bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE CHANGE OF ROCK CONDITION OBSERVED BY H/V SPECTRAL AND ELLIPTICITY CURVE INVERSION ANALYSIS (CASE STUDY: PALU EARTHQUAKE SEPTEMBER 28, 2018)
Authors: Gustono Sandy Tri , Akhadi Muhammad , Azzahra Kekey Salsabil , Ginting Rika Adelina
Published: December 2020

Palu City is composed of sedimentary rocks so that it has a high level of vulnerability when an earthquake occurs. The earthquake that occurred on September 28, 2018, 25 km north of Donggala with a magnitude of 7.4 Mw, had caused a tsunami that struck Palu City, Sigi Regency, Donggala Regency, and Parigi Mouthong Regency, Central Sulawesi Province. This earthquake also caused liquefactions in the Petobo and Balaroa areas, Palu City, and Jono Oge in Sigi Regency. In this study, the authors used microtremor data at 8 points measured before and after the earthquake. Processing using the Horizontal to Vertical Spectra Ratio method shows that the predominant frequency and amplification factor changes due to changes in local rock conditions. The analysis also shows the value of soil vulnerability index (Kg) mostly increased after the earthquake. Besides, the elliptic curve inversion method shows that before the earthquake event, the value of the S wave velocity (Vs30) in layer one was between 157.1-211.4 m/sec with a layer thickness between 65.3-90.6 meters, while after the earthquake, the velocity becomes 156-214.6 m/sec with a layer thickness ranging between 66-99.2 meters. This indicates that the area consists of soft and medium soils, which subsequently increased sediment thickness in most areas after the earthquake.
Pengaruh Promotional Mix Terhadap Keputusan Nasabah Menabung Di Bank Syariah
Authors: Setyorini Ananda Putri , Ratno Fernaldi Anggadha
Published: December 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis apakah pengaruh Promotion Mix yang terdiri dari advertising (Periklanan), sales promotion (promosi penjualan), public relation (hubungan masyarakat), personal selling (penjualan pribadi), dan direct marketing (pemasaran langsung) berpengaruh terhadap Keputusan Nasabah Menabung di Bank Syariah Mandiri (BSM) KCP Boyolali (Tahun 2015-2019). Metode pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui kuesioner yang disebarkan kepda nasabah yang menabung di BSM KCP Boyolali. Sampel yang diambil sebanyal 100 responden nasabah yang menabung di BSM KCP Boyolali dengan teknik simple random sampling,data kemudian diolah dengan menggunakan alat bantu SPSS versi 22 dan analisis dengan menggunakan analisis regresi berganda. Analisis ini meliputi uji reabilitas, uji validitas, uji regresi, uji regresi linear berganda,pengajuan hipotesis melalui uji T, uji F, serta koefisien determinasi (R^2) dan uji asumsi klasik. Hasil T_test menunjukan bahwa advertsing, sales promotion, personal selling, dan direct marketing  berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan nasabah menabung di Bank Syariah Mandiri KCP Boyolali. Sedangkan public relation tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan nasabah menabung di Bank Syariah Mandiri KCP Boyolali. Uji F_test menunjukan bahwa advertsing, sales promotion, personal selling, public relation ,dan direct marketing  secara simultan berpengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan nasabah menabung di Bank Syariah Mandiri KCP Boyolali.
Approximate Numerical Solutions for Linear Volterra Integral Equations Using Touchard Polynomials
Authors: Abdullah Jalil Talab
Published: December 2020

In this paper, Touchard polynomials (TPs) are presented for solving Linear Volterra integral equations of the second kind (LVIEs-2k) and the first kind (LVIEs-1k) besides, the singular kernel type of this equation. Illustrative examples show the efficiency of the presented method, and the approximate numerical (AN) solutions are compared with one another method in some examples. All calculations and graphs are performed by program MATLAB2018b.
COVID-19: Clinical Presentation and Prognostic Factors of Severe Disease and Mortality in the Oldest-old Population. A Cohort Study.
Authors: Gálvez-Barrón César , Arroyo-Huidobro Marta , Miñarro Antonio , Añaños Gemma , Chamero Antonio , Martín Mireia , Gris Clara , Avalos Jose L , Capielo Anna , Ventosa Ester , Tremosa Gemma , Rodríguez-Molinero Alejandro
Published: December 2020

INTRODUCTIONThe oldest-old population (80 years or older) has the highest lethality from COVID-19. There is little information on the clinical presentation and specific prognostic factors for this group. This trial evaluated the clinical presentation and prognostic factors of severe disease and mortality in the oldest-old population.METHODSAmbispective cohort study of oldest-old patients hospitalized for respiratory infection associated with COVID-19 and with a positive test by real-time polymerase chain reaction. The clinical presentation and the factors associated with severe disease and mortality were evaluated (logistic regression). All patients were followed until discharge or death.RESULTSA total of 103 patients (59.2% female) were included. The most frequent symptoms were fever (68.9%), dyspnoea (60.2%), and cough (39.8%), and 11.7% presented confusion. Fifty-nine patients (57.3%) presented severe disease, and 59 died, with 43 patients (41.7%) presenting both of these. In the multivariate analysis, male sex (OR 0.31, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.13-0.73, p 0.0074) and serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.21-5.37, p 0.0139) were associated with severe disease, and serum sodium was associated with mortality (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.18-8.26, p 0.0222). No chronic disease or pharmacological treatment were associated with worse outcomes.CONCLUSIONSThe typical presenting symptoms of respiratory infection in COVID-19 are less frequent in the oldest-old population. Male sex and LDH level are predictors of severe disease, and serum sodium level predicts of mortality in this population.
Superionic hcp-Fe alloys and their seismic velocities in Earth’s inner core
Authors: He Yu , Sun Shichuan , Kim DuckYoung , Jang Bo Gyu , Li He-Ping , Mao Ho-Kwang
Published: December 2020

Earth’s inner core (IC) is less dense than pure iron, indicating the existence of light elements within it1. Si, S, C, O, and H have been suggested to be the candidates2,3, and the properties of Fe-light-element alloys were studied to constrain the IC composition4-19. Light elements have a significant influence on seismic velocities4-13, melting temperatures15-17, and thermal conductivities of Fe-alloys18,19. However, the state of the light elements in the IC is rarely considered. Using ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations, we found that H, O, and C in hexagonal close-packed (hcp) Fe transform to a superionic state under IC conditions, showing high diffusion coefficients like liquid. It suggests the IC can be in superionic state rather than normal solid state. The liquid-like light elements lead to a significant reduction in the seismic velocities approaching the seismological observation of the IC20,21. The significant decrease in shear wave velocity (VS) gives an explanation on the soft IC21. In adddtion, the light-element convection in the IC has potential influence on the IC seismological structure and magnetic field.
Wnt/β-catenin activation epigenetically reprograms Regulatory T cells in IBD and progression to dysplasia.
Authors: Gounari Fotini , Quandt Jasmin , Arnovitz Stephen , Haghi Leila , Woehlk Janine , Moshin Azam , Okoreeh Michael , Mathur Priya , Emmanuel Akinola , Osman Abu , Krishnan Manisha , Morin Samuel , Pearson Alexander , Sweis Randy , Pekow Joel , Weber Christopher , Khazaie Khashayarsha
Published: December 2020

The molecular and functional diversity of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) in health and in disease remains unclear. We previously described in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients a subpopulation of RORγt+ Tregs with elevated expression of β-catenin and pro-inflammatory properties. Here we observed progressive expansion of RORγt+ Tregs in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients during inflammation and early dysplasia. Activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling in human and murine Tregs was sufficient to recapitulate the disease-associated increase in frequencies of RORγt+ Tregs expressing IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNFa. We found that binding of the β-catenin interacting partner, TCF-1, to DNA overlapped with Foxp3 binding at enhancer sites of pro-inflammatory pathway genes. Sustained Wnt/β-catenin activation induced newly accessible chromatin sites in these genes and upregulated their expression. These findings indicate that TCF-1 and Foxp3 together limit the expression of pro-inflammatory genes in Tregs. Activation of ꞵ-catenin signaling interferes with this function and promotes the disease-associated RORγt+ Treg phenotype.
An Effective Interpretation of Wave Function of Microscopic Particles
Authors: Zhang Change
Published: December 2020

Because the origin of the wave-particle duality of quantum mechanics has always been an unsolved problem in physics. Therefore, this article attempts to propose a feasible interpretation of the wave-particle duality origin of quantum mechanics in order to eliminate the confusion of probability waves in quantum mechanics.
Efficacy of Different LOAD-Intensity and Time-Under-Tension Exercise Interventions for Achilles Tendinopathy (The LOADIT Trial): A Randomised Pilot Trial
Authors: Hasani Fatmah , Haines Terry , Munteanu Shannon E , Schoch Peter , Vicenzino Bill , Malliaras Peter
Published: December 2020

Background: One potential reason for disparate outcomes of exercise for Achilles tendinopathy is poor knowledge about whether exercise parameters (i.e. different exercise doses) influence outcome. Whether parameters that are important for tendon adaptation influence clinical outcomes in Achilles tendinopathy has not been investigated. Therefore, this research aimed to assess the feasibility of conducting a definitive randomised trial to investigate the efficacy of different load-intensity and time-under-tension exercise parameters for Achilles tendinopathy. Methods: A factorial four-arm, randomised trial. Forty-eight male participants (18-70 years old) with mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy (≥ 3 months) were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated to high (6 repetition maximum) or low intensity (18 repetition maximum) exercise, performed with either high (6 seconds per cycle) or low (2 seconds per cycle) time-under-tension. Participants performed 12-weeks of standing and seated calf raise exercises three times per week in a gym setting using a Smith machine. One session per week was supervised (via teleconference). Primary feasibility outcomes (recruitment and retention rate, exercise adherence and fidelity [i.e. time-under-tension, volume, load intensity], incidence of adverse events, health care use and productivity cost) were collected weekly. Means and standard deviations were determined for parametric data, medians and interquartile range for non-parametric continuous data, and frequency counts for discrete data.Results: Total recruitment (76%) and retention (90%) rates were high. Exercise adherence ranged from 45 to 63% and fidelity ranged from 8 to 83% across the groups. Thirty-one participants reported 64 adverse events over the 3 months. Twenty-one participants (70%) reported mild events. Participants reported reduced presenteeism more than absenteeism. Conclusions: A definitive randomised trial is feasible. The proposed trial design and interventions demonstrated acceptable recruitment and retention rates and safety profile. However, exercise fidelity and adherence to the gym-based intervention was not acceptable. Strategies to improve intervention adherence and fidelity should be considered in future trials.Trial registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12618001315202. Registered retrospectively on August 6th, 2018.
LncRNA SNHG17 Promotes Tumor Progression and Predicts Poor Survival in Human Renal Cell Carcinoma via Sponging miR-328-3p
Authors: Wu Jie , Dong Gang , Liu Tingting , Zhang Shaojin , Sun Lulu , Liang Weijie
Published: December 2020

Background: Accumulating data shows that dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in human tumors' occurrence and progression. Small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs) are recently revealed to play a carcinogenic role in various human neoplasms. However, the functions and underlying mechanisms of lncRNA SNHG17 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are still elusive.Methods: We analyzed the relationship between SNHG17 expression levels and clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis in patients with RCC according to TCGA RNA-sequencing data and our cohort data. Loss-of-function and gain-of-function experiments were conducted to examine the biological behaviors of SNHG17 on RCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and tumor growth in vivo. The interaction between SNHG17, miR-328-3p, and Histone’s H2A variant (H2AX) was verified by bioinformatics, dual-luciferase reporter gene, and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). Results: Highly expressed SNHG17 was evident in RCC tissue samples and cell lines, and SNHG17 overexpression was related to advanced TNM stage and reduced relapse-free and overall survival of patients with RCC. Knockdown of SNHG17 prohibited malignant phenotypes, whereas ectopic SNHG17 expression showed the opposite effects. More importantly, SNHG17 could upregulate the expression of H2AX by acting as a miR-328-3p sponge. In vivo experiments confirmed that SNHG17 promoted the growth of RCC tumors.Conclusion: SNHG17/miR-328-3p/H2AX axis might be involved in RCC progression, which provided a potential therapeutic target for RCC.
Characterization and Degradation of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Polylactides (PLA) and PHA-PLA Blends
Authors: Sohail Rafeya , Jamil Nazia
Published: December 2020

Biodegradable biopolymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and polylactide (PLA) have wide range of applications in almost all sectors. Degradation of these polymers, however efficient, still creates a paradox with green chemistry principles. Blending of these polymers can potentially decrease plastic pollution due to their increased biodegradability. During this study, PHAwas produced using bacterial strains DL3; Bacillus subtilis (MT043898), PWA; Bacillus subtilis (MH142143), PWC; Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MH142144), PWF; Bacillus tequilensis (MH142145) and PWG; Bacillus safensis (MH142146). Corn-based PLA was produced chemically and physically blendedwith PHA (PHA-PLA blends). During molecular studies, PHA, PLA and PHA-PLA blendswere characterized via FT-IR analysis, SEM, and light microscopy indicating successful blending of PHA-PLA samples. FTIR results indicated PHA produced by strain PWF and mixed culture wasmcl-PHA. Degradation of polymers and copolymer blends was studied by bacteria for 12 weeks and in different environmental systems i.e. in soil, water, air, and heat for 20 weeks. Degradation analysis indicated highest degradation of PLA, followed by PHA-PLA blends. Among these systems, degradation was favored in soil (80%), followed by water (78%) and air (78%). Least degradation (76%) was observed on heat exposure. Sample degradation observed using light microscope and SEM showed fungal and bacterial colonization amidst cracks, crevices, bumps, and fractures after 20 weeks. Understanding the role of ambient microbial population during degradation and its impact on natural soil environment can be the focus of future studies.
Comparison of Impacts of a Corporate All-Comer Mindfulness Program between Employees with Compromised and Preserved Wellbeing
Authors: Ito Yasushi , Sasamori Izumi
Published: December 2020

Background: Evidence to support a corporate mindfulness program is limited to a small number of studies focusing primarily on employees with compromised wellbeing and/or under high stress levels. The primary aim of this study was to, in a corporate setting, compare the impact of a mindfulness program between employees with compromised and preserved wellbeing. Methods: We conducted in-person and online 8-week adapted Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs among all-comers and compared the impacts on the compromised wellbeing group (CWG), as defined by Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) scores in the Profile of Mood States 2, equal to or higher than the Japanese national mean of 50 and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores in the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey second version, lower than the national mean, and on the preserved wellbeing group (PWG), as defined by either TMD scores lower than 50 or MCS scores equal to or higher than 50. Results: Thirty-six employees completed the pre- and post-assessment. The CWG, accounting for 17 of 36 (47.2%), had significantly higher TMD [Mean±SD (95% confidence interval): 60.6±10.3 (55.3 - 65.9)] and lower MCS [40.6±5.5 (37.8 - 43.5)] scores than the national mean as expected and attended class more frequently than the PWG (6.1±1.6 times vs. 4.6±2.3, respectively, p < 0.05), while the PWG had significantly lower TMD [45.7±4.5 (43.5 - 47.9)] and higher MCS [52.8±6.5 (49.6 - 55.9)] scores than the national mean. Both the CWG and PWG showed significant similar within group improvements after the program in Perceived Stress Scale (PSS: 32.4±8.8 to 25.6±9.7, p< 0.05, Cohen’s d= -0.69 and 23.2±4.5 to 21.2±5.2, p < 0.01, d = -0.78, respectively) and TMD (60.6±10.3 to 51.4±11.9, p < 0.05, d = -0.69 and 45.7±4.5 to 42.9±4.4, p < 0.01, d = -0.70) scores while only the CWG showed an improved MCS score. Changes from the baseline between the groups were significant only in MCS scores. Conclusions: The current study suggests that adapted MBSR may be beneficial for corporate employees with preserved wellbeing, providing corporate planners with the evidence required to expand corporate mindfulness programs to a larger employee population.
Gancao Nurish-Yin Decoction Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Skin Lesions and Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Yong Chen , Huimei Wu , Changhong Xiao , Nandakumar Kutty Selva
Published: December 2020

BackgroundPsoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease with a high clinical prevalence, which is often poses treatment difficulties. In this study, we tested whether Gancao nurish-Yin (GNY) decoction is effective for treating mice with imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions. MethodsMice were divided into 4 groups including healthy control group, model group (IMQ-induced psoriasis mice), and two psoriasis induced groups of mice treated with GNY-2.5g/kg and GNY-5g/kg given in the drinking water (n = 8/group). Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) was used to monitor psoriatic symptoms. H&E staining of dermis and baker’s scores were used to evaluate disease severity. Inflammatory cells positive for Gr-1, CD11c, RORγt and TGF-β were counted by using immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence staining methods. Flow cytometry was used to analyse CD4+CD17+ Th17 cells, and CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs within splenocyte cell population. Relative mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23, TNF-ɑ, TGF-β and AMPKɑ1 in the dermis was was semi-quatified using qPCR. ResultsCompared to model group, GNY decoction treated mice, at both the concentrations, improved morphological features, as demonstrated by PASI scores and decreased levels of hyperproliferating keratinocytes. GNY decoction at a higher concentration significantly decreased Gr-1, CD11c, RORγt and TGF-β positive cells in the dermis as well as the differentiated CD4+CD17+ Th17 cells, whereas, CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs were increased in the spleen, mainly with low dose GNY decoction. Furthermore, relative mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23, TNF-ɑ, TGF-β and AMPKɑ1 within dermis were elevated in mice from IMQ model group, which were significantly recduced in mice treated with GNY decoction at GNY-5g/kg concentration.ConclusionHere we demonstrate disease ameliorating effects of GNY decoction in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice, which could form basis for considering GNY decoction for treatment of psoriasis patients.
Carrier Screening of 400 Variations Related 11 Recessive Diseases in the Daur Ethnicity in China
Authors: Li Qiuyan , Zhang Tingting , Dong Bonan , Jia Mansha , Jia Xueyuan , Bai Jing , Yu Jingcui , Fu Songbin
Published: December 2020

Background: Single gene disorders are common diseases that cause birth defect. Carrier screening is an effective method to reduce the affected children with single gene disorders. However, incidence rates and carrier positive rates vary among ethnic groups. Results: In the present study, four hundred alleles associated with 11 recessive disease were detected in the Daur ethnicity of China. Among the 246 individuals, 25 individuals were identified as heterozygous carriers of at least one for 11 recessive disorder, carrier rate was 10.16%. A total of 19 females were carrier positive among 143 individuals with a 13.29% positive rate, however, only 6 out 103 males were carrier positive with a 5.83% positive rate. The most common in the Daur was HLD (2.85%) and congenital hearing loss (2.85%), followed by CAH (2.44%), PKU (1.22%), SMA (0.41%), MMA (0.41%), and X-linked ichthyosis (0.41%). Conclusions: These results estimated the distribution of carrier frequencies in the Daur, and showed that several of these diseases may be considered for inclusion in carrier screening in the Daur population. Further large-scale study should be performed to identified the results.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Overall Survival In Synchronous Peritoneal Metastasis of Colorectal Cance
Authors: Chen Wenle , Yuan Zixu , Wu Aiwen , Cui Ming , Yue Zhongyi , Luo Qianxin , Wang Huaiming , Yang Li , Dong Qiushi , Liu Duo , Wang Michael Hu , Huang Ying , Wang Hui , Cai Jian
Published: December 2020

Background: Synchronous peritoneal metastases (PM) is a difficult issue to tackle and the prognosis is poor. The aim of this study is to construct a nomogram to predict the overall survival (OS) for synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastasis.Method: In this retrospective study, 332 patients with synchronous PM were included. The training cohort consisting of 251 patients underwent abdominal surgery from February 2007 to February 2018. The risk factors related to prognosis were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression model. 81 patients from other two hospitals were enrolled as validation cohort. The prediction effect of this nomogram was evaluated by C-index and the calibration curve. Result: Five predictors were enrolled into this nomogram after multivariate analysis, including age, peritoneal cancer index (PCI), completeness of cytoreductive surgery (CRS), CA19-9, and albumin. The nomogram showed the accuracy to predict the OS at 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 years. The C-index of the nomogram in the training cohort and validation cohort were 0.713 (95% CI, 0.674–0.752) and 0.642 (95% CI, 0.563-0.720) separately. Both training and validation cohorts showed good discrimination of the nomogram for OS. Calibration curves have shown the predicted OS of nomogram are consistent with actual survival.Conclusion: This novel nomogram, combined with age, PCI, CRS, CA19-9, and albumin, has shown good accuracy to predict OS in patients with synchronous PM, which could be used as an easy-to-use tool for clinicians and surgeons to make decisions.
Superior Pedal Function Recovery of Newly Designed Three Spike Insole Over Total Contact Insole in Refractory Plantar Fasciitis; A Randomized, Double-blinded, Non-inferiority Study
Authors: Shim Dong Woo , Sung Seung-Yong , Chung Whan-Yong , Lee Jin Woo , Kang Kyung-Yil , Park Sung-Jun , Chae Dong Sik
Published: December 2020

Background: Plantar fasciitis is one of the common foot complaints that is chronic and can induce dysfunction. Total contact insole (TCI) is simple but effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Nevertheless of the effect, the cost and the long duration for production have been the major flaws. Therefore, we developed newly designed three-spike insole (TSI) that can be commercially productive and compared the clinical outcomes with TCI.Methods: Patients with plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative treatment for more than 6 weeks were candidates. We produced insoles with hardness of 58 ± 5 Shore-A. Twenty-eight patients were randomly allocated to use either TSI or TCI evenly. The following assessment tools were used: visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, Karlsson-Peterson (KP) score, Short Form-36 for quality of life, and Foot Function Index. Non-inferiority was declared if VAS was within the statistical variability of minimal important difference. A blinded assessor evaluated the groups at baseline and after 6, 12, and 24 weeks.Results: The groups were homogenous for majority of variables at baseline. Overall patient-reported satisfaction showed improvement from mean 5.2 (range, 1 – 12) weeks of wearing and all clinical outcome scores showed significant improvements in both groups over time on the basis of Friedman test (p < .05). TSI showed non-inferiority to TCI at each time point. Post hoc analysis revealed that many scales showed significant superiority of TSI at 3 month (p < .0125) and KP score at 6 month (p < .001).Conclusion: We reaffirmed that semi-rigid insole is effective in refractory plantar fasciitis and showed TSI restores pedal function more rapidly than TCI. TSI can be not only effective in deriving better clinical outcomes but also be manufactured for popularization to lower the price and producing time of orthosis.Trial registration: Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0004737). Registered 28 February 2019 – Retrospectively registered, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/search_result_st01.jsp?seq=16839
Exploring Barriers and Enablers to Dietitians Completing Body Composition Assessments as Part of Routine Clinical Care 
Authors: Jobber Chloe , Wilkinson Shelley , Hughes Elyssa , Nave Fiona , Meij Barbara van der
Published: December 2020

Background: Malnutrition, sarcopenia and cachexia are clinical wasting syndromes characterised by muscle loss. Systematic monitoring by body composition assessment (BCA) is recommended for the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of the syndrome(s). However, limited literature exists regarding integration of BCA into routine practice. This study investigated practices, competency, and attitudes of Australian dietitians regarding BCA, to inform a local implementation process.Methods:Applying the Action cycle in the Knowledge to Action framework, surveys were distributed to the 26 dietitians in our department. The survey assessed barriers and enablers to performing routine BCA in clinical care. Results were categorised using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and suitable interventions mapped using the Behaviour Change Wheel. Results:Twenty-two dietitians (84.6%) completed the survey. Barriers to BCA were identified in all TDF domains. Enablers existed in domains of: Skills; Beliefs about consequences; Goals; Environmental context and resources; Social influences; Intentions; Optimism; Reinforcement. Conclusions:This study showed that hospital dietitians experience numerous individual, team, and organisational barriers to adopt BCAs in clinical practice. Information on barriers and enablers and implementation strategies have been suggested to overcome these barriers to assist BCA adoption into routine practice.
Association Between Sexual Behaviour and Depression in South Korean Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kim Hyunkyu , Jeong Wonjeong , Jang Sung-In , Park Eun-Cheol , Kim Youseok
Published: December 2020

Background: Depression and suicide in adolescents have become leading problems both from the public health and socioeconomic aspects. In this context, determining the connection between adolescent behaviour and depression, which can serve as the basis of strategies to reduce the prevalence of depression, is important. Here, we investigated the association between sexual behaviour and depression in a sample of South Korean adolescents.Methods: Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey data from 2017 to 2019 served as the basis of this cross-sectional study. The data of 178,664 participants were analysed using chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression.Results: After adjusting for covariates (adjusted odds ratio: 1.71, 95% confidence interval: 1.59–1.83 in males, adjusted odds ratio: 1.47, confidence interval: 1.33–1.61 in females), the prevalence of depression was higher in participants with experience of sexual intercourse. On categorising subjects into two groups based on suicidality, subjects with sexual intercourse experience had higher odds ratios for severe depression with suicidality than milder depression.Conclusion: In this study, we identified the relationship between sexual behaviour and the prevalence of depression; adolescents with experience of sexual intercourse were more likely to have severe depression with suicidality. Further research using prospective designs should serve as the basis of appropriate sex education policies to manage the relationship between sexual behaviour and depression.
Spread of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Lineage 4 in Sichuan-chongqing Region of China Influenced by Maritime Silk Road and “huguang Filling Sichuan” 
Authors: Wu Wei , Liang Peng-kuan , Yuan Hai-Bing , Tian Yu-Ang , Sun Qun
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThe spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) was closely influenced by human migration. Lineage 4, a lineage of MTBC mainly being epidemic in Europe and America, was not the major one in China. Its proportion in Sichuan-Chongqing region, however, was significantly higher than that at the national level. Previous study by the most recent common ancestor calculation based on Bayes model suggested that lineage 4 epidemic in South China today probably entered China around the 13th century, and the most important human migration events associating with this region during and after this period of time included Maritime Silk Road and “Huguang filling Sichuan”. The purpose of this study was to explore whether the high proportion of lineage 4 in Sichuan-Chongqing region was impacted by these two events. MethodsThe genotyping data of 17,269 MTBC isolates, the proportion of targeted surname populations related to “Huguang filling Sichuan”, and the information of main ports’ location around Maritime Silk Road were collected. Interpolation analysis was used to estimate the geographical distribution of lineage 4 and its three sub-lineages (L4.2, L4.4, L4,5), as well as the targeted surname populations. And the correlation between the geographical distribution in the main ports on Maritime Silk Road and the regions with the proportion of L4.2 and L4.4 was analyzed.ResultsInterpolation and correlation analysis showed that lineage 4’s distribution in China could be mapped to the regions affected by “Huguang filling Sichuan”, while L4.2 and L4.4’s distributing in Asia, Europe, and Africa could be those by Maritime Silk Road, ConclusionsMaritime Silk Road and “Huguang Filling Sichuan” potentially posed an essential combined influence on the greater occurring of lineage 4 in Sichuan-Chongqing region. This study may contribute to the tracing and epidemiological investigation of tuberculosis and other world-wide infectious diseases.
Neurotropic Grades in Lattice Corneal Dystrophy Based on in Vivo Confocal Microscopy Observation
Authors: li ming , Zhu Fengjiao , Zhang Chun , Chen Chan , Ying Fangwei , Nie Danyao
Published: December 2020

Background: To investigate the corneal neurotropic phenomenon in patients with lattice corneal dystrophy (LCD) with in vivo laser scanning confocal microscopy (IVCM). Methods: IVCM was performed on a total of 15 patients (28 eyes) with LCD annually at a follow-up. A collection of the data was acquired to be analyzed. Results: As indicated by the analysis, the LCD patients’ normal corneal stromal nerves (Grade 0) presented a decline with the prolongation of the follow-ups, corresponding to a gradual increase in grade I and II involving amyloid-wrapped nerve fibers, which demonstrated that the growing amount of amyloid deposit due to the corneal nerve invasion increased slowly over time. Conclusions: The neurotropic phenomenon could increase with its severity in the corneal lesion of the patients with LCD, and also reflect the distribution of the corneal nerves, to some extent. IVCM provides a rapid, noninvasive way to observe the corneal nerves, which can be an efficient means of better understanding the development of LCD.
Sensorimotor and Body Perception Assessments of Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Raphael Meier , Emch Christine , Wolf Claudia , Pfeiffer Fabian , Meichtry Andre , Schmid Annina B. , Luomajoki Hannu
Published: December 2020

Background: Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders. It leads to major costs in health care systems and causes significant personal and social burdens. Current research focuses on the processes of the central nervous system such as cortical changes in pain perception to discover new and more efficient ways to treat chronic low back pain (CLBP). Several clinical tests have been suggested that might correlate with altered cortical representation. These include back-photo assessment (BPA), movement control tests (MCI) and two-point discrimination thresholds (TPD).Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether BPA, MCI and TPD tests can discriminate between CLBP patients with altered body perception and healthy controls.Design: A case-control study matched by gender and age.Methods: Using MCI, BPA and TPD tests on the lower back, thirty patients with CLBP and thirty healthy controls were investigated at one point in time. Participants were also required to complete three questionnaires: the ‘Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire’, the ‘Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale’ and the ‘Fremantle Back Awareness Questionnaire’. Correlations among the main covariates and odds ratios for group differences were calculated.Results: The MCI showed a statistically significant odds ratio for the presence of CLBP of 0.65 (p< 0.05), whereas TPD and BPA did not determine differences between the groups.Conclusion: The movement control test was found to be the only suitable test to discriminate CLBP patients from healthy controls.Trial registration: The study was approved by the Swiss Ethical Commission Northwest and Central Switzerland (EKNZ) and registered at 21.8.2015, reference number 2015-243.
An Early Indication of the Rebound of W. Bancrofti Infection in Zanzibar
Authors: Ame Shaali , Kabole Fatma M. , Abuubakar Salum , Nanai Alphoncina Maseko , Andemichael Ghirmay , Djeunga Hugues Nana
Published: December 2020

Background Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a debilitating neglected tropical disease which is targeted for elimination through co-administration of a single dose of ivermectin and albendazole in the affected population. Following implementation of such a treatment campaign over a period of years, control programmes are urged to conduct a transmission assessment survey to monitor the impact of the treatment and to ascertain whether the transmission is interrupted to a level that can no longer sustain transmission and hence mass drug administration (MDA) can be halted. Objective:This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of LF infection in Zanzibar communities, 13 years after stopping MDA, so as to inform and guide the control program. MethodologyA Finger prick blood sample was collected from each participant after obtaining informed consent. The sample was assessed for the presence of Wucheria bancrofti circulating antigen using rapid immunochromatographic test. ResultsA total of 2555 subjects were enrolled (1231 in Pemba and 1324 in Unguja) in the study with a mean age of 23.0yrs ± SD 18.9 (95% CI = 22.3-23.8). There were more female (53.9%) than male (46.1%); and their mean age significantly differed (t-test = 7.5, p = 0.00001). Only 2478 individuals gave blood sample . Of these, 88 (3.55%) were found to be infected with W. bancrofti. Overall, the prevalence of infection was higher in Pemba (5.1%) than in Unguja (2.1%). The prevalence of infection was similar between different older age groups , children aged 1-5yrs in Pemba had the highest prevalence indicating that transmission is ongoing. Observation of development of clinical manifestation, lymphoedema and hydrocele was also assessed. Overall, only 1.1% of the individuals had lymphoedema/elephantiasis; with male presented with more of those signs (1.6%) than female (0.7%). There was no male subject found to have hydrocele , although 8.3% of male had filariasis.The assessment of treatment history revealed that majority (64.7%) of the respondents had received at least one treatment round during their lifetime. Historical treatments with ivermectin did not correlate with current individual levels of infection but individuals who reported to have received 2 and 4 rounds of treatment were not found to be infected with filariasis.Conclusion and RecommendationIn view of our findings it clearly shows that the prevalence of LF in Zanzibar is still high to exceed the set threshold for discontinuation of MDA campaign. Children as young as 5yrs were found infected. It is therefore important to consider continuation of MDA so as to prevent potential disease sequel which might develop.
Perioperative Diabetes Insipidus in Patients Undergoing Off-Pump Coronary Bypass Grafting Surgery: A Study on Incidence, Related Factors and Clinical Significance
Authors: Zhong Peng , Guo Zijian , Lu Jiakai , Cheng Weiping , Mu Jin , Yang Yanwei
Published: December 2020

BackgroundPerioperative diabetes insipidus (DI) is a serious complication occurring in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG). MethodsThis was a retrospective study of 199 patients who underwent OPCABG surgery in Anzhen hospital, Beijing, China, between January 2019 to December 2019. Patients were divided into a DI(+) group and a DI(-) group according to perioperative urine condition. The incidence of perioperative DI in patients undergoing OPCABG surgery was calculated as the main outcome. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent prognostic factors of DI.ResultsPerioperative DI occurred in 43.2% (86/199) of these patients. Mean patient age was 62.5 ± 9.0 years, and 156 (78.4%) were male. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed a correlation between BMI(OR=0.772, 95%CI[0.670-0.890], P＜0.001), Crystal quantity(OR=1.001, 95%CI[1.000-1.001], P=0.008), perioperative Cr(OR=0.965, 95%CI[0.937-0.993], P=0.016). The DI(+) group had a significantly higher imbalance postoperative PH condition(41.9% vs 28.3%, P<0.05), higher median mechanical ventilation time than the DI(-) group (22.0 vs. 20.5, P<0.01) and higher median of ICU stay hours(27.0 vs 31.0, P=0.041).Conclusion﻿Coronary artery disease(CAD) patients underwent OPCABG surgery were easy to have perioperative DI, which had a higher ICU stay and mechanical ventilation time than those without DI. BMI, Crystal quantity, perioperative creatinine was associated with the presence of DI. Prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.
The Association Between Dynamic Changes in Serum Presepsin Levels and Mortality in Immunocompromised Patients with Sepsis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Jongmin , Kim Seo Hyun , Kim Kyung Hoon , Jeong Na Ri , Kim Seok Chan , Oh Eun-Jee
Published: December 2020

Background: Presepsin is a subtype of soluble CD14 that is increased in the blood of septic patients. We investigated the role of dynamic changes in serum presepsin levels in critically ill, immunocompromised patients with sepsis.Methods: This is a prospective cohort study that included 119 adult patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) between March 2019 and June 2020. Sepsis and septic shock were defined as Sepsis-3. Patients were classified into one of the following diagnostic groups: no sepsis, sepsis, and septic shock. Presepsin level was measured on day 1 and day 3 after ICU admission. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality.Results: Of the 119 patients, sepsis was diagnosed in 40 patients (33.6%) and septic shock was diagnosed in 60 (50.4%) patients. The Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) 3 and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score on day 1 were 75.5 ± 14.9 and 9.0 (6.5–11.5), respectively, and the overall hospital mortality was 44.5%. In 61 immunocompromised patients, presepsin levels on day 1 were higher in patients with sepsis than those in patients without sepsis (1203.0 [773.0–2484.0] vs. 753.0 [603.5–1092.0] ng/ml; P = 0.004). The area under the curve (AUC) of presepsin for diagnosing sepsis in immunocompromised patients was 0.87, which was comparable with that of procalcitonin (AUC, 0.892). Presepsin levels on day 3 were higher in patients who died in the hospital than in those who survived (1965.0 [1149.0–3423.0] vs. 933.0 [638.0–1571.0]; P = 0.001). In immunocompromised patients who died in the hospital, presepsin levels on day 3 were significantly higher than those on day 1 (P = 0.018). In the multivariate analysis, ΔPresepsin+ (ΔPresepsin concentrations [day3 – day1] > 0) alone was independently correlated with in-hospital mortality in immunocompromised patients (odds ratio, 6.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.33–29.06; P = 0.020).Conclusion: These findings suggest that dynamic changes in presepsin levels between day 1 and day 3 are associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with sepsis, especially in immunocompromised patients.
Inhaled Nitric Oxide Preserves Ventricular Function During Resuscitation Using a Percutaneous Mechanical Circulatory Support Device in a Porcine Cardiac Arrest Model – An Echocardiographic Myocardial Work Analysis
Authors: Nix Christoph , Zayat Rashad , Ebeling Andreas , Goetzenich Andreas , Chandrasekaran Uma , Rossaint Rolf , Hatam Nima , Derwall Matthias
Published: December 2020

BackgroundResuscitation using a percutaneous mechanical circulatory support device (iCPR) improves survival after cardiac arrest (CA). We hypothesized that the addition of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) during iCPR might prove synergistic, leading to improved myocardial performance due to lowering of right ventricular (RV) afterload, left ventricular (LV) preload, and myocardial energetics. This study aimed to characterize the changes in LV and RV function and global myocardial work indices (GWI) following iCPR, both with and without iNO, using 2-D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and GWI evaluation as a novel non-invasive measurement. MethodsIn 10 pigs, iCPR was initiated following electrically-induced CA and 10min of untreated ventricular fibrillation (VF). Pigs were randomized to either 20ppm (20ppm, n=5) or 0ppm (0ppm, n=5) of iNO in addition to therapeutic hypothermia for 5h following ROSC. All animals received TEE at five pre-specified time-points and invasive hemodynamic monitoring. ResultsLV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) increased significantly in both groups following CA. iCPR alone led to significant LV unloading at 5h post-ROSC with LVEDV values reaching baseline values in both groups (20ppm: 68.2±2.7 vs. 70.8±6.1 mL, p=0.486; 0ppm: 70.8±1.3 vs. 72.3±4.2 mL, p=0.813, respectively). LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) increased in both groups following CA. LV-GLS recovered significantly better in the 20ppm group at 5h post-ROSC (20ppm: -18±3% vs. 0ppm: -13±2%, p=0.025). LV-GWI decreased in both groups after CA with no difference between the groups. Within 0ppm group, LV-GWI decreased significantly at 5h post-ROSC compared to baseline (1,125±214 vs. 1,835±305 mmHg%, p=0.011). RV-GWI was higher in the 20ppm group at 3h and 5h post-ROSC (20ppm: 189±43 vs. 0ppm: 108±22 mmHg%, p=0.049 and 20ppm: 261±54 vs. 0ppm: 152±42 mmHg%, p=0.041). The blood flow calculated by the Impella controller following iCPR initiation correlated well with the pulsed-wave Doppler (PWD) derived pulmonary flow (PWD vs. controller: 1.8±0.2 vs. 1.9±0.2L/min, r=0.85, p=0.012). ConclusionsiCPR after CA provided sufficient unloading and preservation of the LV systolic function by improving LV-GWI recovery. The addition of iNO to iCPR enabled better preservation of the RV-function as determined by better RV-GWI. Additionally, Impella-derived flow provided an accurate measure of total flow during iCPR.
Vaccine Preventable Diseases in Children Following a Nationwide Sanitation Campaign
Authors: Singh Parvati , Forthal Donald N. , Shah Manisha , Bruckner Tim A.
Published: December 2020

Background: India consistently reports the most diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus and measles cases worldwide. Persistent exposure to fecal pathogens due to open defecation may cause environmental enteropathy that in may lead to undernutrition and vaccine failure in under 5-year old (u5) children. The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) program in India, launched in 2014, aimed to construct toilets for every household nationwide and reduce open defecation. Objective: We examine whether increased household toilet availability in Indian districts corresponds with a reduction in 4 Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPDs): diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus and measles.Methods: We retrieved data on district level change in the prevalence (per 1000 u5 children) of 4 VPDs, from 2013 (pre-SBM) to 2016 (post-SBM). We obtained data on our exposure, the change in the percentage of households with toilets (per district), from three large national surveys conducted in 2013 and 2016. We used linear regression analysis which controlled for change over time in socioeconomic factors, health system-related covariates and pre-SBM prevalence of VPDs.Results: A one percentage point increase in households with toilets corresponds with 0.33 fewer measles cases per 1000 u5 children in that district (coefficient: -0.33, 95% CI: -0.0641, -0.014; p < 0.05). We observe no relation with diphtheria, pertussis, or tetanus. Conclusion: Rapid improvements in ambient sanitation through increased toilet availability (and reduction in open defecation) may correspond with reduction in the prevalence of measles in u5 children.
Differences in Axial Length and IOLs Power Basing on Alternative A-Scan or Fellow-Eye Biometry in Macular-off Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Eyes
Authors: Liu Rui , Li Hongrong , Li Qingchen
Published: December 2020

Background: To observe the potential refractive prediction error basing on alternative A-scan ultrasound and fellow-eye biometry for phacovitrectomy in macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) eyes, when the optic biometry IOLMaster fails to obtain data.Methods: Phakic macula-off RRD eyes without axial length (AL) measured using IOLMaster were included. Vitrectomy with silicone oil tamponade but not lens extraction was performed. Preoperative AL was measured using A-scan ultrasound, and postoperative AL, as well as fellow-eye biometry, was obtained using IOLMaster. The IOLs power was calculated according to preoperative A-scan, postoperative IOLMaster and fellow-eye AL.Results: AL measured by alternative A-scan (AL-US) was 25.39±2.14 mm, and AL of fellow-eyes (AL-FE) was 25.85±2.16 mm, and AL in eyes with silicone oil tamponade (AL-SO) was 26.08±2.53 mm. The Bland-Altman agreements among AL-US, AL-FE and AL-SO were well (95.5%, 21/22 of cases were in LoA). The mean IOLs power calculated using AL-US (Power-US) was 16.81±7.19 D, using AL-FE (Power-FE) was 14.74±6.95 D, and using AL-SO (Power-SO) was 13.54±8.32 D. The difference between AL-US and AL-SO was significant (P<0.05), while that between AL-FE and AL-SO was not (P>0.05). The difference between Power-US and Power-SO was significant (P<0.05), while that between Power-FE and Power-SO was not (P>0.05).Conclusion: The alternative A-scan ultrasound leads to a significant difference in AL and prediction error in IOLs power, while fellow-eye biometry provided similar results compared with those of silicone oil-filled eyes after RRD repair.