bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic studies on the adsorption of atrazine in soils of the water fluctuation zone in the Three-Gorges Reservoir
Authors: Yu Haiyan , Liu Yongfeng , Shu Xingquan , Fang Han , Sun Xiaojing , Pan Yuwei , Ma Limin 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Environmental behavior of pesticide in soils is a key current research focus. Studying the adsorption characteristics of pesticides in soils as a parameter for evaluating the risk of groundwater pollution by pesticides, is commonly applied in agriculture. Results: In order to provide a theoretical basis for environment risk assessment and pollution remediation, the thermodynamics and kinetics of the equilibrium of atrazine adsorption in the Three Gorges Reservoir area were assessed and analyzed via batch experiments. Results showed that the sorption of atrazine was an exothermic and spontaneous process at temperatures of 298–318K. Atrazine was more easily adsorbed by soils at concentrations of 0–30 mg·L-1, with low temperature adsorption being more effective than high temperature adsorption. The adsorption of atrazine to the two assessed soils were well fitted by the Freundlich and Langmuir models. The adsorption kinetics of atrazine in soils were consistent with the quasi-second order kinetic model and intraparticle diffusion was found not to be the only control step. The monolayer adsorption occurred with non-uniform energy distribution on the soil surface, indicating that the adsorption of atrazine by the two kinds of soil was controlled by internal diffusion surface adsorption and liquid film diffusion, leading to the complexity of its adsorption kinetics. The values of standard free energy <0, indicated that the adsorption of atrazine in soils was spontaneous and dominated by physical adsorption. Changes in standard enthalpy ( ) indicated that the adsorption was exothermic. Conclusion: Atrazine exhibited a weak adsorption capacity in both soils, indicating it is highly mobile in the soil-water environment and can easily cause groundwater pollution. Therefore, much attention should be paid to the environmental behavior of pesticide soil moisture fluctuations, potentially leading to the broad transfer and spread of pollution.
The Collaborative Learning Development Exercise (CLeD-EX): an educational instrument to promote key collaborative learning behaviours in medical students
Authors: Iqbal Maha Pervaz , Velan Gary M , Sullivan Anthony O’ Sullivan J O’ , Balasooriya Chinthaka 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background:
Modern clinical practice increasingly relies on collaborative and team-based approaches to care. Regulatory bodies in medical education emphasise the need to develop collaboration and teamwork competencies and highlight the need to do so from an early stage of medical training. In undergraduate medical education, the focus is usually on collaborative learning, associated with feedback and reflection on this learning This article describes a novel educational instrument, the Collaborative Learning Development Exercise (CLeD-EX), which aims to foster the development of key collaborative learning competencies in medical students. In this article we report on the effectiveness, feasibility and educational impact of the CLeD-EX.
Methods:
In this study, the “educational design research” framework was used to develop, implement and evaluate the CLeD-EX. This involved adopting a systematic approach towards designing a creative and innovative instrument which would help solve a real-world challenge in developing collaborative learning skills. The systematic approach involved a qualitative exploration of key collaborative learning behaviours which are influential in effective collaborative learning contexts. The identified competencies were employed in the design of the CLeD-EX. The design of the CLeD-EX included features to facilitate structured feedback by tutors to students, complemented by self-evaluation and reflection. The CLeD-EX was field-tested with volunteer junior medical students, using a controlled pre-test post-test design. Analysis of the completed CLeD-EX forms, self-perception surveys (i.e. pre-test and post-test surveys) and analyses of reflective reports were used to explore the educational impact of CLeD-EX, as well as its utility and practicality.
Results:
After using the CLeD-EX, students showed a significant improvement in critical thinking and group process as measured by a previously validated instrument. Both students and tutors recognised CLeD-EX as an effective instrument, especially as a structured basis for giving and receiving feedback and for completing the feedback loop. CLeD-EX was also found to be feasible, practical and focused, while promoting learning and effective interactions in small group learning.
Conclusion:
The findings of this study support the introduction of an effective and feasible educational instrument such as the CLeD-EX, to facilitate the development of students’ skills in collaborative learning.
Trabeculae microstructure parameters serve as effective predictors for marginal bone loss of dental implant in the mandible&nbsp;
Authors: Zhang Hengguo , Shan Jie , Zhang Ping , Jiang Hongbing 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the effectiveness and feasibility of machine learning models based on trabecular microstructure parameters for predicting the occurrence of marginal bone loss (MBL) of the submerged dental implant in mandible. Methods: Clinical variables and morphological parameters of trabecular bone were collected from 81 subjects with submerged implants in the mandible (41 cases of abnormal MBL and 40 as normal controls). We measured the peri-implant MBL level by a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) at the follow-up of 20.95±2.67 months after functional loading. The morphological parameters and possible factors associated with MBL were collected in a mean of 3.98±1.06 months at the early loading stage. All variables were analyzed using correlation and covariance matrices. Support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), logistic regression (LR) model and random forest (RF) were actualized to predict abnormal MBL.Results: At the early stage of functional loading, the abnormal MBL cases showed a significant increase of structure model index (SMI) and trabecular pattern factor (Tb.Pf) in peri-implant. Meanwhile, SMI and Tb.Pf simultaneously revealed a significantly high positive correlation with MBL. The SVM model exhibited the best outcome in predicting MBL (AUC = 0.967), followed by ANN (AUC = 0.928), LR (AUC = 0.906), RF (AUC = 0.842), SMI alone (AUC = 0.705) and Tb.Pf alone (AUC = 0.663). Compared with one single predictor, all algorithm models yielded significantly superior performance.Conclusion: Abnormal MBL cases demonstrated the premonitory morphological variation in trabecular bone at the early stage. MBL prediction could be achieved by machine learning methods.
Effectiveness of preoperative bath using Chloroxylenol antiseptic soap on the incidence of post emergency Cesarean section surgical site infection at Mbarara Regional Referral hospital, Uganda: a Randomized Controlled trial
Authors: Lukabwe Henry , Kajabwangu Rodgers , Mugisha Dale , Mayengo Horace , Munyanderu Baraka , Baluku Asanairi , Manyang Anthony , Lapat Jolly Joe , Banya Francis , Kayondo Musa , Mayanja Ronald , Muhumuza Joy , Bajunirwe Francis , Ngonzi Joseph 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Introduction: Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) are infections that occur at or near the surgical incision within 30 days of the surgery. SSIs are the commonest form of hospital acquired infections in sub Saharan Africa with estimates between 15%-45%. Cesarean delivery is the single most important risk factor for postpartum infections, carrying a 5 to 20-fold increase in the risk of developing sepsis, with an even higher risk when the operation is an emergency. In sub Saharan Africa, the leading cause of maternal mortality is puerperal sepsis. There is a need for simple interventions that can reduce this burden of SSI in the limited resource settings. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to measure the effectiveness of chloroxylenol in reducing the incidence of post Cesarean section surgical site infections at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.Methods: We conducted a single blinded randomized controlled trial at MRRH maternity ward in which women due for CS were randomized into either control or intervention arms. The intervention was a complete body bath with chloroxylenol antiseptic soap before the operation, while the control arm study participants received a standard pre-operative preparation procedures according to the existing ward protocol. All participants were followed up for 30 days and assessed using a standard SSI screening tool.Results: Ninety-six women were randomized, and 48 were assigned to either arm. The overall incidence of SSI was 30.21%. The incidence of SSI was significantly lower in the intervention compared to the control arm, at 6.25% in the intervention arm versus 54.17% in the control arm (p value<0.001). Chloroxylenol bath was protective of SSI with a 90% risk reduction for SSI (95% confidence interval of 67% – 97%).Conclusion: A preoperative bath with chloroxylenol for pregnant mothers is associated with a significantly lower risk of post Cesarean section surgical site infections. Health facilities with a high burden of post SSI should consider adding this simple and effective intervention to the existing infection prevention measures. Clinical Trials.gov registration (NCT03544710)
Risk Factors Associated With Infection of Blood-Borne Virus among People Who Used Methamphetamine
Authors: Cai Yilin , Dai Zheng , Wen Sijin , Bhandari Ruchi 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background The surge of methamphetamine use has been a complicating factor compounding the U.S. poly-drug use landscape. Infections of blood-borne virus including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV, arising from methamphetamine use continue to grow. This study aimed to examine the risk factors associated with blood-borne infections from HBV, HCV and HIV among people who used methamphetamine. Methods Methamphetamine users were identified from five National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cohorts from 2007 to 2016. We examined the association of sexual activities (sexual partners, sexual identity), drug use behaviors (poly-drug use, injection drug use, number of times drug use, age started using methamphetamine), demographics and socio-economic status with blood-borne infections using bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions. Results There were 1,075 participants representing approximately 11,319,270 methamphetamine users in the U.S. with prevalence of blood-borne infections 13.4 per 100,000. Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed significant associations of blood-borne infections with age 50-59 years (adjusted odds ratio 6.32, 95% CI 1.35-29.69), living within poverty index 1-1.9 (2.80; 1.33 – 5.88), living below the poverty threshold (2.46; 1.14 – 5.28), having lower than high school education (3.57; 1.74 – 7.33), identified as men who have sex with men (MSM) (54.24; 13.80 – 213.24), using methamphetamine with other substances (5.86; 1.50 – 22.87), injection drug use (3.77; 1.93 – 7.36), and started using methamphetamine at age above 25 (2.18; 1.05 – 4.54). Conclusions Polysubstance use, injection drug use, and MSM were strongly associated with increased risk of blood-borne infections among methamphetamine users.
Mental Health and Mining Dam Rupture: a qualitative study on impacts to affected people in a city in Brazil
Authors: Santos Marcela Alves de Lima , Modena Celina Maria 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: In 2015, a technological disaster occurred through a mining dam rupture in the municipality of Mariana, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. In addition to impacts on the environment, there were 19 deaths and displacements of approximately 300 families. The purpose of the study is to investigate the perception of psychosocial impacts on the population affected by this disaster from the perspective of different groups involved and to suggest guidelines for the construction of mental health interventions in this context.Methods: The study was conducted during the period of 2015 to 2019 from the perspective of qualitative research using participant observation, focus groups and individual interviews. Participants were people affected by the disaster, mental health workers and school professionals. Content Analysis was used to analyze the data.Results: These families lost material, cultural, heritage, and symbolic assets. They were also forcibly displaced from rural to urban areas. The results showed loss of autonomy, difficulty in adapting to the new territory, reduced social support and suffering with hostility and stigma. In addition, they suffer from delay and waiting for resettlement.Conclusions: Understanding the context is important for building mental health actions in disaster recovery. The study results show vulnerabilities and weaknesses in a post-disaster scenario. Understanding the social and community aspects involved enables mental health interventions based on the demands and capabilities of the population itself.
Effect of the cagW-based gene vaccine on the immunologic properties of BALB/c mouse: an efficient candidate for Helicobacter pylori DNA vaccine
Authors: Chehelgerdi Mohammad , Doosti Abbas 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infect more than half of the world population, and they cause different serious diseases such as gastric carcinomas. This study aims to design a vaccine on the basis of cagW against H. pylori infection. After pcDNA3.1 (+)-cagW-CS-NPs complex is produced, it will be administered into the muscles of healthy BALB/c mice in order to study the effect of this DNA vaccine on the interleukin status of mice, representing its effect on the immune system. After that, the results will be compared with the control groups comprising the administration of cagW-pCDNA3.1 (+) vaccine, the administration of chitosan and the administration of PBS in the muscles of mice.Methods The cagW gene of H. pylori was amplified by employing PCR, whose product was then cloned into the pcDNA3.1 (+) vector, and this cloning was confirmed by PCR and BamHI/EcoRV restriction enzyme digestion. CagW gene DNA vaccine was encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (pcDNA3.1 (+)-cagW-CS-NPs) using a complex co-acervation method. The stability and in vitro expression of chitosan nanoparticles were studied by DNase I digestion and transfection, and the immune responses elicited in specific pathogen-free (SPF) mice by the pcDNA3.1 (+)-cagW-CS-NPs were evaluated. Apart from that, the protective potential pcDNA3.1 (+)-cagW-CS-NPs was evaluated by challenging with H.pylori.Results The pcDNA3.1 (+)-cagW-CS-NPs comprises cagW gene of H. pylori that is encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles, produced with good morphology, high stability, a mean diameter of 117.7 nm, and a zeta potential of + 5.64 mV. Moreover, it was confirmed that chitosan encapsulation protects the DNA plasmid from DNase I digestion, and the immunofluorescence assay showed that the cagW gene could express in HDF cells and maintain good bioactivity at the same time. In comparison to the mice immunized with the control plasmid, in vivo immunization revealed that mice immunized with pcDNA3.1 (+)-cagW-NPs showed better immune responses and prolonged release of the plasmid DNA.Conclusions This research proves chitosan-DNA nanoparticles as potent immunization candidates against H. pylori infection and paves the way for further developments in novel vaccines encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles.
The effects of maternal SSRI exposure on the serotonin system, prefrontal protein expression and behavioral development in male and female offspring rats
Authors: Chen Mo Xian , Cheng Shu , Lei Lei , Wallis Chloe U , Liu Qiang , Lin Aijin , Zhang Xiaofan , Lukowicz Michael James , Sham Pak C , Li Qi , Ao Lijuan 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background Prenatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), such as fluoxetine (FLX) may increase susceptibility to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, findings from published studies on SSRI and ASD are inconsistent. The use of a rodent model can provide a clear indication as to whether prenatal exposure to SSRIs, independent of maternal psychiatric disorders or genetic syndromes, can cause long-term behavioral and ASD-related neurobiological abnormalities in offspring. Methods FLX or normal saline (NS) was administered to pregnant Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (FLX=30, NS=27) on gestation day 11 till birth. The resulting offspring were assessed in terms of their physical development and behavior, and underwent in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( MRS) to quantify biochemical alterations in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Ex vivo measurements of brain serotonin level and a proteomic analysis were also undertaken. Results The offspring (male offspring in particular) of fluoxetine exposed mothers showed delayed physical development, increased anxiety and impaired social interaction. Moreover, down-regulation of 5-HT or SERT expression and up-regulation of TPH levels was observed in the PFC. We also found that prenatal FLX exposure significantly decreased NAA/tCr with 1 H-MRS in the PFC. Finally, a proteomic study revealed sex-dependent differential protein expression. ConclusionsThese findings may have translational importance suggesting that the use of SSRI medication alone in pregnant mothers may result in developmental delay and autistic-like behavior in their offspring. Our results also help to guide the choice of outcome measures in the identification of molecular and developmental mechanisms that may confer vulnerability in ASD.
The Adaptation and Validation of the Satisfaction with Stroke Care Questionnaire (Homesat) (SASC10-MyTM) for use in public primary healthcare facilities caring for long- term stroke survivors residing at home in the community.
Authors: Aziz Aznida Firzah Abdul , Tan Chai-Eng , Ali Mohd Fairuz , Aljunid Syed Mohamed 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background Satisfaction with post stroke services would assist stakeholders in addressing gaps in service delivery. Tools used to evaluate satisfaction with stroke care services need to be validated to match healthcare services provided in each country. Studies on satisfaction with post discharge stroke care delivery in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are scarce, despite knowledge that post stroke care delivery is fragmented and poorly coordinated. This study aims to modify and validate the HomeSat subscale of the Dutch Satisfaction with Stroke Care-19 (SASC-19) questionnaire for use in Malaysia and in countries with similar public healthcare services in the region. Methods The HomeSat subscale of the Dutch SASC-19 questionnaire (11 items) underwent back-to-back translation to produce a Malay language version. Content validation was done by Family Medicine Specialists involved in community post-stroke care. Community social support services in the original questionnaire were substituted with equivalent local services to ensure contextual relevance. Internal consistency reliability was determined using Cronbach alpha. Exploratory factor analysis was done to validate the factor structure of the Malay version of the questionnaire (SASC10-My TM ). The SASC10-My TM was then tested on 175 post-stroke patients who were recruited at ten public primary care health centres across Peninsular Malaysia, in a trial-within a trial study. Results One item from the original Dutch SASC19 (HomeSat) was dropped. Internal consistency for remaining 10 items was high (Cronbach alpha 0.830). Exploratory factor analysis showed the SASC10-My TM had 2 factors: discharge transition and social support services after discharge. The mean total score for SASC10-My TM was 10.74 (SD 7.33). Overall, only 18.2% were satisfied with outpatient stroke care services (SASC10-My TM score ≥ 20). Detailed analysis revealed only 10.9% of respondents were satisfied with discharge transition services, while only 40.9% were satisfied with support services after discharge. Conclusions The SASC10-My TM questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool to measure caregiver or patient satisfaction with outpatient stroke care services in the Malaysian healthcare setting. Studies linking discharge protocol patterns and satisfaction with outpatient stroke care services should be conducted to improve care delivery and longer-term outcomes.
Effect of phytoderivatives on the growth of homologous beneficial vaginal lactobacilli (BVL) strains and their compatibility for the design of phytobiotics for the vaginal tract health
Authors: Marchesi Antonella , Salva Jessica , Ficoseco Cecilia Aristimuño , Wiese Birgitt , Nader-Macias Maria Elena Fatima 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Lactobacilli are the predominant bacteria in the vaginal tract, and while they are present, can prevent infectious situations, being used as probiotics for the health of the tract. Phytoderivatives are used historically to prevent or maintain the health of the tract, and is possible to combine both bioactives for novel vaginal formulas. The aim of this work was to study the effect of phytoderivatives (individual or combined extracts) on the growth of homologous vaginal lactic acid bacteria and their compatibility, to go further in the design of a combined pharmabiotic formula for the prevention or treatment of urogenital tract infections.Methods: the effect of phytocompounds approved by Pharcopoeias was evaluated on the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria previously isolated from the vaginal tract. Statistical methods, as CART, were applied to determine the stimulatory or inhibitory effect of the vegetal sources on bacterial growth by applying different methodology. Compatibility between phyto and lactobacilli was determined, and the phenolic compounds contents quantified, to define the optimal conditions for the formula design. Results: The BVL strains showing highest growth values with most of the phytoderivatives under study were L. gasseri CRL 1361, L. ga. CRL 1509 and L. ga. CRL 1263, and L. jensenii CRL 1333 and L. jen. CRL 1317, indicating the behavior is strain-dependent, and vegetable-compound-affected. The most adequate phytoderivatives were: Carica, Centella, Plantago, Uva ursi*, Zarzaparrila*, Cola de caballo, Echinaceae, Ortiga and Palo Azul.Conclusions: The BVL strains showing optimal resistance to the phytocompounds and compatibility with them were L. gasseri CRL 1320, 1307, 1509, L. salivarius CRL 1296 and L. rhamnosus CRL 1332 combined with Uva ursi*, Zarzaparrilla* and Echinaceae that will be used for the design of optimal phytobiotic formulas.