bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization and Degradation of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Polylactides (PLA) and PHA-PLA Blends
Authors: Sohail Rafeya , Jamil Nazia 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Biodegradable biopolymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and polylactide (PLA) have wide range of applications in almost all sectors. Degradation of these polymers, however efficient, still creates a paradox with green chemistry principles. Blending of these polymers can potentially decrease plastic pollution due to their increased biodegradability. During this study, PHAwas produced using bacterial strains DL3; Bacillus subtilis (MT043898), PWA; Bacillus subtilis (MH142143), PWC; Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MH142144), PWF; Bacillus tequilensis (MH142145) and PWG; Bacillus safensis (MH142146). Corn-based PLA was produced chemically and physically blendedwith PHA (PHA-PLA blends). During molecular studies, PHA, PLA and PHA-PLA blendswere characterized via FT-IR analysis, SEM, and light microscopy indicating successful blending of PHA-PLA samples. FTIR results indicated PHA produced by strain PWF and mixed culture wasmcl-PHA. Degradation of polymers and copolymer blends was studied by bacteria for 12 weeks and in different environmental systems i.e. in soil, water, air, and heat for 20 weeks. Degradation analysis indicated highest degradation of PLA, followed by PHA-PLA blends. Among these systems, degradation was favored in soil (80%), followed by water (78%) and air (78%). Least degradation (76%) was observed on heat exposure. Sample degradation observed using light microscope and SEM showed fungal and bacterial colonization amidst cracks, crevices, bumps, and fractures after 20 weeks. Understanding the role of ambient microbial population during degradation and its impact on natural soil environment can be the focus of future studies.
Comparison of Impacts of a Corporate All-Comer Mindfulness Program between Employees with Compromised and Preserved Wellbeing
Authors: Ito Yasushi , Sasamori Izumi 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Evidence to support a corporate mindfulness program is limited to a small number of studies focusing primarily on employees with compromised wellbeing and/or under high stress levels. The primary aim of this study was to, in a corporate setting, compare the impact of a mindfulness program between employees with compromised and preserved wellbeing. Methods: We conducted in-person and online 8-week adapted Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs among all-comers and compared the impacts on the compromised wellbeing group (CWG), as defined by Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) scores in the Profile of Mood States 2, equal to or higher than the Japanese national mean of 50 and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores in the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey second version, lower than the national mean, and on the preserved wellbeing group (PWG), as defined by either TMD scores lower than 50 or MCS scores equal to or higher than 50. Results: Thirty-six employees completed the pre- and post-assessment. The CWG, accounting for 17 of 36 (47.2%), had significantly higher TMD [Mean±SD (95% confidence interval): 60.6±10.3 (55.3 - 65.9)] and lower MCS [40.6±5.5 (37.8 - 43.5)] scores than the national mean as expected and attended class more frequently than the PWG (6.1±1.6 times vs. 4.6±2.3, respectively, p < 0.05), while the PWG had significantly lower TMD [45.7±4.5 (43.5 - 47.9)] and higher MCS [52.8±6.5 (49.6 - 55.9)] scores than the national mean. Both the CWG and PWG showed significant similar within group improvements after the program in Perceived Stress Scale (PSS: 32.4±8.8 to 25.6±9.7, p< 0.05, Cohen’s d= -0.69 and 23.2±4.5 to 21.2±5.2, p < 0.01, d = -0.78, respectively) and TMD (60.6±10.3 to 51.4±11.9, p < 0.05, d = -0.69 and 45.7±4.5 to 42.9±4.4, p < 0.01, d = -0.70) scores while only the CWG showed an improved MCS score. Changes from the baseline between the groups were significant only in MCS scores. Conclusions: The current study suggests that adapted MBSR may be beneficial for corporate employees with preserved wellbeing, providing corporate planners with the evidence required to expand corporate mindfulness programs to a larger employee population.
Gancao Nurish-Yin Decoction Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Skin Lesions and Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Yong Chen , Huimei Wu , Changhong Xiao , Nandakumar Kutty Selva 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
BackgroundPsoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease with a high clinical prevalence, which is often poses treatment difficulties. In this study, we tested whether Gancao nurish-Yin (GNY) decoction is effective for treating mice with imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions. MethodsMice were divided into 4 groups including healthy control group, model group (IMQ-induced psoriasis mice), and two psoriasis induced groups of mice treated with GNY-2.5g/kg and GNY-5g/kg given in the drinking water (n = 8/group). Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) was used to monitor psoriatic symptoms. H&E staining of dermis and baker’s scores were used to evaluate disease severity. Inflammatory cells positive for Gr-1, CD11c, RORγt and TGF-β were counted by using immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence staining methods. Flow cytometry was used to analyse CD4+CD17+ Th17 cells, and CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs within splenocyte cell population. Relative mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23, TNF-ɑ, TGF-β and AMPKɑ1 in the dermis was was semi-quatified using qPCR. ResultsCompared to model group, GNY decoction treated mice, at both the concentrations, improved morphological features, as demonstrated by PASI scores and decreased levels of hyperproliferating keratinocytes. GNY decoction at a higher concentration significantly decreased Gr-1, CD11c, RORγt and TGF-β positive cells in the dermis as well as the differentiated CD4+CD17+ Th17 cells, whereas, CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs were increased in the spleen, mainly with low dose GNY decoction. Furthermore, relative mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23, TNF-ɑ, TGF-β and AMPKɑ1 within dermis were elevated in mice from IMQ model group, which were significantly recduced in mice treated with GNY decoction at GNY-5g/kg concentration.ConclusionHere we demonstrate disease ameliorating effects of GNY decoction in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions in mice, which could form basis for considering GNY decoction for treatment of psoriasis patients.
Carrier Screening of 400 Variations Related 11 Recessive Diseases in the Daur Ethnicity in China
Authors: Li Qiuyan , Zhang Tingting , Dong Bonan , Jia Mansha , Jia Xueyuan , Bai Jing , Yu Jingcui , Fu Songbin 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Single gene disorders are common diseases that cause birth defect. Carrier screening is an effective method to reduce the affected children with single gene disorders. However, incidence rates and carrier positive rates vary among ethnic groups. Results: In the present study, four hundred alleles associated with 11 recessive disease were detected in the Daur ethnicity of China. Among the 246 individuals, 25 individuals were identified as heterozygous carriers of at least one for 11 recessive disorder, carrier rate was 10.16%. A total of 19 females were carrier positive among 143 individuals with a 13.29% positive rate, however, only 6 out 103 males were carrier positive with a 5.83% positive rate. The most common in the Daur was HLD (2.85%) and congenital hearing loss (2.85%), followed by CAH (2.44%), PKU (1.22%), SMA (0.41%), MMA (0.41%), and X-linked ichthyosis (0.41%). Conclusions: These results estimated the distribution of carrier frequencies in the Daur, and showed that several of these diseases may be considered for inclusion in carrier screening in the Daur population. Further large-scale study should be performed to identified the results.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Overall Survival In Synchronous Peritoneal Metastasis of Colorectal Cance
Authors: Chen Wenle , Yuan Zixu , Wu Aiwen , Cui Ming , Yue Zhongyi , Luo Qianxin , Wang Huaiming , Yang Li , Dong Qiushi , Liu Duo , Wang Michael Hu , Huang Ying , Wang Hui , Cai Jian 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Synchronous peritoneal metastases (PM) is a difficult issue to tackle and the prognosis is poor. The aim of this study is to construct a nomogram to predict the overall survival (OS) for synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastasis.Method: In this retrospective study, 332 patients with synchronous PM were included. The training cohort consisting of 251 patients underwent abdominal surgery from February 2007 to February 2018. The risk factors related to prognosis were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression model. 81 patients from other two hospitals were enrolled as validation cohort. The prediction effect of this nomogram was evaluated by C-index and the calibration curve. Result: Five predictors were enrolled into this nomogram after multivariate analysis, including age, peritoneal cancer index (PCI), completeness of cytoreductive surgery (CRS), CA19-9, and albumin. The nomogram showed the accuracy to predict the OS at 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 years. The C-index of the nomogram in the training cohort and validation cohort were 0.713 (95% CI, 0.674–0.752) and 0.642 (95% CI, 0.563-0.720) separately. Both training and validation cohorts showed good discrimination of the nomogram for OS. Calibration curves have shown the predicted OS of nomogram are consistent with actual survival.Conclusion: This novel nomogram, combined with age, PCI, CRS, CA19-9, and albumin, has shown good accuracy to predict OS in patients with synchronous PM, which could be used as an easy-to-use tool for clinicians and surgeons to make decisions.
Superior Pedal Function Recovery of Newly Designed Three Spike Insole Over Total Contact Insole in Refractory Plantar Fasciitis; A Randomized, Double-blinded, Non-inferiority Study
Authors: Shim Dong Woo , Sung Seung-Yong , Chung Whan-Yong , Lee Jin Woo , Kang Kyung-Yil , Park Sung-Jun , Chae Dong Sik 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Plantar fasciitis is one of the common foot complaints that is chronic and can induce dysfunction. Total contact insole (TCI) is simple but effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Nevertheless of the effect, the cost and the long duration for production have been the major flaws. Therefore, we developed newly designed three-spike insole (TSI) that can be commercially productive and compared the clinical outcomes with TCI.Methods: Patients with plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative treatment for more than 6 weeks were candidates. We produced insoles with hardness of 58 ± 5 Shore-A. Twenty-eight patients were randomly allocated to use either TSI or TCI evenly. The following assessment tools were used: visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, Karlsson-Peterson (KP) score, Short Form-36 for quality of life, and Foot Function Index. Non-inferiority was declared if VAS was within the statistical variability of minimal important difference. A blinded assessor evaluated the groups at baseline and after 6, 12, and 24 weeks.Results: The groups were homogenous for majority of variables at baseline. Overall patient-reported satisfaction showed improvement from mean 5.2 (range, 1 – 12) weeks of wearing and all clinical outcome scores showed significant improvements in both groups over time on the basis of Friedman test (p < .05). TSI showed non-inferiority to TCI at each time point. Post hoc analysis revealed that many scales showed significant superiority of TSI at 3 month (p < .0125) and KP score at 6 month (p < .001).Conclusion: We reaffirmed that semi-rigid insole is effective in refractory plantar fasciitis and showed TSI restores pedal function more rapidly than TCI. TSI can be not only effective in deriving better clinical outcomes but also be manufactured for popularization to lower the price and producing time of orthosis.Trial registration: Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0004737). Registered 28 February 2019 – Retrospectively registered, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/search_result_st01.jsp?seq=16839
Exploring Barriers and Enablers to Dietitians Completing Body Composition Assessments as Part of Routine Clinical Care&nbsp;
Authors: Jobber Chloe , Wilkinson Shelley , Hughes Elyssa , Nave Fiona , Meij Barbara van der 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Malnutrition, sarcopenia and cachexia are clinical wasting syndromes characterised by muscle loss. Systematic monitoring by body composition assessment (BCA) is recommended for the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of the syndrome(s). However, limited literature exists regarding integration of BCA into routine practice. This study investigated practices, competency, and attitudes of Australian dietitians regarding BCA, to inform a local implementation process.Methods:Applying the Action cycle in the Knowledge to Action framework, surveys were distributed to the 26 dietitians in our department. The survey assessed barriers and enablers to performing routine BCA in clinical care. Results were categorised using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and suitable interventions mapped using the Behaviour Change Wheel. Results:Twenty-two dietitians (84.6%) completed the survey. Barriers to BCA were identified in all TDF domains. Enablers existed in domains of: Skills; Beliefs about consequences; Goals; Environmental context and resources; Social influences; Intentions; Optimism; Reinforcement. Conclusions:This study showed that hospital dietitians experience numerous individual, team, and organisational barriers to adopt BCAs in clinical practice. Information on barriers and enablers and implementation strategies have been suggested to overcome these barriers to assist BCA adoption into routine practice.
Association Between Sexual Behaviour and Depression in South Korean Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kim Hyunkyu , Jeong Wonjeong , Jang Sung-In , Park Eun-Cheol , Kim Youseok 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Depression and suicide in adolescents have become leading problems both from the public health and socioeconomic aspects. In this context, determining the connection between adolescent behaviour and depression, which can serve as the basis of strategies to reduce the prevalence of depression, is important. Here, we investigated the association between sexual behaviour and depression in a sample of South Korean adolescents.Methods: Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey data from 2017 to 2019 served as the basis of this cross-sectional study. The data of 178,664 participants were analysed using chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression.Results: After adjusting for covariates (adjusted odds ratio: 1.71, 95% confidence interval: 1.59–1.83 in males, adjusted odds ratio: 1.47, confidence interval: 1.33–1.61 in females), the prevalence of depression was higher in participants with experience of sexual intercourse. On categorising subjects into two groups based on suicidality, subjects with sexual intercourse experience had higher odds ratios for severe depression with suicidality than milder depression.Conclusion: In this study, we identified the relationship between sexual behaviour and the prevalence of depression; adolescents with experience of sexual intercourse were more likely to have severe depression with suicidality. Further research using prospective designs should serve as the basis of appropriate sex education policies to manage the relationship between sexual behaviour and depression.
Spread of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Lineage 4 in Sichuan-chongqing Region of China Influenced by Maritime Silk Road and “huguang Filling Sichuan”&nbsp;
Authors: Wu Wei , Liang Peng-kuan , Yuan Hai-Bing , Tian Yu-Ang , Sun Qun 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) was closely influenced by human migration. Lineage 4, a lineage of MTBC mainly being epidemic in Europe and America, was not the major one in China. Its proportion in Sichuan-Chongqing region, however, was significantly higher than that at the national level. Previous study by the most recent common ancestor calculation based on Bayes model suggested that lineage 4 epidemic in South China today probably entered China around the 13th century, and the most important human migration events associating with this region during and after this period of time included Maritime Silk Road and “Huguang filling Sichuan”. The purpose of this study was to explore whether the high proportion of lineage 4 in Sichuan-Chongqing region was impacted by these two events. MethodsThe genotyping data of 17,269 MTBC isolates, the proportion of targeted surname populations related to “Huguang filling Sichuan”, and the information of main ports’ location around Maritime Silk Road were collected. Interpolation analysis was used to estimate the geographical distribution of lineage 4 and its three sub-lineages (L4.2, L4.4, L4,5), as well as the targeted surname populations. And the correlation between the geographical distribution in the main ports on Maritime Silk Road and the regions with the proportion of L4.2 and L4.4 was analyzed.ResultsInterpolation and correlation analysis showed that lineage 4’s distribution in China could be mapped to the regions affected by “Huguang filling Sichuan”, while L4.2 and L4.4’s distributing in Asia, Europe, and Africa could be those by Maritime Silk Road, ConclusionsMaritime Silk Road and “Huguang Filling Sichuan” potentially posed an essential combined influence on the greater occurring of lineage 4 in Sichuan-Chongqing region. This study may contribute to the tracing and epidemiological investigation of tuberculosis and other world-wide infectious diseases.
Neurotropic Grades in Lattice Corneal Dystrophy Based on in Vivo Confocal Microscopy Observation
Authors: li ming , Zhu Fengjiao , Zhang Chun , Chen Chan , Ying Fangwei , Nie Danyao 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the corneal neurotropic phenomenon in patients with lattice corneal dystrophy (LCD) with in vivo laser scanning confocal microscopy (IVCM). Methods: IVCM was performed on a total of 15 patients (28 eyes) with LCD annually at a follow-up. A collection of the data was acquired to be analyzed. Results: As indicated by the analysis, the LCD patients’ normal corneal stromal nerves (Grade 0) presented a decline with the prolongation of the follow-ups, corresponding to a gradual increase in grade I and II involving amyloid-wrapped nerve fibers, which demonstrated that the growing amount of amyloid deposit due to the corneal nerve invasion increased slowly over time. Conclusions: The neurotropic phenomenon could increase with its severity in the corneal lesion of the patients with LCD, and also reflect the distribution of the corneal nerves, to some extent. IVCM provides a rapid, noninvasive way to observe the corneal nerves, which can be an efficient means of better understanding the development of LCD.
Sensorimotor and Body Perception Assessments of Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Raphael Meier , Emch Christine , Wolf Claudia , Pfeiffer Fabian , Meichtry Andre , Schmid Annina B. , Luomajoki Hannu 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders. It leads to major costs in health care systems and causes significant personal and social burdens. Current research focuses on the processes of the central nervous system such as cortical changes in pain perception to discover new and more efficient ways to treat chronic low back pain (CLBP). Several clinical tests have been suggested that might correlate with altered cortical representation. These include back-photo assessment (BPA), movement control tests (MCI) and two-point discrimination thresholds (TPD).Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether BPA, MCI and TPD tests can discriminate between CLBP patients with altered body perception and healthy controls.Design: A case-control study matched by gender and age.Methods: Using MCI, BPA and TPD tests on the lower back, thirty patients with CLBP and thirty healthy controls were investigated at one point in time. Participants were also required to complete three questionnaires: the ‘Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire’, the ‘Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale’ and the ‘Fremantle Back Awareness Questionnaire’. Correlations among the main covariates and odds ratios for group differences were calculated.Results: The MCI showed a statistically significant odds ratio for the presence of CLBP of 0.65 (p< 0.05), whereas TPD and BPA did not determine differences between the groups.Conclusion: The movement control test was found to be the only suitable test to discriminate CLBP patients from healthy controls.Trial registration: The study was approved by the Swiss Ethical Commission Northwest and Central Switzerland (EKNZ) and registered at 21.8.2015, reference number 2015-243.
An Early Indication of the Rebound of W. Bancrofti Infection in Zanzibar
Authors: Ame Shaali , Kabole Fatma M. , Abuubakar Salum , Nanai Alphoncina Maseko , Andemichael Ghirmay , Djeunga Hugues Nana 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a debilitating neglected tropical disease which is targeted for elimination through co-administration of a single dose of ivermectin and albendazole in the affected population. Following implementation of such a treatment campaign over a period of years, control programmes are urged to conduct a transmission assessment survey to monitor the impact of the treatment and to ascertain whether the transmission is interrupted to a level that can no longer sustain transmission and hence mass drug administration (MDA) can be halted. Objective:This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of LF infection in Zanzibar communities, 13 years after stopping MDA, so as to inform and guide the control program. MethodologyA Finger prick blood sample was collected from each participant after obtaining informed consent. The sample was assessed for the presence of Wucheria bancrofti circulating antigen using rapid immunochromatographic test. ResultsA total of 2555 subjects were enrolled (1231 in Pemba and 1324 in Unguja) in the study with a mean age of 23.0yrs ± SD 18.9 (95% CI = 22.3-23.8). There were more female (53.9%) than male (46.1%); and their mean age significantly differed (t-test = 7.5, p = 0.00001). Only 2478 individuals gave blood sample . Of these, 88 (3.55%) were found to be infected with W. bancrofti. Overall, the prevalence of infection was higher in Pemba (5.1%) than in Unguja (2.1%). The prevalence of infection was similar between different older age groups , children aged 1-5yrs in Pemba had the highest prevalence indicating that transmission is ongoing. Observation of development of clinical manifestation, lymphoedema and hydrocele was also assessed. Overall, only 1.1% of the individuals had lymphoedema/elephantiasis; with male presented with more of those signs (1.6%) than female (0.7%). There was no male subject found to have hydrocele , although 8.3% of male had filariasis.The assessment of treatment history revealed that majority (64.7%) of the respondents had received at least one treatment round during their lifetime. Historical treatments with ivermectin did not correlate with current individual levels of infection but individuals who reported to have received 2 and 4 rounds of treatment were not found to be infected with filariasis.Conclusion and RecommendationIn view of our findings it clearly shows that the prevalence of LF in Zanzibar is still high to exceed the set threshold for discontinuation of MDA campaign. Children as young as 5yrs were found infected. It is therefore important to consider continuation of MDA so as to prevent potential disease sequel which might develop.