bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in Retinol Binding Protein 4 Level in Undernourished Children After a Nutrition Intervention Are Positively Associated With Mother’s Weight but Negatively With Mother’s Height, Intake of Whole Milk, and Markers of Systemic Inflammation: Results From a Community-Based Intervention Study
Authors: Das Subhasish , Gazi Md Amran , Hasan Md Mehedi , Fahim Shah Mohammad , Alam Md Ashraful , Hossain Md Shabab , Mahfuz Mustafa , Ahmed Tahmeed 
Published: November 2020

Background: The changes of plasma retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) level after a nutrition intervention can indicate the metabolic changes associated with the delivered intervention. Objective: We investigated the changes in plasma RBP4 level among 12- to 18-month-old children after a nutrition intervention and measured its association with subcutaneous adiposity, maternal characteristics, and inflammation. Methods: Data of 520 undernourished children (250 of them had length-for-age Z score [LAZ] <−1 to −2 and 270 had LAZ score <−2) were collected from the Bangladesh Environmental Enteric Dysfunction study conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Multivariable linear regression and generalized estimation equations (GEE) modeling techniques were used to measure the association. Results: At baseline, median RBP4 level was 19.9 mg/L (interquartile range [IQR]: 7.96), and at the end of the intervention, it was 20.6 mg/L (IQR: 9.06). Percentage changes in plasma RBP4 level were not significantly associated ( P > .05) with the percentage changes in child’s height, weight, and subcutaneous adiposity. But maternal height (regression coefficient, β = −1.62, P = .002) and milk intake (β = −0.05, P = .01) were negatively and maternal weight was positively associated (β = 0.56, P = .03) with the changes in RBP4 levels. The GEE models revealed negative association of RBP4 levels with C-reactive protein (CRP; β = −0.14, P < .05) and α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP; β = −0.03, P < .05). Conclusion: Children whose mothers were taller experienced less increase in plasma RBP4 level, and children whose mothers had a higher weight experienced more increase in the RBP4 level from baseline. We have also found that CRP and AGP levels and intake of whole milk were negatively associated with the plasma RBP4 level.
Pharmacogenomic Studies in Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yoshida Kazunari , Koyama Emiko , Zai Clement C. , Beitchman Joseph H. , Kennedy James L. , Lunsky Yona , Desarkar Pushpal , Müller Daniel J. 
Published: November 2020

Background: Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often receive psychotropic medications such as antipsychotics and antidepressants to treat aberrant behaviors and mood symptoms, frequently resulting in polypharmacy and drug-related adverse effects. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) studies with ASD and/or ID (ASD/ID) have been scarce despite the promise of optimizing treatment outcomes. We reviewed the literature on PGx studies with antipsychotics and antidepressants (e.g., treatment response and adverse effects) in ASD/ID. Methods: We performed a systematic review using MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO, including peer-reviewed original articles in English referring to PGx in the treatment of ASD/ID in any age groups (e.g., treatment response and adverse effects). Results: A total of 28 PGx studies using mostly candidate gene approaches were identified across age groups. Notably, only 3 studies included adults with ASD/ID while the other 25 studies focused specifically on children/adolescents with ASD/ID. Twelve studies primarily investigated treatment response, of which 5 and 6 studies included patients treated with antipsychotics and antidepressants, respectively. Most interesting results for response were reported for 2 sets of candidate gene studies, namely: (1) The DRD3 Ser9Gly (rs6280) polymorphism was examined in patients treated with risperidone in 3 studies, 2 of which reported an association with risperidone treatment response and (2) the SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and treatment response to antidepressants which was investigated in 4 studies, 3 of which reported significant associations. In regard to side effects, 9 of 15 studies focused on hyperprolactinemia in patients treated with risperidone. Among them, 7 and 5 studies examined the impact of CYP2D6 and DRD2 Taq1A polymorphisms, respectively, yielding mostly negative study findings. Conclusions: There is limited data available on PGx in individuals with ASD/ID and in particular in adults. Given the potential for PGx testing in improving treatment outcomes, additional PGx studies for psychotropic treatment in ASD/ID across age groups are warranted.
Linear and nonlinear dynamics of hybrid systems
Authors: Hedrih Katica R (Stevanović) 
Published: November 2020

Discrete continuum method for investigation of linear and nonlinear dynamics of hybrid systems containing coupled multi deformable bodies is presented. By use coupled rods, beams, strings, plates and membranes by discrete continuum mass less layers as well as layers with translator and rotator inertia properties into series of hybrid system dynamics are investigated and phenomenological mappings in dynamics of these different real systems are identified. Expressions of generalized forces of subsystem interactions in hybrid system are presented by component mechanical energies and functions of energy dissipations. A model of dynamical dislocations with inertia properties in plate is presented. Transfer energy between subsystems is investigated. Constitutive relation of standard elements of discrete continuum coupling layers with translator and rolling inertia properties, nonlinear elastic and fractional order properties are presented. Interaction between two coupled linear and nonlinear system, each with one degree of freedom as well as dynamics of discrete no homogeneous chain are considered in the light of mathematical analogy for obtaining eigen time functions of solutions of component deformable body displacements in hybrid system dynamics. For pointing out the major contributions outlined in the manuscript it is necessary to add: The manuscript contains reviews on results obtained of a few scientific problems of nonlinear dynamics, namely, for stochastic stability of vibration modes of a parametrically excited sandwich beam, transversal vibrations of axially moving double belt system, multi deformable bodies coupled by standard light fractional type discrete continuum layers. New model of dynamical dislocation in continuum is proposed and analyzed Series of the original results of author’s doctorates supervised is listed.
How does employment respond to minimum wage adjustment in China?
Authors: Wye Chung-Khain , Bahri Elya Nabila Abdul 
Published: November 2020

Under what circumstances can minimum wages increase without adverse effects on employment levels? In 31 Chinese provinces between 2004 and 2015, the employment effect of a minimum wage depended on the minimum wage level, foreign direct investment, per capita gross domestic product and labour productivity. A minimum wage increase reduced hiring as foreign direct investment inflow rose, regardless of the amount of investment. Any positive employment effect of a minimum wage increase was mitigated by per capita gross domestic product growth, except when per capita gross domestic product was above the average. Above-average labour productivity enhancement significantly mitigated the adverse employment effect of the minimum wage. Employers responded to a rising minimum wage by increasing hiring when the geometric growth rates of the minimum wage and foreign direct investment for a particular province within a period of time were above the overall average across provinces. However, they scrutinised both annual and overall economic growth within a time period when making hiring decisions in the face of minimum wage adjustments. An inverted U-shape relationship between minimum wages and employment suggest a maximum threshold value for the minimum wage. Thus, government policy measures should foster short-term and long-term economic growth, to facilitate employment creation when minimum wages increase. JEL Codes: J38, J21, F16, O40
Sociocultural Practices Affecting the Care of Preterm Infants in the Ghanaian Community
Authors: Adama Esther Abena , Sundin Deborah , Bayes Sara 
Published: November 2020

Introduction Although culture is an integral part of health, there is scarcity of evidence on the influence of culture on caregiving experiences of parents of preterm infants. The aim of this study was to explore the influence of sociocultural practices on caring for preterm infants in the Ghanaian community. Method Narrative inquiry was utilized to explore the influence of sociocultural practices on the care of preterm infants from 21 mothers, 9 fathers, and 12 household members. Data were collected through face-to-face semistructured interviews and observations at participants’ homes. Results Analysis of data resulted in three threads/themes—respect for the elderly, use of herbal medicines, and communal living. Discussion Community and extended family members have great influence on the care of preterm infants. Traditional herbal medicines are considered effective in treating traditional illnesses among preterm infants. Understanding the influence of culture on the care of vulnerable preterm infants in the community is essential in developing interventions for infant survival.
Performance-Based Practice: Clinical Dashboards for Addiction Treatment Retention
Authors: Patterson Silver Wolf David A. , BlackDeer Autumn Asher , Beeler-Stinn Sara , Zheng Ken , Stazrad Kristin 
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Substance use disorders (SUDs) are on the rise, particularly concerning opioids, and existing services are still not adequately meeting treatment needs. Most treatment dropouts occur within the first few weeks of treatment, indicating health improvement is likely not occurring. In this study, a clinical dashboard tool has shown promising utility with increasing retention in SUD treatment. Method: This pilot study was designed to measure the effects of implementing a performance-based practice clinical dashboard tool and having a process for monitoring patients’ recovery in a Midwestern SUD treatment center. Results: The results demonstrated the efficacy of a clinical dashboard tool that complements therapists’ monitoring and measuring of their patients’ performance. Discussion: Results support a building knowledge base about the impact of real-time, evidence-based tools on the retention and support of clients seeking SUD treatment.
Efficacy and safety of single Ultrasound Cyclo-Plasty to treat refractory glaucoma: Results at 1 year
Authors: Longfang Zhou , Die Hu , Jie Lan , Yameng Liu , Mingyuan Lv , Xiaojing Pan 
Published: November 2020

Purpose: To evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of single Ultrasound Cyclo-Plasty (UCP) in the treatment of advanced refractory glaucoma. Methods: From January 2018 to August 2018, 25 patients (25 eyes) with refractory glaucoma and intraocular pressure (IOP) not controlled by drugs or conventional filtering surgery were included in the study. All subjects (neovascular glaucoma [ n = 12], secondary glaucoma [ n = 6], angle closure glaucoma [ n = 6], and primary open angle glaucoma [ n = 1]) underwent 8-sector Ultrasound Cyclo-Plasty. Patients were followed-up at Day 1, Week 1, and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, during which the IOP, the number of IOP lowering drugs and the occurrence of ocular complications were recorded. Clinical outcomes were IOP reduction, success rate, and ocular complications. According to the glaucoma type, patients were divided into a neovascular group (NVG) and a non-NVG group for sub-analysis. Results: All patients underwent a single UCP procedure and mean IOP reduced significantly from 39.7 ± 6.1 mmHg before UCP to 27.1 ± 11.0 mmHg at 1 year ( p < 0.01) corresponding to a mean IOP reduction of 29.6%. The mean number of IOP-lowering drugs used was 2.4 ± 1.2 at baseline and 2.3 ± 1.0 at 12 months. Success rate after a single UCP procedure was achieved in 41.7% patients at 1 year, with a higher success rate in non-NVG than in the NVG group. No major postoperative complications were reported. The main complication was conjunctival congestion, anterior chamber inflammation, scleral ring congestion, and scleral inprint. Of these, scleral ring congestion and scleral imprint are relatively rare complications, which can still be observed 12 months after UCP treatment. Conclusion: UCP for refractory glaucoma is effective in reducing IOP and has a good safety profile. Success rate is lower after a single UCP in NVG than for other types of glaucoma.
Evaluation of the reasons for the microvascular changes in patients with Fabry disease using optic coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Dogan Cezmi , Gonen Busenur , Dincer Mevlut Tamer , Mergen Burak , Kiykim Ertugrul , Bakir Alev , Trabulus Sinan , Yetik Huseyin , Seyahi Nurhan 
Published: November 2020

Purpose: To investigate the blood flow changes in the choriocapillaris and the superficial and deep capillary plexus of the retina using optic coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in patients with Fabry disease (FD) and reveal any possible association of these changes with the systemic findings. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 38 patients with FD and age- and gender-matched 40 healthy controls. OCTA images were obtained from all patients. Superficial (sCVD) and deep capillary vascular density (dCVD) in the foveal, parafoveal, and perifoveal zones and the whole image were recorded for each patient. Flow area in the choriocapillaris and central macular thickness (CMT) were also recorded. Results: Patients with FD showed a lower whole image (54.45 ± 5.99% vs 57.32 ± 6.71%, p = 0.004), foveal (34.94 ± 7.60% vs 39.65 ± 7.03%, p = 0.003), parafoveal (57.41 ± 4.85% vs 59.19 ± 4.67%, p = 0.043), and perifoveal (55.87 ± 6.43% vs 58.87 ± 7.02%, p = 0.003) dCVD compared to the healthy controls without a significant difference in the sCVD and choriocapillaris blood flow ( p > 0.05). A significantly lower whole image and foveal dCVD in the FD patients with renal involvement was observed compared to the healthy controls ( p = 0.027 and p = 0.024, respectively) without any significant difference between the FD patients without renal involvement and healthy controls ( p = 0.17 and p = 0.13, respectively). CMT was significantly higher in FD patients with renal involvement compared to the ones without renal involvement (252.1 ± 18.5 µm vs 235.5 ± 17.6 µm, p = 0.016). Conclusion: Patients with FD showed a lower dCVD without any change in sCVD and choriocapillaris compared to the healthy controls. This decrease was associated mostly with the renal involvement and duration of treatment.
Atypical bilateral acute retinal necrosis in a coronavirus disease 2019 positive immunosuppressed patient
Authors: Gupta Ankur , Dixit Bhavini , Stamoulas Konstantinos , Akshikar Rashmi 
Published: November 2020

Purpose: To present the clinical features of a rare case of atypical acute retinal necrosis in a Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive immunosuppressed patient. Methods: Retrospective observational case report. Results: A 75-year-old lady presented with a left eye pan uveitis picture with vitritis and extensive peripheral and mid-peripheral necrotising retinitis. In the right eye, she had a very mild superior peripheral retinitis with minimal anterior or vitreous inflammation. Two months prior to her diagnosis she completed a course of rituximab and chlorambucil chemotherapy for a relapse of diffuse large cell B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The patient’s nasopharyngeal swabs tested positive for COVID-19 in a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. The vitreous sample PCR tested positive for Varicella Zoster Virus and was negative for SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion and Significance: To the best of our knowledge this is the first description of a case that has undergone vitreous PCR testing for COVID-19. It is interesting to note the high level of vitreous inflammation which would not be expected in an immunosuppressed state. We present a number of possible links between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the unusual ocular presentation of bilateral VZV viral retinitis in this patient. While extra ocular VZV outbreaks have been reported with rituximab treated patients, this report should also raise the awareness of VZV related viral retinitis in DLBCL patients on rituximab chemotherapy which is a very rare occurrence. This case may provide some evidence to healthcare policy makers who are making decisions regarding the re-introduction of routine Ophthalmic surgery.
Arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies: a systematic review of surgical technique and outcomes
Authors: Coulomb Remy , Nougarede Bastien , Maury Etienne , Marchand Philippe , Mares Olivier , Kouyoumdjian Pascal 
Published: November 2020

Purpose: To evaluate the technique, results and complications of arthroscopic iliopsoas tenotomies either on native hips or total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods: A systematic review was performed using 3 databases: PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane library from January 2000 to December 2018 in accordance with the PRISMA procedure. The literature search, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by 2 independent reviewers. Surgical technique, clinical outcomes, recurrences and complication rate were evaluated. Results: Out of 115 articles reviewed, 20 articles concerned native hips and 8 articles THA. 3 levels of release were described. For native hips, the recurrence rate was higher for central compartment than peripheral or lesser trochanter releases. Complication rates were similar for hip arthroscopy but remained low in all series. Loss of strength was evaluated mainly using the MRC muscle scale. Most studies noted strength recovery. MRI analysis of muscle atrophy was greater for lesser trochanter than for central compartment release but unrelated to loss of strength. The complication rate was low for tenotomy after THA, heterotopic ossification being the most common complication. Conclusions: Central compartment releases lead to the highest rate of recurrence due to incomplete release. Peripheral releases have a potential risk of vascular injury. The lesser trochanteric approach has the disadvantage of not having direct access to the joint. The main difficulty with THA lies in the diagnosis of cup/iliopsoas impingement. Diagnostic tests with infiltration should be made before iliopsoas release to prevent its failure. Cup protrusion of over 8mm is a potential indication for acetabular revision.
Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of Isradipine During Outpatient Buprenorphine Stabilization and Detoxification: A Pilot Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Kumar Nihit , Mancino Michael J , Thostenson Jeff D , McGaugh Janette , Oliveto Alison H 
Published: November 2020

Background: Given the immense burden of the widespread use of opioids around the world, exploring treatments that improve drug use outcomes, and craving and withdrawal measures in individuals with opioid use disorder is crucial. This pilot study examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the L-type calcium-channel blocker isradipine (ISR) to improve drug use outcomes, and craving and withdrawal measures during buprenorphine (BUP)/ISR stabilization and subsequent taper in opioid-dependent individuals. Methods: Participants were stabilized on BUP sublingual tablets within the first 2 days of week 1, were then randomized and inducted on either ISR or placebo, gradually increasing the dose over the next 2 weeks, followed by a 10-day BUP taper during weeks 5-6, and ISR/placebo taper during weeks 7 to 8. Assessments included thrice-weekly measures of craving and withdrawal, as well as vital signs and urine drug screens. Medication compliance was assessed by monitoring number of missed clinic visit days. Results: Baseline characteristics of participants (n = 25; 60% male, 96% Caucasian, 48% employed, mean age 32.8 years) did not differ significantly between treatment groups (isradipine, n = 11; placebo, n = 14). During the stabilization phase (n = 19), ISR participants had significantly lower rates of illicit opioid-positive urines (treatment × visit: t = -2.16, P = 0.03), as well as reduction in craving intensity ( t = –2.50, P = 0.01), frequency ( t = –3.43, P < 0.01) and duration ( t = –2.51, P = 0.01). ISR was well tolerated with mild adverse effects. Conclusions: This study was likely underpowered due to being a pilot trial. Although preliminary results suggest ISR may improve BUP-assisted treatment outcomes, concerns about high number of exclusions (n = 11 during taper phase) based on cardiovascular measures as well as ISR-induced changes in vital signs with the immediate release formulation may limit the feasibility of this approach. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT01895270. Registered 10 July 2013, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01895270?id=NCT01895270&draw=2&rank=1
Effects of an integrated respiratory service on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease hospital admissions in England: An interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Elwenspoek Martha MC , Jones Tim , Dodd James W 
Published: November 2020

Objectives To investigate the effects of an admission avoidance pathway within a new integrated respiratory service on the number of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)-related hospital admissions in England. Methods We used interrupted time series analysis to estimate the effects of the admission avoidance pathway on COPD hospital admissions, length of stay, and 30-day readmissions. We included all unplanned admissions with COPD as primary diagnosis using Hospital Episode Statistics, comparing the intervention region with a demographically similar control region in the two years before and one year after the implementation of the new service. Results Unplanned hospital admissions for COPD exacerbations followed a clear seasonal pattern, peaking in early winter. We found no evidence that the admission avoidance pathway influenced the rate of hospital admissions or 30-day readmissions. We found weak evidence of a trend change in length of stay following the launch of the admission avoidance pathway. Conclusions Our study adds to the growing body of evidence that suggests that additional admission avoidance capacity alone does not lead to a measurable reduction in admissions or length of stay. Further investigation is required to understand the reasons why. A longer follow-up may be required to see some of the potential benefits.