu Chengdong , Wang Jinfeng
Published: November 2019

Background

In China, the cases of newly diagnosed HIV/AIDS in men who have sex with men (MSM) have increased more than tenfold since 2006. However, the MSM population size, geographical distribution, and migration patterns are largely unknown.

Objective

Our aim is to estimate the number, spatial distribution, and migration of MSM populations in mainland China using big data from social networking.

Methods

We collected 85 days of data on online users of a social networking MSM app in mainland China. Daily online MSM users and their migration across the country were investigated during a holiday period and a nonholiday period. Using the capture-mark-recapture model, we designed an experiment consisting of two independent samples to estimate the total provincial MSM population.

Results

The estimate of MSM in mainland China was 8,288,536 (95% CI 8,274,931-8,302,141), accounting for 1.732% (95% CI 1.729%-1.734%) of adult men aged 18 to 64 years. The average daily number of MSM social networking online across mainland China was 1,198,682 during the nonholiday period. The five provinces (including municipalities) with the highest average number of daily online MSM numbers were Guangdong (n=141,712), Jiangsu (n=90,710), Zhejiang (n=72,212), Shandong (n=68,065), and Beijing (n=66,057). The proportion of daily online MSM among adult men in different cities varied from 0.04% to 0.96%, with a mean of 0.20% (SD 0.14%). Three migrating centers—Guangdong, Beijing, and the Yangtze River Delta (Shanghai-Zhejiang-Jiangsu)—accounted for 57.23% of MSM migrants in the county.

Conclusions

The percentage of MSM among adult men in mainland China is at the middle level compared with other Asia and Pacific countries. However, the number of MSM is very large, and the distribution is uneven. Both MSM distribution and migration are highly affected by socioeconomic status.
Effects of the e-Motivate4Change Program on Metabolic Syndrome in Young Adults Using Health Apps and Wearable Devices: Quasi-Experimental Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lee Ji-Soo , Kang Min-Ah , Lee Soo-Kyoung
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The health behaviors of young adults lag behind those of other age groups, and active health management is needed to improve health behaviors and prevent chronic diseases. In addition, developing good lifestyle habits earlier in life could reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) later on.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the e-Motivate4Change program, for which health apps and wearable devices were selected based on user needs. The program was developed for the prevention and management of MetS in young adults.

METHODS

This experimental study used a nonequivalent control group. In total, 59 students from 2 universities in Daegu, Korea participated in the study (experimental group n=30; control group n=29). Data were collected over 4 months, from June 1 to September 30, 2018. The experimental group received a 12-week e-Motivate4Change program intervention, and the control group received MetS education and booklets without the e-Motivate4Change program intervention.

RESULTS

After the program, the experimental group had significantly higher scores for health-related lifestyle (t=3.86; P<.001) and self-efficacy (t=6.00; P<.001) than did the control group. Concerning BMI, there were significant effects by group (F=1.01; P<.001) and for the group × time interaction (F=4.71; P=.034). Concerning cholesterol, there were significant main effects for group (F=4.32; P=.042) and time (F=9.73; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The e-Motivate4Change program effectively improved participants’ health-related lifestyle scores and self-efficacy, and significantly reduced their BMI and cholesterol levels. The program can be used to identify and prevent MetS among young adults.
Wildfire-Like Effect of a WhatsApp Campaign to Mobilize a Group of Predominantly Health Professionals With a University Degree on a Health Issue: Infodemiology Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kopilaš Vanja , Gajović Srećko
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Online interactions within a closed WhatsApp group can influence the attitudes and behaviors of the users in relation to health issues.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze the activity of the members of a WhatsApp group initiated to raise awareness of the possible health effects of 5G mobile networks and mobilize members to sign the related petition.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from the WhatsApp group of 205 members that was active during 4 consecutive days in August 2019. The messages exchanged were collected, anonymized, and analyzed according to their timing and content.

RESULTS

The WhatsApp group members were invited to the group from the administrator’s contacts; 91% (187/205) had a university degree, 68% (140/205) were medical professionals, and 24% (50/205) held academic positions. Approximately a quarter of the members (47/205, 23%) declared in their messages they signed the corresponding petition. The intense message exchange had wildfire-like features, and the majority of messages (126/133, 95%) were exchanged during the first 26 hours. Despite the viral activity and high rate of members openly declaring that they signed the petition, only 8 (8/133, 6%) messages from the group members, excluding the administrator, referred to the health issue, which was the topic of the group. No member expressed an opposite opinion to those presented by the administrator, and there was no debate in the form of exchanging opposite opinions.

CONCLUSIONS

The wildfire-like activity of the WhatsApp group and open declaration of signing the petition as a result of the mobilization campaign were not accompanied by any form of a debate related to the corresponding health issue, although the group members were predominantly health professionals, with a quarter of holding academic positions.
A Psychosocial Support Website From the British Association of Dermatologists for People Living With a Skin Condition: Mixed Methods Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Heapy Connor , Montgomery Kerry , Ersser Steven , Gass Matt , Goad Nina , Thompson Andrew R
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of psychological support for individuals with skin conditions, and few low-intensity self-help interventions are available.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to test the acceptability and usability of a support website and its embedded self-help resources.

METHODS

A mixed methods approach was utilized. A total of 583 participants (426 with a skin condition, 97 relatives and friends, and 60 dermatology professionals) viewed the British Association of Dermatologist’s SkinSupport website and then completed a survey about their well-being and the usability of the website. A comparison group comprising 816 participants also completed the well-being measures. In total, 37 participants (19 living with a skin condition, and the relatives and friends of individuals with a skin condition, and 18 dermatology professionals) viewed the SkinSupport website and then took part in focus groups. Participants were recruited via social media, professional networks, and volunteer lists. Data from the survey were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Both quantitative and qualitative responses suggest that the SkinSupport website was viewed positively by both patients and health professionals. Overall, 79.8% (417/523) of individuals with a skin condition, and the relatives and friends of individuals with a skin condition, said that they would use the website again; and 86.7% (52/60) of dermatology professionals said that they would recommend the site to somebody with a skin condition. Qualitative responses related to the website fell into 4 key themes: (1) appearance, (2) use and navigation, (3) information, and (4) areas for development.

CONCLUSIONS

The SkinSupport website was considered acceptable and usable. A range of areas requiring modification were identified. The website provides a useful resource that patients can access freely. Given the lack of services available to patients with skin conditions, health care professionals could routinely inform patients of this resource at assessment.
European Union (EU)-China-Africa Triangular Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative: The Way Forward
Authors: Papatheologou Dr. Vasiliki
Published: November 2019

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) offers a platform for trans-regional cooperation, connects Asia and Europe with Africa, strengthens European Union (EU)-China-Africa triangular cooperation and provides development opportunities for the African countries. In the region of Africa, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is perceived as a mechanism for interregional dialogue with concrete results in the areas of peace, security, infrastructure, sustainable development and in assisting African states to achieve the SDG’s. The trilateral cooperation is enriched by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for a deeper economic integration and for promoting regional security in Africa.
Medicine COMPARATIVE STUDY OF WOUND HEALING ACTIVITY OF INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANT AND HERB AGAINST DIABETIC FOOT ULCER (PIPER NIGRUM AND ARACHIS HYPOGAEA)
Authors: KUMAR CHANDAN  , SHARMILA KJ
Published: November 2019

Objective: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are the most common cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in developing countries. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the medicinal plant (fruits) and herbs (seeds) to meet their primary health-care needs healing to DFUs.

Methods: Three solvents were used to acquire extracts from powdered parts of the species. The extracts were used for phytochemical screening like a standard procedure. Quantitative assay of antioxidant activity of the extracts using free radical scavenging phenomena such as a 1,1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl-assay. The antimicrobial activity of the test organisms to the 11 plant extracts was screened using the agar well diffusion method (Perez et al., 1990). Hypotonicity-induced human red blood cell (HRBC) assay performs to determine anti-inflammatory activities.

Results: The presence of maximum antioxidant activity found in Arachis hypogaea (ethyl acetate) extract followed by Piper nigrum. The comparative study of these plants and herb species (P. nigrum and A. hypogaea), where P. nigrum, contains more total tannin contents and antioxidant compounds as persistent manner compares to A. hypogaea. Ethanolic and ethyl acetate, extracts of P. nigrum were studied for the in vitro antimicrobial and anti-inflammation against DFU contamination and HRBCs. P. nigrum treated on DFU contamination and HRBC, shown with maximum inhabitation properties for DFU (800 μg/mL).

Conclusions: The finding of the present investigation demonstrated that P. nigrum significantly more suppresses the growth of DFU contamination and induces anti-inflammatory activities follow by A. hypogaea.
SIMULTANEOUS ESTIMATION OF DRUGS PRESENT IN MICROBEADS FOR COLON-TARGETED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM
Authors: ABHISHEK KUMAR  , MEENAKSHI BHARKATIYA
Published: November 2019

Objectives: The present study was aimed to develop Eudragit S100 coated colon-targeted sustained-release formulations of alginate-pectin and alginate-hydroxypropyl methylcellulose microbeads containing norfloxacin (NF) and tinidazole (TZ) for the treatment of amebiasis which was simultaneous estimated.

Methods: Taguchi L9 orthogonal array design has been used to optimize the composition and operating conditions for the preparation of formulations. Nine batches (P1-H5) were prepared by taking three independent variables (X1 – drug:polymer ratio, X2 – concentration of sodium alginate, and X3 – curing time) at three levels (1, 2, and 3). Response variables studied for batches (P1-H5) were mean particle size (μm) (Y1), drug entrapment efficiency (% w/w) (Y2), and drug loading (% w/w) (Y3). NF and TZ were simultaneous estimated by ultraviolet spectrophotometric method. Drug-polymer compatibility study was carried out by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and indicates no physicochemical interaction.

Results: Microbeads were analyzed for morphological characteristics, mean particle size, drug entrapment efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro drug release. The average size of optimized alginate-pectin microbeads was found to be 881±0.05 μm with an entrapment efficiency of 78.50±0.28% (NF) and 86.50±0.32% (TZ) which was simultaneous estimated.

Conclusion: The studies concluded that formulated enteric-coated alginate-pectin microbeads after enteric coating can be used effectively for the delivery of NF and TZ to colon.
QUALITY OF LIFE IN WOMEN WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME: REQUISITE OF CLINICAL PHARMACIST INTERVENTION
Authors: RAMYA R  , SHARON ANN JOSE  , MAMATHA K  , SURYA NARAYANA KM
Published: November 2019

Objective: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a lifestyle disorder known to cause profound distress in the physical and emotional well-being of the patient that implicates the need for treatment and lifestyle management. Unawareness and ignorance among patients may be a predominant cause of compromised quality of life (QOL) that necessitates education from health-care professionals. The existing study was designed to assess the impact of counseling on QOL in the above patients.

Methods: This hospital-based interventional study was carried out for 6 months. A total of 173 subjects were recruited for the study. The World Health Organization BREF, a validated, reliable tool to assess QOL was administered in two phases of the study, pre-interventional, and post-interventional phase. Awareness regarding disease and lifestyle modification were detailed by a clinical pharmacist to the patients, and its impact was assessed using suitable statistical techniques.

Results: The average age of study participants was 23.9±4.5 years. Decreased QOL was observed in the women affected with PCOS when compared to healthy controls, wherein the psychological domain was the most affected. Post-intervention, a positive impact was reflected as higher scores in all the 4 QOL domains.

Conclusion: Women suffering from PCOS exhibit varied symptoms which affect both physical and psychological health. The key factor in management is to create awareness on the complications of the disease and the lifestyle modification to minimize severity and progression. The study findings reveal that women with PCOS showed an improved QOL post participation in awareness programs imparted by the clinical pharmacists.
KASTURI TOBACCO LEAF FLAVONOIDS AS BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS IN PERIODONTAL ANTIBACTERIAL MUCOADHESIVE GEL
Authors: QONITA NAFILAH FEBI  , MALIHATUL ROSIDAH  , DERI ABDUL AZIS  , ENDAH PUSPITASARI  , ARI SATIA NUGRAHA  , BANUN KUSUMAWARDANI
Published: November 2019

Objective: The tobacco leaves are a rich source of many biologically active substances. Flavonoids are one of the bioactive substances contained in tobacco leaves with a wide range of pharmacological properties. This study has been aimed to formulate the antibacterial periodontal gel containing the flavonoids fraction of Kasturi tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaves.

Methods: Fraction flavonoids obtained from methanolic extracts of tobacco leaves, which have been purified from nicotine. Different concentrations of flavonoids fraction (0, 25, 0,5, 1, 2, and 4 mg/ml) were prepared with Carbopol-974P. The strength of flavonoid gel adhesion in ex vivo mucosa was tested by the falling liquid film method. Evaluation of in vitro antibacterial agent was followed by the disk diffusion method.

Results: The flavonoid gels have better adhesion parameters (time, strength, and distance) than gel bases. The antimicrobial by the zone of inhibition studies proved that flavonoids periodontal gels with concentrations of 4 mg/ml are highly active against Porphyromonas gingivalis with the zone of inhibition >10 mm which was higher than quercetin gel formulations (control groups).

Conclusion: Gel formulation containing the flavonoids fraction of Kasturi tobacco (N. tabacum) leaves could be a good candidate for periodontal gel with good mucoadhesive gel and antibacterial agent.
DEVELOPMENT, EVALUATION, AND CHARACTERIZATION OF LOSARTAN POTASSIUM BUCCAL PATCHES USING JACKFRUIT POLYMER
Authors: SOJI S  , ARUN JL
Published: November 2019

Objective: The objective was to develop buccal patches of an antihypertensive drug and losartan potassium using jackfruit polymer for sustained buccal delivery.

Methods: The patches were prepared by the solvent casting method. Five formulations were developed with varying concentrations of jackfruit polymer. USP type II apparatus was used to perform in-vitro release study under perfect sink condition. Buccal formulations were developed to a satisfactory level in terms of drug release, bioadhesive strength, content uniformity, moisture content, surface pH, thickness, and stability study.

Results: From the results obtained F5 was found as best formulation, having appropriate folding endurance greater than 300, moisture content of 1.14±0.03 percentage (%), moisture uptake of 6.21±0.12%, swelling index (62.78%), bioadhesion strength (37.62±0.25 g), and bioadhesion time of 9 h 5 min. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy studies have shown no interactions between drug and polymer. All the formulations followed zero-order kinetics.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that mucoadhesive buccal patches of losartan potassium using jackfruit polymer are an auspicious dosage form to prolong the release of drug and enhance its poor oral bioavailability.
COMPARATIVE STUDIES ON PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF FOUR DIFFERENT FLOWERS – COUROUPITA GUIANENSIS, BAUHINIA PURPUREA, STENOLOBIUM STANS, AND PLUMERIA RUBRA
Authors: SAI NANDHINI R  , NIRMALA NITHYA R
Published: November 2019

Objective: The present study aims to investigate the phytochemical from the aqueous and methanol flower extracts of four significant medicinal plants, namely, Couroupita guianensis, Bauhinia purpurea, Stenolobium stans, and Plumeria rubra.

Methods: The different flowers such as C. guianensis, B. purpurea, P. rubra, and S. stans were collected from Avadi and Koyambedu market, Chennai. Standard procedure was followed for the qualitative analysis of phytocompounds.

Results: Preliminary phytochemical analysis resulted that the methanolic flower extract of four plants has rich bioactive compounds comparably to the aqueous flower extracts. Tannins, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids were highly present in B. purpurea compared the other three flowers. Only plant P. rubra contains the rich source of cardiac glycosides in methanolic flower extract.

Conclusion: From the results of the current study, we conclude that the methanolic extract of B. purpurea flower has bulk phytocompounds and can be used as a traditional medicine to treat a variety of diseases.