bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Objective Indicator Focused on the Symmetrical Movements of the Arms to Assess Gait Stability
Authors: Azuma Yuki , Nagamune Kouki , Kuroda Ryosuke ,   Graduate School of Engineering, University of Fukui 3-9-1 Bunkyo, Fukui, Fukui 910-8507, Japan,   Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine 7-5-1 Kusu, Chuo, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0017, Japan
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to assess the symmetrical movements of the arms during walking to prevent falling. In this study, we developed a measurement and analysis system to assess walking movements objectively. In addition, index values were calculated as the symmetry of arm movements. Five healthy participants performed two tasks. The first task was straight walking. The second task was straight walking with weight attached to one arm. The results showed high index values of the swinging arms in both tasks. The index values of the bending arms were greater in the first task than in the second task. Consequently, the index values indicated the symmetrical movements of walking.
Analysis of Warm-Back Data After Cold-Fluid Injection Into Multilayer Reservoirs
Authors: Hashish Refaat G. , Zeidouni Mehdi
Published: July 2019

Determining the rate distribution over multilayer injection zones (i.e., injection profiling) is critical to the optimization of injection operations. With the recent advancements in deployment of fiber-optic distributed-temperature-sensing (DTS) technology, temperature data can be achieved at high resolution and at relatively low cost along the wellbore length. During injection of cooler fluids into a higher-temperature injection zone, the temperature at the wellbore and near-wellbore region decreases. During a shut-in period when the injection operation is paused, the temperature at the wellbore sandface and near-wellbore region experiences “warm back” that is caused by the heat flux from the warmer inswept region of the injection zone. A slower warm back is observed for a layer that admits larger amount of cooler fluid during injection. As a result, the sandface warm-back temperature can be analyzed to determine the injection rate per layer, and hence the thermal-front extent per layer.

In this work, we develop an analytical model to determine the temporal and spatial temperature variation for a single-phase reservoir during a warm-back period following a constant-rate-injection period. The analytical solution is developed for a single-layer reservoir and extended to multilayer reservoirs. The solution considers heat transfer by conduction and convection during the injection period and conduction during the shut-in warm-back period. The solution is verified by comparison with synthetic numerical-simulation results obtained using a thermally coupled numerical simulator for single-layer and multilayer cases. Graphical interpretation techniques are introduced by recasting the analytical solution into desirable forms. The graphical techniques are applied to synthetic warm-back data to illustrate their application and accuracy in obtaining the injection rate, thermal-front extent, and initial geothermal temperature per each layer.
MiR-190a Potentially Ameliorates Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction by Regulating Tiam1
Authors: Liu Qiang , Hou Aisheng , Zhang Yongyi , Guo Ying , Li Jingjing , Yao Yinghao , Niu Kaimeng , Li Hao , Cao Jiangbei , Ma Yunlong
Published: July 2019

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) affects a large number of post-surgery patients, especially for the elderly. However, the etiology of this neurocognitive disorder is largely unknown. Even if several studies have reported a small number of miRNAs as the essential modulatory factors in POCD, these findings are still rather limited. In this study, we used two miRNA microarray datasets to perform differential expression analyses of miRNAs in the hippocampus of POCD model mice. We found that nine miRNAs showed significant associations with POCD in both datasets. Among these miRNAs, mmu-miR-190a-3p was the most significant one. By performing weighted gene co-expression network analysis, we found 25 co-expression modules, of which mmu-miR-190a-3p was significantly anti-correlated with the red module. Moreover, in this red module, 314 genes were significantly enriched in four pathways such as axon guidance and calcium signaling pathway, which are well-documented to be associated with psychiatric disorders and brain development. Also, 169 of the 314 genes were highly correlated with mmu-miR-190a-3p, and four genes (Sphkap, Arhgef25, Tiam1, and Ntrk3) had putative binding sites at 3'-UTR of mmu-miR-190a-3p. Based on protein-protein network analysis, we detected that Tiam1 was a central gene regulated by the mmu-miR-190a-3p. Taken together, we conclude that mmu-miR-190a-3p is involved in the etiology of POCD and may serve as a novel predictive indicator for POCD.
Eye, Hepatobiliary, and Renal Disorders of Erlotinib in Patients with Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Choi Hye Duck , Chang Min Jung
Published: July 2019

Background: Erlotinib is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors used to treat EGFR mutation positive non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Skin rash and diarrhea are well-known and common adverse events in patients receiving erlotinib, whereas other adverse events, including eye, liver, or renal disorders have not been evaluated adequately. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the ocular, hepatobiliary, and renal toxicities of erlotinib in patients with NSCLC cancers.
Methods: In total, sixty studies were assessed, and the results of the included studies were quantitatively integrated using meta-analysis. The incidence of ocular, hepatobiliary (alanine aminotransferase [ALT] and bilirubin elevations; other hepatic adverse events), and renal adverse events were estimated. Additionally, the erlotinib-treated groups and the control groups (placebo or other treatment) were compared with respect to ocular disorders and ALT elevation. The study protocol has been registered in the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) CRD42018093758.
Results: The overall incidence of ocular disorders was 3.30% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.20%–5.00%). The incidence of ALT elevation, bilirubin elevation, and other hepatobiliary disorders was 6.40% (95% CI 3.90%–10.4%), 3.80% (95% CI 2.30%–6.10%), and 1.00% (95% 0.60%–1.80%), respectively. The incidence of renal disorder was 3.10% (95% CI 1.90%–5.00%). The risk of ocular toxicity in the erlotinib treatment group was significantly increased (risk ratio = 2.91; 95% CI 1.70–4.98) compared to that in the control group. ALT elevation was not significantly different between the two groups.
Conclusion: Based on the results, careful monitoring of ocular toxicity in patients receiving erlotinib should be recommended and closer monitoring of hepatic toxicity should be also recommended in patients with liver-related risk factors.
Lapatinib sensitivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma is modulated by SIRT2-mediated FOXO3 deacetylation
Authors: Lam Eric W.-F. , Mahmud Zimam , Aimjongjun Sathid , Jiramongkol Yannasittha , Alasiri Glowi , Yao Shang , Yague Ernesto , Janvilisri Tavan
Published: July 2019

Chemoresistance is an obstacle to the successful treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). To explore novel treatment strategies, we first characterized the lapatinib-sensitivity of a panel of NPC cell lines by SRB and clonogenic cytotoxic assays and found that the highly metastatic NPC (C666-1 and 5-8F) cells are significantly more resistant and the poorly metastatic lines (6-10B, TW01 and HK-1) more sensitive to lapatinib. Western blot analysis of the lapatinib-sensitive 6-10B and resistant 5-8F NPC cells showed that the expression of phosphorylated/inactive FOXO3(P-FOXO3;T32), its target FOXM1 and its regulator SIRT2 correlates negatively with lapatinib response and sensitivity, suggesting that SIRT2 mediates FOXO3 deacetylation to promote lapatinib resistance. In agreement, clonogenic cytotoxic assays using wild-type and foxo1/3/4−/− MEFs showed that FOXO1/3/4-deletion significantly attenuates lapatinib-induced cytotoxicity, confirming that FOXO proteins are essential for mediating lapatinib response. SRB cell viability assays using chemical SIRT inhibitors (i.e. sirtinol, Ex527, AGK2 and AK1) revealed that all SIRT inhibitors can reduce NPC cell viability, but only the SIRT2-specific inhibitors AK1 and AGK2 further enhance the lapatinib cytotoxicity. Consistently, clonogenic assays demonstrated that the SIRT2 inhibitors AK1 and AGK2 as well as SIRT2-knockdown increase lapatinib cytotoxicity further in both the sensitive and resistant NPC cells. Co-immunoprecipitation studies showed that besides lapatinib treatment, SIRT2-pharmaceutical inhibition and silencing also led to an increase in FOXO3 acetylation. Importantly, SIRT2 inhibition and depletion further enhanced lapatinib-mediated FOXO3-acetylation in NPC cells. Collectively, our results suggest the involvement of SIRT2-mediated FOXO3 deacetylation in lapatinib response and sensitivity, and that SIRT2 can specifically antagonise the cytotoxicity of lapatinib through mediating FOXO3 deacetylation in both sensitive and resistant NPC cells. The present findings also propose that SIRT2 can be an important biomarker for metastatic and lapatinib resistant NPC and that targeting the SIRT2-FOXO3 axis may provide novel strategies for treating NPC and for overcoming chemoresistance.
Level of birth preparedness for complication readiness plan and associated factors among women who gave live birth in Bahir Dar, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Ayalew Agumas Fentahun , Gelaw Asmare Yitayeh , Banite Getasew Mulat
Published: July 2019

Background

Birth preparedness and complication readiness is a safe motherhood strategy that addresses delays that could raise the risk of dying in pregnancy, childbirth and the immediate postpartum period. About 800 ladies pass daily due to pregnancy or childbirth-related complications worldwide. Nearly all maternal passing’s 99% occurred in low- and middle-income countries and more than half of these death happen in sub-Saharan Africa. So, the main objective of the study was to assess the level and factors associated with birth preparedness and complication readiness plan among women who gave live birth during the last one year in Bahir Dar City.

Methods

A Community based cross-sectional study design was conducted from May 10- 30/2018 in Bahir Dar City. Study participants were recruited by using a systematic random sampling technique. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect the data. The collected data were coded, entered and cleaned with EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with Birth preparedness and complication readiness. The adjusted odds ratio with a 95% Confidence interval at a 5% level of significance was used to measure the strength of association.

Result

a total of 328 mothers with a response rate of 93.98% response rate. 46.65% of respondents were found in 18-24 years of age group. From the total respondents, 59.1% had good practice towards birth preparedness and complication readiness plan. Only 36% and 34.3% of respondents have good knowledge about pregnancy danger signs and labor danger signs, respectively.

Mothers Age (18–24) years [AOR=0.013; 0.001,0.228], Primary and below education level [AOR=0.01; 0.001, 0.038]; monthly income(<500 birr) [AOR=0.001; 0.001, 0.840], parity(1-2) [AOR=0.052; 0.007, 0.410], and family size (1-3) [AOR=0.048; 0.005, 0.432] were statistically significant associated variables with birth preparedness and complication readiness plan.

Conclusion

Extent of birth preparedness and complication readiness plan was found to be low as per government require. Maternal Age, Education, Monthly Income, Parity, and Family size were variables that affect birth preparedness and complication readiness plan significantly.

Key

Birth preparedness, complication readiness, women live birth, Bahir Dar
Associations of serum low-density lipoprotein and systolic blood pressure levels with type 2 diabetic patients with and without peripheral neuropathy: Systemic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis of observational studies
Authors: Naqvi Syed Shah Zaman Haider , imani Saber , Hosseinifard Hossein , Shahzad M. Naveed , Ijaz Iqra , Wen QingLian , Guo Man , Xu Yong
Published: July 2019

Background: Compositional abnormalities in lipoproteins and cardiovascular risk factors play an important role in the progression of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). This systematic review aimed to estimate the predicting value of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) level in type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with and without peripheral neuropathy. We also tried to determine whether LDL and SBP are associated with an increased collision risk of DPN.
Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted for eligible publications which explored the LDL and SBP level in T2DM patients with and without peripheral neuropathy. The quality of the included studies was assessed by the QUADAS-2 tool. The standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% CI of LDL and SBP level were pooled to assess the correlation between LDL and SBP level with DPN. We performed random effects meta-regression analyses to investigate factors associated with an increased collision risk of DPN.
Results: There was a significant association between LDL and SBP with poor prognosis of DPN in those included studies (I2 = 88.1% and I2 = 84.9%, respectively, Both P < 0.001). European T2DM patients have higher serum level of LDL in compare with the European DPN patients (SMD = 0.16, 95 % CI: -0.06 - 0.38; P < 0.001). SBP level was associated with a 2.6 fold reduce in non-DPN patients of T2DM (SMD = -2.63, 95% CI: -4.00 - -1.27, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the results of the case-control study design model are more precise to show the accuracy of SBP in Asian T2DM patients. Old age European T2DM patients have significantly low collision risk in the last 30 years for diabetes drivers that indicates that LDL and SBP levels could be a promising vulnerability biomarker for early detection and effective intervention of DPN in real-life clinical practice of individuals with T2DM.
Conclusion: Our finding supports the LDL and SBP status could be a promising prognostic biomarker for early detection and effective intervention of DPN in real-life clinical practice of individuals with T2DM.
Meta-gene markers predict meningioma recurrence with high accuracy.
Authors: Zador Zsolt , Landry Alexander , Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Cusimano Michael
Published: July 2019

Background: Meningiomas, the most common adult brain tumors, recur in up to half of cases[1–3]. This requires timely intervention and therefore accurate risk assessment of recurrence is essential. Our current practice relies heavily on histological grade and extent of surgical excision to predict meningioma recurrence. However, prediction accuracy can be as poor as 50% for low or intermediate grade tumors, which constitute more than 90% of all cases. Moreover, attempts to find molecular markers, particularly for predicting recurrence of intermediate tumors have been impeded by low[4] or heterogenous[5–8] genetic signal. We therefore sought to apply systems-biology approaches to transcriptomic data to better predict meningioma recurrence.

Methods: We apply gene co-expression networks to a cohort of 252 adult patients from the publicly-available genetic repository Gene Expression Omnibus. Resultant gene clusters (“modules”) were represented by the first principle component of their expression levels, and their ability to predict recurrence assessed with a logistic regression model. External validation was done using an independent merged cohort of 108 patients using the same modules. We used the bioinformatics database DAVID[9] to examine the gene ontology associations of each module.

Results: Using gene co-expression analysis, we were able predict tumor recurrence with high accuracy using a single module which mapped to cell cycle-related functions (AUC of 0.81 ± 0.09 in external validation). Further, the module maintained its accuracy with removal of up to 20 of it’s most individually predictive genes, suggesting robustness against noise at the single gene level.

Conclusions: With the easy accessibility of gene panels in healthcare diagnostics, our results offer a basis for routine molecular testing in meningioma management.
Multicenter randomized study on comparison between electronic and traditional chest drainage systems
Authors: Marulli Giuseppe , Comacchio Giovanni Maria , Nosotti Mario , Rosso Lorenzo , Mendogni Paolo , Natale Giuseppe , Andriolo Luigi , Imbriglio Giovanna , Larocca Valentina , Rea Federico
Published: July 2019

Background
In patients submitted to major pulmonary resection, post-operative length of stay is mainly influenced by duration of air leaks and chest tube removal. The measurement of air leaks largely relies on traditional chest drainage systems which are prone to subjective interpretation. Difficulty to differentiate between active air leaks and bubbles due to a pleural space effect may also lead to tentative drain clamping and prolonged time for chest drain removal. New digital systems allow continuous monitoring of air leaks, identifying subtle leakage that may be not visible during daily patient evaluation. Moreover, an objective assessment of air leaks may lead to a reduced interobserver variability and to an optimized timing of chest tube removal.

Methods
This study is a prospective randomized, interventional, multicenter trial designed to compare the electronic chest drainage system (Drentech™ Palm Evo) with the traditional system (Drentech™ Compact) in a cohort of patients undergoing pulmonary lobectomy through a standard 3-ports VATS approach for benign or malignant disease. It will enroll 382 patients in 3 Italian centers. Duration of chest drainage and length of hospital stay will be evaluated in the two groups. Moreover, it will be evaluated if the use of a digital chest system compared with a traditional system reduces the interobserver variability. Finally, it will be evaluated the possible advantages of the digital drain system to distinguish an active air leak from a pleural space effect, by the evaluation of intrapleural differential pressure, and to identify potential predictors of prolonged air leaks.

Discussion
To date few studies have been performed to evaluate clinical impact of digital drainage systems. The proposed prospective randomized trial will provide new knowledge to this research area by investigating and comparing the difference between digital and traditional chest drain systems. In particular, the objectives of this project are to evaluate the feasibility and usefulness of utilizing the digital chest drain and to provide new tools to identify patients at higher risk of developing prolonged air leaks.

Trial registration number
NCT03536130, Registered 24 May 2018 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=&term=NCT03536130&cntry=&state=&city=&dist=
Urban-Rural Disparities in Treatment Outcomes Among Recurrent TB Cases in Zambia
Authors: Mutembo Simon , Mutanga Jane Namangolwa , Musokotwane Kebby , Kanene Cuthbert , Dobbin Kevin , Li Changwe , Yao Xiaobai , Marconi Vincent , Whalen Christopher
Published: July 2019

Setting
Southern province, Zambia.
Background
At least 13 – 20% of all Tuberculosis (TB) cases are recurrent TB. Recurrent TB patients have high risk of Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB).
Objective
To estimate the prevalence of recurrent TB among TB cases and compare risk of unfavorable treatment outcomes between rural and urban settings.
Methods
In a retrospective cohort study, we used mixed effects logistic regression to asses associations between explanatory and outcome variables. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality and exposure was setting (rural/urban).
Results
Overall 3,566 recurrent TB cases were diagnosed among 25,533 TB patients. The prevalence of recurrent TB was 15.3% in urban and 11.3% in rural areas. Death occurred in 197 (5.5%), 103 (2.9%) were lost to follow (LTFU), and 113 (3.2%) failed treatment. Rural settings had 70% higher risk of death (aOR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.2 2.7). Risk of LTFU was twice higher in rural than urban (aOR: 2.0 95% CI: 1.3 3.0). Compared to HIV-uninfected, HIV-infected individuals on Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) were 70% more likely to die (aOR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.2 3.1).
Conclusion
Recurrent TB prevalence was generally high in both urban and rural settings. The risk of mortality and LTFU was higher among rural patients. We recommend a well-organized Directly Observed Therapy strategy adapted to setting.
Recovery of non-reference sequences missing from the human reference genome
Authors: Li Ran , Tian Xiaomeng , Yang Peng , Fan Yingzhi , Li Ming , Zheng Hongxiang , Wang Xihong , Jiang Yu
Published: July 2019

The non-reference sequences (NRS) represent structure variations in human genome with potential functional significance. However, besides the known insertions, it is currently unknown whether other types of structure variations with NRS exist. Here, we compared 31 human de novo assemblies with the current reference genome to identify the NRS and their location. We resolved the precise location of 6,113 NRS adding up to 12.8 Mb. Besides 1,571 insertions, we detected 3,041 alternate alleles, which were defined as having less than 90% (or none) identity with the reference alleles. These alternate alleles overlapped with 1,143 protein-coding genes including a putative novel MHC haplotype. Further, we demonstrated that the alternate alleles and their flanking regions had high content of tandem repeats, indicating that their origin was associated with tandem repeats. Our study enriched the spectrum of human genetic variations.
Optimal Location of Subtrochanteric Osteotomy in Total Hip Arthroplasty for Crowe Type IV Developmental Dysplasia of Hip
Authors: Huang Zhe-Yu , Liu Hua , Li Ming , Ling Jing , Zhang Jun-Hui , Zeng Zhi-Min
Published: July 2019

Background

When reconstructing a hip with developmental dysplasia with high dislocation, sub-trochanteric shortening osteotomy is always needed for placing the acetabular component in the anatomical position. However, the procedure can result in some complications, such as the non-union of the osteotomy. We evaluated the contact area and coincidence rate between the proximal and distal fragments at different levels and lengths of femoral osteotomy and determined the optimal location of subtrochanteric femoral shortening transverse osteotomy in patients with unilateral Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The consistency between the proximal and distal segments was assessed as a possible predictive indicator of the union of the osteotomy site.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 57 patients with unilateral Crowe type IV DDH who underwent X-ray imaging of both hip joints. We labelled the inner and outer diameters of the circular ring as N (mm) and M (mm), respectively. We defined the area overlapped between the proximal and distal ring as contact area S (mm2), and the ratio of contact area to distal ring area as coincidence rate R.

Results

N varied from 9.8 to 15.2 and M varied from 20.7 to 24 mm, with both demonstrating a gradually decreasing trend in the proximal to distal direction. At the lengths of osteotomy ranging of 0.5–2 cm, there were no differences in S between the different levels of osteotomy in each group. At lengths of osteotomy ≤ 2.5 cm, a significant higher coincidence rate was noted from the level of 2 cm below the lesser trochanter to other positions below the level. At lengths of osteotomy of 3–5.5 cm, a significantly higher coincidence rate was observed from the level of 1.5 cm below the lesser trochanter to other positions below the level.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that femoral shortening transverse osteotomy at the optimal subtrochanteric level can predictably increase the contact area and coincidence rate, which may contribute to the union at the osteotomy site. In consideration of the stability of the prostheses, it appears appropriate that the location of osteotomy should be slightly shifted distally.
Multiplex qPCR Facilitates Identification of Betaherpesviruses in Patients With Acute Liver Failure of Unknown Etiology
Authors: Raposo Jéssica Vasques , Alves Arthur Daniel Rocha , Silva Alexandre Dos Santos Da , Santos Damião Carlos Dos , Melgaço Juliana Gil , Moreira Otacilio Cruz , Pinto Marcelo Alves , de Paula Vanessa
Published: July 2019

Background: The etiology of acute liver failure (ALF) is often unknown and reported to be associated with herpesviruses in a number of cases. In this study, we examined for betaherpesviruses infections in patients with ALF of unknown etiology using a multiplex qPCR to Betaherpesviruses subfamily.
Methods: Liver explant and serum samples from 27 patients with ALF of unknown etiology were analyzed with the aid of multiplex qPCR to identify betaherpesviruses. All positive samples were sequenced to confirm herpes infection and liver enzyme levels evaluated.
Results: Betaherpesviruses infection was effectively detected using multiplex qPCR. Six (22%) HHV-6, one (3%) HCMV and two (7%) dual infections (one with HHV-7/HHV-6, and the other with HHV-7/ HCMV). Interestingly, HHV-7 was only detected in the presence of other betaherpesviruses. Sequencing information confirmed betaherpesviruses infection. High hepatic enzyme levels and INR values>1.5 were determined in all betaherpesvirus-positive patients.
Conclusions: Multiplex qPCR facilitated efficient quantification, indicating that differentiation between betaherpesviruses is possible with the sole use of real-time PCR. Liver explant and serum samples were positive for some betaherpesviruses, and coinfection of HHV-7 with HHV-6 and HCMV was additionally detected. Based on these results, we propose that ALF patients should be screened for the presence of betaherpesviruses.
Genetic Diversity and Epidemiology of Genogroup II Noroviruses in Children with Acute Sporadic Gastroenteritis in Shanghai, China, 2012-2017
Authors: Lu Lijuan , Zhong Huaqing , Xu Menghua , Su Liyun , Cao Lingfeng , Jia Ran , Xu Jin
Published: July 2019

Background Noroviruses (NoVs) are considered an important cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) across all age groups, especially in children under five years of age. We investigated the epidemiology of noroviruses in outpatient children from the Children’s Hospital of Fudan University in Shanghai, China. Methods Stool specimens were collected between January 2012 and December 2017 from 1433 children under ﬁve years of age with acute gastroenteritis. All samples were analysed by conventional reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for genogroup II NoVs amplifying both the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and partial capsid genes. The Norovirus Genotyping Tool v.2.0 (https://www.rivm.nl/mpf/typingtool/norovirus/) was used for genotyping the strains, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted by MEGA 6.0. Results From 2012 to 2017, GII NoVs were detected in 15.4% (220/1433) of the samples, with the highest detection rate in children aged 7-12 months (19.2%, 143/746). The seasons with the highest prevalence of GII NoVs infection were autumn and winter . Based on genetic analysis of RdRp, GII.Pe (74.5%%, 137/184) was the most predominant RdRp genotype from 2013 to 2017, while GII.P4 played a dominant role in 2012 (55.6%, 21/36). Among the capsid genotypes, the most prevalent NoV genotype from 2012 to 2017 was GII.4 (73.6%, 162/220). On the basis of genetic analysis of RdRp and capsid sequences, the strains were clustered into 19 RdRp/capsid genotypes, and 12 of them were discordant, such as GII.Pe/GII.4-Sydney_2012, GII.P12/GII.3, GII.P7/GII.6, GII.Pe/GII.3, and GII.P16/GII.2. Starting with 2013, GII.Pe/GII.4-Sydney_2012 had completely replaced the pandemic GII.P4-2006b/GII.4-2006b subtype and was detected in children across all age groups. Conclusions The present study shows high detection rates and the genetic diversity of circulating NoV GII genotypes in paediatric AGE samples from Shanghai. The findings emphasize the importance of continuous molecular surveillance of emerging NoV strains.
Dependencia emocional y adicción al sexo en una comunidad LGBT y heterosexuales
Authors: Pérez Linares Edinson Martín , Peralta Eugenio Gutember Viligran
Published: July 2019

Resumen (analítico): La investigación desarrollada de diseño descriptivo correlacional simple, tuvo como objetivo general relacionar la dependencia emocional y la adicción al sexo en una muestra de 37 heterosexuales y 15 participantes una comunidad LGBT de la ciudad de Trujillo, tuvo como objetivo evidenciar la relación entre la dependencia emocional y la adicción al sexo, por lo cual se utilizó el Cuestionario de dependencia emocional y el Instrumento de medición de adicción al sexo. Los resultados obtenidos evidencian que existe diferencias estadísticamente significativas según identidad sexual en la variable adicción al sexo con puntuaciones más altas en los participantes de la comunidad LGBT, asimismo en la población heterosexual la adicción al sexo y fetichismo reporta una relación directa estadísticamente significativa con la dependencia emocional, además en la comunidad LGBT se reporta una relación directa estadísticamente significativa con la dependencia emocional y la dimensión ansiedad de separación, asimismo entre fantasías sexuales y expresión limite alcanza una relación directa estadísticamente significativa.
Evaluation of the Glucuronic Acid Production and Antibacterial Properties of Kombucha Black Tea
Authors: Ansari Fereshteh , Pourjafar Hadi , Kangari Ali , Homayouni Aziz
Published: July 2019

Background:

Kombucha beverage is considered as a dietary supplement and drinking it
strengthens the body’s immune system which prevents diseases.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the amount of glucuronic acid and antibacterial
activity of Kombucha black tea drink during its production at different storage temperature.

Methods:

The extent of glucuronic acid at temperatures of 20°C and 30°C was explored by the use of
the HPLC system for 21 days. To analyse the antibacterial property, the influence of Kombucha black
tea supernatant on the growth of Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, and Lactobacillus
rhamnosus bacteria was examined via the two procedures of the disc and agar well diffusion.

Results:

The production of glucuronic acid underwent a variation at 20°C from 17.0 mg/L on day 1 to
roughly 27.2 mg/L on day 21, and the difference was significant. Furthermore, the quantity of this acid
at 30°C increased from 42.2 mg/L on day 1 to 48.0 mg/L on day 21. The amount of glucuronic acid
produced at 30°C was significantly greater than that at 20°C (p<0.05). This study indicated that the
Kombucha black tea has antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhimurium and Staphylococcus
aureus, but not against Lactobacillus rhamnosus. However, there are no statistical differences in
antibacterial activity of Kombucha between incubation at 20oC and 30oC (P>0.05).

Conclusion:

This study offers a perspective on glucuronic acid production (especially in 30°C rather
than 20°C) and antibacterial activity of Kombucha black tea beverage.
Toxin–Antitoxin Systems and their Role in Maintaining the Pathogenic Potential of Causative Agents of Sapronoses
Authors: Andryukov Boris G. , Somova Larisa M. , Timchenko Nellie F. , Bynina Marina P. , Lyapun Irina N.
Published: July 2019

In interepidemic periods, causative agents of sapronoses typically employ a variety of
mechanisms for maintaining the viability in terrestrial parasitic systems, associated with different
adaptive strategies and utilized by their populations to survive. Unlike spore-forming bacteria,
causative agents of sapronoses form resistant cell forms: viable but nonculturable (VBNC) cells
and persistence (dormant) cells. The implementation of these strategies is mediated by the influence
of various stressors of the environment and is characterized by a decrease in metabolism, a
change in the morphology and physiology of the bacterial cell, and also the cessation of its replication.
While most of the bacterial population is killed under antibiotic exposure, this fraction of
pathogens transiently exhibits a phenotypic multidrug-tolerance, causing relapses and chronic
courses of many sapronoses. It is important to note that when these resistant cell forms retain virulence
and when favorable conditions occur, they are again transformed into active vegetative
forms. For this reason, understanding mechanisms, allowing a fraction of the bacterial population
to acquire transiently multidrug-tolerance represents an essential step to eradicate these dormant
populations. The discovery of the genetic modules of bacterial toxin-antitoxin systems (TAS) in
recent years, was proposed to be an ideal and promising candidate to control these complex regulatory
molecular mechanisms. Overexpression of the toxins often increases persister frequency in
a defined population. In this review, we summarize the scientific data regarding the TAS modules
involved in bacterial persistence to be used as antibiotics for the conservation of the pathogenic
potential of resistant forms of pathogens of natural focal sapronosis in interepidemic periods.
Numerical Modeling of Masonry-infilled RC Frame
Authors: Filippou Christiana A. , Kyriakides Nicholas C. , Chrysostomou Christis Z.
Published: July 2019

Background:

The behavior of masonry-infilled Reinforced Concrete (RC) frame structures during an earthquake, has attracted the attention of structural engineers since the 1950s. Experimental and numerical studies have been carried out to investigate the behavior of masonry-infilled RC frame under in-plane loading.

Objective:

This paper presents a numerical model of the behavior existing masonry-infilled RC frame that was studied experimentally at the University of Patra. The objective of the present study is to identify suitable numerical constitutive models for each component of the structural system in order to create a numerical tool to model the masonry infilled RC frames in-plane behavior by accounting the frame-infill separation.

Methods:

A 2D masonry-infilled RC frame was developed in DIANA Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software and an eigenvalue and nonlinear structural cyclic analyses were performed. It is a 2:3 scale three-story structure with non-seismic design and detailing, subjected to in-plane cyclic loading through displacement control analysis.

Results:

There is a good agreement between the numerical model and experimental results through a nonlinear cyclic analysis. It was found that the numerical model has the capability to predict the initial stiffness, the ultimate stiffness, the maximum shear-force capacity, cracking- patterns and the possible failure mode of masonry-infilled RC frame.

Conclusion:

Therefore, this model is a reliable model of the behavior of masonry-infilled RC frame under cyclic loading including the frame-infill separation (gap opening).
Analyzing the Communication Interchange of Individuals With Disabilities Utilizing Facebook, Discussion Forums, and Chat Rooms: Qualitative Content Analysis of Online Disabilities Support Groups
Authors: Stetten Nichole E , LeBeau Kelsea , Aguirre Maria A , Vogt Alexis B , Quintana Jazmine R , Jennings Alexis R , Hart Mark
Published: July 2019

Background

Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States are currently living with a form of disability. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act has published guidelines to help make developing technology and social networking sites (SNS) more accessible and user-friendly to people with a range of disabilities, persons with disabilities, on average, have less access to the internet than the general population. The quality, content, and medium vary from site to site and have been greatly understudied. Due to this, it is still unclear how persons with disabilities utilize various platforms of online communication for support.

Objective

The objective of this study was to qualitatively explore and compare the interactions and connections among online support groups across Facebook, discussion forums, and chat rooms to better understand how persons with disabilities were utilizing different SNS to facilitate communication interchange, disseminate information, and foster community support.

Methods

Facebook groups, discussion forums, and chat rooms were chosen based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Data collected included content posted on Facebook groups, forums, and chat rooms as well as the interactions among group members. Data were analyzed qualitatively using the constant comparative method.

Results

A total of 133 Facebook posts, 116 forum posts, and 60 hours of chat room discussions were collected and analyzed. In addition, 4 themes were identified for Facebook posts, 3 for discussion forums, and 3 for chat rooms. Persons with disabilities utilized discussion forums and chat rooms in similar ways, but their interactions on Facebook differed in comparison. They seem to interact on a platform based on the specific functions it offers.

Conclusions

Interactions on each of the platforms displayed elements of the 4 types of social support, indicating the ability for social support to be facilitated among SNS; however, the type of social support varied by platform. Findings demonstrate that online support platforms serve specific purposes that may not be interchangeable. Through participation on different platforms, persons with disabilities are able to provide and receive social support in various ways, without the barriers and constraints often experienced by this population.
Combining Nonclinical Determinants of Health and Clinical Data for Research and Evaluation: Rapid Review
Authors: Golembiewski Elizabeth , Allen Katie S , Blackmon Amber M , Hinrichs Rachel J , Vest Joshua R
Published: July 2019

Background

Nonclinical determinants of health are of increasing importance to health care delivery and health policy. Concurrent with growing interest in better addressing patients’ nonmedical issues is the exponential growth in availability of data sources that provide insight into these nonclinical determinants of health.

Objective

This review aimed to characterize the state of the existing literature on the use of nonclinical health indicators in conjunction with clinical data sources.

Methods

We conducted a rapid review of articles and relevant agency publications published in English. Eligible studies described the effect of, the methods for, or the need for combining nonclinical data with clinical data and were published in the United States between January 2010 and April 2018. Additional reports were obtained by manual searching. Records were screened for inclusion in 2 rounds by 4 trained reviewers with interrater reliability checks. From each article, we abstracted the measures, data sources, and level of measurement (individual or aggregate) for each nonclinical determinant of health reported.

Results

A total of 178 articles were included in the review. The articles collectively reported on 744 different nonclinical determinants of health measures. Measures related to socioeconomic status and material conditions were most prevalent (included in 90% of articles), followed by the closely related domain of social circumstances (included in 25% of articles), reflecting the widespread availability and use of standard demographic measures such as household income, marital status, education, race, and ethnicity in public health surveillance. Measures related to health-related behaviors (eg, smoking, diet, tobacco, and substance abuse), the built environment (eg, transportation, sidewalks, and buildings), natural environment (eg, air quality and pollution), and health services and conditions (eg, provider of care supply, utilization, and disease prevalence) were less common, whereas measures related to public policies were rare. When combining nonclinical and clinical data, a majority of studies associated aggregate, area-level nonclinical measures with individual-level clinical data by matching geographical location.

Conclusions

A variety of nonclinical determinants of health measures have been widely but unevenly used in conjunction with clinical data to support population health research.
Behavioral, Nutritional, and Genetic Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancers in Morocco: Protocol for a Multicenter Case-Control Study
Authors: Mint Sidi Ould Deoula Meimouna , Huybrechts Inge , El Kinany Khaoula , Boudouaya Hanae , Hatime Zineb , El Asri Achraf , Benslimane Abdelilah , Nejjari Chakib , Sidi Adil Ibrahimi , El Rhazi Karima
Published: July 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has been reported as the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide and is currently considered as a major public health concern. A peak increase in incidence has been noted in economically transitioning countries like Morocco where industrialization started shifting from a traditional lifestyle and diet toward a more westernized diet and lifestyle.

Objective

This paper aims to present the protocol of a large-scale Moroccan case-control study that aims at investigating associations of diet, other lifestyle factors, and genetic traits with CRC risk in Morocco.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted between 2009 and 2017, including 3032 case-control pairs (1516 cases and 1516 controls) matched on sex, age, and center in 5 major public health hospitals in Morocco. Questionnaires on sociodemographic data, lifestyle, family history of CRC, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were completed by trained investigators during face-to-face interviews. In addition, participants completed a semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire, developed to assess food intake in the Moroccan population. Information regarding genetic factors was recorded for cases, and paraffin blocks (with embedded tumor tissues) are available in 3 collaborating hospitals. Conditional logistic regression analysis is planned to assess associations between diet and CRC risk. Binary logistic regression is considered to predict associations between mutations and nutritional risk factors including only CRC case series.

Results

Altogether, 2966 cases-control pairs (1483 cases and 1483 controls) were considered eligible and included in this study. Both cases and controls did not differ significantly with respect to age (P=.36), sex (P=.51), center (P>.99), marital status (P=.30), and NSAID use (P=.08). However, participants in the control group were significantly more likely to have a high income level and live in urban areas and to have a high level of education than cases.

Conclusions

This is the first study investigating potential risk factors of CRC such as lifestyle, diet, and genetic factors, originating from a southern Mediterranean country with low but increasing CRC prevalence. Identified risk factors allow the establishment of evidence-based preventive actions regarding nutrition and other lifestyle habits adapted to the Moroccan context. In brief, this study will promote cancer research and prevention in Morocco.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/13998
Exploring How People Affected by Methamphetamine Exchange Social Support Through Online Interactions on Facebook: Content Analysis
Authors: Ellway Daniel , Reilly Rachel , Le Couteur Amanda , Ward James
Published: July 2019

Background

Methamphetamine is an illicit and addictive psychostimulant that remains to be a significant cause of economic burden in Australia. Social media is increasingly being used by nongovernment organizations and health services to encourage the growth of social support networks among people with health-related issues. Several studies have investigated the utility of social media in providing social support to groups of people with health-related issues. However, limited research exists that explores how people who have been directly or indirectly affected by methamphetamine use social media for social support.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the types of social support being sought and provided by people affected by methamphetamine when interacting with others on a Facebook page.

Methods

A total of 14,777 posts were collected from a Facebook page and transferred into an Excel document for content analysis. The posts were manually coded into categories of social support using an adapted version of Cutrona and Suhr’s Social Support Behavior Code. Posts could be coded into more than one category. Saturation was reached at 2000 posts, which were used to draw inferences.

Results

Emotional support was the most offered support type, with 42.05% (841/2000) of posts providing this form of support. This is followed by esteem support, which was provided in 40.40% (808/2000) of posts. Overall, 24.20% (484/2000) of posts offered informational support. Network support and tangible support were the least offered support types, with 2.25% (45/2000) and 1.70% (34/2000) of posts offering these types of support, respectively.

Conclusions

This study suggests that online social support groups can be effective in challenging stigma by encouraging people affected by methamphetamine to connect with each other and talk about their struggles. This in turn represents an important step toward successful rehabilitation.
Assessment of Heart Failure Patients’ Interest in Mobile Health Apps for Self-Care: Survey Study
Authors: Sohn Albert , Speier William , Lan Esther , Aoki Kymberly , Fonarow Gregg , Ong Michael , Arnold Corey
Published: July 2019

Background

Heart failure is a serious public health concern that afflicts millions of individuals in the United States. Development of behaviors that promote heart failure self-care may be imperative to reduce complications and avoid hospital re-admissions. Mobile health solutions, such as activity trackers and smartphone apps, could potentially help to promote self-care through remote tracking and issuing reminders.

Objective

The objective of this study was to ascertain heart failure patients’ interest in a smartphone app to assist them in managing their treatment and symptoms and to determine factors that influence their interest in such an app.

Methods

In the clinic waiting room on the day of their outpatient clinic appointments, 50 heart failure patients participated in a self-administered survey. The survey comprised 139 questions from previously published, institutional review board–approved questionnaires. The survey measured patients’ interest in and experience using technology as well as their function, heart failure symptoms, and heart failure self-care behaviors. The Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) was among the 11 questionnaires and was used to measure the heart failure patients’ health-related quality of life through patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Participants were aged 64.5 years on average, 32% (16/50) of the participants were women, and 91% (41/45) of the participants were determined to be New York Heart Association Class II or higher. More than 60% (30/50) of the survey participants expressed interest in several potential features of a smartphone app designed for heart failure patients. Participant age correlated negatively with interest in tracking, tips, and reminders in multivariate regression analysis (P<.05). In contrast, MLHFQ scores (worse health status) produced positive correlations with these interests (P<.05).

Conclusions

The majority of heart failure patients showed interest in activity tracking, heart failure symptom management tips, and reminder features of a smartphone app. Desirable features and an understanding of factors that influence patient interest in a smartphone app for heart failure self-care may allow researchers to address common concerns and to develop apps that demonstrate the potential benefits of mobile technology.