bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Trust as a Key Determinant of eHealth Adoption in Malawi
Authors: Gadabu Annabelle , Sunguh Kenneth , Arkorful Vincent Ekow , Uddin Mohammed Mahin , Lukman Sadia
Published: December 2019

Background There is value in having the general public take initiative in taking care of personal health. With the heavy burden of finances and shortage of healthcare personnel, patient-centered healthcare is increasingly becoming important especially through eHealth. The way technology is accepted and utilized may have significant hypothetical and concrete inferences. Thus, eHealth, like any other technology, has little value unless it is used. Nevertheless, there are many factors that potentially promote or hinder uptake and use of eHealth services. This study particularly focused on the role that trust plays in determining an individual’s decision to use eHealth services. Methods Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model as the primary model of inference, two new constructs were introduced to determine whether trust is a significant contributor in consumers’ decision to use eHealth. Through convenience sampling, participant responses were collected over a period of 6 weeks and evaluated using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique. Results A total of 400 responses were collected and outcomes of the analysis showed that Performance Expectancy (PE), Effort Expectancy (EE), Social Influence (SI), and Facilitating Conditions (FC), had an affirmative effect on Behavioral Intentions to use eHealth. Performance Expectancy indirectly had a positive effect on Behavioral Intentions to use eHealth services via Trust in Internet (ToI) and Trust in Online Healthcare Providers (ToH). However, ToI had an insignificant effect while ToH had a positive effect. Conclusion Trust is indeed an important element in a user’s determination to use eHealth services. However, it depends on what exactly it is that users place trust in. Consumers are less trusting in the internet to facilitate accessing health related services but are more trusting in online healthcare service providers to ably assist with relevant services. The study also shows that it is essential for key stakeholders such as public policy actors and web designers to take into consideration specific target groups and user preferences which will enhance greater engagement of eHealth services.
Non-rigid image registration of 4D-MRI data for improved target delineation of moving tumors in radiotherapy
Authors: Weick Stefan , Breuer Kathrin , Richter Anne , Exner Florian , Ströhle Serge-Peer , Lutyj Paul , Tamihardja Jörg , Veldhoen Simon , Flentje Michael , Polat Bülent
Published: December 2019

Background: To increase the image quality of end-expiratory and end-inspiratory phases of retrospective respiratory self-gated 4D MRI data sets using non-rigid image registration for improved target delineation of moving tumors. Methods: End-expiratory and end-inspiratory phases of volunteer and patient 4D MRI data sets are used as targets for non-rigid image registration of all other phases using two different registration schemes: In the first, all phases are registered directly (dir-Reg) while next neighbors are successively registered until the target is reached in the second (nn-Reg). Resulting data sets are quantitatively compared using diaphragm and tumor sharpness and the coefficient of variation of regions of interest in the lung, liver, and heart. Qualitative assessment of the patient data regarding noise level, tumor delineation, and overall image quality was performed by blinded reading based on a 4 point Likert scale. Results: The median coefficient of variation was lower for both registration schemes compared to the target. Median dir-Reg coefficient of variation of all ROIs was 5.6 % lower for expiration and 7.0 % lower for inspiration compared with nn-Reg. Statistical significant differences between the two schemes were found in all comparisons. Median sharpness in inspiration is lower compared to expiration sharpness in all cases. Registered data sets were rated better compared to the targets in all categories. Over all categories, mean expiration scores were 2.92 ± 0.18 for the target, 3.19 ± 0.22 for nn-Reg and 3.56 ± 0.14 for dir-Reg and mean inspiration scores 2.25 ± 0.12 for the target, 2.72 ± 215 0.04 for nn-Reg and 3.78 ± 0.04 for dir-Reg. Conclusions: In this work, end-expiratory and inspiratory phases of a 4D MRI data sets are used as targets for non-rigid image registration of all other phases. It is qualitatively and quantitatively shown that image quality of the targets can be significantly enhanced leading to improved target delineation of moving tumors.
Identification of Nucleus Sterility Candidate Genes using a Resequencing Technique in Sweet Pepper Sterile Line AB91
Authors: Meng Yaning , Fan Yanqin , Yan libin , zhang hongxiao
Published: December 2019

Background: Breeding hybrids with nuclear male sterile lines is an important method for the cross breeding of sweet peppers. To date, few reports have been published on the nuclear male sterility gene of sweet pepper. Yet, there are approximately 20 pepper nuclear male sterility lines in the world. Results: Using the self-developed testing material, sweet pepper nuclear male sterile dual-purpose line AB91, the genome-wide resequencing technique was applied to firstly find that the mutation site causing the abortion of sweet pepper nuclear male sterility AB91 is on chromosome #5. The mutation gene Capana05g000747 was filtered out and validated by the flight mass spectrometry genotyping method and determined to be the gene causing the abortion of sweet pepper nuclear male sterility AB91. The gene Capana05g000747 contains eight exons and seven introns, and its mutation site is a non-synonymous mutation site located at the 6th exon; the base C mutated into A, and the amino acid changed from alanine to serine. Sequence alignment analysis showed that the gene Capana05g000747 has a similar function to gene At2g02148. Conclusion: The gene At2g02148 contains a pentatricopeptide repeat protein which has important physiological functions in the gene expression process of organelles and is closely related to the performance of male sterility genes. Therefore, Capana05g000747 was selected as an important candidate gene for sweet pepper nuclear male sterile testing material AB91.
Treatment Of Glioblastoma Multiforme With “classic” 4:1 Ketogenic Diet Total Meal Replacement
Authors: Klein Pavel , Tyrlikova Ivana , Zuccoli Giulio , Tyrlik Adam , Maroon Joseph C.
Published: December 2019

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) has poor survival with standard treatment.Experimental data suggest potential for metabolic treatment with low carbohydrate ketogenic diet (KD).Few human studies of KD in GBM have been done,handicapped by difficulty and variability of the diet,compliance and feasibility issues.We have developed a novel KD approach of total meal replacement (TMR) program using standardized recipes with ready-made meals.This pilot study evaluated feasibility,safety,tolerability and efficacy of GBM treatment using TMR program with “classic” 4:1 KD. Methods: GBM patients were treated in an open-label study for 6 months with 4:1 [fat]:[protein + carbohydrate] ratio by weight,10 g CH/day,1600 kcal/day TMR.Patients were either newly diagnosed (group 1) and treated adjunctively to radiation and temozolomide,or had recurrent GBM (group 2).Patients checked blood glucose and blood and urine ketone levels twice daily and had regular MRIs.Primary outcome measures included retention,treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and TEAE-related discontinuation.Secondary outcome measures were survival time from treatment initiation and time to MRI progression. Results: Recruitment was slow,resulting in early termination of the study. Eight patients participated,4 in group 1 and 4 in group 2.Five (62.5%) subjects completed the 6 months of treatment,4/4 subjects in group 1 and 1/4 in group 2.Three subjects stopped KD early:2 (25%) because of GBM progression and one (12.5%) because of diet restrictiveness.Four subjects,all group 1,continued KD on their own, three until shortly before death,for total of 26, 19.3 and 7 months, one ongoing. The diet was well tolerated.TEAEs,all mild and transient,included weight loss and hunger (n=6) which resolved with caloric increase,nausea (n=2),dizziness (n=2),fatigue and constipation (n=1 each).No-one discontinued KD because of TEAEs. Seven patients died.For these, mean (range) survival time from diet initiation was 20 months for group 1 (range 9.5-27) and 12.8 months for group 2 (6.3-19.9). Mean survival time from diagnosis was 21.8 months for Group 1 (11-29.2) and 25.4 for group 2 (range 13.9-38.7). One patient with recurrent GBM and progression on bevacizumab experienced a remarkable symptom reversal,tumor shrinkage and edema resolution 6-8 weeks after KD initiation and survival for 20 months after starting KD. Conclusions: Treatment of GBM patients with 4:1 KD using total meal replacement program with standardized recipes is feasible and well tolerated.
The diagnostic yield of intellectual disability: Combined whole genome low-coverage sequencing and medical exome sequencing
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Yan , Wang Liwen , Chen Wangyang
Published: December 2019

Background: Intellectual disability (ID) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex genetic underpinning in its etiology. Chromosome microarray (CMA) is recommended as the first-tier diagnostic test for ID due to high detection rate of copy number variation (CNV). Methods: To identify an appropriate clinical detection scheme for ID in Han Chinese patients, a whole genome low-coverage sequencing was performed as the first-tier diagnostic test, followed by medical exome sequencing as the second-tier diagnostic test for those patients with negative results of CNVs. Results: A total of 19 pathogenic CNVs in 16/95(16.84%) ID patients and 11 pathogenic single-nucleotide variations, including 7 novel mutations in 9/79(11.39%) ID patients were identified on whom no pathogenic CNVs were discovered. The detection rate of ID CNVs in multiple congenital anomalies (MCA) subgroup was significantly higher than ID with autism spectrum disorder and the other IDs subgroup. Also single-nucleotide variations showed a higher occurrence rate in the other IDs subgroup. Conclusions: There were differences in the diagnostic yields of different variation types among the three ID subgroups. Our findings provided a new perspective on appropriate clinical detection scheme for different ID subgroups based on the statistical results of different ID subgroups. The application of whole genome low-coverage sequencing as the first-tier diagnostic test for ID with MCA subgroup and medical exome sequencing as the first-tier diagnostic test for other IDs subgroup were considered as an efficient clinical detection schemes.
PTH Derivative Promotes Chronic Wound Healing via Synergistic Multicellular Stimulating and Exosomal Activities
Authors: Shen Yi-Fan , Huang Jing-Huan , Wang Kai-Yang , Zheng Jin , Cai Lin , Gao Hong , Li Xiao-Lin , Li Jing-Feng
Published: December 2019

Background: Chronic diabetic wounds are a disturbing and rapidly growing clinical problem. Parathyroid hormone related peptide (PTHrP-2) was assumed as multifunctional factor in angiogenesis, fibrogenesis and re-epithelization. This study aims to test PTHrP-2 efficiency and mechanism in chronic wound healing. Methods: Through repair phenomenon in vivo some problems were detected, and further research on their mechanisms was made. In vivo therapeutic effects of PTHrP-2 was determined by HE, Masson, microfil and immunohistochemical staining. In vitro direct effects of PTHrP-2 was determined by proliferation, migration, Vascular Endothelial Grown Factor and collagen I secretion of cells and Akt/ Erk1/2 pathway change. In vitro indirect effects of PTHrP-2 was study via exosomes. Exosomes from PTHrP-2 untreated and treated HUVECs and HFF-1 cells were insolated and identified. Exosomes were co-cultured with original cells, HUVECs or HFF-1 cells, and epithelial cells. Proliferation and migration and pathway change were observed. PTHrP-2-HUVEC-Exos was added into in vivo wound to testify its hub role in PTHrP-2 indirect effects in wound healing. Results: In vivo, PTHrP-2 exerted multifunctional pro-angiogenesis, pro-firbogenesis and re-epithelization effects. In vitro, PTHrP-2 promoted proliferation and migration of endothelial and fibroblast cells, but had no effect on epithelial cells. Therefore, we tested PTHrP-2 indirect effects via exosomes. PTHrP-2 intensified intercellular communication between endothelial cells and fibroblasts and initiated endothelial-epithelial intercellular communication. PTHrP-2-HUVEC-Exos played hub role in PTHrP-2 indirect effects in wound healing. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that PTHrP-2, a multifunctional factor, can promote chronic wound healing via synergistic multicellular stimulating and exosomal activities.
Emergence of human avian influenza A(H7N9) virus infections in Wenshan City in Southwest China, 2017
Authors: Jiang Li , Zhao Xiaonan , Xu Wen , Zhou Xuehua , Luo Chunrui , Zhou Jiunan , Fu Xiaoqing , Chen Yaoyao , Li Duo
Published: December 2019

Background: The emergence of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus was reported in Wenshan City, southwestern China in 2017. The study describes the epidemiological and virological features of the outbreak and discusses the origin of the infection. Methods: Poultry exposure and timelines of key events for each patient were collected. Samples derived from the patients, their close contacts, and environments were tested for influenza A(H7N9) virus by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Genetic sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were also conducted. Results: Five patients were reported in the outbreak. An epidemiological investigation showed that all patients had been exposed at live poultry markets. Virus isolates from these patients had low pathogenicity in avian species. Both epidemiological investigations of chicken sources and phylogenetic analysis of viral gene sequences indicated that the source of infection was from Guangxi Province. Conclusions: The transmission route spanned a long geographical region, with virus spreading from east to west. Chickens were an important carrier in the H7N9 virus spreading from Guangxi to Wenshan. Hygienic management of live poultry markets and virological screening of chickens transported across regions should be reinforced to limit the spread of H7N9 virus.
Carriage of high-risk human papillomavirus infection in male subjects in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Tamini Sya Forazoun Bienvenue , Zohoncon Theodora Mahoukèdè , Soubeiga Serge Theophile , Djigma Florencia Wendkuuni , Traore Ina Marie Angele , Ouedraogo Rogomenoma Alice , Ouattara Abdoul Karim , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Ouedraogo Charlemagne , Simpore Jacques
Published: December 2019

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a public health problem in Africa because of its frequency and its various consequences in both men and women. In Burkina Faso, there is little data on the carriage of HPV infection in male subjects. This study aimed to determine the carriage of HPV infection in male subjects in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted from December 2015 to September 2016. During this study period, a total of 124 male subjects who gave informed consent were recruited as part of a fertility assessment. Semen samples were analyzed by Real- Time PCR using Real TM Quant High Risk Screen HPV kit to detect 14 high-risk HPV genotypes. The Chi square test was used for comparisons.Results Of the 124 male subjects, 22 were positive for at least one high-risk HPV, with a prevalence of 17.7%. HPV 56 was the most represented genotype with a frequency of 20%, followed by HPV 39 (11%) and HPV 68 (11%), HPV 16 (8%). The genotypes HPV 18, HPV33, HPV35, HPV51 and HPV52 also had the same frequency of 6% each and the HPV 31, 45, 59 and 66 had the same frequency of 3% each. Of the 22 positive cases, 10 were multiple infections. Spermocytogram of patients showed at least one abnormality in 87.9% of cases. Necrozoospermia and oligozoospermia were the most abnormalities observed with 42% and 40% respectively followed by asthenospermia (18%); teratozoospermia (16%) and azoospermia (14%).Conclusion This study showed that like women, men are infected by HPV with a relatively high prevalence. In addition, the predominant genotypes in the male subjects of this study are not those targeted by the HPV vaccines available in our countries. Hence the need to reinforce the strategies for controlling HPV infection and HPV prophylactic vaccination for young boys.
Longitudinal assessment of antibiotic resistance gene profiles from the infant gut microbiome
Authors: Loo Evelyn , Zain Amanda , Yap Gaik Chin , Purbojati Rikky W , Drautz-Moses Daniela I , koh Yan Qing , Chong Yap Seng , Tan Kok Hian , Gluckman Peter D , Yap Fabian , Eriksson Johan Gunnar , Tham Elizabeth , shek lynette , kjelleberg Staffan , Schuster Stephan C , Banerjee Ritu , Lee Bee Wah
Published: December 2019

Background: The rapid spread of multidrug- resistant pathogenic bacteria is a worldwide public health concern. Given the high carriage rate of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)- producing Enterobacteriaceae in Asia, we aimed to evaluate community prevalence and dynamics by studying the longitudinal changes in antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) profiles and prevalence of ESBL-producing E coli and K. pneumoniae in the intestinal microbiome of infants participating in the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) study, a longitudinal cohort study of pregnant women and their infants. Methods: We analysed the antibiotic resistance genes profile in the first year of life among 75 infants who had stool samples collected at multiple timepoints using metagenomics. Results: The mean number of ARGs per infant increased with age. The most common ARGs identified confer resistance to aminoglycoside, beta-lactam, macrolide and tetracycline antibiotics; all infants harboured these antibiotic resistance genes at some point in the first year of life. Few ARGs persisted throughout the first year of life. Beta-lactam resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were detected in 4 (5.3%) and 32 (42.7%) of subjects respectively. Conclusion: In this longitudinal cohort study of healthy infants living in a region with high endemic antibacterial resistance, we demonstrate that majority of the infants harboured a number of antibiotic resistance genes in their gut and showed that the infant gut resistome is diverse and dynamic over the first year of life.
Evaluating effectiveness of screening house eaves as an intervention for integrated vector management for malaria control in Nyabondo, Western Kenya.
Authors: Ng'ang'a Peter Njoroge , Okoyo Collins , Mbogo Charles , Mutero Clifford Maina
Published: December 2019

BackgroundMosquito-proofing of houses with appropriate screens fixed at potential mosquito entry points is gaining greater recognition as a practical intervention for reducing malaria transmission indoors. The study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of house eaves screening in preventing mosquito entry and malaria prevalence in Nyabondo, western Kenya. Methods160 houses were selected for the study, with half of them randomly chosen for screening at the eaves with fibre-glass coated wire mesh (experimental group) and the other half left without screening (control group). Randomization was carried out by use of computer-generated list, in permuted blocks of ten houses and 16 village blocks in the study site, with treatments in the ratio of 1:1. Cross-sectional baseline entomological and malaria parasitological data were collected before house eave screening. After the baseline period, series of sampling of indoor adult mosquitoes were conducted once a month in each village using CDC light traps. Three cross-sectional malaria parasitological surveys were also conducted at three month intervals after installation of the screens. The primary outcome measures were indoor Anopheles mosquito density and malaria parasite prevalence. ResultsA total of 15,286 mosquitoes were collected over the two years period using CDC light trap in 160 houses distributed over 16 study villages (mean = 4.35, SD = 11.48). Of all mosquitoes collected, 2,872 were anophelines (2,869 An. gambiae s.l., 1 An. funestus and 2 other anopheles). Overall, among An. gambiae collected, 92.6% were non-blood fed, 3.57% were blood fed and the remaining 0.47% were composed of gravid and half gravid females. Overall more mosquitoes were collected in the control than experimental arms of the study. Results from four cross-sectional prevalence surveys showed that screened houses recorded relatively low malaria prevalence rates compared to the control houses. Overall, malaria prevalence was 5.6% (95%CI: 4.2-7.5) N=1,918, with baseline survey recording 6.1% prevalence (95%CI: 3.9-9.4), n=481 and third follow-up survey recording 3.6% prevalence (95%CI: 2.0-6.8) n=494. At all the three follow-up survey points, house screening significantly reduced the malaria prevalence by 100% (p<0.001), 63.6% (p=0.026), and 100% (p<0.001) for first, second and third follow-ups surveys respectively. The house screening significantly reduced malaria prevalence by 54% (OR = 0.46, 95%CI: 0.24-0.87, p = 0.017). Conclusions﻿The study demonstrated that house eave screening has potential to reduce indoor vector densities and malaria transmission in high transmission areas in Kenya.
Effect of cooling vests on physiological and perceptual responses: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Habibi Peymaneh , Heydari Ahad , Moradi Gholamreza , Dehghan Habibollah , Golbabaei Farideh
Published: December 2019

Background: Human in hot environments are exposed to several risks and discomforts which seriously affect their physiological and mental workload. However, they are required to take frequent rest breaks to prevent heat strain when working in hot environments. The main objective of this study is to systematically summarize the literature about the effect of cooling vests on physiological and perceptual responses that might help research and practice in the future.Inclusion criteria: Studies in scientific journals and other databases, focusing on the effect of cooling vests on physiological and perceptual responses will be included.Methods: Three main databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science will be searched to find relevant literature on type of cooling vest and effects using subject headings and appropriate MeSH terms. Inclusion and exclusion criteria will be used for screening. Two authors will participate in all of the search stages including preliminary search, screening, quality assessment, data extraction, and data synthesis. We will limit our search to articles published in a peer review journal between 2000 and 2019. The protocol has been written according to PRISMA-P checklist. Three main databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science will be searched to find relevant literature on type of cooling vest and effects using subject headings and appropriate MeSH terms. Inclusion and exclusion criteria will be used for screening. Two authors will participate in all of the search stages including preliminary search, screening, quality assessment, data extraction, and data synthesis. We will limit our search to articles published in a peer review journal between 2000 and 2019. The protocol has been written according to PRISMA-P checklist.Objective: The aim of this systematic review is to investigate and compare the effect of different types of cooling vests on physiological and perceptual responses in order to choose the best one according to affecting factors.PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42019140820
Psychosocial contributors to Internet and social media addiction among adult women
Authors: Rachubińska Kamila , Cybulska Anna , Owczarek Aleksander , Stanisławska Marzanna , Grochans Elżbieta
Published: December 2019

1) Purpose: When speaking of behavioral addictions (especially to the Internet and social media), it is emphasized that is not the environment that is the main contributor to addiction, but rather certain behaviors and personality traits. The aim of this study was to assess the level of Internet and social media addiction on the example of Facebook with regard to psychological and social factors. 2) Methods: This survey-based study involved a group of women representative of the female population in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland (N = 556). Research instruments were a self-developed questionnaire concerning sociodemographic data, the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Internet Addiction Test, and the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale. 3) Results: Age, depressive symptoms, loneliness were the variable contributing to Internet and Facebook addiction among the studied. Available studies confirm the results of own research. 4) Conclusions: Depressive symptoms, and dependence on the Internet and Facebook were more common among single women. In the employed women we only observed higher levels of Internet and Facebook addiction. The level of dependence on the Internet and Facebook was higher among younger women. Loneliness correlated with Internet and Facebook addiction, and more severe depressive symptoms entailed higher levels of Internet and Facebook addiction.
Study On the Effectiveness and Safety of Foldable Capsular Vitreous Body Implantation
Authors: Zhang Xiangyang , Tian Xuemin , Zhang Baike , Guo Lisa , Li Xiaodan , Jia Yong
Published: December 2019

Background: Foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) was designed to treat severe retinal detachment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the implantation of foldable capsular vitreous body in 1-year follow-up. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted for 20 patients with severe ocular trauma or silicone oil (SO) dependent eyes underwent vitrectomy and FCVB implantation in a 1-year follow-up. All treated eyes were peformed clinical examinations involved the visual acuity (VA) examination, Goldmann applanation tonometer, noncontact specular microscopy, fundus photography, B-Scan examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT). The groups were compared with t-test and the McNemar - Bowker test. Results: In 1-year follow-up, 20 eyes were evaluated in the study. FCVB well supported the vitreous retina in all treated eyes, and 6 treated eyes achieved retinal reattachment 12 months after FCVB implantation. There were no significant differences in VA before and after FCVB implantation (P = 1.000). In addition, the postoperative IOP markedly elevated from the preoperative IOP of 12.90 ± 7.06 mmHg to 15.15 ± 3.36 mmHg (P = 0.000017). The intraocular pressure (IOP) of 10 eyes maintained at a normal level after surgeries. The other 10 eyes showed slightly lower IOP within the acceptable level. Though two patients developed keratopathy and ocular inflammation respectively, other treated eyes were symmetric with fellow eyes showing satisfactory appearance. Moreover, there was no SO emulsification or leakage happened in the observation.Conclusions: FCVB implantation was an effective and safe treatment in the eyes with severe retinal detachment. Keywords: Foldable Capsular Vitreous Body; Efficacy; Safety; Retinal detachment
The effect of gestational diabetes mellitus on sufentanil consumption after cesarean section: A prospective cohort study
Authors: yang chen , Geng WeiLian , Hu Jianying , Huang Shaoqiang
Published: December 2019

Background: Previous studies have shown that patients with long-term diabetes require more opioids after surgery than patients without diabetes. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) normally only lasts for a brief period; nevertheless, its effect on sufentanil consumption after cesarean section is unknown. Methods: This prospective cohort study included two groups: a GDM group (n=32) and a matched non-GDM (NGDM) group (n=32). All patients underwent routine combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Sufentanil consumption through an intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump, the frequency of PCA requests, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores 6 and 24 hours after surgery were compared between groups. Results: Sufentanil consumption (µg) 6 hours after surgery was higher in the GDM group than in the NGDM group (24.0±6.6 vs 20.1±5.7, P=0.023). PCA was used more frequently 6 and 24 hours after surgery by the GDM group than by the NGDM group (1[0-2] vs 0[0-1], P=0.001; 6[4-8] vs 3[1-5], P=0.001, respectively). The VAS score during activity 24 hours after surgery was higher in the GDM group than in the NGDM group (5[5-6] vs 5[4-5], respectively, P=0.03). Conclusion: Pregnant women with GDM require more opioids during the immediate postoperative period after cesarean section than those without GDM.
Supplemental Light-emitting Diode Effects on the Growth, Fruit Quality, and Yield of Two Greenhouse-grown Strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) Cultivars
Authors: Stuemky Andrea , Uchanski Mark E.
Published: December 2019

Recent interest in off-season greenhouse-grown food crops, in combination with supplemental (top) lighting (SL), has created opportunities for local production of high-value fruit crops such as strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa). Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as SL can be tailored to a specific quality of radiation (i.e., wavelengths) to promote increased production and quality of greenhouse-grown crops. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of three LED light bars on off-season controlled environmental agriculture (CEA) production of 2-day neutral strawberry cultivars: Albion and San Andreas. LED effects on overall vegetative biomass (e.g., stolon production, crown number, and leaf area), marketable fruit yield, and fruit quality [e.g., individual fruit weight and soluble solids content (SSC)] were measured during decreasing daylengths from Oct. to Dec. 2017 (Expt. 1) and increasing daylengths of Jan. to Apr. 2018 (Expt. 2). We hypothesized that the addition of SL via three LED treatments would increase measured parameters. Specifically, it was expected that the LED bars [high blue (HB) and low blue (LB)] with greater intensities of blue and red light would produce greater yields and also increase SSC of the berries. The hypotheses were tested by evaluating three LED light top bars [white far-red (WFR; 440–450 nm), HB, and LB], with wavelength peaks of blue (450 nm) and red (665 nm) light, but differing photosynthetic photon flux densities (PPFDs). Results from these experiments showed that individual strawberry fruit size and SSC were increased with the use of HB and LB LEDs during the shortening days of Expt. 1. Increased leaf area and crown number were also affected positively within all LED treatments (WFR, LB, HB) for ‘San Andreas’. Relative to Expt. 1, the lengthening days of Expt. 2 elicited more limited fruit responses, although increased stolon production within all treatments was reported. In addition, differences between cultivars in leaf area and SSC were observed with ‘San Andreas’ growing larger leaves and ‘Albion’ berries having a greater SSC. Individual fruit weight of both cultivars responded similarly, with increased fruit size in LB and HB, specifically within both Expt. 1 and Expt. 2. Our studies indicate that the addition of SL, in the form of LB and HB improved overall strawberry fruit quality and plant growth during shortening daylengths and under greenhouse CEA conditions.
Periodic Versus Real-time Adjustment of a Leaching Fraction-based Microirrigation Schedule for Container-grown Plants
Authors: Million Jeff B. , Yeager Thomas H.
Published: December 2019

Two experiments were conducted to determine if a leaching fraction (LF)-guided irrigation practice with fixed irrigation run times between LF tests (LF_FX) could be improved by making additional adjustments to irrigation run times based on real-time weather information, including rain, using an evapotranspiration-based irrigation scheduling program for container production (LF_ET). The effect of the two irrigation practices on plant growth and water use was tested at three target LF values (10%, 20%, and 40%). For both Viburnum odoratissimum (Expt. 1) and Podocarpus macrophyllus (Expt. 2) grown in 36-cm-diameter containers with spray-stake microirrigation, the change in plant size was unaffected by irrigation treatments. LF_ET reduced water use by 10% compared with LF_FX in Expt. 2 but had no effect (P < 0.05) on water use in Expt. 1. Decreasing the target LF from 40% to 20% reduced water use 28% in both experiments and this effect was similar for both irrigation practices. For the irrigation system and irrigation schedule used in these experiments, we concluded that an LF-guided irrigation schedule with a target LF of 10% resulted in plant growth similar to one with a target LF of 40% and that the addition of a real-time weather adjustment to irrigation run times provided little or no improvement in water conservation compared with a periodic adjustment based solely on LF testing.
Effects of Betaine and Chitin on Water Use Efficiency in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata)
Authors: Lin Furn-Wei , Lin Kuan-Hung , Wu Chun-Wei , Chang Yu-Sen , Lin Kuan-Hung , Wu Chun-Wei
Published: December 2019

Plant biostimulants have received increasing attention in recent years because of their positive effects on crop performance and contribution to agro-ecological sustainability. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of betaine and chitin treatments, alone and in combination, on lettuce plants by changes in the morphology and physiology of plants exposed to regulated deficit irrigation (RDI). Plants were subjected to full irrigation (FI; no water deficiency treatment, field capacity >70%) and RDI (field capacity <50%) conditions until the end of each experiment. We recorded plant yield–related traits, net photosynthesis, and water use efficiency (WUE) values weekly for 4 weeks and carried out three individual experiments to assess the efficacy of biostimulant and irrigation treatments. Betaine (0, 50, and 100 mm/plant) was foliar-treated every 2 weeks during Expt. 1, whereas chitin (0, 2, and 4 g/kg) was applied to the soil at the beginning of Expt. 2. We then applied the optimal concentration of each chemical alone or in combination to the plants as Expt. 3. Compared with negative control, the application of 50 mm betaine and 2 g/kg chitin significantly increased leaf area (LA) per plant by 48.5% and 25.6%, respectively. Furthermore, 50 mm betaine and 2 g/kg chitin treatment showed a clearly protective effect in RDI plants, enhancing their total fresh weights by 26.10% and 75.0%, respectively, in comparison with control. Comparing WUEyield and WUEbiomass, chemical-treated plants had higher values than control. Betaine (50 mm) or chitin (2 g/kg) treatments alone significantly elevated LA, fresh shoot weight, total fresh and dry weights, net photosynthesis, and WUE values, and boosted the water stress tolerance of lettuce under RDI compared with controls. However, a combined treatment of 50 mm betaine and 2 g/kg chitin did not increase the levels of all yield traits under RDI compared with individual chemical treatment. Most leaves appeared healthy, green, and had visually less leaf chlorosis when treated with chitin or betaine under RDI compared with untreated plants subjected to RDI. Our study indicates that applying betaine and chitin improves plant performance against water supply limitations and highlights their potential for the sustainable production of lettuce.
Gravitational thermodynamics of causal diamonds in (A)dS
Authors: Jacobson Theodore , Visser Manus R.
Published: December 2019

The static patch of de Sitter spacetime and the Rindler wedge of Minkowski spacetime are causal diamonds admitting a true Killing field, and they behave as thermodynamic equilibrium states under gravitational perturbations. We explore the extension of this gravitational thermodynamics to all causal diamonds in maximally symmetric spacetimes. Although such diamonds generally admit only a conformal Killing vector, that seems in all respects to be sufficient. We establish a Smarr formula for such diamonds and a ``first law" for variations to nearby solutions. The latter relates the variations of the bounding area, spatial volume of the maximal slice, cosmological constant, and matter Hamiltonian. The total Hamiltonian is the generator of evolution along the conformal Killing vector that preserves the diamond. To interpret the first law as a thermodynamic relation,
it appears necessary to attribute a negative temperature to the diamond, as has been previously suggested for the special case of the static patch of de Sitter spacetime. With quantum corrections included, for small diamonds
we recover the ``entanglement equilibrium'' result that the generalized entropy is stationary at the maximally symmetric vacuum at fixed volume, and we reformulate this as
the stationarity of free conformal energy with the volume not fixed.
Method of bearing fault diagnosis based on time-frequency manifold analysis
Authors: Wang Tengqiang , Guo Yingfu , Wang Guangbin , Sui Guangzhou
Published: December 2019

Bearing damage is one of the main causes of mechanical malfunction , and its vibration signal has the characteristics of nonlinear, non-stationary and difficult to be extracted. In order to solve the problem of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, the concept of multi-scale sub-band sample entropy is proposed, which cannot accurately extract weak signals from complexity. First, the wavelet packet decomposition of multi-scale signals is obtained, and then, the scale of each signal is sub-band-decomposing. Finally, the sample entropy of each subband can be solved. This method can deeply mine the basic characteristic signals. In this paper, a set of normal fault, inner ring fault, spherical fault and outer ring fault signal are used as the original data to verify the effectiveness of the method. The experimental results show that the method can effectively extract bearing fault features.
Water, sanitation, and hygiene risk factors of acute diarrhea among children under five years in the Gaza Strip
Authors: Abuzerr Samer , Nasseri Simin , Yunesian Masud , Hadi Mahdi , Zinszer Kate , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Nabizadeh Ramin , Abu Mustafa Ayman , Mohammed Shimels Hussien
Published: December 2019

This cross-sectional community household-based study aims to evaluate the water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in the Gaza Strip and to investigate their associations with the occurrence of acute diarrhea among children under five years. A survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted on 1,857 households with an child under five years from August 2017 to June 2018. About 69.7% of heads of households reported a diarrheal episode among their children during the two months preceding the survey. Multivariable logistic regression showed that sewage water observed around the households was associated with an increased risk of acute diarrhea (AOR = 2.45; P < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.83–3.27). Nevertheless, the allocation of a special water tank for desalinated drinking water at home (AOR = 0.3; P = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.1–0.8), the connection of households to a closed sewerage system (AOR = 0.56; P < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.43–0.73), and handwashing practices before and after eating (AOR = 0.42; P = 0.003; 95% CI: 0.24–0.74 and AOR = 0.50; P = 0.03; 95% CI: 0.26–0.94, respectively), as well as using desalinated water sources for drinking purposes, were inversely associated with the incidence of acute diarrhea among children under five. Further improvements in the existing sewerage system and the intensification of sanitation and hygiene promotion programs at the household levels may reduce the risk of acute diarrhea among children under five years in the Gaza Strip.
Hypodopaminergia and “Precision Behavioral Management” (PBM): It is a Generational Family Affair
Authors: Fried Lyle , Modestino Edward J. , Siwicki David , Lott Lisa , Thanos Panayotis K. , Baron David , Badgaiyan Rajendra D. , Ponce Jessica V. , Giordano James , Downs William B. , Gondré-Lewis Marjorie C. , Bruce Steinberg , Braverman Eric R. , Boyett Brent , Blum Kenneth
Published: December 2019

Background/Aims:

This case series presents the novel Genetic Addiction Risk Score (GARS®) coupled with a customized pro-dopamine regulator matched to polymorphic reward genes having a hypodopaminergic risk.

Methods:

The proband is a female with a history of drug abuse and alcoholism. She experienced a car accident under the influence and voluntarily entered treatment. Following an assessment, she was genotyped using the GARS, and started a neuronutrient with a KB220 base indicated by the identified polymorphisms. She began taking it in April 2018 and continues.

Results:

She had success in recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and improvement in socialization, family, economic status, well-being, and attenuation of Major Depression. She tested negative over the first two months in treatment and a recent screening. After approximately two months, her parents also decided to take the GARS and started taking the recommended variants. The proband’s father (a binge drinker) and mother (no SUD) both showed improvement in various behavioral issues. Finally, the proband’s biological children were also GARS tested, showing a high risk for SUD.

Conclusions:

This three-generation case series represents an example of the impact of genetic information coupled with an appropriate DNA guided “Pro-Dopamine Regulator” in recovery and enhancement of life.
The Relevance of Single-nucleotide Polymorphism +62 G>A to the Expression of Resistin Gene Affecting Serum Resistin Levels in Metabolic Syndrome in the Egyptian Population
Authors: Ibrahim Sherine M. , Bastawy Afaf A.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is a clinical condition consisting of risk factors associated
with type two diabetes and developing cardiovascular disease. It has been suggested that resistin
is a linkage between obesity, inflammation and type two diabetes. This study aims to investigate
whether Resistin Gene (RETN) polymorphism (+62G>A) is linked to MS and resistin levels among
the Egyptian population.

Methods:

This study was performed with 310 Egyptian volunteers: 160 MS subjects and 150 controls.
Anthropometric parameters and biochemical variables were determined. The RETN +62G>A polymorphism
was genotyped by PCR-RFLP technique.

Results:

The resistin levels of the MS group were significantly higher than those of the control group.
Resistin levels were positively correlated with anthropometric parameters and liver biomarkers in the
MS group. According to RETN +62G>A polymorphism, carriers with the A allele (GA/AA) had significantly
increased resistin levels than subjects with the GG genotype, consequently, the RETN +62G
>A polymorphism was found to be related to MS, biochemical parameters and anthropometric variables.

Conclusions:

These findings propose that the RETN +62G>A polymorphism has a great impact on the
circulating resistin concentrations, and that resistin levels are strongly related to MS. Therefore, this
RETN polymorphism is related to the risk of the prevalence of MS in the Egyptians.
Facile Synthesis of Naphtha-quinoxaline Derivatives from β-lapachone Using Graphene Oxide as Catalyst
Authors: Vyas Pooja , Wadhwani Barkha Darra , Rao Ravindra Singh , Khandelwal Poonam
Published: December 2019

Objective:

To develop efficient method for the synthesis of naphtha-quinoxaline derivatives via the
reaction of β-lapachone with various 1,2-diamines.

Methods:

A mixture of β-lapachone (1mmol), 1,2-diamine (1mmol) and graphene oxide (20mg) in methanol
(3mL) was heated at 60°C, under constant stirring for appropriate time. After completion of the reaction, the
catalyst was filtered off, washed with ethyl acetate (3x3mL) and the combined filtrate was washed with H2O,
dried (anhy. Na2SO4) and concentrated under vacuum. The residue was chromatographed over a column of
silica gel eluting with a mixture of hexane and ethyl acetate in different ratios, to afford the desired product. All
synthesized compounds were assigned with the help of analytical and 1H, 13C NMR, IR, and mass spectral
studies.

Results:

To establish the catalytic role of GO in the synthesis of naphtha-quinoxaline derivatives, the reaction
of β-lapachone with 3,4-diaminotoluene was selected as a model reaction. The catalytic activity of graphene
oxide in comparison with other catalysts like acidic resin amberlyst-15 and solid acid catalyst like
montmorillonite K-10 were studied. The reaction was also observed in various solvents such as water,
acetonitrile, toluene, dichloromethane, ethanol and 1,4-dioxane using GO as a catalyst. Excellent yields were
obtained at 60°C in methanol. The efficacy of the present protocol was investigated by the reaction of β-
lapachone with other 1,2-diamines.

Conclusion:

An attractive green metal free carbocatalyst Graphene Oxide (GO) has been successfully utilized
for the expedient synthesis of naphtha-quinoxaline derivatives. GO showed high catalytic activity which is
attested by the desired products being produced in shorter time. The main advantage of this method is the
reusability of the catalyst which makes the procedure sustainable.
Antiviral Action of Curcumin Encapsulated in Nanoemulsion against Four Serotypes of Dengue Virus
Authors: Nabila Najwa , Suada Nadia Khansa , Denis Dionisius , Yohan Benediktus , Adi Annis Catur , Veterini Anna Surgean , Anindya Atsarina Larasati , Sasmono R. Tedjo , Rachmawati Heni
Published: December 2019

Background:

Curcumin has been used as a traditional medicine showing antiinflammatory,
antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. Despite the promising potentials,
curcumin-based drug development is hindered due to its poor solubility and cell uptake.

Objective:

This study aims to produce curcumin nanoemulsion (nanocurcumin) and evaluate
its physical characteristics and in vitro cell cytotoxicity and antiviral activity against
dengue virus (DENV).

Method:

Nanocurcumin was generated by self-nanoemulsion technique. Cytotoxicity was
determined using MTT assay in A549 cell line. Anti-DENV properties were determined by
calculation of inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) and plaque assay.

Results:

The resulting nanoemulsion showed uniform droplet size distribution with the average
droplet size of 40.85 ± 0.919 nm. Nanocurcumin exhibited higher cell cytotoxicity
compared to curcumin solution and may be explained by better cell uptake. Nanocurcumin
treatment suppressed DENV growth, although no significant difference observed compared
to the curcumin solution counterpart. Greater virus reduction was observed for DENV-1
and DENV-2.

Conclusion:

The synthesis of nanocurcumin improved curcumin physicochemical properties
with potential as antiviral against DENV.