bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetics and prescription opioid use (GaPO): study design for consenting a cohort from an existing biobank to identify clinical and genetic factors influencing prescription opioid use and abuse
Authors: Troiani Vanessa , Crist Richard C. , Doyle Glenn A. , Ferraro Thomas N. , Beiler Donielle , Ranck Stephanie , McBryan Kortney , Jarvis Margaret A. , Barbour Jordan S. , Han John J. , Ness Ryan J. , Berrettini Wade H. , Robishaw Janet D.
Published: October 2021

Background

Prescription opioids (POs) are commonly used to treat moderate to severe chronic pain in the health system setting. Although they improve quality of life for many patients, more work is needed to identify both the clinical and genetic factors that put certain individuals at high risk for developing opioid use disorder (OUD) following use of POs for pain relief. With a greater understanding of important risk factors, physicians will be better able to identify patients at highest risk for developing OUD for whom non-opioid alternative therapies and treatments should be considered.

Methods

We are conducting a prospective observational study that aims to identify the clinical and genetic factors most stongly associated with OUD. The study design leverages an existing biobank that includes whole exome sequencing and array genotyping. The biobank is maintained within an integrated health system, allowing for the large-scale capture and integration of genetic and non-genetic data. Participants are enrolled into the health system biobank via informed consent and then into a second study that focuses on opioid medication use. Data capture includes validated self-report surveys measuring addiction severity, depression, anxiety, and nicotine use, as well as additional clinical, prescription, and brain imaging data extracted from electronic health records.

Discussion

We will harness this multimodal data capture to establish meaningful patient phenotypes in order to understand the genetic and non-genetic contributions to OUD.
Reproductive awareness and recognition of unintended pregnancy: young women, key informants and health care providers perspectives in South Africa
Authors: Somefun Oluwaseyi Dolapo , Harries Jane , Constant Deborah
Published: October 2021

Background

South Africa has a liberal abortion law, yet denial of care is not uncommon, usually due to a woman being beyond the legal gestational age limit for abortion care at that facility. For women successfully obtaining care, time from last menstrual period to confirmation of pregnancy is significantly longer among those having an abortion later in the second trimester compared to earlier gestations. This study explores women’s experiences with recognition and confirmation of unintended pregnancy, their understanding of fertile periods within the menstrual cycle as well as healthcare providers’ and policy makers’ ideas for public sector strategies to facilitate prompt confirmation of pregnancy.

Methods

We recruited participants from July through September 2017, at an urban non-governmental organization (NGO) sexual and reproductive health (SRH) facility and two public sector hospitals, all providing abortion care into the second trimester. We conducted in-depth interviews and group discussions with 40 women to elicit information regarding pregnancy recognition and confirmation as well as fertility awareness. In addition, 5 providers at these same facilities and 2 provincial policy makers were interviewed. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Uncertainties regarding pregnancy signs and symptoms greatly impacted on recognition of pregnancy status. Women often mentioned that others, including family, friends, partners or colleagues noticed pregnancy signs and prompted them to take action. Several women were unaware of the fertility window and earliest timing for accurate pregnancy testing. Health care providers and policy makers called for strategies to raise awareness regarding risk and signs of pregnancy and for pregnancy tests to be made more readily accessible.

Conclusion

Early recognition of unintended pregnancy in this setting is frustrated by poor understanding and awareness of fertility and pregnancy signs and symptoms, compounded by a distrust of commercially available pregnancy tests. Improving community awareness around risk and early signs of pregnancy and having free tests readily available may help women confirm their pregnancy status promptly.
Utilization of modern contraceptives and associated factors among street women in Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia: a mixed study
Authors: Guta Alemu , Amsalu Bezhabh , Weldamanuel Tadesse , Sema Alekaw , Abera Legesse , Demissie Bekele Simegn , Belay Yalelet
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases are the major problems in street women because of the non-utilization of modern contraceptives. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have assessed the utilization of modern contraceptives and associated factors among street women in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the utilization of modern contraceptives and its associated factors among street women.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study using mixed methods was conducted from February 16th to April 10, 2021, among all censuses and 615 reproductive-aged street women. Face-to-face and in-depth interviews were employed to generate quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the association between modern contraceptive utilization and independent variables with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic approach.

Results

Approximately half 279 (50.3%) (95% CI: 46.3%, 54.4%) street women currently used modern contraceptives. Factors significantly associated were women aged 25–34 years [AOR = 5.5, 95% CI: 1.2–24], distance from a nearby health facility within 30 min [AOR = 9.2, 95% CI: 1.6–51], getting advice from health professionals [AOR = 14.3; 95% CI = 5.3–38.4], discussed with their sexual partners about the utilization of modern contraceptives [AOR = 6.2, 95% CI: 2.4–16.5], a history of pregnancy [AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.2–6], the desire to have a child after two years [AOR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.1–4.7], and women who faced rape in street life [AOR = 5.4; 95% CI = 1.9–15.3]. Fear of side effects, misperceptions, and the desire to have a child are the main identified themes for the key barriers to using modern contraceptives.

Conclusion

The proportion of street women currently using modern contraceptives was low. Age, distance from the health facility, discussion with health professionals, discussion with sexual partners, history of pregnancy, desire time to have a child in the future, and history of rape were factors significantly associated with the use of modern contraceptives. Most of the participants’ reasons for the lack of use of modern contraceptives were fear of its side effects.
Adaptation of patients diagnosed with human papillomavirus: a grounded theory study
Authors: Nick Narjes , Torabizadeh Camellia , Ghahartars Mehdi , Janghorban Roksana
Published: October 2021

Background

Human papillomavirus is the most common cause of sexually transmitted diseases. Various studies report that positive human papillomavirus diagnosis results in psychosexual issues for the infected and reduces their quality of life. However, the adaptation of the infected has not been addressed yet. The present study aims to identify the process by which individuals infected with human papillomavirus adapt to their disease.

Method

This is a qualitative work of research with a grounded theory design. The setting of the study was the skin clinic of Shahid Faghihi Hospital in Shiraz. The participants consisted of 27 individuals: 18 patients, 3 doctors, 2 counselors, and 4 spouses of patients. The subjects were selected via purposeful and theoretical sampling method until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through face-to-face, in-depth, semi-structured interviews from April 2019 to December 2020. The collected data were analyzed using Corbin and Strauss’s method (2015) and MAXQDA 2018.

Results

The theory which emerged from the data was “trying to maintain resilience in the absence of psychological security.” Analysis of data showed the main concern of participants in adapting to their diagnosis with human papillomavirus was “life stress”. “Stigma and ignorance” was found to be a contextual condition and “paradox in support” was an intervening condition in the patients’ adaptation. The patients’ action/interaction responses to their main concern in the context in question were “emotional confrontation” and “maintaining resilience.” The outcome was “oscillation between tension and tranquility.”

Conclusion

The present study explains the process by which patients with human papillomavirus adapt to their condition. Identification of the concerns of patients with human papillomavirus and the factors which affect their adaptation can help healthcare policy-makers and providers develop effective support plans in order to increase patients’ quality of life. Early interventions, e.g. counseling care providers to modify their behaviors toward alleviating the psychosexual tension of the infected, can facilitate the adaptation of the infected and decrease the consequences of the infection for them.

Graphical Abstract
The impact of paternal alcohol, tobacco, caffeine use and physical activity on offspring mental health: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Easey Kayleigh E. , Sharp Gemma C.
Published: October 2021

Background

There is some evidence that paternal health behaviours during and around pregnancy could be associated with offspring health outcomes. However, the impact that paternal health behaviours during pregnancy can have on offspring mental health is understudied and remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of articles in PubMed describing studies of potentially modifiable paternal health behaviours (tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, caffeine consumption and physical activity) in the prenatal period in relation to offspring mental health. GRADE was used to measure risk of bias.

Results

Eight studies were included and categorized by paternal health behaviour and offspring mental health outcome investigated. The narrative synthesis provided evidence of association between paternal health behaviours around pregnancy and offspring mental health problems, with the strongest evidence shown for tobacco use. Grouped by analysis type, two separate meta-analyses showed evidence of paternal smoking during pregnancy being associated with greater odds of ADHD in offspring (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.02–1.99; HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.19–1.39).

Conclusions

The small number of studies that have investigated paternal prenatal effects on offspring mental health, and the limited sample sizes of those studies, makes it challenging to draw firm conclusions. Although existing studies suggest that paternal tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption in the prenatal period are associated with poorer offspring mental health, (particularly hyperactivity/ADHD), further investigation of potential paternal effects is required, using methods that allow stronger inference to determine whether associations are causal.
Breastfeeding, first-food systems and corporate power: a case study on the market and political practices of the transnational baby food industry and public health resistance in the Philippines
Authors: Baker Phillip , Zambrano Paul , Mathisen Roger , Singh-Vergeire Maria Rosario , Escober Ana Epefania , Mialon Melissa , Lawrence Mark , Sievert Katherine , Russell Cherie , McCoy David
Published: October 2021

Background

The aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes (BMS) reduces breastfeeding, and harms child and maternal health globally. Yet forty years after the World Health Assembly adopted the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (The Code), many countries are still to fully implement its provisions into national law. Furthermore, despite The Code, commercial milk formula (CMF) markets have markedly expanded. In this paper, we adopt the Philippines as a case study to understand the battle for national Code implementation. In particular, we investigate the market and political strategies used by the baby food industry to shape the country’s ‘first-food system’, and in doing so, promote and sustain CMF consumption. We further investigate how breastfeeding coalitions and advocates have resisted these strategies, and generated political commitment for a world-leading breastfeeding policy framework and protection law (the ‘Milk Code’). We used a case study design and process tracing method, drawing from documentary and interview data.

Results

The decline in breastfeeding in the Philippines in the mid-twentieth Century associated with intensive BMS marketing via health systems and consumer advertising. As regulations tightened, the industry more aggressively promoted CMFs for older infants and young children, thereby ‘marketing around’ the Milk Code. It established front groups to implement political strategies intended to weaken the country’s breastfeeding policy framework while also fostering a favourable image. This included lobbying government officials and international organizations, emphasising its economic importance and threats to foreign investment and trade, direct litigation against the government, messaging that framed marketing in terms of women’s choice and empowerment, and forging partnerships. A resurgence in breastfeeding from the mid-1980s onwards reflected strengthening political commitment for a national breastfeeding policy framework and Milk Code, resulting in-turn, from collective actions by breastfeeding coalitions, advocates and mothers.

Conclusion

The Philippines illustrates the continuing battle for worldwide Code implementation, and in particular, how the baby food industry uses and adapts its market and political practices to promote and sustain CMF markets. Our results demonstrate that this industry’s political practices require much greater scrutiny. Furthermore, that mobilizing breastfeeding coalitions, advocacy groups and mothers is crucial to continually strengthen and protect national breastfeeding policy frameworks and Code implementation.
Screw tightness and stripping rates vary between biomechanical researchers and practicing orthopaedic surgeons
Authors: Fletcher James W. A. , Neumann Verena , Wenzel Lisa , Gueorguiev Boyko , Richards R. Geoff , Gill Harinderjit S. , Whitehouse Michael R. , Preatoni Ezio
Published: October 2021

Background

Screws are the most frequently inserted orthopaedic implants. Biomechanical, laboratory-based studies are used to provide a controlled environment to investigate revolutionary and evolutionary improvements in orthopaedic techniques. Predominantly, biomechanical trained, non-surgically practicing researchers perform these studies, whilst it will be orthopaedic surgeons who will put these procedures into practice on patients. Limited data exist on the comparative performance of surgically and non-surgically trained biomechanical researchers when inserting screws. Furthermore, any variation in performance by surgeons and/or biomechanical researchers may create an underappreciated confounder to biomechanical research findings. This study aimed to identify the differences between surgically and non-surgically trained biomechanical researchers’ achieved screw tightness and stripping rates with different fixation methods.

Methods

Ten orthopaedic surgeons and 10 researchers inserted 60 cortical screws each into artificial bone, for three different screw diameters (2.7, 3.5 and 4.5 mm), with 50% of screws inserted through plates and 50% through washers. Screw tightness, screw hole stripping rates and confidence in screw purchase were recorded. Three members of each group also inserted 30 screws using an augmented screwdriver, which indicated when optimum tightness was achieved.

Results

Unstripped screw tightness for orthopaedic surgeons and researchers was 82% (n = 928, 95% CI 81–83) and 76% (n = 1470, 95% CI 75–76) respectively (p < 0.001); surgeons stripped 48% (872/1800) of inserted screws and researchers 18% (330/1800). Using washers was associated with increased tightness [80% (95% CI 80–81), n = 1196] compared to screws inserted through plates [76% (95% CI 75–77), n = 1204] (p < 0.001). Researchers were more accurate in their overall assessment of good screw insertion (86% vs. 62%). No learning effect occurred when comparing screw tightness for the first 10 insertions against the last 10 insertions for any condition (p = 0.058–0.821). Augmented screwdrivers, indicating optimum tightness, reduced stripping rates from 34 to 21% (p < 0.001). Experience was not associated with improved performance in screw tightness or stripping rates for either group (p = 0.385–0.965).

Conclusions

Surgeons and researchers showed different screw tightness under the same in vitro conditions, with greater rates of screw hole stripping by surgeons. This may have important implications for the reproducibility and transferability of research findings from different settings depending on who undertakes the experiments.
Patient engagement in the design of clinical research in Noonan syndrome spectrum disorders: a scoping review
Authors: Tiemens Dagmar K. , Nugteren Jacqueline , Leenders Erika , Wingbermühle Ellen , Pittens Carina A. C. M. , Draaisma Jos M. Th.
Published: October 2021

Background

Noonan syndrome spectrum disorders are a group of disorders caused by mutations in several genes of the RAS/MAPK pathway. Because of a highly heterogeneity and variable phenotypical manifestations of the disorders, these children and adults have a variable number of symptoms. Inclusion of their perceived experience of their health and developmental problems in research (design) could contribute to increased relevance of the research process and outcomes. The aim of this study is to get insight in what way patients with a Noonan syndrome spectrum disorder have been involved in the research process in order to learn for future engagement practices.

Methods and results

To that end, the degree of engagement was measured by the eight levels of the participation ladder of Arnstein. Using a scoping review approach, 18 articles were selected in which patient engagement in the design of studies in patients with Noonan syndrome spectrum disorders was described over the past twenty years. Six of these articles reported engagement on the level of informing (level 3), 8 on the level of consultation (level 4), 2 on the level of placation (level 5)and 2 on the level of partnership (level 6).

Conclusions

The current results do show a positive albeit still modest development of patient engagement over the last few years. A promising way to stimulate engagement is aiming to yield insights in the most important patients’ needs by developing a patient guided research agenda. However, this is not automatically followed by patient engagement at higher levels of participation in subsequent research steps. For this reason, in the Netherlands for example, a Dutch Noonan syndrome spectrum disorders research agenda is being developed, in a collaboration between the Dutch Noonan Syndrome Foundation and national scientific and clinical professionals.
Synaptic dysfunction of Aldh1a1 neurons in the ventral tegmental area causes impulsive behaviors
Authors: Li Xinyan , Chen Wenting , Huang Xian , Jing Wei , Zhang Tongmei , Yu Quntao , Yu Hongyan , Li Hao , Tian Qing , Ding Yumei , Lu Youming
Published: October 2021

Background

Aldh1a1 neurons are a subtype of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibitory neurons that use Aldh1a1 rather than glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) as an enzyme for synthesizing GABA transmitters. However, the behaviors and circuits of this newly identified subtype of inhibitory interneurons remain unknown.

Methods

We generated a mutant mouse line in which cyclization recombination enzyme (CRE) was expressed under the control of the Aldh1a1 promotor (Aldh1a1-CRE mice). Using this mutant strain of mice together with the heterozygous male Alzheimer’s disease (AD) related model mice (APPswe/PSEN1dE9, or AD mice) and a genetically modified retrograde and anterograde synaptic tracing strategy, we have studied a specific synaptic circuit of Aldh1a1 neurons with system-level function and disease progression in AD mice.

Results

We demonstrate that Aldh1a1 neurons encode delay of gratification that measures self-control skills in decision making by projecting inhibitory synapses directly onto excitatory glutamate neurons in the intermediate lateral septum (EGNIS) and receiving synaptic inputs from layer 5b pyramidal neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (L5PN). L5PN → Aldh1a1 synaptic transmission undergoes long-term potentiation (LTP). Pathway specific inhibition by either genetic silencing presynaptic terminals or antagonizing postsynaptic receptors impairs delay of gratification, resulting in the impulsive behaviors. Further studies show that reconstitution of Aldh1a1-deficient neurons with the expression of exogenous Aldh1a1 (eAldh1a1) restores Aldh1a1 → EGNIS synaptic transmission and rescues the impulsive behaviors in AD mice.

Conclusions

These results not only identify a specific function and circuit of Aldh1a1 neurons but also provide a cellular point of entry to an important but understudied synaptic mechanism for the induction of impulsive behaviors at an early stage of AD.
How does context influence the delivery of mental health interventions for asylum seekers and refugees in low- and middle-income countries? A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Jannesari Sohail , Lotito Claudia , Turrini Giulia , Oram Siân , Barbui Corrado
Published: October 2021

Background

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) host the majority of the world’s refugees. Evidence suggests that refugees and asylum seekers have high mental health needs compared to the host country population. However, they face many social, economic and culture barriers to receiving mental health care and benefitting from mental health interventions. This paper examines how these contextual factors affect the implementation of mental health interventions for refugees and asylum seekers in LMICs.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative systematic review searching 11 databases and 24 relevant government and non-governmental organisation (NGO) websites. We spoke with academic experts and NGO professionals for recommendations, and conducted forwards and backwards citation tracking.

Results

From 2055 records in abstract and title screening, and then 99 in full-text screening, 18 eligible studies were identified. Qualitative thematic synthesis was conducted on eligible papers. Three main thematic clusters were identified around: (1) support during a time of pressure and insecurity, and the need for intervention flexibility through facilitator and participant autonomy; (2) different cultural conceptions of mental health, and how interventions negotiated these differences; and (3) the importance of facilitator skills, knowledge, characteristics and relationships to intervention implementation.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that intervention coordinators and developers should continue to: (1) think broadly about the range of social influences on mental health, addressing structural issues where possible; (2) offer flexibility with intervention style, content and timings; and (3) encourage building research capacity in LMICs while acknowledging pre-existing mental health knowledge and practice.
Recovering arm function in chronic stroke patients using combined anodal HD-tDCS and virtual reality therapy (ReArm): a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Muller Camille O. , Muthalib Makii , Mottet Denis , Perrey Stéphane , Dray Gérard , Delorme Marion , Duflos Claire , Froger Jérôme , Xu Binbin , Faity Germain , Pla Simon , Jean Pierre , Laffont Isabelle , Bakhti Karima K. A.
Published: October 2021

Background

After a stroke, 80% of the chronic patients have difficulties to use their paretic upper limb (UL) in activities of daily life (ADL) even after rehabilitation. Virtual reality therapy (VRT) and anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are two innovative methods that have shown independently to positively impact functional recovery of the paretic UL when combined with conventional therapy. The objective of the project will be to evaluate the impact of adding anodal high-definition (HD)-tDCS during an intensive 3-week UL VRT and conventional therapy program on paretic UL function in chronic stroke.

Methods

The ReArm project is a quadruple-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled, bi-centre, two-arm parallel, and interventional study design. Fifty-eight chronic (> 3 months) stroke patients will be recruited from the Montpellier and Nimes University Hospitals. Patients will follow a standard 3-week in-patient rehabilitation program, which includes 13 days of VRT (Armeo Spring, 1 × 30 min session/day) and conventional therapy (3 × 30 min sessions/day). Twenty-nine patients will receive real stimulation (4x1 anodal HD-tDCS montage, 2 mA, 20 min) to the ipsilesional primary motor cortex during the VRT session and the other 29 patients will receive active sham stimulation (2 mA, 30 s). All outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, at the end of rehabilitation and again 3 months later. The primary outcome measure will be the wolf motor function test. Secondary outcomes will include measures of UL function (Box and Block Test), impairment (Fugl Meyer Upper Extremity), compensation (Proximal Arm Non-Use), ADL (Actimetry, Barthel Index). Other/exploratory outcomes will include pain, fatigue, effort and performance, kinematics, and motor cortical region activation during functional motor tasks.

Discussion

This will be the first trial to determine the impact of adding HD-tDCS during UL VRT and conventional therapy in chronic stroke patients. We hypothesize that improvements in UL function will be greater and longer-lasting with real stimulation than in those receiving sham.

Trial registration

The ReArm project was approved by The French Research Ethics Committee, (Comité de Protection des Personnes-CPP SUD-EST II, N°ID-RCB: 2019-A00506-51,http://www.cppsudest2.fr/). The ReArm project was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04291573, 2ndMarch 2020.
Synergistic effect of combination chemotherapy with praziquantel and DW-3-15 for Schistosoma japonicum in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Yang Zi-Yin , Liu Zi-Hao , Zhang Ya-Nan , Li Chen , Liu Lei , Pu Wen-Jie , Xie Shi-Qi , Xu Jing , Xia Chao-Ming
Published: October 2021

Background

Schistosomiasis is a debilitating and neglected tropical disease for which praziquantel (PZQ) remains the first-choice drug for treatment and control of the disease. In our previous studies, we found that the patented compound DW-3-15 (patent no. ZL201110142538.2) displayed significant and stabilized antiparasitic activity through a mechanism that might be distinct from PZQ. Here, we investigated the antischistosomal efficacy of PZQ combined with DW-3-15 against schistosomula and adult worms of Schistosoma japonicum in vitro and in vivo, to verify whether there was a synergistic effect of the two compounds.

Methods

The antischistosomal efficacy of PZQ combined with DW-3-15 in comparison with an untreated control and monotherapy group against schistosomula and adult worms was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Parasitological studies, scanning electron microscopy, combination index, and histopathological analysis were used for the assessment.

Results

The results showed significantly reduced viability of schistosomes, achieving 100% viability reduction for juveniles and males by combination chemotherapy using PZQ together with DW-3-15 in vitro. The combination index was 0.28, 0.27, and 0.53 at the higher concentration of PZQ combined with DW-3-15 against juveniles, males, and females, respectively, indicating that the two compounds display strong synergism. Scanning electron microscopy observations also demonstrated that the compound combination induced more severe and extensive alterations to the tegument and subtegument of S. japonicum than those with each compound alone. In vivo, compared with the single-compound-treated group, the group treated with the higher-dose combination demonstrated the best schistosomicidal efficacy, with significantly reduced worm burden, egg burden, and granuloma count and area, which was evident against schistosomula and adult worms.

Conclusions

Our study provides a potential novel chemotherapy for schistosomiasis caused by S. japonicum. It would improve the antischistosomal effect on schistosomula and adult worms of S. japonicum, and decrease individual dosages.

Graphical Abstract
Streptococcus gallolyticus endocarditis on a prosthetic tricuspid valve: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Shapira Raz , Weiss Tamir , Goldberg Elad , Cohen Eytan , Krause Ilan , Sharony Ram , Goldberg Idan
Published: October 2021

Background

Streptococcus gallolyticus subspecies gallolyticus is a known pathogen that causes infective endocarditis, and most cases involve the left heart valves. We present the first reported case of prosthetic tricuspid valve endocarditis caused by this microorganism. Relevant literature is reviewed.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old Jewish female with a history of a prosthetic tricuspid valve replacement was admitted to the emergency department because of nonspecific complaints including effort dyspnea, fatigue, and a single episode of transient visual loss and fever. No significant physical findings were observed. Laboratory examinations revealed microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and a few nonspecific abnormalities. Transesophageal echocardiogram demonstrated a vegetation attached to the prosthetic tricuspid valve. The involved tricuspid valve was replaced by a new tissue valve, and Streptococcus gallolyticus subspecies gallolyticus was grown from its culture. Prolonged antibiotic treatment was initiated.

Conclusions

Based on this report and the reviewed literature, Streptococcus gallolyticus should be considered as a rare but potential causative microorganism in prosthetic right-sided valves endocarditis. The patient’s atypical presentation emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion for the diagnosis of infective endocarditis.
On the multiplicity of solutions for a kind of fourth-order equation depending on two real parameters
Authors: Hadjian Armin , Ramezani Maryam
Published: October 2021

In this paper, by suitable assumptions on nonlinear boundary term, we establish the existence of three distinct weak solutions for a kind of fourth-order boundary value problem depending on two parameters.
Stabilization for uncertain stochastic T–S fuzzy system driven by Lévy noise
Authors: Liu Dezhi , Zhu Min , Liu Jia
Published: October 2021

Different from the other work, the almost sure asymptotic stability of an uncertain stochastic T–S fuzzy system driven by Lévy noise has been investigated. However, the Lévy noise caused the càdlàg paths in the system, and the uncertainty was the linear fractional form, which made difference to the general norm-bounded type. Using the special stochastic techniques and new matrix decomposition method, we deal with the càdlàg paths and uncertainty of the system. As the main results, the sufficient conditions of almost sure asymptotic stability for stochastic T–S fuzzy system driven by Lévy noise have been presented. On this basis, the closed-loop system is robustly almost surely asymptotically stable with fuzzy state-feedback controller. Furthermore, our stabilization criteria are based on linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), whence the feedback controller could be designed more easily in practice.
Mathematical analysis of a cancer model with time-delay in tumor-immune interaction and stimulation processes
Authors: Dehingia Kaushik , Sarmah Hemanta Kumar , Alharbi Yamen , Hosseini Kamyar
Published: October 2021

In this study, we discuss a cancer model considering discrete time-delay in tumor-immune interaction and stimulation processes. This study aims to analyze and observe the dynamics of the model along with variation of vital parameters and the delay effect on anti-tumor immune responses. We obtain sufficient conditions for the existence of equilibrium points and their stability. Existence of Hopf bifurcation at co-axial equilibrium is investigated. The stability of bifurcating periodic solutions is discussed, and the time length for which the solutions preserve the stability is estimated. Furthermore, we have derived the conditions for the direction of bifurcating periodic solutions. Theoretically, it was observed that the system undergoes different states if we vary the system’s parameters. Some numerical simulations are presented to verify the obtained mathematical results.
Identifying seasonal spatial patterns of crime in a small northern city
Authors: Castle Ysabel A. , Kovacs John M.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To explore spatial patterns of crime in a small northern city, and assess the degree of similarity in these patterns across seasons.

Methods

Calls for police service frequently associated with crime (theft, break and enter, domestic dispute, assault, and neighbor disputes) were acquired for a five year time span (2015–2019) for the city of North Bay, Ontario, Canada (population 50,396). Exploratory data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and a kernel density mapping technique. Andresen’s spatial point pattern test (SPPT) was then used to assess the degree of similarity between the seasonal patterns (spring, summer, autumn, winter) for each call type at two different spatial scales (dissemination area and census tract).

Results

Exploratory data analysis of crime concentration at street segments showed that calls are generally more dispersed through the city in the warmer seasons of spring and summer. Kernel density mapping also shows increases in the intensity of hotspots at these times, but little overall change in pattern. The SPPT does find some evidence for seasonal differences in crime pattern across the city as a whole, specifically for thefts and break and enters. These differences are focused on the downtown core, as well as the outlying rural areas of the city.

Conclusions

For the various crime types examined, preliminary analysis, kernel density mapping, and the SPPT found differences in crime pattern consistent with the routine activities theory.
Intestinal microbiota shapes gut physiology and regulates enteric neurons and glia
Authors: Vicentini Fernando A. , Keenan Catherine M. , Wallace Laurie E. , Woods Crystal , Cavin Jean-Baptiste , Flockton Amanda R. , Macklin Wendy B. , Belkind-Gerson Jaime , Hirota Simon A. , Sharkey Keith A.
Published: October 2021

Background

The intestinal microbiota plays an important role in regulating gastrointestinal (GI) physiology in part through interactions with the enteric nervous system (ENS). Alterations in the gut microbiome frequently occur together with disturbances in enteric neural control in pathophysiological conditions. However, the mechanisms by which the microbiota regulates GI function and the structure of the ENS are incompletely understood. Using a mouse model of antibiotic (Abx)-induced bacterial depletion, we sought to determine the molecular mechanisms of microbial regulation of intestinal function and the integrity of the ENS. Spontaneous reconstitution of the Abx-depleted microbiota was used to assess the plasticity of structure and function of the GI tract and ENS. Microbiota-dependent molecular mechanisms of ENS neuronal survival and neurogenesis were also assessed.

Results

Adult male and female Abx-treated mice exhibited alterations in GI structure and function, including a longer small intestine, slower transit time, increased carbachol-stimulated ion secretion, and increased intestinal permeability. These alterations were accompanied by the loss of enteric neurons in the ileum and proximal colon in both submucosal and myenteric plexuses. A reduction in the number of enteric glia was only observed in the ileal myenteric plexus. Recovery of the microbiota restored intestinal function and stimulated enteric neurogenesis leading to increases in the number of enteric glia and neurons. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) supplementation enhanced neuronal survival alongside bacterial depletion, but had no effect on neuronal recovery once the Abx-induced neuronal loss was established. In contrast, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) were able to restore neuronal numbers after Abx-induced neuronal loss, demonstrating that SCFA stimulate enteric neurogenesis in vivo.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate a role for the gut microbiota in regulating the structure and function of the GI tract in a sex-independent manner. Moreover, the microbiota is essential for the maintenance of ENS integrity, by regulating enteric neuronal survival and promoting neurogenesis. Molecular determinants of the microbiota, LPS and SCFA, regulate enteric neuronal survival, while SCFA also stimulates neurogenesis. Our data reveal new insights into the role of the gut microbiota that could lead to therapeutic developments for the treatment of enteric neuropathies.
Evaluation of different machine learning approaches and input text representations for multilingual classification of tweets for disease surveillance in the social web
Authors: Magumba Mark Abraham , Nabende Peter
Published: October 2021

Twitter and social media as a whole have great potential as a source of disease surveillance data however the general messiness of tweets presents several challenges for standard information extraction methods. Most deployed systems employ approaches that rely on simple keyword matching and do not distinguish between relevant and irrelevant keyword mentions making them susceptible to false positives as a result of the fact that keyword volume can be influenced by several social phenomena that may be unrelated to disease occurrence. Furthermore, most solutions are intended for a single language and those meant for multilingual scenarios do not incorporate semantic context. In this paper we experimentally examine different approaches for classifying text for epidemiological surveillance on the social web in addition we offer a systematic comparison of the impact of different input representations on performance. Specifically we compare continuous representations against one-hot encoding for word-based, class-based (ontology-based) and subword units in the form of byte pair encodings. We also go on to establish the desirable performance characteristics for multi-lingual semantic filtering approaches and offer an in-depth discussion of the implications for end-to-end surveillance.
Characteristics of Lactobacillus plantarum QZW5 and its effects on wheat silage under multigelation
Authors: Zhang Miao , Wu Guofang , Wang Lei , Zhang Bei , Chen Jun , Liu Yuan , Pang Huili , Tan Zhongfang
Published: October 2021

Background

Silages, as a nutritious and long-term preserved fodder, is achieved through fermentation. However, the constant low temperatures and freeze–thaw event are key factors that affect the quality of silages due to low levels of lactic acid production and undesirable microbial community revitalization. In this study, we attempt to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum QZW5 on the fermentation characteristics of wheat silage under ensiling conditions at the order of the following temperatures: constant low temperatures (5 °C for 30 days), multigelation (10 ℃ at day and – 10 ℃ at night for 30 days) and room temperature (aerobic/anaerobic, 10 days).

Results

Under multigelation condition, Lactobacillus plantarum QZW5 inoculation significantly increased the contents of lactic acid and acetic (P < 0.05) in the silage. The pH, bacterial richness index (Chao) and diversity index (Shannon) of the silage were significantly decreased by Lactobacillus plantarum QZW5 (P < 0.05). In Lactobacillus plantarum QZW5 inoculated silage, the dominant genera were L. plantarum subsp. plantarum. However, those in the control silage were Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Leuconostoc fallax. LAB (lactic acid bacteria) inoculation increased the abundance of desirable Lactobacillus spp. and inhibited the growth of undesirable Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Filamentous fungi, among others in the silage.

Conclusions

Therefore, inoculation of L. plantarum QZW5 during ensiling could stimulate favorable fermentation and reconstruct bacterial community for better silage preservation.

Graphic abstract
Schistosoma haematobium DNA and eggs in urine of patients from Sohag, Egypt
Authors: Abd Elraheem Badawy A. , Bayoumy Ahmed S. , El-Faramawy Mohamed S. , Aly Nasr Eldeen M. , El-Badry Ayman A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Diagnosis of schistosomiasis depends mainly on stool or urine microscopy for Schistosoma egg detection as well as immunoassays. The low sensitivity of these conventional tests makes molecular detection the diagnostic method of choice. The study aimed to detect the molecular prevalence of urine schistosomiasis and evaluate microscopic examination vs. PCR technique for detection of Schistosoma haematobium (S. haematobium) in urine of patients with suggestive symptoms or previous history of urine schistosomiasis coming from endemic regions.

Results

This cross-sectional study was performed on eighty patients attending the urology clinic of Sohag University Teaching Hospital from August 2016 to July 2018. Socio-demographic data and clinical data were collected. Urine samples from all study individuals were collected and examined microscopically for S. haematobium eggs as well as detection of S. haematobium DNA of using PCR assay. Microscopic examination and PCR were positive among (68.8%) and (87.5%) of cases, respectively. There was 60% agreement between microscopy and molecular assay. Microscopy was a good test to rule in cases of urine schistosomiasis, with 100% specificity and 100% PPV, but was of limited sensitivity (NPV = 40%) and missed 12.5% of positive cases. Among studied patient variables, only hematuria showed association with urine schistosomiasis with statistical significance.

Conclusion

Urine schistosomiasis was highly prevalent in studied population. Considering the high sensitivity and specificity of PCR, it should be implemented as the test of choice, especially in chronic urinary schistosomiasis with low infection setting. In our study population, patients presenting hematuria were likely to have S. haematobium.
Optimal convex approximation of qubit states and geometry of completely represented states
Authors: Zhou H. Q. , Gao T. , Yan F. L.
Published: October 2021

We investigate the optimal convex approximation, optimally approximating a desired and unavailable qubit state by the convex mixing of a given set of available states. When the available states are the eigenvectors of three Pauli matrices, we present the complete exact solution for the optimal convex approximation of an arbitrary qubit state based on the fidelity distance. By the comparison of optimal states based on fidelity and trace norm, the advantages and disadvantages of the optimal convex approximation are identified. Several examples are provided to support this. We also analyze the geometrical properties of the target states which can be completely represented by a set of available states. Using the feature of convex combination, we derive the maximum range of completely represented states and clearly illustrate that any qubit state can be optimally prepared by at most three available states in known useable states.
Injury Prevention in Recreational Runners
Authors: Stenerson Lea , Melton Bridget
Published: October 2021

Apply It!

After reading this article, fitness professionals will be able to:

• appreciate the relatively high injury prevalence in recreational runners and share this information with their clients;

• understand and share the major risk factors for running-related injuries;

• guide clients through functional balance and hip strengthening exercises to help prevent running-related injuries.
Pyramid Resistance Training Programs
Authors: Mang Zachary , Beam Jason , Kravitz Len
Published: October 2021

Apply It!

By reading this article, health and fitness professionals will learn:

• There is a strong relationship between total volume load (TVL), muscular strength, and skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Resistance training with pyramid repetition schemes are an effective way to increase TVL during a training session.

• Linear pyramid training (LPT), also known as DeLorme training, involves a systematic increase in intensity from set to set. Contrarily, reverse pyramid training (RPT), also known as Oxford training, involves a systematic decrease in intensity from set to set.

• The literature consistently shows that RPT and LPT are both effective at increasing muscular strength; however, people may enjoy RPT more than LPT because the session feels easier as fatigue accumulates.
Attentional Focus Cueing
Authors: Reiner Susannah L.
Published: October 2021

Apply It!

• Explore how attentional focused cues affect performance based on exercise modality and intensity.

• Identify how and when to apply cues that target internal or external focus to optimize training for clients.
Performance Comparison of Non-Linear Median Filter Built on MLP-ANN and Conventional MLP-ANN: Using Improved Dataset Training in Micro-Cell Environment
Authors:   Department of Electronic Engineering, Howard College, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban-4041, South Africa, Ebhota Virginia C. , Srivastava Viranjay M.
Published: October 2021

This research work explores the Levenberg- Marquardt training algorithm used for Artificial Neural Network (ANN) optimization during training and the Bayesian Regularization algorithm for the enhanced generalized trained network in training a designed non-linear vector median filter built on Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) ANN called model-1 and a conventional MLP ANN called model-2. The model-1 employed in the design helps in dataset de-noising to ensure the removal of unwanted signals for the improved training dataset. An early stopping method in the ratio of 80:10:10 for training, testing, and validation to overcome the problem of over-fitting during network training was employed. First-order statistical indices, the standard deviation, root mean squared error, mean absolute error, and correlation coefficient were adopted for network training analysis and comparative analysis of the designed model-1 and model-2, respectively. Two locations, Line-of-sight (location-1) and non-Line-of-Sight (location-2), were considered where the dataset was captured. The training results from the two locations for the two models demonstrated improved prediction of signal power loss using model-1 in comparison to model-2. For instance, the correlation coefficient, which shows the strength of the predicted value to the measured values (closer to 1) establishing a strong connection, gives 0.990 and 0.995 using model-1 for location-1, training with Lavenberg-Marquardt and Bayesian Regularization algorithm, respectively and 0.965 and 0.980 for model-2 using the same algorithms. It is seen that the Bayesian regularization algorithm, which optimizes the network in accordance with the Levenberg- Marquardt algorithm, gave better prediction results. The same sequence of improved perditions using designed model-1 in comparison to model-2 were seen with training results in location-2 while also adopting other employed 1st order statistical indices.