bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Design of an Underwater Treadmill System for rehabilitation of older obese adults: a pre-post study
Authors: Kittichaikarn C. , Kuptniratsaikul V. 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
Patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) who are obese have problems performing land-based exercises. The reduced joint stress associated with aquatic exercise may benefit these patients. This study aimed to develop an underwater treadmill (UTM) machine that is affordable and suitable for use in developing countries, and to evaluate its efficacy in decreasing pain and increasing functional improvement.

Methods
Clinical testing of the UTM machine was performed in an outpatient setting at Siriraj Hospital during January–June 2017. Patients with knee OA, aged 50–85 years, numerical rating scale (NRS) ≥5/10, and body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m 2 were recruited. The UTM exercise protocol was 30 min/session, 3 days/week, for 4 weeks. The main outcomes were NRS pain score, 6-min walk distance (6MWD), quadriceps strength (QS) and body weight. Those outcomes were evaluated at baseline and at week 4.

Results
The UTM was constructed with safety, ergonomically designed and user-friendly control panel with push button for emergency stopping. Thirty patients were included for clinical testing. The mean age was 62.8 years, and almost all were female. The mean BMI was 28.9 kg/m 2. Most patients (65.0%) developed bilateral knee OA, used pain medication (56.7%), and engaged in regular knee exercise (73.3%). Of the 30 enrolled patients, 6 withdrew. All of the remaining 24 patients attended all 12 sessions. The mean difference between baseline and the end of the study was − 2.3 (95% CI: − 3.0, − 1.5; p < 0.001) for NRS pain; 34.9 m (95% CI: 14.1, 55.8; p = 0.002) for 6MWD; and, 1.8 kg (95% CI, 1.1, 2.6; p < 0.001) for QS. Concerning adverse events, 4 patients (15.4%) developed muscle pain, 2 patients (7.7%) had joint pain, and 1 patient (3.9%) withdrew due to severe knee pain. Two-thirds of patients described themselves as being ‘very satisfied’ with UTM exercise, and approximately 90% of participants rated their symptoms as ‘improved’ or ‘much improved’.

Conclusions
4-week exercise with UTM can significantly improve NRS pain, 6MWD, and QS. UTM could be an alternative treatment for patients with knee OA who are obese due to small size, durability, and ecofriendly design as an exercise modality.
Comparative efficacy of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments for chronic idiopathic constipation in China: a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: Shi Qingyang , Tan Lizi , Liu Chunxiang , Wang Huijun , Zhang Junhua , Wang Hui , Zhai Jingbo 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundTo provide evidence for medical management of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in China based on comparisons of all clinical practical interventions using Bayesian network meta-analysis.MethodsWe conducted a systematic literature review by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and the Wanfang Database (inception to May 2019) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for CIC in Chinese people. Only RCTs that recruited participants aged over 18 and diagnosed with CIC by the Rome II, III or IV criteria were included. We used three outcomes to examine efficacy. The risk ratio (RR) of the responder rate, based on ≥3 spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) per week after treatment, was the primary outcome, and the SBM count per week and the Bristol score (BS) were secondary outcomes. In addition, adverse effects (AEs) were also considered a secondary outcome to evaluate safety. We conducted Bayesian network meta-analysis with random effects, and the RR or mean difference with its 95% credible interval was calculated. In addition, we ranked all treatments via their cumulative curves (SUCRA) and assessed the quality of evidence according to the GRADE criteria.ResultsWe included a total of 42 trials (6820 participants) of 20 grouped interventions that included pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments. For the primary outcome, fourteen interventions were significantly better than placebo, and Probiotics plus Mosapride (PB + MP) appeared superior to others (GRADE quality of evidence: Moderate to Low), followed by Prucalopride (PP) (High to Low) and Electroacupuncture (EA) (High to Low). For SBM, Compound sodium bicarbonate suppository (CSBS) appeared to be best, with an SUCRA value of 90% (High to Low). For BS, Lactulose plus Probiotics (LT + PB) was superior to others (Moderate to Low), followed by Polyethylene glycol (PEG) (High to Moderate). Although all interventions appeared non-significant when compared with placebo in terms of adverse effects, Lactulose plus Mosapride showed greater risk than others on ranking probability.ConclusionsGiven the GRADE assessment, PB + MP, PP and EA may be the priory options with moderate certainty in the quality of evidence for the primary outcome. For SBM, a CSBS may be the best option with moderate certainty in the quality of evidence. For BS, PEG may be the priory option with high certainty in the quality of evidence. However, due to a lack of high certainty in the quality of evidence, caution is needed when recommending the interventions. Because of the limitations, an increased number of trials are required for more accurate results.
Knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers regarding colorectal cancer screening practices and risk factors among medical students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Althobaiti Asma , Jradi Hoda 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health problem. It is the third most diagnosed common tumour and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early screening has been shown to decrease the incidence of CRC cancer and decrease mortality. In Saudi Arabia (SA), there is no national policy for CRC screening despite the growing incidence of the disease. This study investigated the knowledge of risk factors for CRC, recommendations for screening, and attitudes and barriers towards screening among medical students.

Methods
Data was collected using a self-administered valid and reliable questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and barriers measurements completed by 581 medical students from two Saudi schools. Frequencies and mean scores of knowledge and attitude were determined. The likelihood of students having adequate knowledge of CRC risk factors and screening modalities was estimated using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results
Knowledge of the risk factors for CRC and screening modalities, and attitude towards screening were poor in 52.47 and 57.83% of the surveyed medical students; respectively. Higher level of medical education (OR = 3.23; 95% CI: 2.01–5.18) and a positive attitude towards CRC screening (OR = 2.74; 95% CI: 1.86–4.03) were independent predictors of higher knowledge levels. Lack of awareness about CRC and screening modalities among patients, and shortage of specialized healthcare providers were barriers independently associated with low knowledge levels.

Conclusions
Saudi medical students have limited knowledge of CRC risk factors of and a poor attitude towards CRC screening. These results contribute to our understanding of missed teaching opportunities in Saudi medical schools and suggest intervening at the medical school, clinical practice, and population levels to increase CRC screening practices.
Identification of novel cell glycolysis related gene signature predicting survival in patients with endometrial cancer
Authors: Wang Zi-Hao , Zhang Yun-Zheng , Wang Yu-Shan , Ma Xiao-Xin 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the three major gynecological malignancies. Numerous biomarkers that may be associated with survival and prognosis have been identified through database mining in previous studies. However, the predictive ability of single-gene biomarkers is not sufficiently specific. Genetic signatures may be an improved option for prediction. This study aimed to explore data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to identify a new genetic signature for predicting the prognosis of EC.

Methods
mRNA expression profiling was performed in a group of patients with EC (n = 548) from TCGA. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed to identify gene sets that were significantly different between EC tissues and normal tissues. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to identify genes significantly associated with overall survival. Quantitative real-time-PCR was used to verify the reliability of the expression of selected mRNAs. Subsequent multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to establish a prognostic risk parameter formula. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates and the log‐rank test were used to validate the significance of risk parameters for prognosis prediction.

Result
Nine genes associated with glycolysis (CLDN9, B4GALT1, GMPPB, B4GALT4, AK4, CHST6, PC, GPC1, and SRD5A3) were found to be significantly related to overall survival. The results of mRNA expression analysis by PCR were consistent with those of bioinformatics analysis. Based on the nine-gene signature, the 548 patients with EC were divided into high/low-risk subgroups. The prognostic ability of the nine-gene signature was not affected by other factors.

Conclusion
A nine-gene signature associated with cellular glycolysis for predicting the survival of patients with EC was developed. The findings provide insight into the mechanisms of cellular glycolysis and identification of patients with poor prognosis in EC.
Mesangial cells are key contributors to the fibrotic damage seen in the lupus nephritis glomerulus
Authors: Wright Rachael D. , Dimou Paraskevi , Northey Sarah J. , Beresford Michael W. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundLupus nephritis (LN) affects up to 80% of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Mesangial cells (MCs) comprise a third of the glomerular cells and are key contributors to fibrotic changes within the kidney. This project aims to identify the roles of MCs in an in vitro model of LN.MethodsConditionally immortalised MCs were treated with pro-inflammatory cytokines or with patient sera in an in vitro model of LN and assessed for their roles in inflammation and fibrosis.ResultsMCs were shown to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to a model of the inflammatory environment in LN. Further the cells expressed increased levels of mRNA for extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (COL1A1, COL1A2, COL4A1andLAMB1), matrix metalloproteinase enzymes (MMP9) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP1). Treatment of MCs with serum from patients with active LN was able to induce a similar, albeit milder phenotype. Treatment of MCs with cytokines or patient sera was able to induce secretion of TGF-β1, a known inducer of fibrotic changes. Inhibition of TGF-β1 actions through SB-431542 (an activin A receptor type II-like kinase (ALK5) inhibitor) was able to reduce these responses suggesting that the release of TGF-β1 plays a role in these changes.ConclusionsMCs contribute to the inflammatory environment in LN by producing cytokines involved in leukocyte recruitment, activation and maturation. Further the cells remodel the ECM via protein deposition and enzymatic degradation. This occurs through the actions of TGF-β1 on its receptor, ALK5. This may represent a potential therapeutic target for treatment of LN-associated fibrosis.
Supra-ilioinguinal versus modified Stoppa approach in the treatment of acetabular fractures: reduction quality and early clinical results of a retrospective study
Authors: Yao Sheng , Chen Kaifang , Ji Yanhui , Zhu Fengzhao , Zeng Lian , Xiong Zekang , Sun Tingfang , Yang Fan , Liu Jia , Guo Xiaodong 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundTo compare the efficacy of the operative techniques, complications, reduction quality and hip functional recovery by using the supra-ilioinguinal approach and the modified Stoppa approach for the management of acetabular fractures.MethodsA consecutive cohort of 60 patients from September 2014 to October 2017 with displaced acetabular fractures involving the quadrilateral plate were treated operatively with supra-ilioinguinal approach (group A) and modified Stoppa approach (group B), respectively. There were 36 patients in group A and 24 patients in group B. The surgical details, complications, radiographic and clinical results were recorded. The quality of reduction was assessed by measuring the residual step and gap displacement of postoperative CT with a standardized digital method.ResultsThe complications, reduction quality (gaps and steps) and hip function recovery had no significant statistical difference in approaches. The mean operative time was shorter and the mean intraoperative haemorrhage was less in group A. There were statistical differences in the operative time (P = 0.025) and intraoperative haemorrhage (P = 0.003) between the supra-ilioinguinal approach and the modified Stoppa approach.ConclusionCompared to the modified Stoppa approach, the supra-ilioinguinal approach provides a closer visualization to the quadrilateral plate, the operative time was shorter and the intraoperative haemorrhage was clearly less. It is at least equal to or could be a better choice to deal with complicated acetabular fractures especially involving the quadrilateral plate and the anterior one third of the iliac bone.
Comparison of modified MAZE with minimally invasive monopolar ablation and traditional bipolar radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Si Wei , Yang Sijia , Pan Linhui , Li Chengchegn , Ma Liang 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background and aim of the study
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common atrial arrhythmia. Our aim was to compare the outcomes of atrial fibrillation treatment with original modified minimally invasive MAZE using monopolar radiofrequency ablation (mi-MAZE) and open surgery MAZE using bipolar radiofrequency ablation (os-MAZE).

Methods
We searched the associated patients’ information on the medical record system of the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data. The primary outcome is the atrial fibrillation ablation rate 3 months, 6 months, 12 months after operation. And secondary outcome is the postoperative quality of life.

Results
The mi-MAZE group included 42 patients and the os-MAZE group had 65 patients. Three months after surgery, we found that 31 patients (77.5%) in the mi-MAZE group were sinus rhythm and 44 (71.0%) recovered sinus rhythm in the os-MAZE group. We followed up these patients on the phone or in person and scored them on the SF-36 scale. The results were found to be 120.2 ± 8.10 vs 110.6 ± 6.58 (mi-MAZE vs os-MAZE, P < 0.001).

Conclusions
There was no significant difference of atrial fibrillation ablation rate (sinus rhythm recovery rate) between the mi-MAZE group and the os-MAZE group. The postoperative quality of life in mi-MAZE group was higher than that in os-MAZE group.
Description of two Serratia marcescens associated mastitis outbreaks in Finnish dairy farms and a review of literature
Authors: Friman Mari Johanna , Eklund Marjut Hannele , Pitkälä Anna Helena , Rajala-Schultz Päivi Johanna , Rantala Merja Hilma Johanna 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundInfection withSerratiaspp. have been associated with mastitis outbreaks in dairy cattle herds. Environmental contamination or a point source, like a teat dip product, have often been observed to be potential sources of such outbreaks. We describe twoSerratia marcescensassociated mastitis outbreaks associated with a contaminated teat dip containing a tertiary alkyl amine,n,n-bis (3-aminopropyl) dodecylamine in two dairy cattle farms in Finland.S. marcescensstrains isolated from milk and environmental samples were identified by the MALDI-TOF method.ResultsSix specimens (n = 19) on Herd 1 and all specimens (n = 9) on Herd 2 were positive forS. marcescens. Positive specimens were from mastitis milk and teat dip liquid and equipment. Bacteria were not isolated from the unopened teat dip canister. The same clone ofS. marcescenswas isolated from milk samples and teat dip samples within the farms. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis results to theS. marcescensisolates from these two different herds were tested with unweighted pair-group method using arithmetic average clustering analysis. The isolates were not same clone in both herds, because similarity in that test was only 75% when cut-off value to similarity is 85%.ConclusionsOur investigation showed that the post milking teat dip and/or temporary containers were contaminated withS. marcescensand these were most likely the sources for new mastitis cases. The negative result from the unopened teat dip canister and positive results from refillable containers demonstrated that the product itself was not contaminated withS. marcescensat the production unit, but became contaminated at the farm level.
Identifying climate-sensitive infectious diseases in animals and humans in Northern regions
Authors: Omazic Anna , Bylund Helena , Boqvist Sofia , Högberg Ann , Björkman Christer , Tryland Morten , Evengård Birgitta , Koch Anders , Berggren Camilla , Malogolovkin Alexander , Kolbasov Denis , Pavelko Nataly , Thierfelder Tomas , Albihn Ann 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
General knowledge on climate change effects and adaptation strategies has increased significantly in recent years. However, there is still a substantial information gap regarding the influence of climate change on infectious diseases and how these diseases should be identified. From a One Health perspective, zoonotic infections are of particular concern. The climate in Northern regions is changing faster than the global average. This study sought to identify climate-sensitive infectious diseases (CSIs) of relevance for humans and/or animals living in Northern regions. Inclusion criteria for CSIs were constructed using expert assessments. Based on these principles, 37 potential CSIs relevant for Northern regions were identified. A systematic literature search was performed in three databases using an explicit stepwise approach to determine whether the literature supports selection of these 37 potential CSIs.

Results
In total, 1275 nominated abstracts were read and categorised using predefined criteria. Results showed that arthropod vector-borne diseases in particular are recognised as having potential to expand their distribution towards Northern latitudes and that tick-borne encephalitis and borreliosis, midge-borne bluetongue and the parasitic infection fasciolosis can be classified as climate-sensitive. Many of the other potential CSIs considered are affected by extreme weather events, but could not be clearly classified as climate-sensitive. An additional literature search comparing awareness of climate influences on potential CSIs between 1997–2006 and 2007–2016 showed an increase in the number of papers mentioning effects of climate change.

Conclusions
The four CSIs identified in this study could be targeted in a systematic surveillance programme in Northern regions. It is evident that climate change can affect the epidemiology and geographical range of many infectious diseases, but there were difficulties in identifying additional CSIs, most likely because other factors may be of equal or greater importance. However, climate-ecological dynamics are constantly under change, and therefore diseases may fall in or out of the climate-sensitive definition over time. There is increasing awareness in the literature of the effects of climate change on infectious diseases over time.
Association between DLA-DRB1.2 allelic diversity and development of mammary gland tumors in dogs
Authors: Vahedi Seyed Milad , Nikbakht Gholamreza , Jamshidi Shahram , Lankarani Leila , Alimi Nika , Esmailnejad Atefeh 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is the best-characterized genetic region related to resistance/susceptibility to a wide range of infectious and immune-mediated diseases. Evidences suggest that MHC class II genes may play an important role in developing different types of tumors including breast cancer. Canine mammary gland tumors (CMTs) are the most common neoplasms in female dogs. In the current study, the association of canine MHC class II DLA-DRB1.2 genotypes with development of mammary gland tumor profiles in dogs was investigated. DLA-DRB1.2 allelic diversity was determined in 40 dogs (18 CMT cases and 22 controls) using HRM technique and DNA sequencing. Association of the DLA-DRB1.2 genotypes with CMT profiles was expressed as odds ratio (OR).

Results
Based on the histopathological typing of tumors, CMT cases were categorized into 4 groups: simple carcinoma, complex carcinoma, carcinoma arising in a benign tumor and special types of carcinoma. A total of eight HRM profiles (A to H) were identified in dogs sampled. The association study revealed a significant correlation between DLA-DRB1.2 genotypes with different CMT profiles. The E genotype was significantly associated with increased risk of carcinoma arising in a benign tumor, and the B genotype represented a positive correlation with complex carcinoma. Significant association was also observed between the heterozygosity of DLA-DRB1.2 genotypes and decreased risk of developing tumor in dogs.

Conclusions
These results provide additional support for the association between DLA-DRB1 genes and development of mammary gland tumors in dogs and could potentially be used for early diagnosis of neoplasia and identifying susceptible dogs.
Antigen-labeled mesoporous silica-coated Au-core Pt-shell nanostructure: a novel nanoprobe for highly efficient virus diagnosis
Authors: Li Aiyun , Long Lin , Liu Fengshou , Liu Jianbo , Wu Xiaochun , Ji Yinglu 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
As an emerging research area of artificial enzymes, nanozyme, the catalytic nanomaterials with enzyme-like characteristics, have attracted enormous attention in research. Here, a nanozyme probe has been realized by utilizing antigen-labeled mesoporous silica-encapsulated Au-core Pt-shell (Au@Pt@SiO2) nanostructures for the diagnosis of rubella virus (RV). Pt nanoparticles have been suggested to act as potent peroxidase mimetics with high activities. However, smaller Pt nanoparticles are very easily aggregated, which has negative effects on the catalytic activities.

Results
In this work, the use of gold nanorod as the support favours the well dispersion of the small Pt nanoparticles to improve the stability of them. Furthermore, the designed the silica shell could also isolate the recognition antigens from the surface reactive sites, retaining catalytic activity of the inner nanozyme. In addition, compared with antigen-labeled horseradish peroxidase (HRP), the antigen-labeled Au@Pt@SiO2 nanozyme was more stable and robust. A capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the determination of RV showed that the antigen-labeled Au@Pt@SiO2 nanozyme-based ELISA exhibited good sensitivity.

Conclusions
The highly sensitive peroxidase-like activity of antigen-labeled Au@Pt@SiO2 nanozyme, along with their catalytic stability and robustness, can facilitate their utilization in biochemical assays and clinical diagnosis.