bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Persistence of information flow: A multiscale characterization of human brain
Authors: Benigni Barbara , Ghavasieh Arsham , Corso Alessandra , d’Andrea Valeria , De Domenico Manlio 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Information exchange in the human brain is crucial for vital tasks and to drive diseases. Neuroimaging techniques allow for the indirect measurement of information flows among brain areas and, consequently, for reconstructing connectomes analyzed through the lens of network science. However, standard analyses usually focus on a small set of network indicators and their joint probability distribution. Here, we propose an information-theoretic approach for the analysis of synthetic brain networks (based on generative models) and empirical brain networks, and to assess connectome’s information capacity at different stages of dementia. Remarkably, our framework accounts for the whole network state, overcoming limitations due to limited sets of descriptors, and is used to probe human connectomes at different scales. We find that the spectral entropy of empirical data lies between two generative models, indicating an interpolation between modular and geometry-driven structural features. In fact, we show that the mesoscale is suitable for characterizing the differences between brain networks and their generative models. Finally, from the analysis of connectomes obtained from healthy and unhealthy subjects, we demonstrate that significant differences between healthy individuals and the ones affected by Alzheimer’s disease arise at the microscale (max. posterior probability smaller than 1%) and at the mesoscale (max. posterior probability smaller than 10%).
Cytotoxic effect of endemic Tchihatchewia isatidea Boiss. from Turkey
Authors: Kirbağ Sevda , Keser Serhat , Tekin Suat , İnci Şule , Sandal Süleyman 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Tchihatchewia isatidea Boiss (Brassicaceae) is known among the public as “Reddish Bride”, “Paint and Bridal Flower”. Flower parts are used for painting and flowering branches for treatment of cough. In this study, anticancer properties of water, ethanol and methanol extracts of Tchihatchewia isatidea flower parts were investigated against human breast (MCF-7), human colon (HCT-116) and human prostate (LNCaP) cancer cell lines. Changes in the viability of cancer cells were detected by utilizing 3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. Studies have shown that there is a statistically significant decrease in the cell viability of human breast cancer (MCF-7), colon (HCT-116) and prostate (LNCaP) cancer cells when extracts of T. isatidea water, ethanol and methanol are used.
The experience of type 2 diabetes: Application of the Model of Human Occupation
Authors: Klinedinst Tara C , Swink Laura A , Atler Karen E , Chard Christine A , Malcolm Matt P 
Published: June 2021

Introduction Integrating type 2 diabetes (T2DM) self-care behaviors into daily life is complex and poorly understood. Occupational therapists, as experts in life context, habits, roles, and routines, can foster new ways of understanding and promoting daily engagement in T2DM self-care. The Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), a conceptual practice model, may have applicability to better understanding the experience of living with T2DM and engaging in necessary self-care behaviors. Methods We conducted focus group interviews with individuals with T2DM ( n = 10). We applied the MOHO to understand the experience of living with T2DM and engaging in related self-care behaviors. Findings Participants discussed each element of MOHO and how it related to living with and managing type 2 diabetes. Participants identified obtaining skills for self-advocacy with family, individualized/adapted exercise, stable health-promoting environments and routines, and problem-solving skills for disruptions to routine as critical needs for managing T2DM. These intervention strategies are well-aligned with MOHO and occupational therapy practice. Conclusion We found that MOHO was a useful tool for exploring the experience and daily management of T2DM.
Prevalence and Determinants of Underweight, Overweight, and Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study of Sociodemographic, Dietary, and Lifestyle Factors Among Adolescent Girls in Jutiapa, Guatemala
Authors: Parra Kimberly L. , Alaofe Halimatou S. , Ehiri John E. , Nuño Velia Leybas , Mazariegos Manolo , Garcia Brenda , Martinez Estefania , Junkins Anna , Jolly Pauline 
Published: June 2021

Background: As the incidence of overweight continues to increase among children and adolescents in Guatemala, underweight remains a prominent health problem. However, the prevalence of overweight or underweight and associated risk factors has not been investigated among adolescent girls. Objective: To determine the prevalence of underweight and overweight/obesity and associated sociodemographic, dietary, and lifestyle factors among adolescent girls in Jutiapa, Guatemala. Methods: A cross-sectional study of a subsample of 392 girls aged 12 to 17 years from an agriculture-nutrition trial was conducted. Anthropometric data were obtained using standard methods. Sociodemographic, dietary, and lifestyle data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted using underweight (body mass index [BMI] for age < 5th percentile) and overweight/obesity (BMI for age ≥ 85th percentile) as outcome variables. Results: The prevalence of underweight and overweight/obesity was 9.9% and 15.6%, respectively. Age (15-17 years), high waist circumference, high blood pressure, father being a farmer, large family (> 5 persons), hours spent watching TV, and high red meat consumption were significantly associated with underweight. Whereas being in school, high waist circumference, high blood pressure, overweight/obese mother, unemployed father, watching TV for more than 2 hours, having soft drinks at home, and meeting fruit recommendations were significantly associated with overweight/obesity. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the importance of concurrently addressing underweight and overweight/obesity among adolescent girls in rural Guatemala. Studies in various parts of the country are needed to confirm the results of the present study and for appropriate strategies to be implemented to reduce both underweight and overweight.
Patient-Reported Outcomes of Surgically Treated Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Hörterer Hubert , Oppelt Sonja , Böcker Wolfgang , Gottschalk Oliver , Harrasser Norbert , Walther Markus , Polzer Hans , Baumbach Sebastian Felix 
Published: June 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) treated surgically by debridement of all pathologies through a midline-incision trans-achillary approach (MITA). Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study with current follow-up. Patients treated surgically by a MITA, addressing all pathologies of IAT, with at least 12 months of follow-up were included. Demographics, medical history, surgical details, and complications were recorded. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Foot Function Index (FFI), Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment–Achilles questionnaire (VISA-A-G), visual analog scale foot and ankle (VAS-FA), and 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12). Longitudinal FFI data were available for 48% of the patients. Results: A total of 118 patients (63.4%) with a mean follow-up of 50 ± 25 months were included. The FFI improved from 53 (24) preoperatively to 2 (11) points at the final follow-up. The final VISA-A-G score was 93 (26), the VAS-FA score 93 (15), the SF-12 Physical Component Summary 56 (8), and the SF-12 Mental Component Summary 55 (12) points. There was an additional FFI improvement between 12 months and the final follow-up. Up to 47% (VISA-A-G) of patients had residual symptoms. A postoperative shoe conflict was the only parameter negatively affecting the PROMs ( P < .001). Conclusion: Addressing all pathologies of IAT by the MITA resulted in overall good postoperative PROMs after 4 years. But up to 47% of patients remained impaired. The only parameter correlating with an impaired PROM was a postoperative shoe conflict. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective cohort study.
Re-Evaluate Fusion Genes in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wei Ting , Lu Ji , Ma Tao , Huang Haojie , Kocher Jean-Pierre , Wang Liguo 
Published: June 2021

Background: Thousands of gene fusions have been reported in prostate cancer, but their authenticity, incidence, and tumor specificity have not been thoroughly evaluated, nor have their genomic characteristics been carefully explored. Methods: We developed FusionVet to dedicatedly validate known fusion genes using RNA-seq alignments. Using FusionVet, we re-assessed 2727 gene fusions reported from 36 studies using the RNA-seq data generated by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We also explored their genomic characteristics and interrogated the transcriptomic and DNA methylomic consequences of the E26 transformation-specific (ETS) fusions. Results: We found that nearly two-thirds of reported fusions are intra-chromosomal, and 80% of them were formed between 2 protein-coding genes. Although most (76%) genes were fused to only 1 partner, we observed many fusion hub genes that have multiple fusion partners, including ETS family genes, androgen receptor signaling pathway genes, tumor suppressor genes, and proto-oncogenes. More than 90% of the reported fusions cannot be validated by TCGA RNA-seq data. For those fusions that can be validated, 5% were detected from tumor and normal samples with similar frequencies, and only 4% (120 fusions) were tumor-specific. The occurrences of ERG, ETV1, and ETV4 fusions were mutually exclusive, and their fusion statuses were tightly associated with overexpressions. Besides, we found ERG fusions were significantly co-occurred with PTEN deletion but mutually exclusive with common genomic alterations such as SPOP mutation and FOXA1 mutation. Conclusions: Most of the reported fusion genes cannot be validated by TCGA samples. The ETS family and androgen response genes were significantly enriched in prostate cancer–specific fusion genes. Transcription activity was significantly repressed, and the DNA methylation was significantly increased in samples carrying ERG fusion.
Utility of Cannulated Prolactin to Exclude Stress Hyperprolactinemia in Patients with Persistent Mild Hyperprolactinemia
Authors: Almazrouei Raya , Zaman Shamaila , Wernig Florian , Meeran Karim 
Published: June 2021

Background: Stress-induced hyperprolactinemia can be difficult to differentiate from true hyperprolactinema and may result in patients having unnecessary investigations and imaging. We report the results of cannulated prolactin tests with serial prolactin measurements from an indwelling catheter to differentiate true from stress-induced hyperprolactinemia in patients with persistently mildly elevated prolactin levels in both referral and repeat samples. Methods: Data were collected for 42 patients who had a cannulated prolactin test between January 2017 and May 2018. After cannula insertion, prolactin was measured at 0, 60, and 120 minutes. Normalization is defined as a decline in prolactin to gender-defined normal ranges. Results: The mean age was 33.8 years ( SD ± 9.9), and 37 (88%) were female. Menstrual irregularities were the main presenting symptom in 28.57% of the patients. Prolactin normalized in 12 (28.6%) patients of whom cannulated prolactin test was done. Repeat random prolactin levels were significantly higher in patients whose prolactin did not normalize during the cannulated prolactin test. MRI of the pituitary gland showed an abnormality in 23 out of 28 (82%) patients who did not normalize prolactin, a microadenoma in the majority of patients (18 patients). Conclusion: The cannulated prolactin test was useful in excluding true hyperprolactinemia in 28.6% of patients with previously confirmed mildly elevated random prolactin on two occasions, thus avoiding over-diagnosis and unnecessary imaging.
Evaluation of Five Data-to-Action Workshops to Enhance Capacity for Tobacco Control
Authors: Garcia de Quevedo Isabel , Tripp Angela , Twentyman Evelyn , Smith Ruben , Ahluwalia Indu B. 
Published: June 2021

Background Five data-to-action workshops were conducted during 2016–2019 with participants from 38 countries. The purpose of the workshops is to use data to inform and disseminate tobacco prevention and control strategies. We evaluated the workshops using the Kirkpatrick Model for evaluation of trainings. Methods We evaluated the data-to-action workshops in three topic areas: (1) if the workshop was clear, useful, engaging, and relevant to the participant’s work, (2) self-reported knowledge and skills for tobacco control topics, and (3) intention to apply the knowledge learned. We used nonparametric tests (one-sided Wilcoxon signed-rank test) and conducted descriptive analysis to assess the difference between pre- and postworkshop scores in each topic area. Free text data from open-ended responses were analyzed in Excel using thematic content analysis. Results Participants reported the workshop had a clear purpose (93.6%, n = 73), was well organized (94.9%, n = 74), and relevant to their work (96.2%, n = 76). There was a statistically significant increase in median learning scores across all three knowledge and five skills topic areas ( p < 0.05); more than 95% of participants intended to apply the knowledge they obtained during the workshop and planned to perform new skills learned in the workshop. Conclusions Programs interested in replicating a similar successful model may incorporate a mix of modes of instruction and hands-on experiences, as well as focus on the selection of the right audience, for their workshops. These workshops pose an opportunity for countries to enhance use and dissemination of their tobacco control data.
Impact of Missing Data on Identifying Risk Factors for Postoperative Complications in Hand Surgery
Authors: Aziz Keith T. , Nayar Suresh K. , LaPorte Dawn M. , Ingari John V. , Giladi Aviram M. 
Published: June 2021

Background The mismanagement of missing data in large clinical databases may lead to inaccurate findings. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the effects of missing data on hand surgery research findings using an analysis of postoperative morbidity in patients undergoing hospital-based hand surgery. Methods The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients undergoing common hand and upper extremity surgery between 2011 and 2016. Major and minor postoperative complications were identified. Demographics, comorbidity, and preoperative laboratory values were identified, and the percentage missing of each was tabulated. To demonstrate how missing data can alter analysis results, these variables were evaluated for an association with major complications using multivariable regression on 3 separate cohorts: (1) all patients; (2) all patients after exclusion of any patient entry with >10% of missing data; and (3) after removal of any patient entry with any missing data. Results Groups 1, 2, and 3 had 48 370, 23 118, and 6280 patients, respectively. There were 14 variables associated with increased odds of major complications in group 1, yet only 10 and 9 variables for groups 2 and 3, respectively. Six variables were associated with increased major complications across all 3 groups, whereas only 1 was associated with decreased odds of major complications across all groups. Conclusions Filtering patient cohorts according to the amount of missing patient information affected analyses of predictors for major complications associated with hospital-based hand surgery. These findings highlight the importance of considering and addressing missing data in large database studies.
Outcomes of different acute mesenteric ischemia therapies in the last 20 years: A meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Hou Li , Wang Tiehao , Wang Jiarong , Zhao Jichun , Yuan Ding 
Published: June 2021

Objective Acute mesenteric ischemia is a disease with high morbidity and mortality, and it is traditionally treated with open surgery. Endovascular therapy and hybrid techniques are alternative treatments that are also currently available. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the outcomes of the different treatment approaches in the last 20 years. Methods Studies on acute mesenteric ischemia that were indexed in PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE databases (from January 1, 2000, to April 1, 2021) were reviewed. All related retrospective observational studies and case series were included. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled estimates, and the results were reported as proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results In our study, a total of 2369 patients (in 39 studies) underwent endovascular, open surgery, or retrograde open mesenteric stenting. The pooled mortality estimates for open surgery, endovascular therapy, and retrograde open mesenteric stenting were 40% (95% CI, 0.33–0.47; I2 = 84%), 26% (95% CI, 0.19–0.33; I2 = 33%), and 32% (95% CI, 0.21–0.44; I2 = 26%), respectively. Conclusions The mortality associated with open surgical treatment, endovascular therapy, and retrograde open mesenteric stenting tend to be similar in the last 20 years.
Systematic review and meta-analysis: the impact of co-occurring immune-mediated inflammatory diseases on the disease localization and behavior of Crohn’s disease
Authors: Attauabi Mohamed , Zhao Mirabella , Bendtsen Flemming , Burisch Johan 
Published: June 2021

Background: Patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) are at increased risk of co-occurring immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). As discrepancy exists regarding the phenotypic presentation of CD among patients with such co-occurring IMIDs, we aimed to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis characterizing the phenotype of CD among this subgroup of patients. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched from their earliest records to October 2019 for studies reporting the behavior and localization of CD according to the Vienna or Montreal Classifications and CD-related surgery in patients with co-occurring IMIDs. These studies were the subject of a random effect meta-analysis. Results: After reviewing 24,413 studies, we identified a total of 23 studies comprising 1572 and 35,043 CD patients with and without co-occurring IMIDs, respectively, that fulfilled our inclusion criteria. Overall, patients with co-occurring IMIDs were more likely to have upper gastrointestinal inflammation than were patients without co-occurring IMIDs [relative risk (RR) = 1.49 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–2.04), p = 0.01, I2 = 7%]. In addition, presence of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) was associated with a lower occurrence of ileal affection [RR = 0.44 (95% CI 0.24–0.81), p < 0.01, I2 = 32%], increased occurrence of colonic affection [RR = 1.78 (95% CI 1.33–2.38), p < 0.01, I2 = 32%] and an increased likelihood of non-stricturing and non-penetrating behavior [RR = 1.43 (95% CI 0.97–2.11), p = 0.07, I2 = 86%]. The latter reached significance when cumulating different IMIDs [RR = 1.30 (95% CI 1.09–1.55), p < 0.01, I2 = 88%]. CD patients with PSC also underwent fewer CD-related surgeries [RR = 0.55 (95% CI 0.34–0.88), p = 0.01, I2 = 0%], irrespective of CD location or behavior. Conclusion: This study emphasizes that CD patients with co-existing PSC are likely to have a unique inflammatory distribution primarily confined to the colon, while patients with IMIDs in general have higher likelihood of affection of upper gastrointestinal tract and a non-stricturing and non-penetrating behavior. As such a phenotype of CD is typically associated with a milder disease course; future studies are needed to confirm these results.
“Did you wash your hands?”: a prospective study of patient empowerment to prompt hand washing by healthcare providers
Authors: Eng Tony Y , Eng Nina L , Jenkins Carol A , Grota Patti G 
Published: June 2021

Background: Hand hygiene is paramount in preventing the spread of healthcare-associated infections especially during disease epidemics. Compliance rates with hand hygiene policies remain below 50% internationally and may be lower in the outpatient care setting. This study assessed the impact of the patient empowerment model on hand hygiene compliance among healthcare providers. Methods: From October 2016 to May 2017, patients from a large ambulatory oncology centre were prospectively enrolled. Patients were instructed to observe healthcare providers for hand hygiene compliance and to remind healthcare providers where it was not observed during at least three consecutive encounters. Healthcare provider reactions to this intervention were rated by patients. Patients’ hand hygiene knowledge and beliefs were objectively elicited pre and post-study. Results: Thirty patients with a median age of 52 years (range 5–91) completed the study for a total of 190 healthcare provider encounters. When initial hand hygiene was not observed, patients offered a reminder in 71 (37.4%) encounters, did not offer a reminder in 73 (38.4%) encounters and forgot to offer a reminder in 24 (14.2%) encounters. Patients perceived positive or neutral reactions in 76.8% of encounters and negative or surprised reactions in 23.2% of encounters. Healthcare provider compliance improved from 11.6% to 48.9% with intervention. Patient hand hygiene knowledge improved by 16% following the study. Conclusions: Patient-empowered hand hygiene may be a useful adjunct for improving hand hygiene compliance among healthcare providers and improving patient hand hygiene knowledge, although it may confer an emotional burden on patients.
Tuberculosis prevalence, knowledge of transmission and its association with vaccination of children
Authors: Das Anisha , Lakhan Tejal , Unisa Sayeed 
Published: June 2021

Background: Understanding the perceptions of patients regarding tuberculosis (TB) will enable better design of a comprehensive, client-oriented program for the disease. Methods: This study was conducted district-wise across India in 2015–2016 as part of the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS). Results: We discovered that the prevalence of TB remains significantly high, with quite a high percentage of people being unaware of the exact cause of disease proliferation. The majority of people believed that touching or sharing utensils can be a source of TB. This perception affected the participants’ responses about seeking diagnosis and treatment. However, it is a good sign that most people knew that TB is a curable disease that can be prevented to some extent if immunization with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is done at the correct stage. So, a large section of the population had their children vaccinated. In addition, they would go for diagnosis if they had symptoms suggestive of the disease. Conclusion: Findings from this study are indicative of the fact that a large population is aware that health facilities can make a significant contribution to the treatment of tuberculosis. There is a need to further investigate how this information could potentially be used to enhance early seeking of appropriate services among TB patients.