bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The dishwasher rubber seal acts as a reservoir of bacteria in the home environment
Authors: Zupančič Jerneja , Turk Martina , Črnigoj Miha , Avguštin Jerneja Ambrožič , Gunde-Cimerman Nina 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
In modern lifestyles, people make everyday tasks easier by using household appliances, for example dishwashers. Previous studies show massive contamination of dishwasher rubber seals with fungi, thus bacterial community, able to survive under harsh conditions, remain undetermined.
Methods
Bacteria that colonise the extreme environment of household dishwasher rubber seals were investigated using cultivation-dependent and metagenomic approaches. All bacterial isolates were tested for resistance to seven selected antibiotics. Same time bacterial diversity of tap water, connected to the dishwashers was investigated.
Results
All 30 dishwashers investigated were colonised by various bacteria. Cultivation approaches resulted in 632 bacterial isolates in total, belonging to four phyla, eight classes, 40 genera and 74 species. The majority were Gram-positive, as solely Firmicutes (dominated by the Bacillus cereus group) and Actinobacteria. Gammaproteobacteria were primarily represented by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. Metagenomic assessment of the bacterial biodiversity of the dishwasher rubber seals confirmed the predominance of Gram-positive bacteria, as primarily Actinobacteria, followed by Proteobacteria dominated by Gammaproteobacteria, and by pathogenic species such as Escherichia sp., Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas sp., Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Enterobacter sp.. Metagenomic assessment of bacterial biodiversity in the tap water connected to dishwashers revealed predominance of Gram-negative bacteria, in particular Proteobacteria, mainly represented by Tepidimonas sp.. Actinobacteria showed low numbers while no Firmicutes were detected in the tap water. The bacterial diversity of tap water was also lower, 23 genera compared to 39 genera on dishwasher rubber seals. Only 13 out of 49 genera identified by metagenomics approach was found in both environments, of those Gordonia was enriched while half of 13 genera were depleted in dishwashers compared to tap water.
Conclusions
These data indicate that colonisation of dishwasher rubber seals probably depends primarily on the bacterial input from the dirty vessels, and much less on the bacteria in the tap water. Based on the antibiotic resistance data, the dishwasher rubber seal bacterial isolates do not represent a serious threat for the spread of antibiotic resistance into the household environment. Nevertheless dishwashers cannot be ignored as potential sources of human infections, in particular for immuno-compromised individuals.
Treatment of simple bone cysts of the humerus by intramedullary nailing and steroid injection
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhu Naiqiang , Du Lilong , Zheng Jihui , Hu Sibin , Xu Baoshan 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Simple bone cysts (SBCs) are common benign lytic bone lesions in children. This study focused on exploring a clinical treatment method, minimally invasive intramedullary decompression and drainage with elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) combined with intralesional injections of steroids, and evaluated its effectiveness, complications and morbidity through functional and radiographic outcomes. Methods: The postoperative recovery of 18 children who suffered from SBCs of humerus was evaluated (mean follow-up, 40 months) from January 2009 to December 2016. These patients (11 males, 7 females; 8 in the left, 10 in the right; mean age, 10.9 years old) were treated with minimally invasive intramedullary decompression and drainage with ESIN combined with intralesional injections of steroids. The diagnosis was based on not only pre-operative typical medical images (X-rays/CT/MRI) but also surgical findings and pathological diagnosis. Radiological and functional outcomes were evaluated according to Capanna and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score. The interclass differences were analyzed by t-test. Results: According to Capanna and MSTS criteria, after treatment, 14 patients made full recoveries which was presented by all the cysts filled with bone tissue, and 4 patients made partially recoveries, which were presented by cystic spaces partially filled with low density bone. All the cysts responded to treatment method, and there was no cyst recurrence. All except 2 patients had good functional results. One of the two patients had irritation of the end of the nail and one patient had a valgus deformity. Conclusions: Treatment for SBCs of humerus by minimally invasive intramedullary decompression and drainage with ESIN combined with intralesional injections of steroids is safe, effective and convenient. The clinical effect is satisfactory and worth popularizing.
The Use of Data Science to Analyse Physiology of Oxygen Delivery in the Extracorporeal Circulation
Authors: Lukaszewski Marceli , Lukaszewski Rafal , Kosiorowska Kinga , Jasinski Marek 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background
Recent scientific reports have brought into light a new concept of goal-directed perfusion (GDP) that aims to recreate physiological conditions in which the risk of end-organ malperfusion is minimalized. The aim of our study was to analyse patients’ interim physiology while on cardiopulmonary bypass based on the haemodynamic and tissue oxygen delivery measurements. We also aimed to create a universal formula that may help in further implementation of the GDP concept.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed patients operated on at the Wroclaw University Hospital between June 2017 and December 2018. Since our observations provided an extensive amount of data, including the patients' demographics, surgery details and the perfusion-related data, the Data Science methodology was applied.
Results
A total of 272 (mean age 62.5±12.4, 74% male) cardiac surgery patients were included in the study. To study the relationship between haemodynamic and tissue oxygen parameters, the data for three different values of DO2i (280 ml/min/m2, 330 ml/min/m2 and 380ml/min/m2), were evaluated. Each set of those lines showed a descending function of CI in Hb concentration for the set DO2i.
Conclusions
Modern calculation tools make it possible to create a common data platform from a very large database. Using that methodology we created models of haemodynamic compounds describing tissue oxygen delivery. The obtained unique patterns may both allow the adaptation of the flow in relation to the patient’s unique morphology that changes in time and contribute to wider and safer implementation of perfusion strategy which has been tailored to every patient’s individual needs.
A transcriptomic and proteomic atlas of expression in the Nezara viridula (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) midgut suggests the compartmentalization of xenobiotic metabolism and nutrient digestion
Authors: Denecke Shane , Ioannidis Panagiotis , Buer Benjamin , Ilias Aris , Douris Vassilis , Topalis Pantelis , Nauen Ralf , Geibel Sven , Vontas John 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background Stink bugs are an emerging threat to crop security in many parts of the globe, but there are few genetic resources available to study their physiology at a molecular level. This is especially true for tissues such as the midgut, which forms the barrier between ingested material and the inside of the body. Results Here, we focus on the midgut of the southern green stink bug Nezara viridula and use both transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to create an atlas of expression along the four compartments of the anterior-posterior axis. Estimates of the transcriptome completeness were high, which led us to compare our predicted gene set to other related stink bugs and Hemiptera, finding a high number of species-specific genes in N. viridula. To understand midgut function, gene ontology and gene family enrichment analyses were performed for the most highly expressed and specific genes in each midgut compartment. These data suggested a role for the anterior midgut (regions M1-M3) in digestion and xenobiotic metabolism, while the most posterior compartment (M4) was enriched in transmembrane proteins. A more detailed characterization of these findings was undertaken by identifying individual members of the cytochrome P450 superfamily and nutrient transporters thought to absorb amino acids or sugars. Conclusions These findings represent an initial step to understand the compartmentalization and physiology of the N. viridula midgut at a genetic level. Future studies will be able to build on this work and explore the molecular physiology of the stink bug midgut.
A self-aggregating peptide: Implications for the development of thermostable vaccine candidates
Authors: Cruz-Resendiz Adolfo , Zepeda Jesus , Sampieri Alicia , Bastian Carlos , Acero Gonzalo , Sánchez-Betancourt Jose Ivan , Gevorkian Goar , Vaca Luis 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: The use of biomaterials has been expanded to improve the characteristics of vaccines. Recently we have identified that the peptide PH(1-110) from polyhedrin self-aggregates and incorporates foreign proteins to form particles. We have proposed that this peptide can be used as an antigen carrying system for vaccines. However, the immune response generated by the antigen fused to the peptide has not been fully characterized. In addition, the adjuvant effect and thermostability of the particles has not been evaluated. Results: In the present study we demonstrate the use of a system developed to generate nano and microparticles carrying as a fusion protein peptides or proteins of interest to be used as vaccines. These particles are purified easily by centrifugation. Immunization of animals with the particles in the absence of adjuvant result in a robust and long-lasting immune response. Proteins contained inside the particles are maintained for over one year at ambient temperature, preserving their immunological properties. Conclusion: The rapid and efficient production of the particles in addition to the robust immune response they generate position this system as an excellent method for the rapid response against emerging diseases. The thermostability conferred by the particle system facilitates the distribution of the vaccines in developing countries or areas with no electricity.
An interprofessional cohort analysis of student interest in medical ethics education: A survey-based quantitative study
Authors: DeFoor Mikalyn T , Chung Yunmi , Zadinsky Julie K , Dowling Jeffrey , II Richard W Sams 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: There is continued need for enhanced medical ethics education across the United States. In an effort to guide medical ethics education reform, we report the first interprofessional survey of a cohort of graduate medical, nursing and allied health professional students that examined perceived student need for more formalized medical ethics education and assessed preferences for teaching methods in a graduate level medical ethics curriculum.
Methods: In January 2018, following the successful implementation of a peer-led, grassroots medical ethics curriculum, student leaders under faculty guidance conducted a cross-sectional survey with 562 of 1,357 responses received (41% overall response rate) among students enrolled in the School of Medicine, College of Nursing, Doctor of Physical Therapy and BS/(D)MD Professional Scholars programs at the [Name of institution blinded for review]. An in person or web-based questionnaire was designed to measure perceived need for a more in-depth medical ethics curriculum.
Results: The majority of respondents were female (333, 59.3%), white (326, 58.0%) and mid-20s in age (340, 60.5%). Almost half of respondents (47%) reported no prior medical ethics exposure or training in their previous educational experience, while 60% of students across all degree programs reported an interest in more medical ethics education and 92% noted that an understanding of medical ethics was important to their future career. Over a quarter of students (28%) were interested in pursuing graduate-level training in medical ethics, with case-based discussions, small group peer settings and ethics guest lectures being the most desired teaching methods.
Conclusions: The future physician, nursing and physical therapist workforce in our medical community demonstrated an unmet need and strong interest for more formal medical ethics education within their current coursework. Grassroots student-driven curricular development and leadership in medical ethics can positively impact medical education. Subsequent integration of interprofessional training in medical ethics may serve as a vital curricular approach to improving the training of ethically competent healthcare professionals and overcoming the current hierarchical clinical silos.
An emotion regulation training in the treatment of obesity in young adolescents: The protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Debeuf Taaike , Verbeken Sandra , Boelens Elisa , Volkaert Brenda , Malderen Eva Van , Michels Nathalie , Braet Caroline 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: The prevalence rates of childhood obesity are growing. The current multidisciplinary treatments for (childhood) obesity are working, but only in short term and rather moderate. Therefore, research needs to search for underlying mechanisms that can improve the existing multidisciplinary treatments. A possible underlying mechanism can be ‘emotion regulation’. Therefore, the current RCT-study aims to test the effectiveness of adding an emotion regulation training to care as usual (multidisciplinary obesity treatment) in young inpatients (10-14) involved in an obesity treatment program compared to care as usual alone. The research model for this RCT-study states that when high levels of stress are regulated in a maladaptive way, this can contribute to the development of obesity.
Method: The current study will recruit 140 youngsters (10-14 years) that are involved in an inpatient multidisciplinary obesity treatment (MOT) program. After giving consent to participate in the study, youngsters will be randomly assigned, during consecutive waves, to one of two conditions: care as usual (receiving MOT) or intervention (receiving MOT and on top an emotion regulation training). The training itself consists of 12 weekly sessions, followed by a booster session after three and five months. The participants will be tested pre, post and at 6 months’ follow-up. We hypothesize that, compared to the control condition, youngsters in the intervention condition will (1) use more adaptive emotion regulation strategies and (2) report less emotional eating, both primary outcome measures. Moreover, on the level of secondary outcome measures, we hypothesize that youngsters in the intervention condition, compared with the control condition, will (3) report a better sleep quality, (4) undergo an improved weight-loss and weight-loss maintenance and (5) experience a better long-term (6-months) psychological well-being.
Discussion: This study will add to both the scientific and clinical literature on the role of emotion regulation in the development and maintenance of different psychopathologies, as emotion regulation is a transdiagnostic factor.
Trial Registration: The RCT-study protocol is registered at ISRCTN Registry, with study ID ‘ISRCTN 83822934’. Registered at 13 December 2017; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN83822934
Treatment effects of Chinese medicine (Yi-Qi-Qing-Jie herbal compound) combined with immunosuppression therapies in patients of IgA nephropathy with high-risk of ESRD (TCM-WINE): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Jin-pu , Li Shen 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common glomerular disease worldwide. It has a high incidence in Asians and is more likely to progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). For high-risk IgAN, which is clinically characterized by massive proteinuria and renal dysfunction, however, there has been no international consensus on treatment options. Compared with other developed countries, IgAN patients in China are often found to have severe kidney function loss at initial diagnosis. Yi-Qi-Qing-Jie Formula Granule (a compound recipe of Chinese medicinal herbs, YQF) has shown potential renal protection in our previous clinical studies. To further confirm the efficacy and safety of YQF in the treatment of high-risk IgAN, we design a prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial.
Methods/Design: The TCM-WINE study is a single-center, prospective, double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. We plan to randomize 60 participants with biopsy-proven IgAN to YQF combined group (YQF compound, combined with prednisolone, and cyclophosphamide if necessary) and immunosuppression group (placebo-YQF, combined with prednisolone, and cyclophosphamide if necessary). The two groups will enter 48-week in-trial treatment phase and receive post-trial follow-up till study completion (3-year). All patients will receive optimal supportive care. The primary composite outcome is defined as the first occurrence of 40% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from the baseline lasting for 3 months, initiating continuous renal replacement treatment or death due to chronic kidney disease (CKD), during the 3-year study phase. The secondary endpoint events are defined as the mean annual eGFR decline rate (eGFR-Slope, ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year) which is calculated by the eGFR regression curve for each eligible patient, and proteinuria remission (prescribed as proteinuria<0.5g/day) at week 24, 36, 48 during the in-trial phase. The remission rate of symptoms and inflammation status will be evaluated respectively at week 48. Safety monitoring and assessment will be undertaken during the study.
Discussion: TCM-WINE study will evaluate effects and safety of YQF combined therapy compared with immunosuppression monotherapy on basis of optimal supportive treatment in high-risk IgAN. The evidence from this study will provide a novel, effective and safe Chinese characteristic therapy for high-risk IgAN patients.
Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT03418779. Registered on 18 June 2018.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT03418779
Monitoring in practice – How are UK academic clinical trials monitored? A survey
Authors: Love Sharon , Yorke-Edwards Victoria , Lensen Sarah , Sydes Matthew R 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Despite the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) encouraging the use of risk-based monitoring for trials in 2013, there remains a lack of evidence-based guidelines on how to monitor. We surveyed the academic United Kingdom Clinical Research Collaboration (UKCRC) registered clinical trials units (CTUs) to find out their policy on monitoring of phase III randomised clinical trials of an investigational medicinal product (CTIMPs).
Methods
An online survey of monitoring policy with sections on the CTU, central monitoring and on-site monitoring was sent to all 50 UKCRC registered CTUs in November 2018.
Descriptive data analysis and tabulations are reported using the total number answering each question.
Results
43/50 (86%) of CTUs responded with 38 conducting phase III randomised CTIMP trials. Of these 38 CTUs, 34 finished the survey. Most CTUs (36/37, 97%) use a central monitoring process to guide, target or supplement site visits. More than half (19/36, 53%) of CTUs do not use an automated monitoring report when centrally monitoring trials and all units use trial team knowledge to make a final decision on whether an on-site visit is required.
31/34 (91%) CTUs used triggers to decide whether or not to conduct an on-site monitoring visit. On-site, a mixture of source data verification and checking of processes was carried out.
The CTUs overwhelmingly (27/34, 79%) selected optimising central monitoring as their most pressing concern.

Conclusion
The survey showed a wide variation in Phase III randomised CTIMP trial monitoring practices by academic clinical trials units within a single research-active country. We urgently need to develop evidence-based regulator agreed guidance for CTUs on best practice for both central and on-site monitoring and to develop tools for all CTUs to use.
The ultrastructural damage of Eugenia zeyheri and Syzygium legatii acetone leaf extracts on pathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Famuyide Ibukun M. , Fasina Folorunso O. , Eloff Jacobus , McGaw Lyndy J. 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background Antibiotics are commonly added to livestock feeds in sub-therapeutic doses as growth promoters and for prophylaxis against pathogenic microbes, especially those implicated in diarrhoea. While this practice has improved livestock production, it is a major cause of antimicrobial resistance in microbes against livestock and humans. This has led to the banning of prophylactic antibiotic use in animals in many countries. To compensate for this, alternatives have been sought from natural sources such as plants. While many studies have reported the antimicrobial activity of medicinal plants with potential for use as phytogenic/botanical feed additives, little information exists on their mode of action. This study is based on our earlier work and describes ultrastructural damage induced by acetone crude leaf extracts of Syzygium legatii and Eugenia zeyheri (Myrtaceae) active against diarrhoeagenic E. coli of swine origin using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and fluorescent microscopy (FM). Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to investigate the chemical composition of plant extracts.Results The extracts damaged the internal and external anatomy of the cytoplasmic membrane and inner structure at a concentration of 0.04 mg/mL. Extracts also led to an increased influx of propidium iodide into treated bacterial cells suggesting compromised cellular integrity and cellular damage. Non-polar compounds such as α-amyrin, friedelan-3-one, lupeol, and β-sitosterol were abundant in the extracts.Conclusions The extracts of S. legatii and E. zeyheri caused ultrastructural damage to E. coli cells characterized by altered external and internal morphology. These observations may assist in elucidating the mode of action of the extracts