bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic Determinants Of Clinical Phenotype In Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy&nbsp;
Authors: Velicki Lazar , Jakovljevic Djordje G , Preveden Andrej , Golubovic Miodrag , Bjelobrk Marija , Ilic Aleksandra , Stojsic Snezana , Barlocco Fausto , Tafelmeier Maria , Okwose Nduka , Tesic Milorad , Brennan Paul , Ristic Arsen , Popovic Dejana , MacGowan Guy A , Filipovic Nenad , Maier Lars S. , Olivotto Iacopo 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common inherited cardiovascular disease that affects approximately one in 500 people. HCM is a recognized genetic disorder most often caused by mutations involving myosin-binding protein C (MYBPC3) and β-myosin heavy chain (MYH7) which are responsible for approximately three-quarters of the identified mutations.Methods: As a part of the international multidisciplinary SILICOFCM project (www.silicofcm.eu) the present study evaluated the association between underlying genetic mutations and clinical phenotype in patients with HCM. Only patients with confirmed single pathogenic mutations in either MYBPC3 or MYH7 genes were included in the study and divided into two groups accordingly. The MYBPC3 group was comprised of 48 patients (76%), while the MYH7 group included 15 patients (24%). Each patient underwent clinical examination and echocardiography.Results: The most prevalent symptom in patients with MYBPC3 was dyspnea (44%), whereas in patients with MYH7 it was palpitations (33%). The MYBPC3 group had a significantly higher number of patients with a positive family history of HCM (46% vs. 7%; p=0.014). There was a numerically higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation in the MYH7 group (60% vs. 35%, p=0.085). Laboratory analyses revealed normal levels of creatinine (85.5±18.3 vs. 81.3±16.4 µmol/l; p=0.487) and blood urea nitrogen (10.2±15.6 vs. 6.9±3.9 mmol/l; p=0.472) which were similar in both groups. The systolic anterior motion presence was significantly more frequent in patients caring MYH7 mutation (33% vs. 10%; p=0.025), as well as mitral leaflet abnormalities (40% vs. 19%; p=0.039). Calcifications of mitral annulus were registered only in MYH7 patients (20% vs. 0%; p=0.001). The difference in diastolic function, i.e. E/e’ ratio between the two groups was also noted (MYBPC3 8.8±3.3, MYH7 13.9±6.9, p=0.079).Conclusions: Major findings of the present study corroborate the notion that MYH7 gene mutation patients are presented with more pronounced disease severity than those with MYBPC3.
Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Group B Streptococcus in Pregnant Women from Hospitals in Ohangwena and Oshikoto Regions of Namibia.
Authors: Moyo Sylvester Rodgers , Haimbodi Erastus Lafimana , Mukesi Munyaradzi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe main purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence rate, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and molecular characteristics of Streptococcus agalactiae isolated from pregnant women at 35 weeks of gestation and above, who attended antenatal screening at selected hospitals in Ohangwena and Oshikoto regions of Namibia.ResultsTwelve (5.7%) of women screened were colonised by GBS, of which 25.0% were colonised rectovaginally, 58.0% vaginally and 17.0% rectally. No significant association was reported between GBS colonisation and maternal age, habitat, marital status, education, employment, parity, still births and miscarriages (P values >0.05). Antimicrobial susceptibility was reported at 100% for ampicillin, penicillin & ceftriaxone. Resistance to tetracycline was reported at 100%. Tetracycline resistance gene tet(M) was present in 88.9% of the isolates only and none of the isolates presented with tet(O). Polysaccharide capsular type Ia was found in 9(50%) and Ib was found in 1(5.5%) of the total isolates. The remaining isolates were not typeable using PCR.ConclusionStreptococcus agalactiae’s positive rate was 5.7% among the pregnant women examined. Socio-demographic and obstetric factors had no influence on GBS colonisation (P values >0.05). No resistance was reported to ampicillin, penicillin and ceftriaxone. No sensitivity was reported to tetracycline. Fifty (50%) of the isolates were capsular type Ia, 5.5% were type Ib and 44.4% were not typeable using PCR.
Cyclotron-based production of 68Ga, [68Ga]GaCl3, and [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 from a liquid target
Authors: Rodnick Melissa E , Sollert Carina , Stark Daniela , Clark Mara , Katsifis Andrew , Hockley Brian G , Parr D. Christian , Frigell Jens , Henderson Bradford D , Abghari-Gerst Monica , Piert Morand R , Fulham Michael J , Eberl Stefan , Gagnon Katherine , Scott Peter J. H. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Purpose: To optimize the direct production of 68Ga on a cyclotron, via the 68Zn(p,n)68Ga reaction using a liquid cyclotron target. We Investigated the yield of cyclotron-produced 68Ga, extraction of [68Ga]GaCl3 and subsequent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 labeling using an automated synthesis module.Methods: Irradiations of a 1.0 M solution of [68Zn]Zn(NO3)2 in dilute (0.2-0.3 M) HNO3 were conducted using GE PETtrace cyclotrons and GE 68Ga liquid targets. The proton beam energy was degraded to a nominal 14.3 MeV to minimize the co-production of 67Ga through the 68Zn(p,2n)67Ga reaction without unduly compromising 68Ga yields. We also evaluated the effects of varying beam times (50-75 min) and beam currents (27-40 μA). Crude 68Ga production was measured. The extraction of [68Ga]GaCl3 was performed using a 2 column solid phase method on the GE FASTlab Developer platform. Extracted [68Ga]GaCl3 was used to label [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 that was intended for clinical use.Results: The decay corrected yield of 68Ga at EOB was typically >3.7 GBq (100 mCi) for a 60 min beam, with irradiations of [68Zn]Zn(NO3)2 at 0.3 M HNO3. Target/chemistry performance was more consistent when compared with 0.2 M HNO3. Radionuclidic purity of 68Ga was typically >99.8% at EOB and met the requirements specified in the European Pharmacopoeia (<2% combined 66/67Ga) for a practical clinical product shelf-life. The activity yield of [68Ga]GaCl3 was typically >50% (~1.85 GBq, 50 mCi); yields improved as processes were optimized. Labeling yields for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 were near quantitative (~1.67 GBq, 45mCi) at EOS. Cyclotron produced [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 underwent full quality control, stability and sterility testing , and was implemented for human use at the University of Michigan as an Investigational New Drug through the US FDA and also at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA).Conclusion: Direct cyclotron irradiation of a liquid target provides clinically relevant quantities of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and is a viable alternative to traditional 68Ge/68Ga generators.
Epidemiologic profile of viral hepatitis B and C in North of Iran: Results from PERSIAN Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS)
Authors: Mansour-Ghanaei Fariborz , Joukar Farahnaz , Naghipour Mohammadreza , Hassanipour Soheil , Yeganeh Sara , Sepehrimanesh Masood , Fathalipour Mohammad 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Objective
Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses are two severe infectious diseases with a high global health impact. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HBV and HCV in the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies of the Iranian Adults (PERSIAN) Guilan Cohort Study through immunological and molecular methods.
Results
The blood samples were obtained from 10520 enrolled participants. Complete biochemical and hematological assessments plus urine analysis were done. The presence of HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc, and anti-HCV antibodies for all participants and HBeAg and anti-HBe antibody for HBV positive patients were evaluated. HBV genomic DNA and HCV genomic RNA were extracted from positive serum samples. The real-time PCR assay was done to quantify HBV and HCV genomes. HCV genotyping was also performed. The HBV and HCV prevalence was 0.24% (95% CI, 0.16% to 0.35%) and 0.11% (95% CI, 0.06% to 0.19%), respectively. Rural participants were significantly more HBV positive than urban peoples (P = 0.045) while male individuals were significantly more HCV positive than female participants (P = 0.013). Our detected HBV and HCV prevalence were lower than other cities/provinces of Iran, which may be due to lifestyle or other unknown reasons.
WITHDRAWN: Organizational Change Readiness, Service Innovation, And Corporate Image In Improving Port Competitiveness In Indonesia
Authors: Hutapea John Gunung 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this research is to test and explain the effect of Organizational readiness for change, Service Innovation, and Corporate Image on Perceived opportunity and challengeDesign/Method: The instrument in this research was in the form of questionnaires contained a number of statements developed from the instrument grid. The scale used is a Likert Scale. Inferential analysis is used to analyze sample data and the results are applied to the population. The research model with inferential analysis uses a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis with the WarpPLS approach, expected to answer the statements of problem and be able to test the desired hypothesis. Findings: The model development in this research was based on the background, statements of problem, conceptual framework and research hypotheses. The model referred to is “Complete and Comprehensive Port.” Its development was carried out through studying and synthesizing various sources. The most important source is the results of literature review in the form of theoretical developments and research results, then continued with compilation. Originality: The use of Organizational Change Readiness, Service Innovation, and Corporate Image in improving Port Competitiveness is seen as one of the novelty in this research, specifically the use of the Organizational Change Readiness variable which is often used in high-flexibility companies but now used in port companies.
WITHDRAWN: Knowledge, Preventative Practices and Depression of Chinese University Students in Korea and China During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Online Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: ‍Zhao Bo , Kong Fanlei , Nam Eun Woo 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
(1) Background: To investigate the knowledge, preventative practices and depression of Chinese university students living in Korea (‘International Group’) and Mainland China (‘Mainland Group’) during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, and furtherly explore the determinants of depression among these students; (2) Methods: The study was conducted using an online questionnaire tool designed by the Yonsei Global Health Center, with preventative knowledge and practice questions on COVID-19, as well as PHQ-9 (used to diagnose depression for patients). 420 college students were finally included in the analysis (171 students in Korea and 249 students in mainland China). This data was collected from March 23 to April 12, 2020; (3) Results: Majority of these students had a good level of knowledge of COVID-19. The ‘International Group’ did better than the ‘Mainland Group’ students regarding preventative practices, but the percentage with mild depression was higher among the ‘International Group’. Highly concerned about family members, highly concerned about getting COVID-19, and having a suspicion of contact with patients increased the depression state among the subjects. Meanwhile, taking preventative behaviors more comprehensively decreased the depression state of both groups; (4) Conclusions: During the pandemic of COVID-19, the depression status of ‘International Group’ students was significantly severer than that in ‘Mainland Group’. While the depression status of these two groups’ students was correlated to highly concerning family members and getting COVID-19 and having a suspicion of contact with patients. Therefore, psychological counseling and education programs are needed in order to support and improve the mental health of ‘international group’s students.
Identifying Barriers to Condom Use Among Female Sex Workers: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Omidi Tahereh , Mohammadian-khoshnoud Maryam , Mohammadi Younes 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Many studies have shown a lot of factors which are as barriers to the condom use among female sex workers (FSWs). However, there is not a comprehensive study to report the number and magnitude of these barriers. This study aimed to resolve this gap by comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We have searched the electronic databases include Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus until September 2019. For each database we formulated a separate search strategy using keywords such as “condom use” and “sex worker” and the related synonyms. Epidemiological epidemiology addressed the factors associated with unprotected sex for the female sex worker. The heterogeneity across studies and probability of publication bias was investigated by I2 statistic and Begg's and Egger's tests respectively. The pooled effect size were expressed as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a random-effects model.Results: Out of 5854 studies obtained in initial search, 35 studies with sample size 14218 participants had eligibility criteria which were included in the final analysis. Ten factors include marital status, alcohol use, history of violence, history of sexual abuse, history of STIs, STIs knowledge, HIV risk perception, drug use, knowledge about the condom use, condom use self-efficacy were identified in those studies. History of sexual abuse with OR=1.87 and the knowledge on AIDS with OR=1.07 had the strongest association and weakest association with condom use respectively. Conclusion: Many factors with different degrees of association influence on the condom use among female sex workers. However, history of sexual abuse, a history of violence, and HIV risk perception were considered as the major determinants of the condom use. The structural interventions, policy change and empowerment of female sex workers are recommended to increase consistent condom use in FSWs.
Double tract reconstruction reduces reflux esophagitis and improves quality of life after radical proximal gastrectomy for patients with upper gastric or esophagogastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ji Xin , Jin Cheng-Gen , Ji Ke , Zhang Ji , Wu Xiao-Jiang , Zong Xiang-Long , Jia Zi-Yu , Fu Tao , Fan Biao , Wang An-Qiang , Bu Zhao-De , Ji Jiafu 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: The aim of the present study was to compare the difference between double tract reconstruction and esophagogastrostomy after proximal gastrectomy.Methods: Patients who underwent radical proximal gastrectomy with esophagogastrostomy or double tract reconstruction from December 2014 to May 2019 were included in this study.Results: Sixty-four patients were included in this study and divided into two groups according to reconstruction method. The two groups were well balanced in terms of length of postoperative hospital stay, blood loss volume, postoperative complications, and 5-year disease-free survival (DFS). The operation duration in the double tract reconstruction group was longer than that in the esophagogastrostomy group (240 min vs 195 min, P = 0.001). The rates of postoperative reflux esophagitis in the double tract reconstruction group and esophagogastrostomy group were 8.0% and 30.8%, respectively (P = 0.032). The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the reconstruction method was the only independent risk factor for reflux esophagitis (P = 0.004). Patients in the double tract reconstruction group had better global health status (P < 0.001) and emotional functioning (P < 0.001), and complained less about nausea and vomiting (P < 0.001), pain (P = 0.039), insomnia (P = 0.003), and appetite loss (P < 0.001) based on the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Regarding the EORTC QLQ-STO22 questionnaire, patients in the double tract reconstruction group complained less about dysphagia (P = 0.030), pain (P = 0.008), reflux (P < 0.001), eating (P < 0.001), anxiety (P < 0.001), dry mouth (P = 0.007), and taste (P = 0.001). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that reconstruction method, postoperative complications, reflux esophagitis, and operation duration had a linear relationship with the global health status score.Conclusions: Double tract reconstruction after proximal gastrectomy was comparable with esophagogastrostomy in terms of perioperative safety and 5-year DFS. Double tract reconstruction could better prevent reflux esophagitis and improve quality of life. There was a linear relationship between global health status score and reconstruction method, reflux esophagitis, postoperative complications, and operation duration.
Metformin With Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation to Improve Pathologic Response in Rectal Cancer: a Pilot Phase I/II Trial
Authors: Wong Shun , Chu William , Ashamalla Shady , Fenech Darlene , Berry Scott , Kiss Alex , Koritzinsky Marianne 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Neoadjuvant radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy decreases the risk of local recurrence after surgery for stage II or III rectal cancer. Emerging data suggest that diabetic patients on metformin may have improved cancer outcome after radiotherapy. We asked if metformin given concurrently with long course chemoradiation (CRT) may improve pathologic complete response (pCR) in non-diabetic rectal cancer patients. A single-institutional pilot study was performed to build a confidence interval for the pCR rate and to determine the sample size for a phase 2 trial.Methods: Non-diabetic patients with biopsy confirmed adenocarcinoma of the rectum, and deemed candidates for long course neoadjuvant CRT were invited to participate. Radiation consisted of 50.4 Gy in 28 daily fractions. Capecitabine (825 mg/m2 twice daily, Monday-Friday) was self-administered during the 28 days of radiation only. The primary outcome was pCR. The study was designed to accrue 15 participants to construct a confidence interval (CI) for the pCR rate. Results: A total of 16 patients were accrued from January 2017 to May 2018. One patient withdrew from the study prior to CRT. Only grade 1 or 2 adverse events were observed from the intervention. Three patients had a clinical complete response (cCR) and did not have surgical resection. Of the 12 patients who underwent surgery, there were two pCRs. For the combined pCR/cCR rate of 33% (95% CI 19-47%), a total of 85 patients will be required to yield a 95% CI with a 10% margin of error. Conclusions: Adding metformin to neoadjuvant CRT for rectal cancer does not appear to enhance toxicities. These results will be used to refine the design and conduct of a future phase 2 trial to determine whether adding metformin to CRT improves pCR/cCR rates. Trial registration: NCT03053544. Registered December 20, 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT03053544
Engineering of the&nbsp;Bacillus subtilis&nbsp;PhoD signal peptide to direct high-level, Tat-specific export of a single-chain antibody fragment to the periplasm in&nbsp;Eschericha coli
Authors: Jawara Chillel , Richards Kirsty L , Peswani Amber R , Walker Kelly L , Nascimento Lara , Robinson Colin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background : Numerous high-value proteins have been produced in E. coli, and a favoured strategy is to export the protein of interest to the periplasm by means of an N-terminal signal peptide. While the Sec pathway has been extensively used for this purpose, the Tat pathway has potential because it transports fully-folded heterologous proteins. Most studies on the Tat pathway have used the E. coli TorA signal peptide to direct export, because it is highly Tat-specific, unlike many Tat signal peptides which can also function as Sec signal peptides. However, the TorA signal peptide is prone to degradation in the cytoplasm, leading to reduced export rates in some cases. Here, we have tested a range of alternative signal peptides for their ability to direct Tat-dependent export of a single-chain antibody fragment (scFv). Results : We show that the signal peptides of E. coli AmiC, MdoD and YcbK direct efficient export of the scFv by both the Tat and Sec pathways, which may be a disadvantage when Tat-specific export is required. The same applies to the Tat signal peptide of Bacillus subtilis PhoD, which likewise directs efficient export by Sec. We engineered the PhoD signal peptide by introduction of a Lys or Asn residue in the C-terminal domain of the signal peptide, and we show that this substitution renders the signal peptide Tat-specific. These signal peptides, designated PhoDk and PhoDn, direct efficient export of scFv in shake flask and fed-batch fermentation studies, reaching export levels that are well above those obtained with the TorA signal peptide. Culturing in ambr250 bioreactors was used to fine-tune the growth conditions, and the net result was export of the scFv by the Tat pathway at levels of approximately 1g protein/L culture. Conclusions : The new PhoDn and PhoDk signal peptides have significant potential for the export of heterologous proteins by the Tat system.
Implementation of Medicine Take-back Concept at Community Level in Nepal: a Feasibility Study
Authors: Sapkota Binaya , Giri Anil , Bhatta Bigyan , Awasthi Krishna , Bhurtyal Kiran , Joshi Bimala , Joshi Khem Raj 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Medications are not always completely consumed as purchased from pharmacy due to lack of awareness, forgetfulness. So, most households may have leftover, unwanted, unused and expired (UUE) medicines. They may lead to health hazards and environment pollution. The present study was aimed to analyze feasibility of implementation of medicine take-back in select communities of Nepal.Methods: Exploratory study was conducted among adults (total 400) in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Kaski, Kanchanpur and Kailali districts from July 2017 to January 2018. Study sites and participants were selected by simple random sampling and respondents were interviewed about their awareness about medicine disposal techniques, possible hazards and their willingness to support take-back program using semi-structured questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was applied to explore the relationship of various take-back related outcomes with the predictors. The p-value less than 0.05 was statistically significant at 95% confidence level. Results: The multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that there was significant relationship of health hazards (rashes and diarrhea) among the farmers, engineers, nurse and lawyers (p value <0.01 in each). Land pollution and effect on health of children was significantly related with the inappropriate disposal of medicines such as site of disposal (p value <0.01), river (p value 0.02), garbage (p value 0.04), and dumping site (p value 0.01). The analysis of the willingness to follow take-back program with the techniques of support showed significant relationship with the establishment of collection center and participation on seminar (p value <0.01). Conclusions: Most participants kept UUE medicines in home, disposed with household rubbish and flushed down the sink. They were interested to support take-back, if implemented in their community but the main constraint was the budget. Hence, take-back concept could be initiated and implemented on government funding or other external sources.