bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Altered functional connectivity of the red nucleus and substantia nigra in migraine without aura
Authors: Huang Xiaobin , Zhang Di , Chen Yuchen , Wang Peng , Mao Cunnan , Miao Zhengfei , Liu Chunmei , Xu Chenjie , Wu Xinying , Yin Xindao 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Functional connectivity (FC) has been used to investigate the pathophysiology of migraine. Accumulating evidence is pointing toward malfunctioning of brainstem structures, i.e., the red nucleus (RN) and substantia nigra (SN), as an important factor in migraine without aura (MwoA). We aimed to identify atypical FC between the RN and SN and other brain areas in patients with MwoA and to explore the association between RN and SN connectivity changes and performance on neuropsychological tests in these patients.

Methods
Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were obtained from 30 patients with MwoA and 22 age-, sex-, and years of education-matched healthy controls (HC). The FC of the brainstem structures was analyzed using a standard seed-based whole-brain correlation method. The results of the brainstem structure FC were assessed for correlations with other clinical features.

Results
Patients with MwoA exhibited reduced left RN-based FC with the left middle frontal gyrus, reduced right RN-based FC with the ipsilateral superior parietal lobe, and increased FC with the ipsilateral cerebellum. Additionally, patients with MwoA demonstrated significantly decreased right SN-based FC with the right postcentral gyrus, left parietal lobule, and left superior frontal gyrus. Hypo-connectivity between the right SN and right postcentral gyrus was negatively correlated with disease duration (r = − 0.506, P = 0.004). Additionally, increased connectivity of the right RN to the ipsilateral cerebellar lobes was positively correlated with the Headache Impact Test-6 scores (r = 0.437, P = 0.016).

Conclusions
The present study suggested that patients with MwoA have disruption in their RN and SN resting-state networks, which are associated with specific clinical characteristics. The changes focus on the regions associated with cognitive evaluation, multisensory integration, and modulation of perception and pain, which may be associated with migraine production, feedback, and development. Taken together, these results may improve our understanding of the neuropathological mechanism of migraine.
Carbon Nanomaterials for the Treatment of Heavy Metal-Contaminated Water and Environmental Remediation
Authors: Baby Rabia , Saifullah Bullo , Hussein Mohd Zobir 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Nanotechnology is an advanced field of science having the ability to solve the variety of environmental challenges by controlling the size and shape of the materials at a nanoscale. Carbon nanomaterials are unique because of their nontoxic nature, high surface area, easier biodegradation, and particularly useful environmental remediation. Heavy metal contamination in water is a major problem and poses a great risk to human health. Carbon nanomaterials are getting more and more attention due to their superior physicochemical properties that can be exploited for advanced treatment of heavy metal-contaminated water. Carbon nanomaterials namely carbon nanotubes, fullerenes, graphene, graphene oxide, and activated carbon have great potential for removal of heavy metals from water because of their large surface area, nanoscale size, and availability of different functionalities and they are easier to be chemically modified and recycled. In this article, we have reviewed the recent advancements in the applications of these carbon nanomaterials in the treatment of heavy metal-contaminated water and have also highlighted their application in environmental remediation. Toxicological aspects of carbon-based nanomaterials have also been discussed.
TiO2 Nanosheet Arrays with Layered SnS2 and CoOx Nanoparticles for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Cao Zhou , Yin Yanling , Fu Peng , Li Dong , Zhou Yulan , Deng Yuanwen , Peng Yuehua , Wang Weike , Zhou Weichang , Tang Dongsheng 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Converting solar energy into sustainable hydrogen fuel by photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a promising technology to solve increasingly serious global energy supply and environmental issues. However, the PEC performance based on TiO2 nanomaterials is hindered by the limited sunlight-harvesting ability and its high recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers. In this work, layered SnS2 absorbers and CoOx nanoparticles decorated two-dimensional (2D) TiO2 nanosheet array photoelectrode have been rationally designed and successfully synthesized, which remarkably enhanced the PEC performance for water splitting. As the result, photoconversion efficiency of TiO2/SnS2/CoOx and TiO2/SnS2 hybrid photoanodes increases by 3.6 and 2.0 times under simulated sunlight illumination, compared with the bare TiO2 nanosheet arrays photoanode. Furthermore, the TiO2/SnS2/CoOx photoanode also presented higher PEC stability owing to CoOx catalyst served as efficient water oxidation catalyst as well as an effective protectant for preventing absorber photocorrosion.
Fall-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations among community-dwelling older adults: examination of health problems and injury characteristics
Authors: Choi Namkee G. , Choi Bryan Y. , DiNitto Diana M. , Marti C. Nathan , Kunik Mark E. 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Fall injuries and related healthcare use among older adults are increasing in the United States. This study examined chronic illnesses, sensory and memory problems, and injury characteristics that were associated with ED visits and hospitalizations among older adults who received medical attention for fall injuries within a 91-day reference period.

Methods
Data were from the publicly available 2013–2017 US National Health Interview Survey files (unweighted N = 1840 respondents aged > 60 years with fall injuries). We first described socioeconomic, health/mental health, healthcare utilization, and injury characteristics among three groups: those who neither visited an ED nor were hospitalized for their fall injury, those who visited an ED only, and those who were hospitalized. Then, using multinomial logistic regression analysis, we examined associations of healthcare utilization (ED visit only and hospitalization vs. no ED visit/hospitalization) with chronic illnesses, other health problems, and injury characteristics, controlling for socioeconomic factors.

Results
Of older adults who received medical attention for fall injuries, a little more than one-third had an ED visit only and a little less than a fifth had an overnight hospital stay. Multivariable analysis showed that lung disease and memory problems were associated with higher risk of ED visit only; hip and head injuries, facial injuries, and broken bones/fractures (from any type of injury) were more likely to result in hospitalization than other injuries. Fall injuries sustained inside the home, falls from loss of balance/dizziness, and living alone were also more likely to result in hospitalization.

Conclusions
These healthcare utilization findings indicate the significant toll that fall injuries exact on older adults and healthcare systems. Fall prevention should target risk factors that are specific to serious injuries requiring costly care. Strategies for implementing scalable, adaptable, and measurable fall prevention models by primary care and emergency medical service providers and ED staff are needed.
Longitudinal associations between BMI change and the risks of colorectal cancer incidence, cancer-relate and all-cause mortality among 81,388 older adults
Authors: Li Ji-Bin , Luo Sheng , Wong Martin C. S. , Li Cai , Feng Li-Fen , Peng Jian-Hong , Li Jing-Hua , Zhang Xi 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
It remains controversial whether weight change could influence the risks of colorectal cancer (CRC) and mortality. This study aimed to quantify the associations between full-spectrum changes in body mass index (BMI) and the risks of colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence, cancer-related and all-cause mortality among midlife to elder population.

Methods
A total of 81,388 participants who were free of cancer and aged 55 to 74 years from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) screening program were involved. The percentage change of BMI was calculated as (BMI in 2006 - BMI at baseline)/BMI at baseline, and was categorized into nine groups: decrease (≥ 15.0%, 10.0–14.9%, 5.0–9.9%, 2.5–4.9%), stable (decrease/increase < 2.5%), increase (2.5–4.9%, 5.0–9.9%, 10.0–14.9%, ≥ 15.0%). The associations between percentage change in BMI from study enrolment to follow-up (median: 9.1 years) and the risks of CRC and mortality were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results
After 2006, there were 241 new CRC cases, 648 cancer-related deaths, and 2361 all-cause deaths identified. Overall, the associations between BMI change and CRC incidence and cancer-related mortality, respectively, were not statistically significant. Compared with participants whose BMI were stable, individuals who had a decrease in BMI were at increased risk of all-cause mortality, and the HRs were 1.21 (95% CI: 1.03–1.42), 1.65 (95% CI: 1.44–1.89), 1.84 (95% CI: 1.56–2.17), and 2.84 (95% CI: 2.42–3.35) for 2.5–4.9%, 5.0–9.9%, 10.0–14.9%, and ≥ 15.0% decrease in BMI, respectively. An L-shaped association between BMI change and all-cause mortality was observed. Every 5% decrease in BMI was associated with a 27% increase in the risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.22–1.31, p < 0.001). The results from subgroups showed similar trends.

Conclusions
A decrease in BMI more than 5% shows a significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality among older individuals; but no significant association between increase in BMI and all-cause mortality. These findings emphasize the importance of body weight management in older population, and more studies are warranted to evaluate the cause-and-effect relationship between changes in BMI and cancer incidence/mortality.
Serotype distribution and antimicrobial resistance of Streptococcus pneumoniae causing invasive diseases in China: a meta-analysis
Authors: Fu Jinjian , Yi Rongsong , Jiang Yongjiang , Xu Shaolin , Qin Peixu , Liang Zhuoxin , Chen Jichang 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
To summarize information about invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) among children in mainland China.

Methods
Sixteen eligible studies were included in this systematic review and the random effect model was used to estimate the pool prevalence of IPD.

Results
The most predominant serotypes circulating in children were 19F (27.7, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 17.7–37.6%), 19A (21.2%, 16.4–26.1%), 14 (16.5%, 12.8–20.1%), 6B (8.6%, 5.2–10.8%) and 23F (7.3%, 5.2–9.5%). The serotype coverage of the available pneumococcal conjugate vaccines PCV7, PCV10, and PCV13 was 60.8% (52.5–69.4%), 65.1% (57.7–72.4%), and 90.0% (87.1–92.8%), respectively. The pooled antibiotic resistance rates of Streptococcus pneumoniae revealed a resistance to penicillin prevalence rate of 32.0% (12.1–51.9%). Approximately 94.4% (90.7–98.1%) and 92.3% (87.4–97.3%) of isolates were resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin. eBURST analysis revealed great diversity among isolates, with 102 sequence types (STs) for 365 isolates. The major predominant clonal complexes (CCs) were CC271 (43.6%, 159/365), CC876 (13.4%, 49/365), CC81 (5.2%, 19/365), and CC90 (4.1%, 15/365). Long-term and regional surveillance of S. pneumoniae is necessary.

Conclusions
Based on our pooled results showing that PCV13 coverage of the reported serotypes was 90% and that most serotypes contributed to the distribution of antibiotic-resistant isolates, implementation of PCV13 into the Chinese Expanded Program on Immunizations (EPI) would achieve health benefits in Chinese children.
Complete appendiceal inversion with local high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia in an adult female: a case report
Authors: Liu Xinlu , Liu Ge , Liu Yanfeng , Zhou Hongsheng , Yu Liyu , Xu Yun , Song Xue , Zhang Jing 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Appendiceal inversion with neoplasia in adults is an extremely rare event with a reported incidence of < 0.01%. Preoperative diagnosis is very important for surgical treatment; however, it is very difficult to be exact.

Case presentation
The patient was a 60-year-old woman with complaints of intermittent abdominal pain. Computed tomography and colonoscopy revealed a cecal mass, which was diagnosed as a tubulovillous adenoma in the preoperative colonoscopic biopsy. At surgery, the appendix was found to be completely inverted into the cecum. The cecum was partially resected, and surgical pathology examination confirmed a tubulovillous adenoma of the appendix with local high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia.

Conclusions
Although preoperative diagnosis of appendiceal inversion with neoplasia may be often difficult due to its non-specific symptoms, clinicians should consider this disease entity when they encounter an intraluminal protruding cecal mass without visualization of the normal appendix on CT and colonoscopy.
Genome sequencing of evolved aspergilli populations reveals robust genomes, transversions in A. flavus, and sexual aberrancy in non-homologous end-joining mutants
Authors: Álvarez-Escribano Isidro , Sasse Christoph , Bok Jin Woo , Na Hyunsoo , Amirebrahimi Mojgan , Lipzen Anna , Schackwitz Wendy , Martin Joel , Barry Kerrie , Gutiérrez Gabriel , Cea-Sánchez Sara , Marcos Ana T. , Grigoriev Igor V. , Keller Nancy P. , Braus Gerhard H. , Cánovas David 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundAspergillusspp. comprises a very diverse group of lower eukaryotes with a high relevance for industrial applications and clinical implications. These multinucleate species are often cultured for many generations in the laboratory, which can unknowingly propagate hidden genetic mutations. To assess the likelihood of such events, we studied the genome stability of aspergilli by using a combination of mutation accumulation (MA) lines and whole genome sequencing.ResultsWe sequenced the whole genomes of 30 asexual and 10 sexual MA lines of threeAspergillusspecies (A. flavus,A. fumigatusandA. nidulans) and estimated that each MA line accumulated mutations for over 4000 mitoses during asexual cycles. We estimated mutation rates of 4.2 × 10−11(A. flavus), 1.1 × 10−11(A. fumigatus) and 4.1 × 10−11(A. nidulans) per site per mitosis, suggesting that the genomes are very robust. Unexpectedly, we found a very high rate of GC → TA transversions only inA. flavus. In parallel, 30 asexual lines of the non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) mutants of the three species were also allowed to accumulate mutations for the same number of mitoses. Sequencing of these NHEJ MA lines gave an estimated mutation rate of 5.1 × 10−11(A. flavus), 2.2 × 10−11(A. fumigatus) and 4.5 × 10−11(A. nidulans) per base per mitosis, which is slightly higher than in the wild-type strains and some ~ 5–6 times lower than in the yeasts. Additionally, inA. nidulans, we found a NHEJ-dependent interference of the sexual cycle that is independent of the accumulation of mutations.ConclusionsWe present for the first time direct counts of the mutation rate of filamentous fungal species and find thatAspergillusgenomes are very robust. Deletion of the NHEJ machinery results in a slight increase in the mutation rate, but at a rate we suggest is still safe to use for biotechnology purposes. Unexpectedly, we found GC→TA transversions predominated only in the speciesA. flavus, which could be generated by the hepatocarcinogen secondary metabolite aflatoxin. Lastly, a strong effect of the NHEJ mutation in self-crossing was observed and an increase in the mutations of the asexual lines was quantified.
Hormonal induction of spermiation in a Eurasian bufonid (Epidalea calamita)
Authors: Arregui Lucía , Diaz-Diaz Sergio , Alonso-López Elia , Kouba Andrew J. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundAmphibian diversity is declining at an alarming rate due to habitat loss, invasive species, climate change and diseases. Captive assurance colonies have been established for some species at risk; however, many species do not breed well in captivity and the development of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is critical to help sustain genetic diversity. To date, the majority of the work has been accomplished in species from the American continent and Australia, and there is a need to address similar breeding challenges in Eurasian and African species of amphibians.MethodsThe aim of this study was to develop a hormone protocol for stimulation of spermiation inEpidalea calamitaas a model for Eurasian bufonids. Hence, the effect on sperm production and quality of three doses of chorionic gonadotropin hormone (5, 10 and 15 IU hCG/g) over time (1 to 24 h) was evaluated. In addition, cold storage (at 5 °C) of sperm for 24 and 48 h and three frequencies for hormonal treatment (weekly, biweekly and monthly) were examined.ResultsHormone concentrations of 10 or 15 IU of hCG induced spermiation in 100% of males and produced sperm of comparable quality, while 5 IU hCG stimulated spermiation in only 40% of males. Total motility peaked between 1 to 4 h post-treatment with 10 IU hCG, whereas treatment with 15 IU hCG peaked between 2 to 6 h. After 24 h of cold storage total motility dropped by 20% and forward motility dropped by 10% for both the 10 and 15 IU treatments. Weekly hormone administration resulted in higher variation between trials in all motility parameters and a lower overall Total Motility and Forward Movement. Furthermore, the effect of exogenous hormone treatment overlapped between the last two trials in the weekly frequency. Sperm concentration was higher in the first trial for all frequencies but showed no differences among other trials.ConclusionsOverall, these results show that hormone concentration, time after treatment, frequency of hormone treatment and cold storage should be borne in mind when developing a hormone stimulation protocol for Eurasian amphibian species.
A qualitative study of community elders’ perceptions about the underutilization of formal maternal care and maternal death in rural Nigeria
Authors: Fantaye Arone Wondwossen , Okonofua Friday , Ntoimo Lorretta , Yaya Sanni 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundUnderutilization of formal maternal care services and accredited health attendants is a major contributor to the high maternal mortality rates in rural communities in Nigeria. Perceptions of a poor quality of care and inaccessible services in health facilities strongly influence the low use of formal maternal care services. There is therefore a need to understand local perceptions about maternal health services utilization and maternal death. This study thereby aims to explore perceptions and beliefs about the underutilization of formal care and causes of maternal death, as well as to identify potential solutions to improve use and reduce maternal mortality in rural Nigeria.MethodsData were collected through 9 community conversations, which were conducted with 158 community elders in 9 rural communities in Edo State, Nigeria. Data from transcripts were analyzed through inductive thematic analysis using NVivo 12 software.ResultsPerceived reasons for the underutilization of formal maternal care included poor qualities of care, physical inaccessibility, financial inaccessibility, and lack of community knowledge. Perceived reasons for maternal death were related to medical causes, maternal healthcare services deficiencies, uptake of native maternal care, and poor community awareness and negligence. Elders identified increased access to adequate maternal care, health promotion and education, community support, and supernatural assistance from a deity as solutions for increasing use of formal maternal care and reducing maternal mortality rates.ConclusionStudy results revealed that multifaceted approaches that consider community contexts, challenges, and needs are required to develop acceptable, effective and long-lasting positive changes. Interventions aiming to increase use of formal care services and curb maternal mortality rates must target improvements to the technical and interpersonal qualities of care, ease of access, community awareness and knowledge, and allow community members to actively engage in implementation phases.
Higher rate of long-term serologic response of four double doses vs. standard doses of hepatitis B vaccination in HIV-infected adults: 4-year follow-up of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chaiwarith Romanee , Praparattanapan Jutarat , Kotarathititum Wilai , Wipasa Jiraprapa , Chaiklang Kanokporn , Supparatpinyo Khuanchai 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
We previously reported that four doses or four double doses of hepatitis B vaccination regimens could not significantly increase a response rate compared with standard doses. However, the antibody levels were higher in the four doses and four double doses groups. This study followed those patients for at least 3 years and aimed to evaluate the immunogenicity of the three vaccination regimens.

Methods
HIV-infected adults who had CD4+ cell counts > 200 cells/mm3, undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA, and negative for all hepatitis B virus markers were randomly assigned to receive one of three recombinant vaccines (Hepavax-Gene® Berna, Korea) regimens: 20 μg IM at months 0, 1, and 6 (standard doses group, n = 44), 20 μg IM at months 0, 1, 2, 6 (four doses group, n = 44), or 40 μg IM at months 0, 1, 2, and 6 (four double doses group, n = 44) between February 2011 and May 4, 2012. Of 132 participants, 126 were evaluated from August 2015 to January 2016; 42 in the standard doses, 43 in the four doses, and 41 in the four double doses groups.

Results
At a median duration of 49.7 months (range 46.7–53.7) after completion of the primary vaccination schedule, the percentages of responders with anti-HBs ≥ 10 mIU/mL were 57.1% (95% CI 41.5–72.8%) in the standard doses group; 76.7% (95% CI 63.6–89.9%) in the four doses group (P = 0.067 vs. the standard doses group); and 80.5% (95% CI 67.8–93.2%) in the four double doses group (P = 0.033 vs. the standard doses group). Factors associated with a responder were the vaccination schedule (either four doses or four double doses groups) and a younger age.

Conclusions
Despite the highly effectiveness of the standard hepatitis B vaccination regimen at 6 months after completion, the long-term immunogenicity was lower than the four double doses regimen among HIV-infected adults with CD4+ cell counts > 200 cells/mm3 and undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA. The standard vaccination regimen may not be the best strategy to provide long-term immune response against hepatitis B virus among HIV-infected individuals.
Trial registration NCT1289106, NCT02713620