bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival of patients with non-small cell lung cancer in King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi
Authors: Al Hajeili Marwan R. , Alhejaili Faris F. , Bakhsh Salwa I. A. , Aljohaney Ahmed A. , Iskanderani Omar F. , Alsulami Atheer F. , Alghamdi Maha A. , Alghamdi Wejdan A. , Banjar Nujoud S.
Published: October 2019

Background: The improvement in the survival rate from cancer is increased due to advancement in the early detection, combined modality therapy and right therapeutic strategies. This study was aimed to assess the survival outcomes of patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH).Methods: This retrospective cohort study included all patients aged 14 years and older with a diagnosis of NSCLC from 2007 to 2017 using electronic medical records at KAUH. Data analysis was performed by using Stata SE, version 15.0. Survival was defined as the time the patient lived in months from the date of pathological diagnosis to the date of last follow-up or death. All variables in a univariate and multivariate analysis were included.Results: Adenocarcinoma was the most common type of NSCLC observed in both genders, accounting for 43.70% of all cases. Of the patients diagnosed with NSCLC the overall median survival was 12.2 months (interval=16.9). And among all variables, surgical treatment was associated with a 71% relative reduction in risk of death (hazard ratio 0.29, p<0.014), and chemotherapy a 57% relative reduction in risk of death (hazard ratio 0.43, p<0.013).Conclusions: The median age of diagnosis of NSCLC in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) was younger than United States of America, this could be due to many factors including smoking. The number of lung cancer cases among women was lower than men.
Microwave and ultrasound promoted greener synthesis of thiazolyl-pyrazoline derivatives and investigation of their biological activities
Authors: MERMER Arif
Published: October 2019

Six
thiazolyl-pyrazoline derivatives were synthesized starting from
corresponding chalcone compounds for their antioxidant capacity and antiurease inhibitory activities. In addition
to the conventional method, ultrasonic sonication and microwave irradiation
methods which are environmental methods were
used in the synthesis stage. Compound
2-(5-(3-bromophenyl)-3-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-4-phenyl thiazole (5a) exhibited the most potent antiurease
activity with IC50 of 2,28±0,02, which was comparable to the
positive control.
Evaluating the helpfulness of a co-construction approach to career learning and development programme design
Authors: McGuire Lis
Published: October 2019

My research explored the helpfulness of co-constructing a career learning and development (CLD) programme with and for adults with mental health challenges. Following a literature review, I adopted a participatory action research strategy, aiming to position a client of the charity where my research was based as a partner in programme design. Emerging themes from semi-structured interviews offered insights into client requirements and concerns, enabling draft programme creation and refinement. In this context, co-construction facilitated delivery of a client-focused, theory-based CLD programme, offering a valuable practitioner learning opportunity, and a vehicle to challenge power relations and pursue emancipatory practice.
Career beliefs, aspirations and after-school activities: The effects of socio-economic status and ethnicity
Authors: Storey Nikki
Published: October 2019

This study examines the career beliefs of students from an ethnically diverse state school in London using an adapted short version of the ‘Careers Beliefs Patterns Scale’ (Arulmani, Van Laar & Easton, 2003, p.199). Results suggest that ethnicity had a much lower impact than socio-economic status on students’ career beliefs and aspirations, whilst religion and ethnicity had a substantial influence on participation in extra-curricular activities. Recommendations include working with parents to create programmes which support students from lower socio-economic status backgrounds and communicating with religious organisations regarding ways that employability skills can be developed within their youth programmes.
Tratamentos pré-germinativos em sementes de Sclerolobium denudatum Vogel
Authors: Brito Júlia Ferreira , Figuerêdo Karolline Sena , Ribeiro Michelli Medeiros Cabral , Dos Santos Antônio Carlos Martins , Da Silva Rubens Ribeiro
Published: October 2019

It was aimed to evaluate different methods to overcome seed dormancy in Sclerolobium denudatum Vogel used in seedling production for the recovery of degraded areas. Seeds were collected from 32 arrays trees by conventional equipment and for treatments it was used a randomized blocks design with four replications, being: witness, chemical treatment with sulfuric acid (4, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 minutes), mechanical sandpaper scarification grana 100 followed immersion of seeds in water (12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 hours), immersion of seeds in water (12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 hours) and immersion in fresh cattle manure (12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 hours). The highest percentage of germination was obtained in the treatment where seeds were immersed in sulfuric acid 70% for 25 minutes. Immersion in fresh cattle manure, immersion in water and mechanical sandpaper scarification grana 100 followed immersion of seeds in water reduce the seeds germination rate.
Avaliação de Métodos de Construção de Aceiros Para Prevenção de Incêndios Florestais no Cerrado
Authors: Rocha Francis Barbosa , Zambrzycki Geraldo Cesar , Ribeiro Edilene Silva , Pereira Reginaldo Sérgio
Published: October 2019

We evaluated four methods of constructing firebreaks in order to prevent the spread of forest fires. The work was performed in a fragment of Cerrado sensu stricto, located margin of BR 251, near the border with the Clean Water Farm (FAL), the experimental station of the University of Brasilia (UnB). The treatments involved the construction of firebreak with the use of heat (T1), semi-mechanized mowing (T2), harrowing (T3) and mowing machine (T4). Over the range of Cerrado sensu stricto were installed 16 plots of 40 x 50 m (2000 m²), randomly distributed, representing the four treatments with four replicates each. In each plot was given the charge of combustible material. The evaluation of the methods was made based on the income earned, and operating costs impacts the ground. The following conclusions could be drawn from the study: (a) the average load of combustible materials found in the area was less than the literature values, (b) the best performance value found medium (ha 0.59 hour-1) was to the method of construction of firebreaks with the use of fire, (c) the lowest operating cost was found for treatment with semi-mechanized mowing (US$ 13.27 ha-1), and (d) there was no statistical difference between treatments on soil compaction.
Análise de crescimento em plântulas de arroz em função do tratamento de sementes com nutrientes minerais
Authors: Tavares Tarliane Martins , Siebeneichler Susana Cristine , Leal Tarcísio Castro Alves de Barros , Terra Thiago Gledson Rios , Rotili Eliane , Rahmeier Wagner
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the initial growth in seedling rice in relation of the seed treatment with nutrients applied before planting. The experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Tocantins - Campus Gurupi in a randomized block design with three replications, evaluating the Metica variety rice with three seed treatments in six harvest times. The treatments were: 1 - control without application of mineral elements; 2 - application of zinc, boron, molybdenum and sulfur (concentration of 182.4, 7.6, 45.6 and 83.6 g/l, respectably); 3 - application of zinc and boron concentration of 350 and 20 g/kg, respectably). The evaluations were at 6, 10, 14, 18, 22 and 27days after emergence. Seed treatment with nutrients increased growth and vigor of rice in the initial phase of the cycle. The rate of increase of rice plants were influenced by seed treatment, where the combination of Zn+B+S+Mb showed the best results, favoring the growth, mainly, of the root system of plants.
Generalization of Kalmar’s method for quasi-matrix logic
Authors: Ивлев Ю.В.
Published: October 2019

Quasi-matrix logic is based on the generalization of the principles of classical logic: bivalency (a proposition take values from the domain $\{t (truth); f (falsity)\}$); consistency (a proposition can not take on both values); excluded middle (a proposition necessarily takes some of these values); identity (in a complex proposition, a system of propositions, an argument the same proposition takes the same value from domain $\{t; f\}$); matrix principle — logical connectives are defined by matrices. As a result of our generalization, we obtain quasi-matrix logic principles: the principle of four-valency (a proposition takes values from domain $\{ t^n; t^c; f^c; f^i\}$ or three-valency (a proposition takes values from domain $\{ n; c; i\}$); consistency: a proposition can not take more than one value from $\{ t^n; t^c; f^c; f^i\}$ or from $\{ n; c; i\}$; the principle of excluded fifth or fourth; identity (in a complex proposition, a system of propositions, an argument the same proposition takes the same value from domain $\{ t^n; t^c; f^c; f^i\}$ or domain $\{ n; c; i\}$); the quasi-matrix principle (logical terms are interpreted as quasifunctions). Quasi-matrix logic is a logic of factual modalities.
Погружение классической пропозициональной логики в паралогики, родственные логике Par
Authors: Попов В. М.
Published: October 2019

Работа выполнена в русле изучения связей между классическими логиками, с одной стороны, и неклассическими логиками, с другой стороны. В статье построено эффективно вычислимое отображение, погружающее классическую пропозициональную логику в любую паралогику, которая включает логику Par из [2] и имеет с Par один и тот же язык.
Интенсиональное употребление, appellatio rationis и неполные описания состояния объектов
Authors: Попов О. В.
Published: October 2019

Эта статья посвящена содержанию понятия J. Buridan appellatio rationis. Взгляды Я. Буридана сопоставляются с мнением Е.К. Войшвилло о различиях между интенсиональным и экстенсиональным использованием языковых выражений. Здесь представлен оригинальный подход автора к интерпретации концепции интенсиональных контекстов Дж. Буридана, их специфике.
Natural deduction in a paracomplete setting
Authors: Болотов А. Е. , Шангин В. О.
Published: October 2019

In this paper we present the automated proof search technique in natural deduction paracomplete logic. Here, for some statements we do not have evidence to conclude if they are true or false, as it happens in the classical framework. As a consequence, for example, formulae of the type p _ ¬p, are not valid. In this paper we formulate the natural deduction system for paracomplete logic PComp, explain its main concepts, define proof searching techniques and the searching algorithm providing examples proofs.
Моделирование диалога с публичными объявлениями
Authors: Зайцев Д. В.
Published: October 2019

В статье предлагается новый подход к формализации рассуждений на основе публичных объявлений.В первой части описывается идея новой экспликации публичных объявлений на ос- нове энтимемической импликации, подробно изложенной в [1]. Вторая часть посвящена обзору различных ситуаций рассуждений на основе публичных объявлений. Отталкиваясь от модифицированной версии диалога «Дети с грязными лицами», я выделяю четыре типа таких ситуаций. В третьей части вводится система PADME (Public Announcements Dialogue Modelling Engine — средство моделирования диа- лога с публичными объявлениями), представляющая собой разновидность системы субординатного вывода. В последней четвертой части рассматриваются дальнейшие направления развития исследований.
Universal Language of the Metascience
Authors: Бахтияров К. И.
Published: October 2019

Leibniz set a problem of the Universal characteristic, but he is extremely focused on the mathematical explanation instead of metasymbolic consideration of the method. The symbols of a metascience are energy maximums and minimums. Creation of a block matrix (by means of the left tensor square) allowed to reveal macrolevel. The alphabet of educational metasymbols solves a problem of polystructural integration of knowledge naturally through their comparison. The genetic table has 4 blocks of the designated and anti-designated pairs of metasymbols which are based on the universal language. Universal language unites various sciences and eras, considering everything from the point of view of Eternity, allowing to expect new results.
Яакко Хинтикка (1929–2015)
Authors: Карпенко А. С.
Published: October 2019

Статья посвящена памяти Яакко Хинтикки (1929–2015).
Markedly Increased Ocular Side Effect Causing Severe Vision Deterioration After Chemotherapy Using New or Investigational Epidermal or Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors.
Authors: Shin Eunhae , Lim Dong Hui , Han Jisang , Nam Do-Hyun , Park Keunchil , Ahn Myung-Ju , Kang Won Ki , Lee Jeeyun , Lee Se-Hoon , Sun Jong-Mu , Jung Hyun Ae , Chung Tae-Young
Published: October 2019

Background

To describe corneal epithelial changes after using epidermal (EGFR) or fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors as chemotherapy and to clarify incidence and prognosis.

Materials

Retrospective chart review.

Results

Among 6,871 patients and 17 EGFR or FGFR inhibitors, 1,161 patients (16.9%) referred for ophthalmologic examination. Authors identified that in twelve patients, 3 EGFR inhibitors and 2 FGFR inhibitors that caused corneal epithelial lesions. Vandetanib, Osimertinib, and an EGFR agent under clinical trial (ABT-414) caused vortex keratopathy in nine patients and ASP5878 and FPA144, the FGFR inhibitors of clinical trial caused epithelial changes resembling corneal dysmaturation in three patients. Mean interval until symptoms appear was 246 days with Vandetanib, 196 days with Osimertinib, 30 days with ABT-414, 55 days with ASP5878 and 70 days with FPA144. Mean of lowest logarithm of minimal angle of resolution units (logMAR) visual acuity of right eye after chemotherapy was 0.338 and 0.413 in left eye. Incidence of epithelial changes were 15.79% with Vandetanib, 0.005% with Osimertinib, 100% with ABT414, 50.0% with ASP5878 and 18.2% with FPA144. After excluding deceased patients, or were lost to follow-up or were still undergoing treatment, we confirmed the reversibility of corneal lesions after discontinuation of each agent. Although patients diagnosed with glioblastoma used prophylactic topical steroids before and during ABT-414 therapy, all developed vortex keratopathy.

Conclusions

EGFR and FGFR inhibitors are well known chemotherapy agents and could make corneal epithelial changes. Contrary to low probability of ocular complication with old EGFR drugs, recently introduced EGFR and FGFR agents showed high incidence of ocular complication with severe vision distortion. Doctors should forewarn patients planning chemotherapy with EGFR or FGFR inhibitors that decreased visual acuity could develop due to corneal epithelial changes, and also reassure them that the condition could be improved after the end of treatment without the use of steroid eye drops.
Determining ‘Curriculum Viability’ through Standards and Inhibitors of Curriculum Quality: A Scoping Review
Authors: Khan Rehan Ahmed , Spruijt Annemarie , Mahboob Usman , Merrienboer Jeroen J. G. van
Published: October 2019

Background A curriculum is dynamic entity and hence, metaphorically, can be considered ‘alive’. Curricular diseases may impair its quality and hence its viability. The quality of a curriculum is typically assessed against certain quality standards only. This approach does not identify the inhibitors impeding the achievement of quality standards. The purpose of this study is to identify not only standards but also inhibitors of curriculum quality, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of what we coin ‘curriculum viability’. Methods We performed a scoping review of ‘curriculum viability’, after which 13 articles were found eligible through a meticulous search and selection process. We first identified 1233 studies based on matching keywords, title and abstract; 36 of which met our inclusion criteria. After application of the Qualsyst criteria, two independent reviewers performed a thematic analysis of the 13 articles that remained. Results While all studies reported on standards of quality, only two studies described both standards and inhibitors of quality. These standards and inhibitors were related to educational content and strategy, students, faculty, assessment, educational/work environment, communication, technology and leadership. Conclusions The framework of curriculum viability thus developed will help identify inhibitors adversely affecting the curriculum viability and remaining hidden or un-noticed when curriculum evaluation is done.
Spatio-temporal characterization of S- and M/L-cone degeneration in the Rd1 mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Narayan Daniel S. , Ao Jack , Wood John P. M. , Casson Robert J. , Chidlow Glyn
Published: October 2019

Background
The Pde6brd1 (Rd1) mouse is widely used as a murine model for human retinitis pigmentosa. Understanding the spatio-temporal patterns of cone degeneration is important for evaluating potential treatments. In the present study we performed a systematic characterization of the spatio-temporal patterns of S- and M/L-opsin + cone outer segment and cell body degeneration in Rd1 mice, described the distribution and proportion of dual cones in Rd1 retinas, and examined the kinetics of microglial activation during the period of cone degeneration.

Results
Outer segments of S- and M/L-cones degenerated far more rapidly than their somas. Loss of both S- and M/L-opsin + outer segments was fundamentally complete by P21 in the central retina, and 90% complete by P45 in the peripheral retina. In comparison, degeneration of S- and M/L-opsin + cell bodies proceeded at a slower rate. There was a marked hemispheric asymmetry in the rate of S-opsin + and M/L-opsin + cell body degeneration. M/L-opsin + cones were more resilient to degeneration in the superior retina, whilst S-opsin + cones were relatively preserved in the inferior retina. In addition, cone outer segment and cell body degeneration occurred far more rapidly in the central than the peripheral retina. At P14, the superior retina comprised a minority of genuine S-cones with a much greater complement of genuine M/L-opsin cones and dual cones, whilst the other three retinal quadrants had broadly similar numbers of genuine S-cones, genuine M/L-cones and dual cones. At P60, approximately 50% of surviving cones in the superior, nasal and temporal quadrants were dual cones. In contrast, the inferior peripheral retina at P60 contained almost exclusively genuine S-cones with a tiny minority of dual cones. Microglial number and activity were stimulated during rod breakdown, remained relatively high during cone outer segment degeneration and loss of cone somas in the central retina, and decreased thereafter in the period coincident with slow degeneration of cone cell bodies in the peripheral retina.

Conclusion
The results of the present study provide valuable insights into cone degeneration in the Rd1 mouse, substantiating and extending conclusions drawn from earlier studies.
Mouse Corticospinal System Comprises Different Functional Neuronal Ensembles Depending On Their Hodology
Authors: Olivares-Moreno Rafael , López-Hidalgo Mónica , Altamirano-Espinoza Alain , González-Gallardo Adriana , Antaramian Anaid , Lopez-Virgen Veronica , Rojas-Piloni Gerardo
Published: October 2019

Background: Movement performance depends on the synaptic interactions generated by coherent parallel sensorimotor cortical outputs to different downstream targets. The major outputs of the neocortex to subcortical structures are driven by pyramidal tract neurons (PTNs) located in layer 5B. One of the main targets of PTNs is the spinal cord through the corticospinal (CS) system, which is formed by a complex collection of distinct CS circuits. However, little is known about intracortical synaptic interactions that originate CS commands and how different populations of CS neurons are functionally organized. To further understand the functional organization of the CS system, we analyzed the activity of unambiguously identified CS neurons projecting to different zones of the same spinal cord segment using two-photon calcium imaging and retrograde neuronal tracers.
Results: Sensorimotor cortex slices obtained from transgenic mice expressing GCaMP6 funder the Thy1 promoter were used to analyze the spontaneous calcium transients in layer 5 pyramidal neurons. Distinct subgroups of CS neurons projecting to dorsal horn and ventral areas of the same segment show more synchronous activity between them than with other subgroups.
Conclusions: The results indicate that CS neurons projecting to different spinal cord zones segregated into functional ensembles depending on their hodology, suggesting that a modular organization of CS outputs controls sensorimotor behaviors in a coordinated manner.
Proportion of neonatal sepsis and determinant factors among neonates admitted in University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital neonatal Intensive care unit Northwest Ethiopia 2017
Authors: Yismaw Ayenew Engida , Abebil Tirngo Yihunie , Biweta Mulunesh Abuhay , Araya Bilen Mekonnen
Published: October 2019

Objective Neonatal sepsis is one of the most common causes for neonatal hospitalization in developing countries. It is also a major cause of mortality in the world affecting both developed and developing countries. Diagnosis and management of sepsis are a great challenge facing neonatologists in neonatal intensive care units due to nonspecific signs and symptoms. This study, therefore, was aimed to determine proportion and risk factors of neonatal sepsis at university of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital, North West Ethiopia. Result Proportion of neonatal sepsis was 11.7%. Factors significantly associated with neonatal sepsis were: Neonatal related factors were: Premature rupture of membrane (AOR=2.74; 95%Cl (1.39, 5.38), congenital anomaly (AOR=3.14; 95%CI (1.09, 10.28), and low Apgar score (AOR=2.69; 95%Cl (1.37, 5.26). Maternal factors were: foul smelling vaginal discharge (AOR=2.75; 95%Cl (1.40, 5.38), and Intrapartum fever (AOR=3.35; 95%Cl (1.7, 6.62). In this finding proportion of Neonatal sepsis was low. Measures targeting the prevention of premature rupture of membranes and low Apgar score need to be taken, like strengthening maternal birth preparedness and complication readiness plans. Also, identification of congenital anomalies earlier in pregnancy may decrease neonatal sepsis.
Phenotypic and genotypic detection of metallo-β-lactamases in A. baumanii isolates obtained from clinical samples in Shahrekord, southwest Iran
Authors: Khaledi Mansoor , Abadi Milad Shahini Shams , Validi Majid , Zamanzad Behnam , Vafapour Rezvan , Gholipour Abolfazl
Published: October 2019

Objective: Acinetobacter baumanii is a pathogenic bacterium that is the cause of many nosocomial infections. This study aimed to determine metallo-β-lactamases (MBL) produced by the A . baumanii isolated obtained from clinical samples in Shahrekord, southwest Iran .
Results: A total of 100 A . baumanii isolates were isolated from 250 clinical samples between June 2013 and June 2014. Then, the isolates were identified by biochemical tests and MBL screening conducted by the phenotypic tests modified Hodge, EDTA-disk synergy (EDS), combined disk (CD) and AmpC disc after antibiotic sensitivity test, and the bla genes detected by PCR. Eighty-five (85%) isolates were resistant to meropenem and imipenem. Phenotypic tests showed that out of the 100 isolates, 46, 59, 50, 65 and 65 isolates were positive: AmpC disk, CD, EDS, Modified Hodge and Etest MBL, suggesting MBL production, respectively. Gene detection by PCR showed that 23 isolates carried the VIM-1 gene and only three isolates carried the IMP-1 gene. The prevalence of metallo-β-lactamases-containing A . baumanii isolates is increasing, and the coexistence of various carbapenemases is a problem. Continuous monitoring of the infections due to these bacteria should be taken into account in planning for alternative and new therapeutic strategies.
Can Hospital Accreditation Enhance Patient Experience? Longitudinal Evidence from a Hong Kong Hospital Patient Experience Survey
Authors: Andres Ellie Bostwick , Song Wen , Song Wei , Johnston Janice Mary
Published: October 2019

Background Hospital accreditation is expected to improve health care quality and patient satisfaction. However, little and conflicting evidence is currently available to support its effect on patient outcomes, particularly patient experience. Hong Kong recently launched a pilot programme to test an infrastructure for accreditation of both private and public hospitals with the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards. This study aims to evaluate the longitudinal impact of hospital accreditation on patient experience in a publicly-funded university teaching hospital in Hong Kong. Methods Three cross-sectional surveys were conducted at three time points: nine months pre- accreditation as baseline (T1), three (T2) and fifteen months (T3) post-accreditation. Acute care inpatients aged 18 to 80 were recruited on the second day of hospital admission to complete the Picker Patient Experience Questionnaire-15 (PPE-15). Baseline data was first compared to the 2005 Hong Kong average for public hospitals using t-tests. Data was then analyzed using ANOVA and multiple linear regression to evaluate differences across the three cross-sections and examine the effect of accreditation over time while controlling for covariates. Results 3,083 patients (T1=896, T2=1093, T3=1094) completed the survey for a response rate of 83.5%, 86.1%, and 83.8%, respectively. The hospital baseline domain and summary patient experience scores differed from the Hong Kong public hospital average obtained from the 2005 Thematic Household Survey. All domain and summary patient experience scores declined (improved) over the study period (T1 to T3). The multiple regression results confirmed the time point score comparisons with declining (improving) parameter estimates for T2 and T3 for all domain and summary scores except the ‘continuity and transition’ domain, for which the declining coefficient was only significant at T3. Conclusions While hospital accreditation has not been shown to improve patient outcomes, this study suggests the accreditation exercise may enhance patient experience. Moreover, it suggests the quality improvement initiatives associated with accreditation may address areas of concern emphasized by Hong Kong patients, such as involvement in care and emotional support from providers.
Exploration of shared genetic susceptibility loci between type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis in the Pakistani population
Authors: Author) Muhammad Muaaz Aslam(Former Corresponding , John Peter , Fan Kang-Hsien , Bhatti Attya , Jahangir Sidrah , Feingold Eleanor , Demirci F. Yesim , Author) M. Ilyas Kamboh(New Corresponding
Published: October 2019

Objective Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are autoimmune diseases. It is known that certain genetic loci and factors that increase the overall autoimmunity risk can be shared among different autoimmune diseases. We sought to replicate seven T1D-related SNPs that have been previously reported to be associated with RA susceptibility in a small set of mixed family-based and case-control Pakistani sample in a relatively large and independent RA case-control sample from the same population. Seven T1D-associted SNPs (GLIS3/rs7020673, BACH2/rs11755527, SKAP2/rs7804356, GDSMB/rs2290400, C6orf173/rs9388489, LOC399716/rs947474 and DLK1-MEG2/rs941576) were genotyped in a large Pakistani RA case-control sample (n=1,959) using TaqMan® SNP genotyping assays. Results None of the tested SNPs showed statistically significant association with RA susceptibility; however, one SNP (GLIS3/rs7020673) showed a trend for association (OR= 0.88, p=7.99E-02). Our study has failed to replicate the previously reported association of seven T1D-associted SNPs with RA risk in a large sample from the same population. Thus, our results do not support a major role of these T1D SNPs in affecting RA susceptibility in the Pakistani population.
UPLC-MS based urine untargeted metabolomic analyses to differentiate bladder cancer from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Zhan , Liu Xiaoyan , Liu Xiang , Sun Haidan , Guo Zhengguang , Zheng Guoyang , Zhang Yushi , Sun Wei
Published: October 2019

Abstract:

Background: To discover biomarker panels that could distinguish cancers(BC & RCC) from healthy controls(HCs) and bladder cancers(BC) from renal cell carcinoma(RCC), regardless of whether with hematuria.

Methods: Totallys, 403 participants were enrolled in our study, with 146 BC patients(77 without hematuria and 69 with hematuria), 115 RCC patients (94 without hematuria and 21 with hematuria) and 142 gender- and age- matched HCs. Their midstream urine samples were collected and analysed by performing UPLC-MS. The statistical methods and pathway analyses were applied to discover potential biomarker panels and altered metabolic pathways.

Results: The panel of α-CEHC, β-cortolone, deoxyinosine, flunisolide, 11b,17a,21-trihydroxypreg-nenolone and glycerol tripropanoate could distinguish the cancers from the HCs(the AUC was 0.950) and the external validation also displayed a good predictive ability (the AUC was 0.867). The panel consisiting of 4-ethoxymethylphenol, prostaglandin F2b, thromboxane B3, hydroxybutyrylcarnitine, 3-hydroxyphloretin and N'-formylkynurenine could differentiate BC from RCC without hematuria. The AUC was 0.829 in the discovering group and 0.76 in the external validation. The metabolite panel comprising 1-hydroxy-2-oxopropyl tetrahydropterin, 1-acetoxy-2-hydroxy-16-heptadecyn-4-one, 1,2-dehydrosalsolinol and L-tyrosine could significantly discriminate BC from RCC with hematuria(AUC was 0.913). Pathway analyses revealed there existed alterd lipid and purine metabolism between cancers and HCs, together with disordered amino acid and purine metablism between BC and RCC with hematuria.

Conclusions: The UPLC-MS urine metabolomic analyses could not only differentiate the cancers from HCs but also discriminate the BC from RCC. Besides, pathway analyses could demonstrate the deeper metabolic mechanism of BC and RCC.
Knowledge, uptake of preconception care and associated factors among reproductive age group women in west shoa zone, Ethiopia, 2018. DANIEL BELEMA FEKENE 1 * BENYAM SEIFU WOLDEYES2 MARU MOSSISA ERENA2
Authors: Fekene Daniel Belema , WOLDEYES BENYAM SEIFU , ERENA MARU MOSSISA , DEMISSE GETU ALEMU
Published: October 2019

Background

Preconception care is a set of interventions that are to be provided before pregnancy, to promote the health and well-being of women and couples.Methods

A community based cross-sectional study was employed among 669 reproductive aged women from November 2017 to the end of January 2018. The data were collected using pre-tested and structured questionnaire . The collected data were coded and entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS 25 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were utilized to determine factors associated with outcome variable .Association presented in Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and significance determined at P-value less than 0.05.Result

A total of 669 participants had participated with response rate of 98.3%. Among them only 179(26.8%) had good PCC knowledge and 97(14.5%) of women of reproductive age group have utilized preconception care. Factors that show significant association with good knowledge of PCC are history of institutional delivery (AOR = 1.43 (95%CI (1.31 -7.33), PNC service utilization, (AOR = 5.02 (95%CI (3.22-7.84), history of using modern contraceptive, (AOR = 1.44 (95%CI (1.37-6.98)) higher educational status (AOR= 4.12 (95%CI (1.22-6.52)and being regularly employed (AOR = 1.8 (95%CI (1.01-3.22). Factors like better family monthly income (AOR = 4.1 (95%CI (1.57-9.35)), history of PNC (AOR = 6.33 (95%CI (3.94-10.17) and good knowledge of PCC (AOR = 4.3 (95%CI (2.67-6.98) had showed positive association towards uptake of PCC.
Remotely controlled mandibular positioning of oral appliance therapy during polysomnography and drug-induced sleep endoscopy compared with conventional subjective titration in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: protocol for a randomized crossover trial
Authors: Dieltjens Marijke , BRAEM Marc J. , de Beeck Sara Op , VROEGOP Anneclaire V.M.T. , KAZEMEINI Elahe , BEYERS Jolien , KASTOER Chloé , WOUTERS Kristien , WILLEMEN Marc , VERBRAECKEN Johan A. , VANDERVEKEN Olivier M.
Published: October 2019

Background The amount of mandibular protrusion is a key factor in optimizing the efficacy of mandibular advancement device (MAD) therapy in the individual patient diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This process is called titration and is generally based on resolution of subjective symptoms like snoring and/or daytime sleepiness as a function of protrusion. An objective approach uses a remotely controlled mandibular positioner (RCMP) during a full-night polysomnography, in analogy with CPAP titration. More recently, the feasibility of RCMP use during drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) titration was reported. Methods This randomized crossover trial will compare DISE-assisted titration with PSG-guided-titration, as well as with the conventional subjective titration method. The primary outcome is the actual mandibular protrusive position found to be the most optimal for each tested titration procedure. Furthermore, the therapeutic efficacy will be compared among the different titration modalities using level 1 sleep studies. Discussion Currently, the optimal titration of MAD therapy is most often based on ‘trial and error’. The conventional method relies on subjective improvement in symptoms, although this may not provide the most accurate indicator for efficient titration. Therefore, relying on objective criteria in the titration process should be advantageous. In analogy with CPAP, titration of the most optimal mandibular protrusion could be performed using RCMP during an overnight titration PSG. Recently, it was shown that titration under direct visualization of upper airway patency and collapsibility is feasible using the RCMP during DISE. However, no clinical results of such a procedure are available yet. This study is the first to compare the most optimal mandibular protrusive position according to three titration procedures, as well as to compare the therapeutic efficacy of these titration methods.
Profiling novel alternative splicing within multiple tissues puts insight into the porcine genome annotation
Authors: Liu Jian-Feng , Feng Wen , Zhao Pengju , Zheng Xianrui
Published: October 2019

Background Alternative splicing (AS) is a process that mRNA precursor splices intron to form the mature mRNA. AS plays important roles in contributing to transcriptome and proteome divert. However, to date there is no research about pig AS in genome-wide level by RNA sequencing. Results To characterize the AS in pigs, herein we detected genome-wide transcripts and events by RNA sequencing technology (RNA-seq) 34 different tissues in Duroc pigs. In total, we identified 138, 403 AS events and 29, 270 expressed genes. We found alternative donor site was the most common AS form, which is accounted for 44% of the total AS events. The percentage of the other 3 AS forms are all around 19%. The results showed that the most common AS events (alternative donor site) can produce different transcripts or different proteins which affect the biological process. Among these AS events, 109, 483 were novel AS events, and the number of alternative donor splice site has increased the most (Accounting for 44% of the novel AS events).Conclusions The expression of gene with tissue specific AS events showed that the functions of these genes were consistent with the tissue function. AS increased proteome diversity and resulted in novel proteins that gained and lost important functional domains. In summary, these findings extend genome annotation and highlight roles that AS acts in tissue identity in pig.Key words: Alternative splicing; transcript; protein; SNP
Unilateral Inferior Oblique Anterior Transposition for Markedly Asymmetric Dissociated Vertical Deviation with Unilateral Inferior Oblique Over-action
Authors: Wu Shuang-Qing , Xu Qi-Bin , Sheng Wen-Yan , Zhu Li-Wei
Published: October 2019

Background: To evaluate the results of unilateral inferior oblique anterior transposition (IOAT) for markedly asymmetric dissociated vertical deviation (DVD) combined with inferior oblique over-action (IOOA).
Methods ： Retrospective chart review of the records of all patients with asymmetric DVD combined with unilateral IOOA in the non-dominant eye who received unilateral IOAT on the non-dominant eye. No other muscles were operated on simultaneously. The amount of DVD and IOOA were measured before and after the operation and statistically analysed.
Results: Seventeen patients were included. The mean age at surgery was 23.5 ± 8.4 (range 12 – 38) years old. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 15.7 ± 7.2 (range 6–32) months. The primary position DVD was 19.6 ± 5.4 (range 14–36) PD preoperatively and decreased significantly to 2.9 ± 2.0 (range 0–8) PD postoperatively ( P < 0.01 ). Preoperatively, there were 2, 7, and 8 patients with +1, +2, and +3 IOOA, respectively, and these were reduced from 2.4 ± 0.7 to 0.3 ± 0.4 postoperatively ( P < 0.01). None of the patients were complicated obvious hypotropia, anti-elevation syndrome or IOOA in the contralateral eye.
Conclusions: Unilateral IOAT was recommended in patients with asymmetric DVD coexists with unilateral IOOA.
Comparison of vascular parameters between normal cynomolgus macaques and healthy humans by optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Peng Jingyi , Zhong Liuxueying , Ma Li , Jin Jiayi , Zheng Yongxin , Jin Chenjin
Published: October 2019

Background: The metabolic activity of retina is higher than other human tissues and is crucial to the vision. Cynomolgus macaques is widely used in ophthalmic disease research. The evaluation and comparison of macular and optic disc vascular circulation parameters between normal adult cynomolgus macaques and healthy adult humans using OCT-A can promote better use of nonhuman primate models in studies of ophthalmic vascular disease.
Methods: 12 normal adult cynomolgus macaques with a mean age of 4.91±0.43 years were studied for data collection. The macula of 28 adult healthy humans (14 males and 14 females), with a mean age of 25.11±6.21 years and the optic discs of 9 adult healthy humans (4 males and 5 females) with a mean age of 28.56±6.78 years were measured. The vessel density (VD) was measured using an RTVue XR with AngioVue. The scan sizes of the macular and optic discs were 3×3 mm and 4.5×4.5 mm, respectively.
Results: OCT-A can image the superficial and deep capillary plexuses and radial peripapillary capillary network. In RPC layer of the optic disc, the VD in the nasal quadrant was lower than the VD in the inferior temporal quadrant. Similarities and significant differences in VD between healthy humans and cynomolgus macaques were obtained using OCT-A.
Conclusions: This study provides normal vascular parameters for adult cynomolgus macaques using OCT-A to help establish an optical parameter database for cynomolgus macaques and compare VD between healthy humans and cynomolgus macaques to promote choroid-retinopathy research.
Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials NCT03692169, retrospectively registered on 26 sept 2018
Keywords: Cynomolgus macaques, Healthy humans, Vascular, Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A), Vessel density (VD)
Unilateral visual impairment in a patient undergoing chemotherapy: a case report and clinical findings
Authors: Yuan Xia , Feng Yuliang , Li Dan , Li Mei
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Background: Visual impairment occurred as an infrequent form of chemotherapeutic toxicity and was often underestimated despite of several reports. We described a case of acute unilateral visual impairment after one cycle of intravenous chemotherapy of a normal dose, aiming at raising attention to chemotherapy-induced ocular toxicity.
Case presentation: The patient developed a progressive vision loss in the right eye during the chemotherapy. After one cycle of intravenous chemotherapy, her visual acuity decreased by 0.6 in the right eye (VOD=0.4) compared to the previous value of 1.0 (VOD=1.0). No evidence of ocular infiltration was observed from the cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). During her follow-up period, we documented the ophthalmologic examinations including visual acuity, visual field (VF), visual evoked potential (VEP), electroretinogram (ERG), fundus photograph (FP), fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Ophthalmoscope examination and fundus photograph showed optic disc edema, fuzzy boundary and linear hemorrhages in her right eye. Fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) revealed capillary underdevelopment at the nasal and superior temporal area of the optic disc in the early phase and capillary fluorescein leakage in the late phase. The result of VEP test suggested the impaired function of the optic nerve. Thus, a diagnosis of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) was made by the ophthalmologist according to these results. The patient was prescribed prednisone combined with neuroprotective drugs, which did not work. After the cessation of chemotherapy, her impaired vision gradually recovered.
Conclusions: This is the first reported case of acute visual impairment in a patient who underwent chemotherapy of a normal dose. It is indicated that while receiving benefits from chemotherapy, cancer patients simultaneously suffer from the risk of vision loss.
Key words: Vision loss, Chemotherapy, Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy
Burden, clinical outcomes and predictors of time to in hospital mortality among adult patients admitted to stroke unit of Jimma university medical center: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Fekadu Ginenus , Chelkeba Legese , Kebede Ayantu
Published: October 2019

Background: The global burden of stroke epidemiology is changing rapidly. Over the 1990–2013 periods, there was a significant increase in the absolute number of deaths and incident events of stroke. The burden of stroke varies in Ethiopia between regions and over time. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the burden, clinical outcomes and predictors of time to in hospital mortality among stroke patients.
Methods: A prospective cohort study was carried at stroke unit of Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC) from March 10- July 10, 2017. The outcome of interest was mortality and time to death. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Multivariable Cox regression was used to identify the predictors of in hospital mortality and time to death from hospital arrival. Predictor variables with P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 116 eligible stroke patients were followed over 4 months. The mean age of patients was 55.1+14.0 years and males comprised of 73 (62.9%). Stroke accounted for 16.5 % of total medical admissions. Among the 116 patients with stroke, 91 (78.4%) were discharged alive making in hospital mortality of rate of 25 (21.6%). The median time of in hospital mortality and length of hospital stay after admission of the patients were 4.38 days and 9.21 days, respectively. The prominent suspected immediate cause for in hospital mortality was increased intracranial pressure in 17 (68.0%) followed by respiratory failure secondary to aspiration pneumonia in 11 (44.0%) patients. Brain edema (AHR: 6.27, 95% CI: 2.50-15.76), urine incontinence (AHR: 3.48, 95% CI: 1.48-8.17), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) >13 during hospital arrival (AHR: 22.58, 95% CI: 2.95-172.56) and diagnosis of stroke clinically alone (AHR: 4.96, 95% CI: 1.96-12.54) were the independent predictors of time to in hospital mortality.
Conclusions: The mortality rate of stroke in this setup was comparable with other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). There is an urgent need to establish well equipped and staffed stroke units in the country in addition to strengthen the already existing on. Furthermore, future work must be designed to identify the barriers to improve stroke outcomes and recovery.
MicroRNA expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells associated with syphilis
Authors: Huang Tao , Zhang Jun , Ke Wujian , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Wentao , Yang Jieyi , Liao Yiwen , Liang Fangwen , Mei Shuqing , Li Mingjiu , Luo Zhenzhou , Zhang Qiwei , Yang Bin , Zheng Heping
Published: October 2019

Background
Treponema pallidum ( T. pallidum ) infection evokes significant immune responses, resulting in tissue damage. The immune mechanism underlying T. pallidum infection is still unclear, although microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to influence immune cell function and, consequently, the generation of antibody responses during other microbe infections. However, these mechanisms are unknown for T. pallidum .
Methods
In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs in healthy individuals, untreated patients with syphilis, patients in the serofast state, and serologically cured patients. miRNAs were profiled from the peripheral blood of patients obtained at the time of serological diagnosis. Then, both the target sequence analysis of these different miRNAs and pathway analysis were performed to identify important immune and cell signaling pathways. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed for microRNA analysis.
Results
A total of 89 differentially regulated miRNAs were identified. Following RT-qPCR confirmation, three miRNAs (hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-223-3p, hsa-miR-589-3p) showed significant differences in the serofast and serologically cured states ( P <0.05). One miRNA (hsa-miR-195-5p) showed significant differences between untreated patients and healthy individuals.
Conclusions
This is the first study of miRNA expression differences in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in different stages of T. pallium infection. Our study suggests that the combination of three miRNAs has great potential to serve as a non-invasive biomarker of T. pallium infections, which will facilitate better diagnosis and treatment of T. pallium infections.
NMDA Receptor Antagonists: Repositioning of Memantine as a Multitargeting Agent for Alzheimer's Therapy
Authors: Kabir Md. Tanvir , Sufian Mohammad A. , Uddin Md. Sahab , Begum Mst. Marium , Akhter Shammi , Islam Ariful , Mathew Bijo , Islam Md. Siddiqul , Amran Md. Shah , Md. Ashraf Ghulam
Published: October 2019

:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes problems with memory,
thinking, and behavior. Currently, there is no drug that can reduce the pathological events of this degenerative
disease but symptomatic relief is possible that can abate the disease condition. N-methyl-D-aspartate
(NMDA) receptors exert a critical role for synaptic plasticity as well as transmission. Overstimulation of glutamate
receptors, predominantly NMDA type, may cause excitotoxic effects on neurons and is recommended as a
mechanism for neurodegeneration. Atypical activation of the NMDA receptor has been suggested for AD by
synaptic dysfunction. NMDA receptor antagonists especially memantine block the NMDA receptor and can reduce
the influx of calcium (Ca2+) ions into neuron, thus, toxic intracellular events are not activated. This review
represents the role of NMDA receptors antagonists as potential therapeutic agents to reduce AD. Moreover, this
review highlights the repositioning of memantine as a potential novel therapeutic multitargeting agent for AD.