bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnitude and determinants of adherence to iron supplementation among Ethiopian pregnant women: A cross sectional study from a national survey
Authors: Biru Yemisrach Belete , G/Kiristos Awet Fitwi , Lemelem Getasew Assefa , Mezen Muluemebet Kassa
Published: March 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Expression profile of SYNE3 and bioinformatic analysis of its prognostic value and functions in tumors
Authors: Liao Liwei , Zhang Longshan , Yang Mi , Wang Xiaoqing , Huang Weiqiang , Wu Xixi , Pan Hua , Yuan Lu , Huang Wenqi , Wu Yuting , Guan Jian
Published: March 2020

Background: Spectrin repeat containing nuclear envelope family member 3 (SYNE3) encodes an important component of linker of cytoskeleton and nucleoskeleton (LINC) complex, namely nesprin-3. In tumor, invasiveness and metastasis rely on the integrity of LINC complex, while the role of SYNE3/nesprin-3 in cancer is rarely studied. Methods: Here, we explored the expression pattern, prognostic value and related mechanisms of SYNE3 through both experimental and bioinformatic methods. We first detected SYNE3 in BALB/c mice, normal human tissues and the paired tumor tissues, then used bioinformatic databases to verify our results. We further analyzed the prognostic value of SYNE3. Next, we predicted miRNA targeting SYNE3 and built a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and a transcriptional network by analyzing data from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database. Interacting genes of SYNE3 were predicted, and we further performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis on these genes. Besides, the relationship of SYNE3 and immune infiltration was also investigated. Results: SYNE3 exhibited various expressions in different tissues, mainly located on nuclear and in cytoplasm sometimes. SYNE3 expression level had prognostic value in tumors, possibly by stablizing nucleus, promoting tumor cells apoptosis and altering tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we constructed a RP11-2B6.2-miR-149-5p-/LINC01094-miR-330-3p-SYNE3 ceRNA network and a SATB1-miR-149-5p-SYNE3 transcriptional network in lung squamous cell carcinoma to support the tumor-suppressing role of SYNE3. Conclusions: Our study explored novel anti-tumor functions and mechanisms of SYNE3, which might be useful for future cancer therapy.
Prognostic role and treatment tips of FHL1 expression in cytogenetically intermediate- and poor-risk acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: yin chengliang , Liu Yuchen , Chen Qi , Zhao Min , Wu Jing , Sun Jinxiu , Xue Wanguo , Dou Liping , Shi Jinlong
Published: March 2020

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disorder of hematopoietic system, 35 to 40% of younger patients (<60 years) are recurrent, refractory or drug-resistant, which are canonically called as cytogenetically intermediate- and poor-risk AML (IP-AML). Identifying novel biomarkers is an urgent clinical need and research hotspot for treatment optimization. Methods: Bioinformatics analysis were carried out for RNA-Seq data derived from drug resistance-associated cell lines and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Varieties of comparison, visualization and functional enrichments were performed to Four-and-a-half LIM domain 1 (FHL1) and related genes. FHL1's expression changes were confirmed by ‘wet’ experiments. Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to evaluate the associations between FHL1 expression and Overall Survival (OS), Event Free Survival (EFS), Relapse Free Survival (RFS). Prognostic significance of FHL1 expression was further validated in another independent larger IP-AML cohort (GSE6891). Moreover, construction of nomogram and validation of prognostic model. Results: High expression of FHL1 (FHL1 high ) was a potentially effective biomarker of poor prognosis for IP-AML. Compared to FHL1 low group, FHL1 high was associated with short OS and EFS (145 patients, OS, P < 0.001; EFS, P < 0.001), which was further validated in GSE6891 (284 patients, OS, P < 0.001; EFS, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis also confirmed the adverse prognosis of FHL1 high (HR = 2.2339, P = 0.000156). ROC indicated an ideal predictive accuracy of the outcome model (AUC was 0.773). In addition, to understand the inherent mechanisms FHL1 involved, genome-wide characteristics were investigated to find that FHL1 might be involved in several important carcinogenic signal pathways. Conclusions: FHL1’s expression may serve as an effective prognostic biomarker, and could provide valuable treatment indications for IP-AML patients, whose distinctive gene patterns were helpful to further understand the recurrent, refractory and drug-resistant mechanisms for IP-AML.
Distal Chevron Osteotomy vs The Simple, Effective, Rapid, Inexpensive Technique (SERI) for Mild to Moderate Isolated Hallux Valgus: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Palmanovich Ezequiel , contribution Nissiom Ohana* - equal first author , Small Ilan , Hetsroni Iftach , Amar Eyal , Sharfman Zachary T , Segal David , Atzmon Ran
Published: March 2020

Background Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity that leads to functional disability with serious sequelae. Minimally invasive surgery is often used to treat hallux valgus in order to reduce wound complications and improve recovery time. The objective of this study was to compare a Simple, Effective, Rapid, Inexpensive (SERI) technique with a simple Chevron technique in patients with minimum of one-year follow. Methods and Materials Between the years 2014-2015 we performed a prospective study comparing the SERI minimally invasive technique to treat symptomatic hallux valgus with a standard chevron osteotomy technique. All procedures were performed by a single fellowship trained foot and ankle surgeon. Twenty-one patients were randomized to the SERI cohort and 15 to the standard Chevron technique. Results The mean pre-operative intermetatarsal angle (IMA) of the SERI group was 14.8 ± 1.9 (11.9 - 22.9). The mean pre-operative IMA of the Chevron control group was 13.3 ± 2.3 (10.4 -18.2) (p = 0.038). The mean IMA two weeks after surgery was 6.0 ± 2.3 (2.4-12) in the SERI group, and 6.1 ± 3 (2.6-13.1) in the control group. At the two week and one year follow up, there was no significant difference found in the IMA between the two groups (p = 0.871). Neither groups reported symptomatic transfer metatarsalgia throughout the follow up period. The SERI group had increased metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) motion (p < 0.001) however, all other parameters with similar. Conclusion The SERI technique provided comparable outcomes at up to one year follow up when compared to a standard Chevron osteotomy for moderate hallux valgus. This study demonstrated good reproducible results using the SERI technique for moderate hallux valgus.
Incidence of Uveitis and Macular Edema among Patients taking Fingolimod 0.5mg for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Sonne Scott Joseph , Smith Bradley Thomas
Published: March 2020

Background Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a higher incidence of uveitis compared with the general population. Fingolimod, a first line disease modifying drug used in multiple sclerosis, may cause macular edema and thus requires ophthalmic examination. However, murine models and anecdotal reports suggest fingolimod may reduce the incidence of uveitis. Purpose To report the incidence of uveitis and macular edema among those on fingolimod 0.5 mg (Gilenya®) therapy for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Methods Retrospective review of patients on fingolimod who developed uveitis and/or macular edema. Results No patients had an occurrence or history of uveitis. Four of the 188 (2.13%) patients developed macular edema without ocular inflammation. One of the 188 (0.53%) patients developed Acute Macular Neuroretinopathy. Conclusion Patients taking fingolimod have a lower incidence of uveitis than expected in a population of MS patients.
Experiential learning for children's dental anxiety: a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Zhu Minmin , Yu Hongbing , Xie Bo , Li Hongwen , He Qian , Li Huimin , Su Jing , Li Xueqi
Published: March 2020

Background Dental anxiety (DA) has an impact on the quality of dental treatment and may have long-lasting implications for children. A recent study introducing experiential learning (EL) into children's oral health promotion resulted in better oral hygiene. The purpose of the study is to evaluate whether EL can reduce children's DA. Methods In September 2018, we recruited 988 children aged 7-8 years from 24 classes to participate in a cluster-randomized trial. Classes were randomly assigned to EL (in which children received a lively presentation on oral health and participated in a role play in a simulated dental clinic in the classroom) or the Tell-Show-Do (TSD) group (in which children received a conventional TSD behavior management). The primary outcome was the prevalence of DA after the procedure of pit and fissure sealant (PFS), assessed by a modified children's fear survey schedule-dental subscale. Secondary outcomes were changes in blood pressures (BP) and pulse rates (PR) before and after the PFS procedure. The intervention effects were estimated by means of mixed effect models, which included covariates of gender and school (and baseline value for BP and PR only), and a random cluster effect. Results In 396 children of the EL group who received the PFS treatment, the prevalence of DA (score > 38) was 18.5%, compared with 24.3% in 391 children of the TSD group (OR=0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.46-0.93; P =0.019). The increases in BP and PR after the PFS were also significantly less in the EL group. Conclusions School-based experiential learning intervention before a dental visit is feasible and effective in lowering children's dental anxiety.
Re-evaluation of Nucleic Acid Retested Positive Cases in the Recovered COVID-19 Patients: Report from a Designated Transfer Hospital in Chongqing, China
Authors: Chen Yan , Bai Weizhi , Liu Bin , Huang Jian , Laurent Irakoze , Deng Wuquan , Xiao Xiaoqiu
Published: March 2020

Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, 1 the epidemic has spread rapidly in Hubei province and other regions in China. A total of 80,552 patients confirmed with COVID-19 have been reported in the main land China up to March 5th, 2020. 2 They included a huge number of patients discharged from hospital. A total of 53726 cases have met the discharge criteria (one of the criteria includes two continued negative result of nucleic acid test with repeated interval period of at least 1day or 24 hours.) in mainland China up to March 5th, 2020. Previous studies have paid more attention to the epidemic situation of COVID-19 and patient's diagnosis and treatment.Closely attention should be paid to the discharged patients. Surprising, previous follow-up reported that some patients nucleic acid retest result was positive again after discharge. 3 Impact factors should be further investigated. Since the first confirmed case was diagnosed in our hospital (Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, the designated transfer hospital) on February 4th, we have confirmed a total of 17 cases. All the patients infected with the novel coronavirus have been transferred to a designated hospital in Southwest China's Chongqing by ambulance with an inbuilt negative-pressure chamber. 4In the follow-up of these patients, all patients accepted RT-PCR tests again after having discharged from designated hospital 3 days later. Four of them showed recurrence of positive results after few days of discharge. Thus, we reported these cases aiming to provide information on policy formulation and modification of discharge plans.
Pecan Kernel Phenolics Content and Antioxidant Capacity Are Enhanced by Mechanical Pruning and Higher Fruit Position in the Tree Canopy
Authors: Gong Yi , Pegg Ronald B. , Kerrihard Adrian L. , Lewis Brad E. , Heerema Richard J.
Published: March 2020

Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) is a tree nut native to North America. Although inhibited light exposure (most specifically as a result of overlapping tree canopies) has been shown to impair yield, the effect of this factor on nut antioxidant properties remains unknown. This study investigated effects of mechanical pruning and canopy height position of fruit on pecan kernel antioxidant contents and capacity. Beginning in 2006, trees in a ‘Western’ pecan orchard in New Mexico were subjected to three mechanical pruning frequency treatments (annual, biennial, and triennial) paralleling conventional practices, while other trees were maintained as unpruned controls. During the 2012 to 2014 seasons, pecans were sampled at fruit maturity from three canopy height zones (“low,” “middle,” and “high,” corresponding to 1.5 to 3.0 m, 3.0 to 4.5 m, and 4.5 to 6.0 m above the orchard floor). In vitro phenolics contents and antioxidant capacities of the nutmeats were evaluated by total phenolics content (TPC) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (H-ORACFL), respectively. Soluble ester- and glycoside-bound phenolics were quantified by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For both TPC and H-ORACFL, results determined pruned samples had significantly higher values than unpruned samples (P < 0.001 for both comparisons), and that samples of “high” canopy height were significantly greater than those of “middle” height, which were in turn greater than those of “low” height (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). HPLC findings showed that in all three phenolic fractions (free, esterified, and glycoside-bound phenolics), nuts acquired from pruned trees had substantially greater concentrations of ellagic acid and its derivatives. Our findings indicate mechanical pruning of pecan trees and higher tree canopy position of fruit increase nut antioxidant properties.
Introducing iFluid: a numerical framework for solving hydrodynamical equations in integrable models
Authors: Møller Frederik Skovbo , Schmiedmayer Jörg
Published: March 2020

We present an open-source Matlab framework, titled iFluid, for simulating the dynamics of integrable models using the theory of generalized hydrodynamics (GHD). The framework provides an intuitive interface, enabling users to define and solve problems in a few lines of code. Moreover, iFluid can be extended to encompass any integrable model, and the algorithms for solving the GHD equations can be fully customized. We demonstrate how to use iFluid by solving the dynamics of three distinct systems: (i) The quantum Newton's cradle of the Lieb-Liniger model, (ii) a gradual field release in the XXZ-chain, and (iii) a partitioning protocol in the relativistic sinh-Gordon model.
The removal efficiency of iron and manganese from pre-ozonated groundwater using limestone filter
Authors: Abdul Aziz Hamidi , Shakr Shahanis Nabila Mohd , Akbar Nor Azliza , Alazaiza Motasem Y. D.
Published: March 2020

This paper investigates the suitability of limestone to attenuate Fe and Mn from pre-ozonated groundwater samples using batch study and fixed column bed. The effects of limestone dosage, shaking speed, contact time, and pH on the removal efficiency of Fe and Mn are discussed. Pre-ozonated groundwater samples were prepared to present actual samples from Pintu Geng water treatment plant. A general characterization for groundwater as well as for limestone was conducted. In addition, the breakthrough and exhaustion points for limestone were determined. Results showed that limestone has good potential to remove more than 90% of Fe and Mn at optimum dosage of 40 g. The removal percentage for both metals was also affected by changing the contact time, where the maximum removal of Fe and Mn was observed at 90 and 120 minutes, respectively, at pH 8 and shaking speed of 350 rpm. The breakthrough time and exhaustion time of Fe were 40 hours and 210 hours, respectively. However, faster breakthrough time (30 minutes) and exhaustion time (16 hours) were observed for Mn sorption. The findings showed that an integrated ozone-limestone adsorption process significantly enhanced the removal of Fe and Mn up to 99.5% and 92%, respectively.
Binding Mode Prediction and Identification of New Lead Compounds from Natural Products as 3-OST Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Sousa Rui , Moorthy Narayana Subbiah Hari Narayana , Fernandes Pedro Alexandrino , Ramos Maria Joao , Brás Natércia Fernandes
Published: March 2020

Background and Introduction:

The availability of antiviral medicines for the treatment
of viral diseases is limited, hence the discovery of novel bioactive molecules is required. The present
investigation has been carried out to develop novel 3-O-sulfotransferase enzyme inhibitors to
treat viral diseases.

Method:

Virtual screening study (QSAR, docking and pharmacophore analysis) and binding mode
analysis have been performed on a dataset collected from the literature (synthetic and natural compounds).

Results:

The docking studies showed that Glu184, His186, Lys215 and Lys368 residues
established the most important hydrogen bonding with several hit compounds. The QSAR results
explained that the presence of electronegative atoms/groups in the aromatic or heteroaromatic
rings confer increased activity. Furthermore, the flexibility and the aromatic rings with less polar
groups have better activity than the compounds connected to purine rings. Finally, the structurebased
pharmacophore studies illustrated that the ligand has many polar interaction sites, and the projected
acceptor and donor groups in the molecules make a significant contribution to the pharmacophore
model building.

Conclusion:

These studies identified two compounds, Phomoidride B and Barceloneic acid A, as
potential 3-OST inhibitors.
Investigation on the Solidification Behavior of Bi Droplets Embedded in Cu Matrix by Nanocalorimetry
Authors: Wu Mannan , Zhao Bingge , Ding Kai , Ma Hailan , Wu Guanzhi , Zhai Qijie , Gao Yulai
Published: March 2020

Background:

The solidification of metals is usually initiated by heterogeneous nucleation,
which, however, is less controllable due to the unexpected impurities. In this study, the nucleation
behavior of micro- and nano-sized Bi droplets embedded in the Cu matrix, where well-identified
catalyst interfaces were introduced, was studied.

Objective:

This paper demonstrated the nucleation behavior of the nano-sized Bi droplets embedded
in the Cu matrix to determine the nucleation sites and contact angle.

Methods:

Cu-20Bi (wt. %) melt-spun ribbons consisting of numerous micro- and nano-sized Bi
droplets embedded in the Cu matrix were prepared. Based on the structure characterization by transmission
electron microscopy (TEM), the nucleation behavior of these embedded Bi droplets was
demonstrated by nanocalorimetry.

Results:

The orientation relationship between the nano-sized Bi droplets and the Cu matrix was determined.
The undercooling of the nano-sized Bi droplets with the cooling rate was more stable than
that of the micro-sized Bi droplets, and a nucleation contact angle of 72o was obtained.

Conclusion:

The undercooling increases with the reduction of droplet size. The nucleation of the Bi
droplets is significantly affected by their interfacial structure with the Cu matrix. Compared with
hexagonal Zn, the Cu matrix with face-centered cubic structure has a less catalytic effect on the nucleation
of Bi.
Gadolinium Oxide Nanoparticles Enhance the Cytotoxicity of Chemotherapeutic Drugs by Blocking Autophagic Flux in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Zhong Cheng , Xie Zhixiong
Published: March 2020

Background:

During chemotherapy, drugs can damage cancer cells’ DNA and cytomembrane structure, and then induce cell death. However, autophagy can increase the chemotherapy resistance of cancer cells, reducing the effect of chemotherapy.

Objective:

To block the autophagic flux in cancer cells, it is vital to enhance the anti-cancer efficacy of chemotherapy drugs; for this purpose, we test the gadolinium oxide nanoparticles (Gd2O3NPs)’ effect on autophagy.

Methods:

The cytotoxicity of Gd2O3NPs on HeLa cells was evaluated by a (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Then, monodasylcadaverine staining, immunofluorescence, immunoblot, and apoptosis assay were conducted to evaluate the effect of Gd2O3NPs on autophagy and efficacy of chemotherapy drugs in human ovarian cancer cells.

Results:

We found that Gd2O3NPs, which have great potential for use as a contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging, could block the late stage of autophagic flux in a dose-dependent manner and then cause autophagosome accumulation in HeLa cells. When co-treated with 8 μg/mL Gd2O3NPs and 5 μg/mL cisplatin, the number of dead HeLa cells increased by about 20% compared with cisplatin alone. We observed the same phenomenon in cisplatin-resistant COC1/DDP cells.

Conclusion:

We conclude that Gd2O3NPs can block the late stage of autophagic flux and enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs in human ovarian cancer cells. Thus, the nanoparticles have significant potential for use in both diagnosis and therapy of solid tumor.
Tuning the Mechanical and Dielectric Properties of Zinc Incorporated Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Qamar Alliya , Zia Rehana , Raiz Madeeha
Published: March 2020

Background:

Hydroxyapatite is similar to bone mineral in chemical composition and has good biocompatibility with host tissue and bone.

Objective:

This work aims to tailor the mechanical and dielectric properties of hydroxyapatite with zinc substitution, to improve the wearability of implant and accelerate the healing process.

Methods:

Pure and zinc incorporated hydroxyapatite Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 samples have been successfully prepared by means of the chemical precipitation method.

Results:

The results showed that hydroxyapatite(Hap) having a hexagonal structure was the major phase identified in all the samples. It was found that the secondary phase of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) formed due to the addition of zinc, resulting in biphasic structure BCP (Hap + β-TCP). A minor phase of ZnO also formed for a higher concentration of Zn (Zn ≥ 2mol%) doping. It was found that the Zn incorporation to Hap enhanced both mechanical and dielectric properties without altering the bioactive properties. The microhardness increased up to 0.87 GPa for Zn concentration equal to 1.5mol%, which is comparable to the human bone ~0.3 - 0.9 GPa. The dielectric properties evaluated in the study showed that 1.5 mol% Zn doped hydroxyapatite had the highest dielectric constant. Higher values of dielectric constant at low frequencies signify its importance in healing processes and bone growth due to polarization of the material under the influence of the electric field.

Conclusion:

Sample Z1.5, having 1.5 mol% Zn doping, showed the most optimized properties suitable for bone regeneration applications.
Differential Gene Expression of ASUN, NEMF, PTPRC and DHX29: Candidate Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Active and Latent Tuberculosis
Authors: Mamishi Setareh , Pourakbari Babak , Sadeghi Reihaneh Hosseinpour , Marjani Majid , Mahmoudi Shima
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most important infectious causes of
death throughout the world. A wide range of technologies have been used for the diagnosis of TB.
However, current diagnostic tests are inadequate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression
of four genes, namely ASUN, NEMF, PTPRC and DHX29 as candidate biomarkers for the diagnosis
of Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and active TB and discrimination of active TB and
LTBI.

Material and Methods:

The expression of the mentioned four genes as well as ACTB as a housekeeping
gene was evaluated by real-time PCR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis
was conducted to assess the specificity and sensitivity of each validated biomarker.

Results:

Our results showed that the expression of theASUN gene could discriminate between active
TB cases and healthy BCG vaccinated volunteers with an AUC value of 0.76, combing with a
sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 67%. It should be noted that the PTPRC gene also has the potential
for the diagnosis of active TB with an AUC value of 0.67 and a sensitivity of 64.5% and a
specificity of 70%. The curve revealed that cases with LTBI could be distinguished from healthy
BCG vaccinated volunteers according to their expression of the ASUN gene with an AUC value of
0.81. The cut-off value for diagnosing was 11, with a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 79%.
Moreover, the expression of the NEMF gene might be considered as a diagnostic tool for the diagnosis
of LTBI. The analysis showed an AUC value of 0.75. The highest sensitivity (60%) and specificity
(81%) were obtained with a cut off value of 12.

Conclusion:

According to our results, the expression of ASUN and NEMF genes might be considered
as a diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of LTBI. Our study showed that the expression of ASUN
and PTPRC was obviously higher in active TB patients than those in healthy BCG vaccinated controls.
On the other hand, DHX29 and PTPRC genes might be helpful in differentiating active TB
and LTBI. However, our findings deserve further validation in larger studies.
Time-Dependent Effects in Chronic Urticaria: A Time-Series Perspective of Omalizumab Treatment
Authors: Tagka Anna , Lambrou George I. , Makris Michael , Nakou Evangelia , Nicolaidou Electra , Chatziioannou Argyro , Katsarou Alexandra
Published: March 2020

Background:

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU, or CU) is a disease that significantly
affects the quality of life of patients. It is a chronic disease and requires a specialized approach to
diagnosis and treatment. In recent years, the disease has been of great interest due to the existence of
new targeted therapeutic approaches.

Aims:

The present study aims at analyzing CU score concerning time, as a time-series. The authors have
attempted to model the investigated time-series to unravel possible causative relationships.

Methods:

108 patients (25Males/83Females) admitted to our department were diagnosed with CU. CU
was estimated on a score basis, which was used to define disease severity. Urticaria score was assessed
on the basis of Urticaria Activity Score 7 (UAS7). The mean CU score, the mean CU score rate concerning
the first month at diagnosis as well as the monthly CU score rate were calculated.

Result:

Gender is a factor that influences CU score with time. In addition, there was a significant finding
that time-series differ with the administration of monotherapy or complementary therapy.

Conclusion:

We have found that females are more prone to CU, while omalizumab monotherapy has
more beneficial results as compared to the application of concurrent and maintenance therapies. Further,
patients with co-morbidities were more likely to interrupt treatment. Finally, and most significantly, it
was shown that monthly CU score rate manifested an oscillatory pattern, which was modelled with the
sum of sines functions, highlighting a relative immunological pattern.
Drug-loaded and Blue-ray Filtered Hydrogel as a Potential Intraocular Lens for Cataract Treatment
Authors: Xiang Yang , Zou Mengwei , Zhang Ying , Jin Rongrong , Nie Yu
Published: March 2020

Background:

Indomethacin (IND) is a class of non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory
drugs, which is used to treat various kinds of ocular inflammation, and has been reported to
prevent posterior capsule opacification (PCO) by inhibiting the mitosis and collagen synthesis
of human lens epithelial cells (LECs). In addition, the specific absorption spectrum of indomethacin
shows the effect of absorbing short-wavelength blue-violet light.

Objective:

We prepared an indomethacin-loaded hydrogel as a potential intraocular lens (IOLs)
material to prevent endophthalmitis, PCO and filter harmful blue light.

Methods:

Indomethacin prodrugs (HEMA-IND) (HI) were prepared by esterification of indomethacin
and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and poly (HEMA-co-MAA-co-MMA-co-
HI) (HAMI) hydrogels were prepared by free-radical polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate
(HEMA), methyl methacrylate (MMA), methacrylic acid (MAA) and HI. The physical
and chemical properties of obtained hydrogel were detected, including optical, morphology,
thermomechanical and surface properties, equilibrium water content, drug release behaviors and
cytotoxicity.

Results:

HAMI hydrogels can filter harmful short-wavelength blue light and show other necessary
properties like visible light transparency, glass transition temperatures, mechanical
strength, and biocompatibility for making intraocular lenses. Meanwhile, MAA increases the
hydrophilicity of the hydrogels, resulting in a lower water contact angle and controllable drug
release from the hydrogels.

Conclusion:

In summary, HAMI hydrogels show a great potential as IOL biomaterials that can
maintain the sustained release of indomethacin and filter harmful blue light after cataract surgery.

Lay Summary:

People with cataract surgery can be at high risk of postoperative complications,
such as PCO and postoperative endophthalmitis. Moreover, early IOLs allowed all ultraviolet
(UV) and visible light to pass through retina without restriction, thus to damage the retina and
the retinal pigment epithelium, which may lead to retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration
(AMD). Herein, we sought to design and prepare a kind of IOLs loaded with indomethacin
to mitigate those postoperative complications and filter harmful blue light to improve the
treatment prognosis.
Pure Biologics – From a Bootstrapped Boutique CRO to an Integrated Drug Discovery Public Company
Authors: Deshmukh Sameer , Jurek Przemysław , Jelen Filip , Tabaczar Sabina , Bakowski Tomasz , Carter David , Fox Richard , Wawrzyniak Marta , Mazurek Maciej P.
Published: March 2020

The present article is a case study of a Polish biopharmaceutical
company, “Pure Biologics”. The company was founded in 2010 by a group of
scientists and, over the last nine years, grew substantially from just a few
individuals to nearly one hundred professionals. Initially, a privately-funded civil
partnership, Pure Biologics, has been transformed into a publicly-traded company.
Such a transformation has been possible not only because of the expertise and
growing experience of corporate management, but also the specific economic
environment and substantial public funding dedicated to innovative Small and
Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Enhancing Security in Key Management Using Hybrid Cache Supported One Way Hash Chain Technique
Authors: Rajkumar N. , Kannan E.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Collusion resistance is preserving the value generated at individual nodes
secret so that if any nodes share the information together or collude with each other, the secret values
cannot be revealed.It is really a challenging task to securely resist the collusion of cloud server
and users Collusion resistance also involves growing the number of people.

Objective:

Users can achieve an effective and economical approach for data sharing among group members in the cloud with the characters of low maintenance and little management cost.

Method:

Hybrid Cache supported One way hash chain Technique.

Result:

To test with the sparse caching HHCS and one-way hash chain model and the various
sparse caching configurations are fully implemented by this work. Multiple situations and various
scenarios are considered in the experiments and tests for the estimation of HHCS’ performance. The
results which are measured in terms of storage units needed for the completion of one internet session
and in terms of efficiency (which is the number of hash operations done in one session) are
compared and then contrasted.

Conclusion:

Security improvement is proposed in this paper in group key management method, in
order to solve the issue of collusion attack between whole members of the group for a secure group
communication. It is shown that using lightweight is easy for the implementation of sparse caching
method which can greatly improve the cryptographic one-way hash chain method’s performance
which is used widely, for securing the transmission of data in cloud by using two levels of security
scheme. A memory-times computation complexity metric has been introduced to help choose the
best size of cache depending on storage requirements of the cloud application. For demonstrating
various connection behaviors, various cache spacing methods have been evaluated. This paper presented
and evaluated the potential of hybrid solution in which one-way hash chains which are divided
are provided with caching capacities in order to store the values of session key and retrieve them
when needed for authenticating a user session. Lower computational overhead is achieved by us as
measured by the count of hash operations and computation time needed to give protection.
Temporal Expression Classification and Normalization From Chinese Narrative Clinical Texts: Pattern Learning Approach
Authors: Pan Xiaoyi , Chen Boyu , Weng Heng , Gong Yongyi , Qu Yingying
Published: March 2020

Background

Temporal information frequently exists in the representation of the disease progress, prescription, medication, surgery progress, or discharge summary in narrative clinical text. The accurate extraction and normalization of temporal expressions can positively boost the analysis and understanding of narrative clinical texts to promote clinical research and practice.

Objective

The goal of the study was to propose a novel approach for extracting and normalizing temporal expressions from Chinese narrative clinical text.

Methods

TNorm, a rule-based and pattern learning-based approach, has been developed for automatic temporal expression extraction and normalization from unstructured Chinese clinical text data. TNorm consists of three stages: extraction, classification, and normalization. It applies a set of heuristic rules and automatically generated patterns for temporal expression identification and extraction of clinical texts. Then, it collects the features of extracted temporal expressions for temporal type prediction and classification by using machine learning algorithms. Finally, the features are combined with the rule-based and a pattern learning-based approach to normalize the extracted temporal expressions.

Results

The evaluation dataset is a set of narrative clinical texts in Chinese containing 1459 discharge summaries of a domestic Grade A Class 3 hospital. The results show that TNorm, combined with temporal expressions extraction and temporal types prediction, achieves a precision of 0.8491, a recall of 0.8328, and a F1 score of 0.8409 in temporal expressions normalization.

Conclusions

This study illustrates an automatic approach, TNorm, that extracts and normalizes temporal expression from Chinese narrative clinical texts. TNorm was evaluated on the basis of discharge summary data, and results demonstrate its effectiveness on temporal expression normalization.
The Application of Internet-Based Sources for Public Health Surveillance (Infoveillance): Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Barros Joana M , Duggan Jim , Rebholz-Schuhmann Dietrich
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Public health surveillance is based on the continuous and systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. This informs the development of early warning systems to monitor epidemics and documents the impact of intervention measures. The introduction of digital data sources, and specifically sources available on the internet, has impacted the field of public health surveillance. New opportunities enabled by the underlying availability and scale of internet-based sources (IBSs) have paved the way for novel approaches for disease surveillance, exploration of health communities, and the study of epidemic dynamics. This field and approach is also known as infodemiology or infoveillance.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to assess research findings regarding the application of IBSs for public health surveillance (infodemiology or infoveillance). To achieve this, we have presented a comprehensive systematic literature review with a focus on these sources and their limitations, the diseases targeted, and commonly applied methods.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted targeting publications between 2012 and 2018 that leveraged IBSs for public health surveillance, outbreak forecasting, disease characterization, diagnosis prediction, content analysis, and health-topic identification. The search results were filtered according to previously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Spanning a total of 162 publications, we determined infectious diseases to be the preferred case study (108/162, 66.7%). Of the eight categories of IBSs (search queries, social media, news, discussion forums, websites, web encyclopedia, and online obituaries), search queries and social media were applied in 95.1% (154/162) of the reviewed publications. We also identified limitations in representativeness and biased user age groups, as well as high susceptibility to media events by search queries, social media, and web encyclopedias.

CONCLUSIONS

IBSs are a valuable proxy to study illnesses affecting the general population; however, it is important to characterize which diseases are best suited for the available sources; the literature shows that the level of engagement among online platforms can be a potential indicator. There is a necessity to understand the population’s online behavior; in addition, the exploration of health information dissemination and its content is significantly unexplored. With this information, we can understand how the population communicates about illnesses online and, in the process, benefit public health.
Mobile Health App (AGRIPPA) to Prevent Relapse After Successful Interdisciplinary Treatment for Patients With Chronic Pain: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Elbers Stefan , Pool Jan , Wittink Harriët , Köke Albère , Scheffer Else , Smeets Rob
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

To facilitate adherence to adaptive pain management behaviors after interdisciplinary multimodal pain treatment, we developed a mobile health app (AGRIPPA app) that contains two behavior regulation strategies.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this project are (1) to test the effectiveness of the AGRIPPA app on pain disability; (2) to determine the cost-effectiveness; and (3) to explore the levels of engagement and usability of app users.

METHODS

We will perform a multicenter randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups. Within the 12-month inclusion period, we plan to recruit 158 adult patients with chronic pain during the initial stage of their interdisciplinary treatment program in one of the 6 participating centers. Participants will be randomly assigned to the standard treatment condition or to the enhanced treatment condition in which they will receive the AGRIPPA app. Patients will be monitored from the start of the treatment program until 12 months posttreatment. In our primary analysis, we will evaluate the difference over time of pain-related disability between the two conditions. Other outcome measures will include health-related quality of life, illness perceptions, pain self-efficacy, app system usage data, productivity loss, and health care expenses.

RESULTS

The study was approved by the local Medical Research Ethics Committee in October 2019. As of March 20, 2020, we have recruited 88 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will be the first step in systematically evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of the AGRIPPA app. After 3 years of development and feasibility testing, this formal evaluation will help determine to what extent the app will influence the maintenance of treatment gains over time. The outcomes of this trial will guide future decisions regarding uptake in clinical practice.

CLINICALTRIAL

Netherlands Trial Register NL8076; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/8076

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/18632
Effect of Computer Debriefing on Acquisition and Retention of Learning After Screen-Based Simulation of Neonatal Resuscitation: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Michelet Daphne , Barre Jessy , Truchot Jennifer , Piot Marie-Aude , Cabon Philippe , Tesniere Antoine
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Debriefing is key in a simulation learning process.

OBJECTIVE

This study focuses on the impact of computer debriefing on learning acquisition and retention after a screen-based simulation training on neonatal resuscitation designed for midwifery students.

METHODS

Midwifery students participated in 2 screen-based simulation sessions, separated by 2 months, session 1 and session 2. They were randomized in 2 groups. Participants of the debriefing group underwent a computer debriefing focusing on technical skills and nontechnical skills at the end of each scenario, while the control group received no debriefing. In session 1, students participated in 2 scenarios of screen-based simulation on neonatal resuscitation. During session 2, the students participated in a third scenario. The 3 scenarios had an increasing level of difficulty, with the first representing the baseline level. Assessments included a knowledge questionnaire on neonatal resuscitation, a self-efficacy rating, and expert evaluation of technical skills as per the Neonatal Resuscitation Performance Evaluation (NRPE) score and of nontechnical skills as per the Anaesthetists’ Non-Technical Skills (ANTS) system. We compared the results of the groups using the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

A total of 28 midwifery students participated in the study. The participants from the debriefing group reached higher ANTS scores than those from the control group during session 1 (13.25 vs 9; U=47.5; P=.02). Their scores remained higher, without statistical difference during session 2 (10 vs 7.75; P=.08). The debriefing group had higher self-efficacy ratings at session 2 (3 vs 2; U=52; P=.02). When comparing the knowledge questionnaires, the significant baseline difference (13 for debriefing group vs 14.5 for control group, P=.05) disappeared at the end of session 1 and in session 2. No difference was found for the assessment of technical skills between the groups or between sessions.

CONCLUSIONS

Computer debriefing seems to improve nontechnical skills, self-efficacy, and knowledge when compared to the absence of debriefing during a screen-based simulation. This study confirms the importance of debriefing after screen-based simulation.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03844009; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03844009
Creating Respectful Workplaces for Nurses in Regional Acute Care Settings: Protocol for a Sequential Explanatory Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hawkins Natasha , Jeong Sarah , Smith Tony
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Negative workplace behaviour among nurses is an internationally recognised problem, despite the plethora of literature spanning several decades. The various forms of mistreatments and uncaring attitudes experienced by nurses include workplace aggression, incivility, bullying, harassment and horizontal violence. Negative behaviour has detrimental effects on the individual nurse, the organisation, the nursing profession and patients. Multi-level organisational interventions are warranted to influence the “civility norms” of the nursing profession.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the self-reported exposure to and experiences of negative workplace behaviours of nursing staff and their ways of coping in regional acute care hospitals in one Local Health District (LHD) in NSW before and after Respectful Workplace Workshops have been implemented within the organisation.

METHODS

This study employs a mixed methods sequential explanatory design with an embedded experimental component, underpinned by Social World’s Theory. This study will be carried out in four acute care regional hospitals from a Local Health District (LHD) in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. The nurse unit managers, registered nurses and new graduate nurses from the medical and surgical wards of all four hospitals will be invited to complete a pre-survey examining their experiences, perceptions and responses to negative workplace behaviour, and their ways of coping when exposed. Face-to-face educational workshops will then be implemented by the organisation at two of the four hospitals. The workshops are designed to increase awareness of negative workplace behaviour, the pathways to seek assistance and aims to create respectful workplaces. Commencing 3 months after completion of the workshop implementation, follow up surveys and interviews will then be undertaken at all four hospitals.

RESULTS

The findings from this research will enhance understanding of negative workplace behaviour occurring within the nursing social world and assess the effectiveness of the LHD’s Respectful Workplace Workshops upon the levels of negative workplace behaviour occurring. By integrating qualitative and quantitative findings it will allow for a dual perspective of the social world of nurses where negative and/or respectful workplace behaviours occur, and provide data grounded in individuals lived experiences, positioned in a macro context

CONCLUSIONS

It is expected that evidence from this study will inform nursing practice, and future policy development aimed at creating respectful workplaces.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (Registration No. ACTRN12618002007213; 14 December 2018).

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/18643
Optimizing Antibiotic Prescribing for Acute Respiratory Tract Infection in German Primary Care: Study Protocol for Evaluation of the RESIST Program (Preprint)
Authors: Löffler Christin , Krüger Antje , Daubmann Anne , Iwen Julia , Biedermann Marc , Schulz Maike , Wegscheider Karl , Altiner Attila , Feldmeier Gregor , Wollny Anja
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

The emergence and increased spread of microbial resistance is a major challenge to all health care systems worldwide. In primary care, acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI) is the health condition most strongly related to antibiotic overuse.

OBJECTIVE

The RESIST program aims at optimizing antibiotic prescribing for ARTI in German primary care. By completing a problem-orientated online training course, physicians are motivated and empowered to utilize patient-centered doctor-patient communication strategies, including shared decision making, in the treatment of patients with ARTI.

METHODS

RESIST will be evaluated in the form of a nonrandomized controlled trial. Approximately 3000 physicians of 8 (out of 16) German federal states can participate in the program. Patient and physician data are retrieved from routine health care data. Physicians not participating in the program serve as controls, either among the 8 participating regional Associations of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (control group 1) or among the remaining associations not participating in RESIST (control group 2). Antibiotic prescription rates before the intervention (T0: 2016, 1st and 2nd quarters of 2017) and after the intervention (T1: 3rd quarter of 2017 until 1st quarter of 2019) will be compared. The primary outcome measure is the overall antibiotic prescription rate for all patients insured with German statutory health insurance before and after provision of the online course. The secondary outcome is the antibiotic prescription rate for coded ARTI before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

RESIST is publicly funded by the Innovations funds of the Federal Joint Committee in Germany and was approved in December 2016. Recruitment of physicians is now completed, and a total of 2460 physicians participated in the intervention. Data analysis started in February 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

With approximately 3000 physicians participating in the program, RESIST is among the largest real-world interventions aiming at reducing inadequate antibiotic prescribing for ARTI in primary care. Long-term follow up of up to 21 months will allow for investigating the sustainability of the intervention.

CLINICALTRIAL

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN13934505; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN13934505

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR1-10.2196/18648