bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Alpha-fetoprotein Serum is still Reliable as a Biomarker for the Surveillance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Indonesia
Authors: Jasirwan Chyntia Olivia Maurine , Fahira Alessa - , Siregar Lianda - , Loho Imelda - 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background and Aims Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide with an inferior prognosis. In Indonesia, the average life expectancy is less than 5 months, with most patients being in an advanced stage wherein the survival rate is very low. Early detection through surveillance program is very crucial. HCC guidelines worldwide have provided surveillance recommendation through the examination of α-fetoprotein (AFP) and ultrasound for patients at risk in developing HCC. However, there have been some controversies regarding the usage of AFP concerning its low sensitivity and specificity in detecting HCC. Therefore, the effectiveness of AFP in the surveillance of HCC patients and identifying the parameters most associated with the increase of AFP≥10 ng/ml in Indonesia should be evaluated. Methods We analyzed medical records of HCC patients and those at high risk of developing HCC through cross-sectional study, including patients with cirrhosis and hepatitis B and C, from 2015 to 2017 who underwent treatment at the Cipto Mangunkusumo National Hospital and Dharmais National Cancer Hospital, Indonesia. Results The sensitivity and specificity of AFP in the surveillance of HCC in Indonesia with a cut-off of 10 ng/ml were 82.6% and 71.2%, respectively. The parameters most associated with the increase of AFP ≥10 ng/ml according to multivariate analysis were the etiology of hepatitis B, the stage of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B and C, and the presence of cirrhosis, respectively. Conclusion AFP can still be used in the surveillance of HCC in Indonesia for its high sensitivity value.
Validity and diagnostic performance of Fluorescence Optical Imaging measuring synovitis in hand osteoarthritis. Baseline results from the Nor-Hand cohort.
Authors: Maugesten Øystein , Mathiessen Alexander , Hammer Hilde Berner , Hestetun Sigrid , Kvien Tore Kristian , Uhlig Till , Ohrndorf Sarah , Haugen Ida Kristin 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Objective: Fluorescence Optical Imaging (FOI) demonstrates enhanced microcirculation in finger joints as a sign of inflammation. We wanted to assess the validity and diagnostic performance of FOI measuring synovitis in persons with hand OA, comparing it with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)- and ultrasound-detected synovitis. Methods: 221 participants with hand OA underwent FOI and ultrasound (grey scale synovitis and power-Doppler activity) of the bilateral hands and contrast-enhanced MRI examination of the dominant hand. Fifteen joints in each hand were scored on semi-quantitative scales (grade 0-3) for all modalities. Four FOI images were evaluated: one composite image (Prima Vista Mode; PVM) and three images representing phases of fluorescent dye distribution. Spearman’s correlation coefficients were calculated between sum scores of FOI, MRI and ultrasound. Sensitivity, specificity and area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for FOI using MRI or ultrasound as reference. Results: FOI did not demonstrate enhancement in the thumb base, and the joint was excluded from further analyses. FOI sum scores showed poor to fair correlations with MRI (rho 0.01-0.24) and GS synovitis sum scores (rho 0.12-0.25). None of the FOI images demonstrated both good sensitivity and specificity, and the AUC ranged from 0.50-0.61 and 0.51-0.63 with MRI and GS synovitis as reference, respectively. FOI demonstrated similar diagnostic performance with PD activity and GS synovitis as reference. Conclusion: FOI enhancement correlated poorly with synovitis assessed by more established imaging modalities, questioning the value of FOI for the evaluation of synovitis in hand OA.
Quantitative Assessment of Renal Function In Children with UPJO By Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound ： A Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Shuofan , Lin Defu , Liu Pei , Sun Ning , Han Wenwen , Li Minglei , Zhang Weiping , Song Hongcheng , Li Zhenwu , Liu Qinglin , Wang Xiaoman 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) is a new potential modality for the quantitative evaluation of the microvascular perfusion of renal parenchyma.Objective: To prospectively evaluate the diagnostic value of CEUS in assessing renal function in patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO).Methods: The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Beijing Children’s Hospital (Beijing,China), and written informed consent was obtained from the patients’ parents or guardians. Ultrasonography (US), CEUS, and radioisotope renography were performed in 51 children (42 boys, 9 girls; mean age, 6.75 ± 4.14 years) with unilateral UPJO. The slope of the ascending curve (A), time to peak (TTP), peak intensity (PI), and area under the curve (AUC) were recorded during CEUS; the quantitative data were calculated by the QLAB system (semiautomated border tracking, Philips Healthcare) software. Sensitivity and specificity values were determined for CEUS and compared with radioisotope renography.Results: A total of 102 kidneys in 51 patients were depicted by CEUS and the perfusion time-intensity curve (TIC).CEUS depicted 102 kidneys in 51 patients, in whom the perfusion time-intensity curve（TIC）was determined. The TIC of renal cortical perfusion in all groups showed an asymmetrical single-peak curve, which could be clearly distinguished between the experimental group and the control group. Compared to the control group, the TTP was markedly prolonged but A was significantly decreased in the experimental group (P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between AUC, PI and DFR，but the correlation coefficient between TTP, A and DFR remained significant (p<0.001).The receiver operating characteristic （ROC）curve drawn to differentiate the differential renal function (DRF) using the TTP value provided an area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of 0.86. The diagnostic performance of contrast-enhanced US was better than that of US, as the sensitivity and specificity values were 92.86% and 76.14%, respectively.Conclusions: This preliminary experience represents the first report of evaluating the diagnostic value of CEUS in assessing renal function in children with UPJO. CEUS is a highly sensitive, rapid, and diagnostic imaging modality for detecting and monitoring renal function noninvasively.
A Cellular Study of Inflammatory Responses in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome as: “An In vitro Model of Anti Breast Tumor Response”A Case Control Study
Authors: Rezayat Fatemeh , Hajiaghaei Mehri , Ghasemi Nazanin , Mesdaghi Mehrnaz , Tehrani Fahimeh Ramezani , Mosaffa Nariman 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Although Polycystic Ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age; is unclear whether PCOS increases the risk of subsequent development of, Gynecologic cancers namely breast cancer. The present study we aimed to compare the antitumoral ability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of women with PCOS with that of healthy controls using the co-culture system between effector cells and target tumor cell lines. Materials & Methods: PBMCs were isolated from 25 women with PCOS and 25 non hirsute eumenorrheic healthy controls by density gradient centrifugation ficoll. Breast tumor cell lines (MDA-468, MCF-7) were incubated as the two target cells and were cultured adjacent to PBMCs in the transwell co-culture system. Proliferation rate of the effectors cells evaluated by BrdU cell proliferation assay after 48 and 72 hours and T CD3+ lymphocytes were assessed using flow cytometry. TNF-α cytokine production was evaluated in cell culture supernatant by sandwich ELISA technique. Results: After 48 hours incubation with MDA-468 and MCF-7, the mean proliferation score of PBMCs was significantly higher in women with PCOS compared to that of healthy controls (921.04; P=0.021 vs 287.6; P=0.002, respectively). In PCOS women, after 72 hours of incubation, TNF-α concentration was significantly reduced compared to 48-hour cultures (921.04 ± 271.4 pg/dl vs 545.6 ± 151.1 pg/dl at 48 h and 72 h intervals respectively, P<0.05); it was increased in healthy controls. There was no significant difference in CD3+ CD8+ cells between the PCOS group and healthy controls. Conclusion: The ability of PBMCs to produce of TNF-α in women with PCOS decreased gradually; as a result of which they may lack the ability required to form an in vitro efficient antitumor response to breast tumor cell lines. It is assumed that threshold activation of mononuclear cells is reduced in women with PCOS and a low-grade inflammatory condition may provide a positive background for arising myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs).
Periodized resistance training for persistent non-specific low back pain: A mixed methods feasibility study
Authors: Tjøsvoll Svein O. , Mork Paul J. , Iversen Vegard M. , Rise Marit B. , Fimland Marius S. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: We investigated the feasibility of a 16-week supervised heavy resistance training program with weekly undulating periodization for individuals with persistent non-specific low-back pain (LBP). Methods: Twenty-five adults with persistent non-specific LBP participated in this mixed methods feasibility study. Participants trained a whole-body program consisting of squat, bench press, deadlift and pendlay row two times per week for 16 weeks. We assessed pain intensity, pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy and one-repetition maximum strength at baseline, 8 weeks and 16 weeks. Three focus group interviews were conducted at the end of the program. Linear mixed models were used to assess changes in outcomes, and the qualitative data was assessed using systematic text condensation. Results: We observed clinically meaningful reductions in pain intensity after 8 and 16 weeks of training. The mean difference on the numeric pain rating scale (0-10) in the last two weeks from baseline to 8 weeks was 2.6 (95% CI: 1.8-3.6) and from baseline to 16 weeks 3.4 (95% CI: 2.5-4.4). In addition, there were improvements in pain-related disability (3.9, 95% CI: 2.3-5.5), pain self-efficacy (7.7, 95% CI: 5.4-10.1) and muscle strength. In the focus group interviews, participants talked about challenges regarding technique, the importance of supervision and the advantages of periodizing the training. Perceived benefits were improved pain, daily functioning, energy level and sleep, and changes in views on physical activity.Conclusion: Periodized resistance training with weekly undulating periodization is a feasible training method for this group of individuals with persistent non-specific LBP. A randomized clinical trial should assess the efficacy of such an intervention.Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov/ Identifier – NCT04284982, Registered on February 24th 2020.
Anti-inflammatory effect of piperine ameliorates insulin resistance in monosodium glutamate–treated obese mice
Authors: Liu Chaolong , Yuan Yanting , Zhou Ji , Hu Ruixin , Ji Lixia , Jiang Guohui 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background : Metabolic inflammation has been considered as an essential event in obesity-induced diabetes and insulin resistance. In obesity, an increasing number of macrophages recruited into visceral adipose tissues undergo significant M 1 -like polarization, secreting variable amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and causing insulin resistance. Piperine has been proven to have excellent anti-inflammatory activity and has therapeutic effects on a variety of inflammatory diseases. Therefore, we investigated the effect of piperine on adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance in obese mice. Methods: In this study, the monosodium glutamate (MSG) obese mice model was used. The 6-month-old MSG mice were divided into three groups, which were treated with piperine (40 mg/kg/day), metformin (150 mg/kg/day) and vehicle for successive 10 weeks, respectively. Meanwhile, the 6-month-old normal mice without MSG treatment were selected as normal controls. Results: When the obesity model was successfully established, obesity degree, insulin resistance, fasting blood glucose(FBG) and serum lipid profiles were significantly increased. Our results showed that the 10-week administration of piperine (40 mg/kg/d) not only significantly decreased the elevated FBG, serum TC and TG levels, but also enhanced infusion rate in hyperglycemic clamp experiment and improved the oral glucose intolerance as well as abnormal insulin tolerance in adult MSG obese mice. Additionally, piperine significantly decreased the total and differential white blood cell (WBC) count and the serum level of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), pro-inflammatory cytokines such as galectin-3 (Gal-3), interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Furthermore, piperine clearly down-regulated the mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the protein levels of M 1 -like polarization marker CD11c and Gal-3 in adipose tissues. In addition, the in vitro study showed that piperine inhibited LPS- stimulated polarization of RAW 264.7 cells toward the M 1 phenotype. Conclusions: In summary, these findings demonstrated that piperine could significantly inhibit body weight gain, reduce fat accumulation, rectify glycolipid metabolism disorders, improve severe insulin resistance and ameliorates systemic metabolic inflammation in MSG obesity mice. Our study indicates that piperine, as a potential natural alkaloid, can be used in the treatment of obesity-associated diabetes by delaying the progression of obesity-induced insulin resistance.
Climatology of Medium-Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (MSTIDs) Observed with GPS Networks in the North African Region
Authors: Oluwadare Temitope Seun , Jakowski Norbert , Valladares Cesar E. , Akala Andrew Oke-Ovie , Abe Oladipo E. , Alizadeh Mahdi M. , Schuh Harald 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
We present for the first time the climatology of medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs) by using Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver networks on geomagnetically quiet days (Kp ≤ 3) over the North African region during 2008-2016. The MSTIDs appear frequently as oscillating waves or wave-like structures in electron density induced by the passage of Atmospheric Gravity Waves (AGW) propagating through the neutral atmosphere and consequently, causing fluctuation in the ionospheric Total Electron Content (TEC). The TEC perturbations (dTEC) data are derived from dual frequency GPS-measurements. We have statistically analyzed the occurrence rate, diurnal and seasonal behavior as well as the annual MSTID occurrence characteristics. The results show a local and latitude dependence of nighttime and daytime MSTIDs. The propagation direction is predominantly towards the South (equatorward), MSTIDs event period is (10 ≤ period ≤ 43 mins), and amplitude (0.08 ≤ amp ≤ ~5.0 TECU), with a velocity higher at nighttime than daytime. The amplitudes for daytime and nighttime MSTIDs increase with solar activity. On the average, the local MSTIDs Spatio-temporal heat map for the Mid-latitude reveals variability in disturbance occurrence time to be dominant within the hours of 0900 - 1600 LT in December solstice (winter) and 1900–0400 LT in June solstice (summer) for daytime and nighttime respectively. While the low latitude reveals the disturbance occurrence time to be dominant within the hours of 1100 - 1800 LT in December solstice (winter) and 2000–0200 LT in equinox months and June solstice (summer) for daytime and nighttime respectively. The time series MSTIDs regional distribution map is also generated. Atmospheric gravity waves (AGW) might be responsible for the excitation mechanism for daytime MSTIDs.
Supporting treatment adherence for children and young people living with Cystic Fibrosis by introducing an adherence protocol in the outpatient setting – A mixed methods implementation study.
Authors: Richards Bianca Lee , Osborne Sonya , Simons Megan 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: In cystic fibrosis care, patients are required to adhere to a burdensome daily treatment regimen. The outpatient cystic fibrosis clinic presents an opportunity for multidisciplinary healthcare teams to monitor disease progression, support daily treatment adherence, address adherence challenges and improve health outcomes. However, the complexity of adherence care, and inconsistencies in methods and delivery of adherence interventions may impact the effectiveness of healthcare teams changing adherence outcomes. Comprehensive adherence protocols have been proposed (CF My Way) to increase the visibility, consistency and efficacy of adherence work. Barriers in the clinic environment have been implicated in their unsuccessful translation into standard care. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility, acceptability and appropriateness of implementing the ‘CF My Way’ protocol into the outpatient cystic fibrosis clinic of a tertiary, paediatric hospital Methods: This implementation study employed a pre-post observational study design using mixed methods. A four-phased implementation framework guided the implementation plan. Prior to the program introduction, qualitative data was collected from 23 clinicians, adolescents and parents using focus groups and interviews to identify barriers and enablers to implementation. Quantitative data was collected using purpose-designed audit tools and surveys throughout the implementation and analysed to inform modifications and support translation to standard care. Discussion: Theoretically and conceptually-derived implementation science frameworks can inform the process of translating an adherence protocol into an existing CF healthcare setting. Results indicate that while using an adherence protocol is acceptable and appropriate according to the perspectives of clinicians and parents, ‘CF My Way’ is not yet an “off the shelf” solution to the adherence challenge. Modifications were required to the original adherence protocol to support integration. Implementation strategies such as pilot testing, systems analysis and team cultural interventions are indicated to support effective and consistent adherence care pathways in the CF clinic. Trial registration number: ACTRN12619001730190 Trial web address: http://www.ANZCTR.org.au/ACTRN12619001730190.aspx
Assessment of Local Supply Chains and Stock Management Practices for Trauma Care Resources in Ghana: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Boakye Godfred , Gyedu Adam , Stewart Melissa , Donkor Peter , Mock Charles , Stewart Barclay T 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Injuries are a major public health problem globally. With sound planning and organization, essential trauma care can be reliably provided with relatively low-cost equipment and supplies. However, availability of these resources requires an effective and efficient supply chain and good stock management practices. Therefore, we study aimed to assess trauma care resource-related supply management structures and processes at health facilities in Ghana. By doing so, the findings may allow us to identify specific structures and processes that could be improved to facilitate higher quality and more timely care.Methods: Ten hospitals were purposively selected using results from a previously performed national trauma care capacity assessment of hospitals of all levels in Ghana. Five hospitals with low resource availability and 5 hospitals with high resource availability were assessed using the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Logistics Indicators Assessment Tool and stock ledger review. Data were described and stock management practices were correlated with resource availability.Results: There were differences in stock management practices between low and high resource availability hospitals, including frequency of reporting and audit, number of stock-outs on day of assessment (median 9 vs 2 stock-outs, range 3 – 57 vs 0 – 9 stock-outs, respectively; p=0.05), duration of stock-outs (median 171 vs 8 days, range 51 – 1,268 vs 0 – 182 days, respectively; p=0.02), and fewer of up-to-date stock cards (24 vs 31 up-to-date stock cards, respectively; p=0.07). Stock-outs were common even among low-cost, essential resources (e.g., nasal cannulas and oxygen masks, endotracheal tubes, syringes, sutures, sterile gloves). Increased adherence to stock management guidelines and higher percentage of up-to-date stock cards were correlated with higher trauma resource availability scores. However, the variance in trauma resource availability scores was poorly explained by these individual factors or when analyzed in a multivariate regression model (r2=0.72; p value for each covariate between 0.17 – 0.34).Conclusions: Good supply chain and stock management practices are correlated with high trauma care resource availability. The findings from this study demonstrate several opportunities to improve stock management practices, particularly at low resource availability hospitals
Infrared imageries of human body activated by teas indicate the existence of meridian system
Authors: Jin Wenli , Tao Yichen , Wang Chen , Wang Lufei , Ao Xue , Su Mingjie , Hu Binwei , Ouyang Yuxiao , Liu Jiaxing , Li Hui 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
BackgroundHuman meridian (Jingluo) system was hypothesized by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. In this hypothesis, there believed to be twelve formal meridian channels going through respective organs, carrying fluid and energy, and laying thermal effects. Some treatments based on meridians have been proved effective. However, existence of meridians has never been confirmed. The infrared photograph was employed to display the picture to the meridians since 1970. Unfortunately, no satisfactory results have been obtained. We think that only when a certain meridian is activated will there be thermal effect for successful infrared photograph.Methods We selected thirteen types of tea out of the herbs to activate the hypothesized twelve meridians for imagery taking. We collected 42 volunteers to drink teas and take infrared imageries in thirteen days. After every tea was drunk, infrared imageries of the human bodies were taken immediately. The highest temperatures of the fingers, palms, and above the organs were derived from the imageries. The averages and standard deviations of the standardized data of volunteers were calculated. Significances of the temperature difference among the body areas after drinking different teas were evaluated. ResultsWe found that the temperatures of the organs and fingers possibly connected by twelve hypothesized meridians rose together significantly, i.e., the thumbs and lung after white teas, index fingers and colon after blue teas, middle fingers and thymus after dark black teas, ring fingers and gallbladder after red black teas, little fingers and heart after yellow teas. The temperature distribution on the human bodies exhibited twelve patterns following the meridian hypothesis. Infrared imageries showed quite clear shapes of the organs activated by the teas, e.g., heart and kidneys by yellow teas, thymus by dark black teas, lungs and spleen by white teas, gallbladder and thyroid by red black teas, etc. Some high temperature lines also matched the hypothetic meridians. ConclusionsOur work displayed the imageries of the possible meridians for the first time, and proved with data that different foods may activate different organs following the meridian hypothesis, shedding light on a possible new method of targeted drug designs.