bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: Treatment for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Secondary to Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy Using Percutaneous Endoscopy through Interlaminar Approach: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Yi , Qi Yingjie , Diaty Diarra Mohamed , Zheng Guanglei , Shen Xiaoqiang , Lin Shangben , Chen Jiaqi , Song Yongwei , Gu Xiaomin
Published: May 2020

Background
This paper is to first describe percutaneous endoscopy in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis secondary to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy targetedly. To investigate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous endoscopy in the treatment of this kind of lumbar spinal stenosis in elderly patients.
Method:
A retrospective analysis of 40 elderly patients with lumbar spinal stenosis secondary to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy admitted between January 2016 and January 2018 was performed. According to different surgical methods, they were divided into two groups: the control group and the endoscopy group (interlaminar approach), 20 people per group. There were 9 males and 11 females in the control group; the age of patients was 65.65 ± 4.44years, and the average disease duration was 4.55 ± 1.85 years. Besides, There were 10 males and 10 females in the endoscopy group; the age of patients was 67.30 ± 4.23years, and the average disease duration was 4.95 ± 2.04 years. Collect and count surgical-related indicators, preoperative and postoperative radiologic findings, incision visual analogue scale (VAS), lumbar and leg pain VAS, lumbar Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores of all patients.
Result
A series of surgical indicators (including the operation time, the quantity of bleeding and postoperative hospital stay) in the endoscopy group was significantly lower than that in the control group (p < 0.05). The incision VAS score in the endoscopy group was also significantly lower than that in the control group at each time after surgery (p < 0.05). Besides, compared with the control group, in the endoscopy group, the leg pain VAS score and lumbar ODI score after surgery were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, in the endoscopy group, the lumbar JOA score was significantly higher (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Percutaneous endoscopic technique is a small trauma, quick recovery, safe and effective minimally invasive surgery for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis secondary to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy.
Clonality of Enterococcus Faecalis Isolates in Stool and Urine Samples of Patients with Community-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection, and its Link with Virulence Gene Determinants and Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotypes
Authors: Ghalavand Zohreh , Alebouyeh Masoud , Ghanati Kiandokht , Azimi Leila , rashidan marjan
Published: May 2020

Background
Community-acquired urinary tract infection (CA-UTI) could be caused through endogenous or exogenous routes. To show this relationship, we investigated molecular fingerprints and genotypes of paired Enterococcus faecalis isolates from the urine of symptomatic patients and their fecal samples.
Results
Out of the studied patients, 63 pairs of E. faecalis isolates were obtained simultaneously from their urine and feces samples. All the strains were sensitive to vancomycin, linezolid, nitrofurantoin, and daptomycin (MIC value: ≤4 µg/ml), whileresistance to tetracycline (Urine: 88.9%; stool: 76,2%) and minocycline (Urine: 87.3%, stool: 71.4%) wasdetected in most of them. The most common detected virulence genes were included efbA, ace, and gelE. RAPD-PCR and PFGE analyses showed same patterns of molecular fingerprints between paired of the isolates in 26.9% and 15.8% of the patients, respectively.
Conclusions
Similarity of E. faecalis strains between the urine and feces samples confirmed the occurrence of endogenous infection via contamination with colonized bacteria in the intestinal tract. Carriage of a complete virulence genotype in the responsible strains was statistically in correlation with endogenous UTI, which show their possible involvement in pathogenicity of uropathogenic E. faecalis strains.
High-level expression of CXCL1/GROα in uterine cervix cancer is linked to advanced stage and facilitates tumor cell malignant processes in an autocrine/paracrine manner
Authors: Man XiaXia , Yang XiaoLin , Wei ZhenTong , Tan YuYing , Li WanYing , Jin HongJuan , Wang Baogang
Published: May 2020

Background

It has previously accepted that several types of human cancer constitutively express CXCL1, which may implicated in various aspects of tumors. Here, we sought to assess the expression and of CXCL1 in human uterine cervix cancer (UCC) and its potential role and mechanism in UCC.
Methods

CXCL1 protein expression in a uterine cervical tissue microarray was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The roles of CXCL1 on HeLa UCC cells were detected by CCK-8, transwell and apoptosis assays. Western blotting and ERK1/2 blocker PD98059 were utilized to explore whether ERK signal was implicated in CXCL1-mediated UCC processes.
Results

CXCL1 was expressed by HeLa, PHM1-41 cells as well as cervical tissues, in which UCC tissues showed an obviously high level of CXCL1 compared with non-cancerous tissues. Additionally, of the cancer tissues, CXCL1 high-level expression was notably relevant to poor clinical stages. In vitro, the growth and migration of HeLa cells were enhanced in the presence of exogenous CXCL1. Gain-function assays revealed that CXCL1 overexpression promoted growth and migration response to HeLa cells via autocrine/paracrine manners. Moreover, CXCL1 also led to the inhibition of apoptosis in HeLa cells. Finally, CXCL1 overexpression in HeLa cells influenced the expression of ERK signal-related genes including ERK, p-ERK, cyclin D1 and Bax, and cell malignant behaviors derived from CXCL1 overexpresion were further interrupt in the presence of PD98059.
Conclusion

Our findings provided the potential roles of CXCL1 as a promoter and the novel understanding of the functional relation of CXCL1 with ERK signal pathway in UCC.
Metabolic genes show excellent prognostic ability for clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ji Chengjian , Wang Yichun , Yao Liangyu , Luan Jiaochen , Cong Rong , Wang Yamin , Qin Yuan
Published: May 2020

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the major malignant tumors of the urinary system, with a high mortality rate and a poor prognosis. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common subtype of RCC. Although the diagnosis and treatment methods have been significantly improved, the incidence and mortality of ccRCC are high and still increasing. The occurrence and development of ccRCC are closely related to the changes of classic metabolic pathways. This article aims to explore the relationship between metabolic genes and the prognosis of patients with ccRCC.
Patients and methods:

Gene expression profiles of 63 normal kidney tissues and 446 ccRCC tissues from TCGA database and gene expression profiles of 39 ccRCC tissues from GEO database were used to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ccRCC. Through the the KEGG gene sets of GSEA database, we obtained metabolic genes (MGs). Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to identify prognostic MGs. Lasso regression analysis was used to eliminate false positives because of over-fitting. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to established a prognostic model. Gene expression data and related survival data of 101 ccRCC patients from ArrayExpress database were used for external validation. Survival analysis, ROC curve analysis, independent prognostic analysis and clinical correlation analysis were performed to evaluate this model.
Results

We found that there were 479 abnormally expressed MGs in ccRCC tissues. Through univariate Cox regression analysis, Lasso regression analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis, we identified 4 prognostic MGs (P4HA3, ETNK2, PAFAH2 and ALAD) and established a prognostic model (riskScore). Whether in the training cohort, the testing cohort or the entire cohort, this model could accurately stratify patients with different survival outcomes. The prognostic value of riskScore and 4 MGs was also confirmed in the ArrayExpress database. Results of GSEA analysis show that DEGs in patients with better prognosis were enriched in metabolic pathways. Then, a new Nomogram with higher prognostic value was constructed to better predict the 1-year OS, 3-year OS and 5-year OS of ccRCC patients. In addition, we successfully established a ceRNA network to further explain the differences in the expression of these MGs between high-risk patients and low-risk patients
Conclusion

We have successfully established a risk model (riskScore) based on 4 MGs, which could accurately predict the prognosis of patients with ccRCC. Our research may shed new light on ccRCC patients' prognosis and treatment management.
RNF43 and PWWP2B inhibit cancer cell proliferation and are predictive or prognostic biomarker for FDA-approved drugs in patients with advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Sohn Sung-Hwa , Sul Hee Jung , Kim Bohyun , Kim Hyeong Su , Lim Hyun , Kang Ho Suk , Soh Jae Seung , Kim Kab Choong , Cho Ji Woong , Seo Jinwon , Koh Youngho , Zang Dae Young
Published: May 2020

Background

The characterization of gastric cancer has necessitated the development of new therapeutics as well as the identification of prognostic markers to predict the response to novel drugs. In our study, we have performed RNA sequencing analysis on gastric cancer tissues that decreased levels of RNF43 and PWWP2B were significantly associated with recurrence (11/11, 100%, P < 0.001). Therefore, we investigated the screening of 1,449 FDA-approved drugs in HAP1, HAP1 RNF43 KO and HAP1 PWWP2B KO cells.
Methods

We demonstrated that RNF43 KO and PWWP2B KO cells showed significantly increased proliferation and migration abilities. Next, we investigated the inhibitory effects of 1,449 drugs in HAP1, HAP1 RNF43 KO and HAP1 PWWP2B KO cells.
Results

Among these FDA-approved drugs, three drugs (docetaxel trihydrate, pelitinib and uprosertib) showed strong inhibitory effects in RNF43 KO cells and PWWP2B KO cells. In RNF43 and PWWP2B down-regulated MKN45 xenograft model, tumor volumes were significantly reduced in the docetaxel trihydrate, uprosertib or pelitinib-treated group. Our data demonstrated that RNF43 and PWWP2B are a biomarker that predict recurrence of gastric cancer.
Conclusion

Our findings suggest that docetaxel trihydrate, uprosertib and pelitinib could be used as novel therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer with an aberrant decrease in RNF43 and PWWP2B expression.
Difference in the Foot Intersegmental Coordination Pattern Between Female Lacrosse Players With and Without a History of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Akuzawa Hiroshi , Oshikawa Tomoki , Nakamura Koji , Kubota Ren , Takaki Norifumi , Matsunaga Naoto , Kaneoka Koji
Published: May 2020

Background
Medial tibial stress syndrome is a common sports related injury. Altered foot kinematics can be a risk factor for the injury. Since foot segments can move independently, intersegment coordination is important for proper foot function. This study aimed to compare the foot intersegmental coordination pattern and single segment kinematics between women lacrosse players with and without a history of medial tibial stress syndrome during drop jump.
Methods
Nine players with a medial tibial stress syndrome history and 12 players with no history were enrolled. Foot kinematics, including angle at landing and peak angle and excursion at the rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot during single-leg drop jumps were analyzed. Each segment motion data from landing to leaping was time-scaled to 100% to analyze the intersegmental coordination with a modified vector coding technique. Instant intersegmental coordination of every 1% was classified into four patterns (in-phase, two segments rotate in the same direction with similar amplitudes; anti-phase, two segments rotate in opposite directions; proximal phase, proximal segment dominantly rotates in the same direction compared to the distal segment; and distal phase, distal segment dominantly rotates in the same direction compared to the proximal segment). The percentage of intersegmental coordination pattern and kinematics in each segment were compared between the groups using the Student’s t test.
Results
Groups with a history of medial stress syndrome showed a significantly higher percentage of proximal phase between the rearfoot and midfoot in the sagittal (Mean ± SD; history, 52.0 ± 18.5%, no history, 29.3 ± 16.7%; p = 0.005) and coronal planes (history, 43.0 ± 26.1%, no history, 15.9 ± 9.1%; p = 0.008). Dorsiflexion excursion (history, 34.8 ± 4.7°, no history, 29.6 ± 2.1°; p = 0.002) were significantly larger in a history of medial tibial stress syndrome group compared to no history group.
Conclusions
Rearfoot dominant motion pattern relative to the midfoot may be related to medial tibial stress syndrome. Intersegmental coordination analysis may be useful for detecting abnormal foot coordination patterns.
The effects of composition, temperature and hydrostatic pressure on phase transition behaviors in (Pb1-1.5xLax)(Zr0.8Ti0.2)O3 ceramics
Authors: Xie Meng , Bao Yizheng , Nie Hengchang , Cao Fei , Dong Xianlin , Wang Genshui
Published: May 2020

In this work, (Pb1 − 1.5xLax)(Zr0.80Ti0.20)O3 (abbreviated as PLZT, x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.04, 0.06, 0.07) ceramics are designed on the base of chemical composition modification and prepared by solid-state reaction. The effect of composition, temperature, and hydrostatic pressure on ferroelectric-antiferroelectric (FE-AFE) phase transition is investigated. It is obtained that phase transition from ferroelectric rhombohedral phase to antiferroelectric tetragonal phase as a function of La3+ doping content, especially, the PLZT ceramics of x = 0.04, 0.06, and 0.07 are the coexistence of FE-AFE phase. It is also found the FE-AFE phase transition driven by increased temperature in poled PLZT ceramics (x = 0.04, 0.06). Furthermore, static charges density (Pr) of PLZT (x = 0.04, 0.06) are decreased from 29.11 µC/cm2 and 31.52 µC/cm2 to 19.76 {\mu }C/cm2, 6.45 {\mu }C/cm2 under 400 MPa hydrostatic pressure due to the pressure-induced FE-AFE phase transition. The depolarization rates are 32.12% and 79.54%, respectively. Meanwhile, the phase diagram of (Pb1 − 1.5xLax)(Zr0.80Ti0.20)O3 ceramics is acquired roughly. These results provide guidance for the engineering application of (Pb1 − 1.5xLax)(Zr0.80Ti0.20)O3 ceramics.
Socio-economic impact of Jatropha-based biofuel promotion on rural livelihoods in northern Tanzania
Authors: Olotu Moses
Published: May 2020

Background In recent years, there have been global concerns regarding the continuous use of non-renewable fossil fuels as the major source of energy. The utilization of non-renewable fossil fuels has negative effects on global warming and climate change. So far, efforts to curb the situations have tended to focus on promoting alternative renewable energy sources such as the use of biofuels to cut down emissions of green house gases. However, the production of biofuel crops has become an issue of concern in many developing countries. This is because the expansion of land for biofuel crops cultivation is directly linked to food security and the livelihoods of rural communities. The present study, therefore, aimed to evaluate the contribution of non-food biofuel crops (Jatropha curcas) to the improvement of rural household livelihoods and its impacts on food security. A survey was conducted in 84 households in Arumeru and Siha Districts in the northern Tanzania.Results The results revealed that the introduction of Jatropha as a cash crop had no significant impact on the rural livelihoods since the five capitals of the framework have not optimally been utilised despite their presence. It was further revealed that Jatropha cultivation has not affected food security. This is contrary to fears that biofuels could generally have a negative impact on food security especially in developing countries. The crop had not been regarded as a cash crop or a biofuel; thus, a very little percentage of land owned by the respondents had been allocated for its cultivation. The importance of Jatropha in the study area has yet to be recognised and given the special attention it requires.Conclusions It can be concluded that, the current situation does not indicate any significant impact of Jatropha cultivation on food security. However, it has little contribution to livelihood improvement of the smallholder farmers. Therefore, research on the improvement of Jatropha productivity under optimum conditions and pricing should be further undertaken in different areas of the country.
Utility of ultra-sensitive qPCR to detect Plasmodium species infections under different malaria transmission intensities
Authors: Gruenberg Maria , Moniz Clara Antunes , Hofmann Natalie E. , Koepfli Cristian , Robinson Leanne J , Nate ELma , Monteiro Wuelton Marcelo , Melo Gisely Cardoso , Kuehn Andrea , Siqueira Andre M , Nguitragool Wang , Bassat Quique , Lacerda Marcus , Sattabongkot Jetsumon Prachumsri , Mueller Ivo , Felger Ingrid
Published: May 2020

Background: The use of molecular diagnostics has revealed an unexpectedly large number of asymptomatic low-density malaria infections in many malaria endemic areas. This study compared the gains in parasite prevalence obtained by the use of ultra-sensitive (us)-qPCR as compared to standard qPCR in cross sectional surveys conducted in Thailand, Brazil and Papua New Guinea (PNG). The compared assays differed in the copy number of qPCR targets in the parasite genome.Methods: Plasmodium falciparum ( Pf ) and P. vivax ( Pv ) parasites were quantified by qPCR amplifying the low-copy Pf_ and Pv _18SrRNA genes or the multi-copy targets Pf _varATS and Pv_mtCOX1. Cross sectional surveys at the three study sites included 2252 participants of all ages and represented different transmission intensities.Results: In the two low-transmission areas, Pf positivity was 1.3% (10/773) (Thailand) and 0.8% (5/651) (Brazil) using standard Pf _18SrRNA qPCR. In these two countries, Pf positivity by Pf_ varATS us-qPCR increased to 1.9% (15/773) and 1.7% (11/651). In PNG, an area with moderate transmission intensity, Pf positivity significantly increased from 8.6% (71/828) by standard qPCR to 12.2% (101/828) by us-qPCR. The proportions of Pf infections not detected by standard qPCR were 33%, 55% and 30% in Thailand, Brazil and PNG. Pv was the predominating species in Thailand and Brazil, with 3.9% (30/773) and 4.9% (32/651) positivity by Pv _18SrRNA qPCR. In PNG, Pv positivity was similar to Pf , at 8.0% (66/828). Use of Pv _mtCOX1 us-qPCR led to a significant increase in positivity to 5.1% (39/773), 6.4% (42/651) and 11.5% (95/828) in Thailand, Brazil, and PNG. The proportions of Pv infections missed by standard qPCR were similar at all three sites, with 23%, 24% and 31% in Thailand, Brazil and PNG.Conclusion: The proportional gains in Plasmodium infections by ultra-sensitive diagnostic assays were substantial for Pf and Pv at all three study sites. Thus, us-qPCR yields more precise prevalence estimates for both Pf and Pv at all levels of endemicity and represents a significant diagnostic improvement. Improving sensitivity in Pv surveillance by us-qPCR is of particular benefit, because the additionally detected Pv infections signal the potential presence of hypnozoites and subsequent risk of relapse and further transmission.
Effectiveness over 10 years (2004-2014) of the echinococcosis control progamme in China: Impact on humans and dogs population interventions
Authors: Yu Qing , Han Shuai , Tian Tian , Xiao Ning , Zhou Xiaonong
Published: May 2020

Background
A national control program for echinococcosis has been in effect since 2005 in China. This program has applied a comprehensive strategy, and good control results have been achieved. The objective of this study is focusing on the effectiveness of the programme with two indices, including patients treatment and registered dogs deworming, in endemic areas of echincoccosis control over the period of 10 years (2004–2014) in China.
Methods
10 provinces and autonomous regions of China were chosen for this study and a database was established that included demography at county and township levels, grouping available patients into those subjected to surgery and those receiving drug treatment after population screening. All statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel software and SPSS software and the results are shown as percentages with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).
Results
The study showed that over this period, the coverage rate of surgical patient treatment had increased with 32.4% and with 81.3% for medical treatment with albendazole. Meanwhile, it increased by 58.6% for the deworming of registered dog since 2007. The accumulated costs amounted to US$ 27.03 million after discount for patients and registered dog treatment, which is 1/4 (27.03/110.67) of the total accumulated financial inputs (US$ 110.67 million from the Chinese Government. Since the implementation of the national program, it has increased 57 times (1705.9/30.1 = 57) with respect to the annual financial inputs and 368 times (11,067.9/30.1 = 368) with respect to all accumulated financial inputs.
Conclusions
As found through this study, it is suggested that more attention should be paid to controlling stray dogs during the ongoing program period and sustainable follow-up evaluations are crucial for success and continued implementation of the national program, which will be necessary until the disease is under control and has been eliminated in all endemic areas of China.
Impact of COVID-19 confinement on the time and intensity of physical activity in the Spanish population
Authors: Castañeda-Babarro Arkaitz , Arbillaga-Etxarri Ane , Gutiérrez-Santamaria Borja , Coca Aitor
Published: May 2020

Background

The lockdown and social distancing caused by COVID-19 may influence common healthy behaviour. Due to the unprecedent worldwide confinement in which Spain has been one of the most affected with severe rules governing confinement, physical activity and sedentarism may change due to prolonged stays at home. The aim of this study is to evaluate how physical activity and sedentary time have changed during confinement in the Spanish population.
Methods

3800 healthy adults (age ≥ 18 - ≤64 years) residing in Spain were asked during confinement. Sociodemographic data and self-reported physical activity data were collected twice by an International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short (IPAQ-S) between 23rd March and 1st April, and the analysis was carried out considering the achievement of general physical activity recommendations, different age ranges and baseline physical activity levels.
Results

Physical activity decreased significantly during confinement in all population. Vigorous activities and walking time decreased by 16.8% (p-value > 0.001) and 58.2% (p-value > 0.001) respectively, whereas sedentary time increased by 23.8% (p-value > 0.001). The fulfilment of 75 min/week of vigorous activity recommendation decreased by 10.7% (p-value < 0.001) while the amount of people who reached to 150 min/week of moderate activity barely changed (1.4%, (p-value 0.117)). The group that performed more vigorous physical activities before confinement showed the greatest decrease (30.5%, p-value > 0.001). Men reduced more the time in vigorous activity than women (21% vs 9%, respectively) who even increased time in moderate physical activity by 11% (p-value < 0.05) and showed less increase in sitting time than men (35% vs 25.3%, respectively). Young people and students showed the highest decrease in all physical activities.
Conclusions

The Spanish adult population, especially young people, students and very active men, decreased daily physical activity and increased sedentary time during COVID-19 confinement.
The Antibiotic Resistance Profiles of Escherichia Coli Isolated from Pre and Post Treated Hospital Sewage
Authors: Akya Alisha , Shavise-Zadeh Jila , Bozorgomid Arezoo , Zargaran Fatemeh Nemati , Chegenelorestani Roya
Published: May 2020

Background: The dissemination of resistant strains of bacteria into the environment through hospital sewage has been recognized as a public health concern. We investigated the antibiotic resistance profile of E. coli isolated from hospital sewage.Methods: E. coli strains were isolated from the hospital sewage system from both pre and post treatment phases in a general hospital of Kermanshah city (west of Iran). Resistance to antibiotics (clindamycin, ceftriaxone, Co-trimoxazole, penicillin, ciprofloxacin, amikacin, gentamicin, imipenem, and piperacillin) was determined by disc diffusion. Isolates were screened phenotypically for extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) production. The frequency of common antibiotic resistance genes (bla CTX-M, bla TEM, bla SHV, and qnr) were detected by PCR and data was statistically analyzed.Results: Sixty E. coli strains (30 for pre treatment and 30 for post treatment sewage) were randomly selected from isolates. All ESBL-producing isolates showed resistance to three antibiotic classes and were MDR. For non-ESBL isolates, 70 and 90 percent were MDR for pre and post treatment sewage, respectively. Of isolates tested, 100% had at least one of resistance genes. The frequency of bla CTX-M-1 gene was significantly higher in isolates of post treatment sewage. The bla TEM gene was more common than other genes in ESBL-producing isolates.Conclusion: The high rate of antibiotic resistance and resistance genes in E. coli isolates of hospital sewage, especially in post treatment is alarming. These data suggest that despite the widespread use of active sludge system to treat hospital sewage, they may not capable to adequately eliminate or reduce the antibiotic resistance strains of E.coli.
"We can’t carry the weight of the whole world": illness experiences among Peruvian older adults with symptoms of depression and anxiety
Authors: Flores-Flores Oscar , Zevallos-Morales Alejandro , Carrión Ivonne , Pawer Dalia , Rey Lorena , Checkley William , Hurst John , Siddharthan Trishul , Parodi Jose , Gallo Joseph , Pollard Suzanne
Published: May 2020

Background: Despite the high levels of depression and anxiety symptoms in old age, the use mental health services in this population is low. Help-seeking behaviors are shaped by how an individual perceives and experiences their illness. The objective of this study was to characterize the illness experiences of Peruvian older adults with depression and anxiety symptoms in order to lay the foundation for tailored community-based mental health interventions.Methods: In this qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews with a purposively selected sample of older adults (≥ 60 years) from peri-urban areas of Lima, Peru. We included individuals with only depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 ≥ 10), only anxiety symptoms (Beck Anxiety Inventory ≥ 16), with depressive and anxiety symptoms, and older adults who mentioned they had received mental health treatment/care. The interview guide included the following topics: perceptions and experiences about depression and anxiety; perceptions about the relationship between physical chronic diseases and mental health; experiences with mental health professionals and treatments, and coping mechanisms. Data collection was conducted between October 2018 and February 2019. Results: We interviewed 38 participants (23 women, 15 men) with a mean age of 67.9 years. Participants’ ideas and perceptions of depression and anxiety showed considerable overlap. Participants attributed depression and anxiety mainly to familial and financial problems, loneliness, loss of independence and past traumatic experiences. Coping strategies used by older adults included ‘self-reflection and adaptation’ to circumstances, ‘do your part’, and seeking ‘emotional support’ mainly from non-professionals (relatives, friends, acquaintances, and religion). Conclusions: Illness experiences of depression and anxiety set the pathway for tailored community-based mental health interventions for older adults. Overlapping narratives and perceptions of depression and anxiety suggest that these conditions should be addressed together. Mental health interventions should incorporate addressing areas related to depression and anxiety such as prevention of loss of independence, trauma, and loneliness. Good acceptability of receiving emotional support for non-professionals might offer an opportunity to incorporate them when delivering mental health care to older adults.
The relationship between immune status as measured by stimulated ex-vivo tumour necrosis factor alpha levels and the acquisition of nosocomial infections in critically ill mechanically ventilated patients.
Authors: Levin Gabrielle , Boyd J. Gordon , Day Andrew , Hunt Miranda , Maslove David , Norman Patrick , Callaghan Nicole O' , Sibley Stephanie , Muscedere John
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Immunological dysfunction is common in critically ill patients but its clinical significance and the optimal method to measure it are unknown. The level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) after ex-vivo whole blood stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been proposed as a possible method to quantify immunological function. We hypothesized that in a cohort of critically ill patients, those with a lower post-stimulation TNF-α level would have increased rates of nosocomial infections (NIs) and worse clinical outcomes. Methods: A secondary analysis of a phase 2 randomized, multi-centre, double-blinded placebo-controlled trial. As there was no difference between treatment and control arms in outcomes and NI rate, all the patients were analyzed as one cohort. On enrolment, whole blood was incubated with LPS ex-vivo and TNF-α level was measured. Patients were grouped in tertiles according to delta and peak TNF-α level. The primary outcome was the association between NIs and tertiles of TNF-α level post LPS stimulation; secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality. Results: Data was available for 201 patients. Patients in the highest tertile for post LPS stimulation delta TNF-α compared to the lowest tertile were younger [61.1 years ± 15.7 vs. 68.6 years ± 12.8 standard deviations (SD) in the lowest tertile], had lower acuity of illness (APACHE II 25.0 ± 9.7 vs. 26.7 ± 6.1) and had lower baseline TNF-α (9.9 pg/mL ± 19.0 vs. 31.0 pg/mL ± 68.5). When grouped according to peak post-stimulation TNF-α levels, patients in the highest tertile had higher serum TNF-α at baseline (21.3 pg/mL ± 66.7 compared to 6.5 pg/mL ± 9.0 in the lowest tertile). Neither the post LPS stimulation delta TNF-α group nor the peak TNF-α post-stimulation group were associated with the development of NIs or clinical outcomes. Conclusion: In this prospective multicenter study, ex-vivo stimulated TNF-α level was not associated with the occurrence of NIs or clinical outcomes. Further study is required to better ascertain how TNF levels and ex-vivo stimulation can best be used to characterize immune function in critical illness, and whether other assays might be better suited to this task.
Effect of board quality on the financial performance of conventional and Islamic banks: Comparative study on the international evidence
Authors: HADDAD Achraf , AMMARI Anis EL , BOURI Abdelfattah
Published: May 2020

This article provides the first logical analysis that detailed the process of comparative analysis between the correlation of board determinants’ quality and the financial performance of conventional and Islamic banks. However, in previous research, we have never encountered rewarding studies that compared these impacts. In our study, we distinguished between the impact of the board of directors on the financial performance in conventional and Islamic banks. Settings of the financial performance and board of directors of the conventional and Islamic banks are collected from 30 countries located in four continents: America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Two equal samples were collected that each of them is composed of 112 banks. By using the cylindrical panel method, data were used to explore the impact of the board of directors on the financial performance between both types of banks over the period 2010-2018, giving us 1008 bank-year observations in each sub-sample. On the whole, empirical results have shown that in conventional banks the board of directors has negatively affected the financial performance, while the impact of the board on the financial performance of Islamic banks is ambiguous. Nevertheless, the degree of the positive impact on financial performance is more significant in Islamic banks.
The Indicators and Methods used for Measuring Urban Liveability: A Scoping Review
Authors: khorrami zahra , Ye Tingting , Sadatmoosavi Ali , mirzaee moghaddameh , Davarani Mohammad Mehdi Fadakar , Khanjani Narges
Published: May 2020

Purpose Livability is a multi-dimensional and hierarchical concept which consists of various criteria and sub-criteria and may be evaluated in different ways. The aim of this study was to systematically review indicators and methods used for the evaluation of urban liveability in literature. Methods The five-stage methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley was used to conduct this scoping review. A systematic search of electronic databases, including Scopus, Medline (via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science and Ebsco was done until May 29, 2019. Web searching, searching reference lists and hand searching was also conducted to retrieve more relevant articles. Two reviewers screened the papers for eligibility based on the inclusion criteria and extracted their key data and reported them descriptively. Results Sixty seven (67) out of 3599 papers met the selection criteria. This review showed 5 distinct domains considered to be important components of liveability. The domains were Economical, Environmental, Institutional, Social, and Governance (Political). The most important indices which were frequently applied in various studies were Environmental friendliness and Sustainability, Socio-Cultural Conditions and Economic Vibrancy and Competitiveness. We also identified 10 different methodologies used for assessing urban liveability. Conclusion This paper discusses and summarizes the latest indicators and methods used for determining urban liveability. The information offered in the review can help future investigators measure urban liveabilty more systematically than before.
Is China Moving Towards Healthy Aging? —A tracking study based on 5 phases of CLHLS data
Authors: Yang Yinan , Meng Yingying
Published: May 2020

BackgroundMost of the countries are entering an aging society in the world. China has the largest number of elderly people in the world and “healthy aging” is the key way for China to cope with the challenges of population aging. This paper aims to investigate whether there is a trend of "healthy aging" in China using the longitudinal data.MethodsThe data used in this study were from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) data of 2002, 2005, 2008, 2011 and 2014. A second-order factor model including four dimensions of physical health, functional status, mental health and social health was constructed to measure a latent variable, “Health_elders” and the structural mean model was further used to the examine the significance of the mean differences in “Health_elders” across five periods.ResultsThe results showed that, with the exception of 2008, the Health_elders in 2002, 2005, 2011 and 2014 displayed an upward trend, and the mean differences in Health_elders across five periods were significant. These findings indicate that on the whole, compared with older people in the past, older people in more recent periods are healthier, which supports the trend of "healthy aging" in China. In terms of groups, the health levels of male, town-residing elderly populations are higher, but the healthy aging trends among female elderly people and rural and urban elderly populations are stronger. Regarding the physical health of the elderly population, the health levels of the 60-74 years old cohort are decreasing, and the participation of elderly individuals in social activities is low, which is the weakness in the healthy aging process in ChinaConclusionThe health status of the elderly population is generally on the rise, indicating that China's aging is moving towards healthy aging. So the government should take more measures to encourage the medical and health system to adapt to the aging situation and requirements as soon as possible.
Psychosocial Support Interventions for Improved Adherence and Retention in ART care for Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV: A Scoping Review
Authors: Okonji Emeka Francis , Mukumbang Ferdinand C. , Orth Zaida , Vickerman-Delport Shelley A. , Wyk Brian Van
Published: May 2020

Background: Mental health disorders such as high levels of anxiety, isolation, depression and suicide reported among adolescents and young people living with HIV contribute significantly to poor medication adherence and retention in care. While there is evidence supporting the role of psychosocial support interventions in promoting adherence and retention in antiretroviral treatment (ART) among adults living with HIV, there is little evidence on the role of psychosocial support on medication adherence among adolescents living with HIV. This scoping review was designed to identify and classify the types and effects of psychosocial support interventions designed to improve adherence and retention in ART among adolescents and young people living with HIV globally. Method: We searched six electronic databases (i.e., Scopus, Pubmed and EBSCOHost (Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, Psycarticles and Medline). Six relevant articles published between 2011 and 2019 met our inclusion criteria. We extracted information relevant to the nature and outcomes of the reported interventions using thematic content analysis informed by the Population, Intervention, comparison, outcome, and time (PICOT) framework. Results: Four distinctive treatment modalities that focused on improving ART adherence and retention in care were identified: individual counselling, support groups, family-centered services, and treatment supporters. Conclusion: There is a dearth of psychosocial support interventions to improve adherence and retention in ART amongst adolescents and young adults living with HIV. Future research and programming should seek to address psychosocial support interventions or approaches specifically designed to address the needs of adolescents and young adults living with HIV.
Social support status and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Kunming city,China
Authors: Li Yi , Zhang Xiao Wen , Liao Bin , Liang Jun , He Wen Jie , Liu Jun , Yang Yao , Zhang Yun Hai , Ma Tao , Wang Jing Ying
Published: May 2020

Background HIV/AIDS not only need effective treatment to alleviate their physical discomforts, but also need social support to help them solve their life difficulties and relieve their psychological anxiety and uneasiness.Social support network is of great significance to help HIV/AIDS maintain good physical and mental health.This study aims to analyse the social support status among people living with HIV/AIDS in Kunming and explore the associated factors. Method A Social Support Rating Scale(SSRS) was used,and the questionnaire survey was conducted by using the method of convenient sampling to select HIV/AIDS from 14 county of Kunming city.It collected information on general demographic information and social support status.Univariate and multivariate linear regressions models were used to explore the associated factors. Results A total of 990 valid questionnaires were completed.Data from all patients were analyzed. Univariate analysis suggested that the factors associated with social support may include marital status,monthly income,antiretroviral therapy.On the other hand, factors including monthly income and antiretroviral therapy account for social support total score in multivariate analysis. Conclusion The social support of HIV/AIDS in Kunming was generally low. This study identified a number of factors associated with social support among HIV/AIDS.Based on our findings,appropriate interventions should be introduced to provide social support for HIV/AIDS.
Molecular Characteristics of VP1 Region of Enterovirus 71 Strains in China
Authors: Sun Haiyan , Gao Min , Cui Dawei
Published: May 2020

Background Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is the most common causative agent of severe and fetal hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) outbreaks worldwide, and the VP1 protein, a capsid protein of EV71, is responsible for the genotype of EV71, which is important for vaccine selection and effectiveness. We performed an observational study of the genetic characteristics and genotype of EV71 isolates in China. Methods The VP1 gene sequences of 3712 EV71 virus strains from China, excluding repetitive sequences, and 30 known EV71 genotypes, as reference strains, between 1986 and 2019 were obtained from GenBank. A phylogenetic tree, amino acid homology, genetic variation and genotype analysis of the EV71-VP1 protein were performed with MEGA 6.0 software. Results The amino acid identity of all Chinese EV71 strains was 88.33%-100%, 93.47%-100% with the vaccine strain H07, and 93.04%-100% with the vaccine strains FY7VP5 and FY-23K-B. Since 2000, the prevalent strains of EV71 were mainly the C4 genotype; the C4a subgenotype was predominant, the C4b subgenotype was the second, and other subgenotypes appeared sporadically between 2005 and 2018 in mainland China. The B4 genotype was the main genotype in Taiwan, and the epidemic strains were constantly changing. Some amino acid variations in VP1 of EV71 occurred with high frequencies: A289T (20.99%), H22Q (16.49%), A293S (15.95%), S283T (15.11%), V249I (7.76%), N31D (7.25%), and E98K (6.65%). Conclusion The C4 genotype of EV71 in China can match the vaccine, which can effectively control EV71 epidemiology. However, the efficacy of the vaccine strain is partially affected by the continuous change in epidemic strains in Taiwan, China. These studies suggested that the genetic characteristics of the EV71-VP1 region should be continuously monitored, which is critical for epidemic control and vaccine design against EV71 infection in children.
Effects of antibiotic substitutes on growth, intestinal microvillus morphology and M cells in pigs - electron microscopy study
Authors: yuan XJ , Xie Yuhuai , Yang Weiren , Huang Libo
Published: May 2020

Background: Misuse of antibiotics in feed seriously affects intestinal tract health of pigs. The feed strategy of alternative feed additives is essential for the pig industry. A single-factor test was conducted to study the effects of antibiotics in feed, glucose oxidase (GOD), and bacterial direct-fed microbials on pig growth and the morphology of M cells the small intestine. Methods: A total of 160 40-d-old weaning piglets of the DLY (Duroc × Large White × Yorkshire) breed were randomly divided into 4 treatments with 4 replicates of 10 pigs each. Dietary treatments were control (commercial basal diet with no additive) and quantitative antibiotics (0.5 kg/t), bacterial direct-fed microbials, GOD (0.5 kg/t), and microbials + GOD added to the basal diet. The preliminary trial period was 7 days, and the formal test period was 35 days. Results: The results showed that the combination of microbials and GOD significantly increased the average daily gain of pigs (ADG) and reduced the ratio of feed intake to gain (F/G) of pigs. The results of intestinal histology by electron microscopy suggested that antibiotics in feed seriously destroyed the morphology of intestinal microvilli and M cells, perturbed the intestinal microflora in nursery pigs. The bacterial direct-fed microbials were most beneficial to small intestine health, which is characterized by complete microvilli, compact and orderly arrangement of villi, and rich intestinal microbes. GOD changed the morphology of M cells in the small intestine, enhanced phagocytosis, but damaged the intestinal mucosa in a certain degree. The combined use of bacterial direct-fed microbials and GOD repaired the intestinal mucosa injury caused by GOD. Conclusions: In this experiment, the microbials and GOD as feed additives could replace antibiotics and improved the growth and immune performance of nursery pigs. The bacterial direct-fed microbials were beneficial to intestinal health. The excessive use of antibiotics seriously affected the development and health of the small intestine. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the application of bacterial direct-fed microbials and GOD in pig production.
“I was Tricked”: Understanding Reasons for Unintended Pregnancy Among Sexually Active Adolescent Girls
Authors: Ajayi Anthony Idowu , Odunga Sally Atieno , Oduor Clement , Ouedraogo Ramatou , Ushie Boniface Ayanbekongshie , Wado Yohannes Dibaba
Published: May 2020

Background: While the Kenya government is mobilizing high-level strategies to end adolescent pregnancy by 2030, a clear understanding of drivers of early unintended pregnancy in the country is a necessary precursor. In this study, we determine the prevalence, associated factors, and reasons for unintended pregnancy among sexually active adolescent girls in two Kenya counties with the highest rate of teenage pregnancy. Methods: We used the baseline evaluation data of the “In Their Hands” (ITH) program. The study adopted a mixed-methods design with 1110 sexually active adolescent girls in the quantitative component and 19 girls who were either pregnant or nursing a child in the qualitative. We used adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression to model factors associated with unintended pregnancy among respondents. We used a thematic analysis of qualitative data to examine girls’ reasons for having unintended pregnancy. Results: Overall, 42% of respondents have had an unintended pregnancy; however, higher proportions were observed among girls who were 19 years (49.4%), double orphans (53.6%), never used contraceptive (49.9%), out-of-school (53.8%), and married (55.6%). After adjusting for relevant covariates, the odds of unintended pregnancy were higher among girls who resided in rural areas (AOR:1.64, 95% CI:1.22-2.20), had primary or no formal education (AOR:1.50 95% CI:1.11-2.02), and had never used contraceptive (AOR:1.69 95% CI-1.25-2.29) compared with their counterparts. Current school attendance was associated with a 66% reduction in the probability of having an unintended pregnancy. Participants of the qualitative study stated that the desire to maintain a relationship, poor contraceptive knowledge, misinformation about contraceptive side effects, and lack of trusted mentors were the main reasons for their unintended pregnancies. Conclusion: A massive burden of unintended pregnancy exists among sexually active adolescent girls in the study setting. Adolescent boys and girls need better access to sexuality education and contraceptives in the study setting to reduce early unintended pregnancy.