bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Aktivitas Pengendalian terhadap Risiko Penyalahgunaan Aset pada Bank Perkreditan Rakyat (BPR)
Authors: Khairunnisa Hera , Sumardi  , Bambang Tutuko  , Christian Wiradendi Wolor
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of control activities on the risk of asset misappropriation in Rural Credit Banks (BPR). This study uses a survey method using some questionnaires. The questionnaires were distributed to 30 BPR employees in most Jabodetabek areas. The collected questionnaires were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Control activity variables are adopted from the COSO internal control framework. Control activity variables are devided into three sub-variables. Asset misappropriation in this study uses indicators from the previous studies. Measurement of control activity variables and risk of asset misappropriation in this study using a likert scale, 1 means strongly disagree and 5 means strongly agree. The results of the study indicate that the development of internal control activities has an effect on the risk of asset misuse in BPR. While the variable development of technology-based control activities and the variable realization of control activities have no effect on the risk of misuse of assets in BPR.
Matrix Reference Materials Development for Food Safety Application in Philippine Products
Authors: Ebarvia Benilda Sacop , Cabanilla Sharlene Rayo , Dacuya Aaron Cultivo , Cruz Alma Bustamante , Tongson Alleni Biglete , Cortez Cyril Cabase , Aganda Kim Christopher , Mamplata Natividad Ramos
Published: September 2020

The development of RMs was pioneered in the Philippines by the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) - DOST as part of its vision to establish metrological traceability and support the RMs needs of chemical testing laboratories in the country.  Food safety issues for chemical testing of Philippine products were prioritized in this activity as these could affect the health of consumers and trade issues.  Reference methods used for the provision of reference value was developed and validated for contaminants like histamine and benzoic acid in canned tuna and mango juice respectively.  The materials were prepared and characterized and found to be homogeneous and stable for at least six (6) months.  The reference value assigned to these RMs was done using a higher order method like isotope dilution technique coupled with Liquid Chromatography-Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry (LCMSMS).  Results were also cross-checked using gravimetric technique for High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis.  Certified RMs purchased from Metrology Institutes were also used to further support traceability of measurements.  Philippine product RMs were developed for histamine and benzoic acid. The measurement traceability was disseminated by ITDI to local testing laboratories through the Proficiency Test schemes organized and conducted for the said analytes.  
Anti-inflammatory protein TNFα-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6) reduces inflammatory response after brain injury in mice
Authors: Mutoji Kazadi Nadine , Sun Mingxia , Nash Amanda , Puri Sudan , Hascall Vincent , Coulson-Thomas Vivien J
Published: September 2020

Background: Current research suggests that the glial scar surrounding penetrating brain injuries is instrumental in preserving the surrounding uninjured tissue by limiting the inflammatory response to the injury site. We recently showed that tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6), a well-established anti-inflammatory molecule, is present within the glial scar. We hereby investigate the role of TSG-6 within the glial scar.Methods: TSG-6 null and littermate control mice were subjected to penetrating brain injuries (2 mm puncture wound to the frontal cortex), after which both the injury site and remaining injured hemisphere were analyzed. The presence of activated astrocytes, inflammatory markers and glial scar components was evaluated by real-time PCR and immunofluorescence. Results: Our findings show that mice lacking TSG-6 present a more severe inflammatory response after injury, which is correlated with an enlarged area of astrogliosis beyond the injury site.Conclusion: Our data provides evidence that TSG-6 has an anti-inflammatory role within the glial scar.
Perioperative Hypoalbuminemia is a Risk Factor for Wound Complications Following Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: He Zhongyuan , Zhou Kai , Tang Ke , Quan Zhengxue , Liu Shaoyu , Su Bao
Published: September 2020

Background: Although serum albumin levels are increasingly used as an indicator of nutritional status in the clinic, the relationship between perioperative hypoalbuminemia and wound complications after posterior lumbar interbody fusion in the treatment of lumbar degenerative disease remains ambiguous. The aim of this study was to evaluate perioperative serum albumin in relation to postoperative wound complications after posterior lumbar interbody fusion in the treatment of single-segment lumbar degenerative disease.Material and methods: We reviewed patients who underwent single-segment posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery from December 2014 to April 2017 in the Department of Orthopedics at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. Perioperative (preoperative and early postoperative) serum albumin levels were assessed in all patients and were used to quantify nutritional status. We divided the patients into a surgical wound dehiscence (SWD) group and a normal wound healing group, and into a surgical site infection (SSI) group and a non-SSI group. To evaluate the relationship between perioperative serum albumin level and postoperative wound complications, we conducted univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses.Results: A total of 554 patients were enrolled in the study. The univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis of these differences showed that preoperative serum albumin <3.5 g/dl (P =0.001) and postoperative serum albumin <3.0 g/dl (P =0.001) were significantly correlated to SWD. There were also significant differences between the SSI groups in terms of preoperative serum albumin <3.5 g/dl (P=0.001), Chronic steroid use (P=0.003). Additionally, the increased hospitalization costs (P<0.001) and length of hospitalization (P<0.001) were statistically significant for patients with perioperative hypoalbuminemia.Conclusions: For patients who underwent single-segment posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery, we need to pay more attention to perioperative hypoalbuminemia and chronic steroid use, which are more likely to be associated with increased wound complications, hospitalization costs and length of hospitalization after surgery. Adequate assessment and management of these risk factors will help reduce wound complications and hospital stays for surgical patients and will save medical costs.
Can natural language processing help differentiate inflammatory intestinal diseases in China? Models applying random forest and convolutional neural network approaches
Authors: Tong Yuanren , Lu Keming , Yang Yingyun , Li Ji , Lin Yucong , Wu Dong , Yang Aiming , li yue , Yu Sheng , Qian Jiaming
Published: September 2020

Background: Differentiating between ulcerative colitis (UC), Crohn’s disease (CD) and intestinal tuberculosis (ITB) using endoscopy is challenging. We aimed to realize automatic differential diagnosis among these diseases through machine learning algorithms. Methods: A total of 6399 consecutive patients (5128 UC, 875 CD and 396 ITB) who had undergone colonoscopy examinations in the Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2008 to November 2018 were enrolled. The input was the description of the endoscopic image in the form of free text. Word segmentation and key word filtering were conducted as data preprocessing. Random forest (RF) and convolutional neural network (CNN) approaches were applied to different disease entities. Three two-class classifiers (UC and CD, UC and ITB, and CD and ITB) and a three-class classifier (UC, CD and ITB) were built. Results: The classifiers built in this research performed well, and the CNN had better performance in general. The RF sensitivities/specificities of UC-CD, UC-ITB, and CD-ITB were 0.89/0.84, 0.83/0.82, and 0.72/0.77, respectively, while the values for the CNN of CD-ITB were 0.90/0.77. The precisions/recalls of UC-CD-ITB when employing RF were 0.97/0.97, 0.65/0.53, and 0.68/0.76, respectively, and when employing the CNN were 0.99/0.97, 0.87/0.83, and 0.52/0.81, respectively.Conclusions: Classifiers built by RF and CNN approaches had excellent performance when classifying UC with CD or ITB. For the differentiation of CD and ITB, high specificity and sensitivity were achieved as well. Artificial intelligence through machine learning is very promising in helping unexperienced endoscopists differentiate inflammatory intestinal diseases.
Dietary Patterns of University Students in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sbaih Raneen Abu , Hourani Huda M. Al , Khader Yousef , Khawaja Nahla , Hyassat Dana , Ajlouni Kamel
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: University students might have poor diet quality. The aim of this study is to identify the dietary patterns of university students and assess their association with different socio-demographic, anthropometric and lifestyle factors. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted on students attending the University of Jordan, in a time period between September and November 2019. METHODS: A total of 664 students (469 females and 195 males aged between 17-30 years with a mean age (SD) of 19.7± 1.8), were included in this study. Data was collected using a survey consistent of two parts; socio-demographic, lifestyle, eating habits questions and a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The FFQ consisted of 55 food items/subgroups, and was specifically designed for this study. Body weight and height were measured by a trained dietitian. Principle component analysis was used to generate the dietary patterns. Associations between dietary patterns with different variables were measured through general linear modelling.RESULTS: Three main dietary patterns were identified: ‘snacking’, ‘healthy’ and ‘accessible’. Mean factor scores of the snacking pattern increased with less healthy aspects such as obesity or being underweight, smoking and being physically inactive. While factor scores for the healthy pattern increased with healthier aspects such as physically activity, having three or more meals per day and considering breakfast as the main meal of the day, and this pattern was largely followed by male students. Finally, the accessible pattern had higher scores for students living with their family and having three or more meals per day. CONCLUSION: The results of this study provide an understanding to the dietary patterns of university students along with related factors (socio-demographic, lifestyle, eating habits). It has identified a number of precursors of both healthy and unhealthy dietary practices. These finding are important for the conceptualization of multi behavioral programs and public health interventions.
Effect of Diabetes and Admission Blood Glucose Levels on Short-term Outcomes in Patients with Critical illnesses: A Real-world Study Based on Propensity Score Analyses
Authors: Lin Shan , Ge Shanhui , He Wanmei , Zeng Mian
Published: September 2020

Background: Effect of diabetes and optimal range of blood glucose level on the short-term prognosis in patients with critical illnesses are currently ambiguous. We aimed to determine whether diabetes affects short-term prognosis and optimal range of blood glucose level for critically ill patients.Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of data on 46,476 critically ill patients from the critical care database (version 1.4), collected prospectively between 2002 and 2012. Association of diabetes with 28-day mortality was assessed by inverse probability weighting based on the propensity score. Smoothing splines and threshold effect analysis were applied to explore the optimal glucose range.Results: Of the 33,680 patients enrolled in the study, 8,701 (25.83%) had diabetes. In the main analysis, the 28-day mortality was reduced by 29% (hazard ratio (HR)=0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67-0.76) in patients with diabetes compared to those without diabetes. The E-value of 2.17 indicated robustness to unmeasured confounders. The effect of the association between with diabetes and 28-day mortality was generally in line for all subgroup variables, significant interactions were observed for glucose at ICU admission, admission type, and insulin use (Interaction P <0.05). A V-shaped relationship was observed between glucose and 28-day mortality in patients without diabetes, with the lowest 28-day mortality corresponding to the glucose level was 101.75 mg/dl (95% CI 94.64-105.80 mg/dl), and hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia should be avoided, especially in patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU), cardiac surgery recovery unit (CSRU), and coronary care unit (CCU); for patients with diabetes, no optimal threshold for glucose was found, and elevated blood glucose does not appear to be associated with a poor prognosis, and perhaps may be beneficial except for CCU and CSRU.Conclusions: The non-detrimental effect of diabetes on the short-term prognosis of critically ill patients was further confirmed, which would reduce 28-day mortality by approximately 29%. For patients without diabetes, the glucose level corresponding to the lowest 28-day mortality was 101.75 mg/dl (95% CI 94.64-105.80 mg/dl); however, for patients with diabetes, the appropriate optimal blood glucose threshold remains unresolved.
The Role of Health Facilities in Supporting Adherence to Iron-folic Acid in Haiti and Malawi: A Study Linking Health Facility Survey and Population Survey Data
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Benedict Rukundo , Mallick Lindsay
Published: September 2020

Background: Iron-folic acid (IFA) supplementation during pregnancy is key to prevent maternal anemia. In Malawi and Haiti, consumption of IFA supplements remains suboptimal. This study examined the IFA-related services provided in health facilities and their association with women’s adherence to IFA supplementation during pregnancy.Methods: This study used data from the Demographic and Health surveys (DHS) and the Service Provision Assessment (SPA) in Haiti and Malawi. Using GPS data collected in both surveys, each DHS cluster was linked to health facilities surveyed in the SPA within a specified buffer distance (5 km for urban areas and 10 km for rural areas). IFA-related services were examined for health facilities within the buffer, including the availability of IFA supplements, prescription of IFA, and client counseling on IFA. Adherence to IFA supplementation was examined for women who received antenatal care (ANC) for their most recent live birth in the 2 years preceding the DHS survey. Multilevel logistic regressions stratified by urban and rural locale were used to model associations between women’s consumption of IFA supplements and the health facility service environment, controlling for relevant covariates.Results: More than two-thirds of facilities with ANC services in Haiti and almost all ANC facilities in Malawi had IFA supplements available. Over 60% of ANC clients in Haiti and over 80% in Malawi received IFA supplements or an IFA prescription. Counseling on IFA was less common and focused on how to use IFA; few women were counseled on side effects. Only 42% of women in Haiti and 35% of women in Malawi took IFA supplements for at least 90 days. Multivariable models indicated that in both countries, adherence to IFA supplementation in rural areas was significantly associated with a high level of availability of ANC facilities offering IFA. IFA counseling was also positively associated with the IFA supplement adherence in rural Malawi but not in Haiti. IFA supplement adherence was consistently associated with the completion of four or more ANC visits in both countries.Conclusions: Continued efforts are required to address access to IFA supplements through improving both the use of ANC services and their quality, particularly in provider counseling.
Referral Patterns of Paediatricians and General Medical Practitioners to Paediatric Dental Clinics and Oral Health Knowledge in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Alhowaish Latifa , Aljohar Aziza , Arafa Mostafa , Almarshed Lujane , Binrabbaa Reem , Albabtain Sara
Published: September 2020

Background: The single most chronic disease impacting children on an international scale is dental caries; there are alerts to deaths of children as a result of the complications caused by dental caries, despite the fact that this disease is completely preventable. This study aims to evaluate physicians’ dental knowledge, preventive measures they would provide and their referral patterns to paediatric dentists.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Certified paediatricians and general practitioners (GPs) from different sectors were invited to participate. The survey comprised 24 questions, distributed into 5 sections; demographic data, dental knowledge, participation in oral preventive measures, case scenarios and one question about participants’ opinion in implementing oral health rotations in the paediatric residency program. Results: 406 physicians participated in the study. Only 4.4 % of the participants answered all the knowledge questions correctly, the mean correct knowledge score was 2.95 ± 0.9937 out of 5. No significant difference was detected in the total knowledge score according to gender (P= 0.315), specialty and years of experience (P= 0.463 and 0.985 respectively). Common causes for referral were dental pain or swelling (67%) followed by a child with dental caries (43.6%). Less than 60% of the respondents would refer children to any dentist in the same hospital, while only 28 % only advise parents to consult a dentist. Most physicians suggested the addition of an oral health rotation in the medical residency program.Conclusions: The current level of oral health knowledge is not satisfactory to provide effective paediatric patients referrals to dentists, although their attitude towards providing oral preventive measures is good. Oral health knowledge and engagement should be emphasized in medical schools. Early and correct referral can be effective in preventing oral disease. The integration of oral health in undergraduate and specialty training curricula is vital to achieve disease prevention goals.
Multiple waves of freshwater colonization of the three-spined stickleback in the Japanese Archipelago
Authors: Kakioka Ryo , Mori Seiichi , Kokita Tomoyuki , Hosoki Takuya K , Nagano Atsushi J , Ishikawa Asano , Kume Manabu , Toyoda Atsushi , Kitano Jun
Published: September 2020

Background: The three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) is a remarkable system to study the genetic mechanisms underlying parallel evolution during the transition from marine to freshwater habitats. Although the majority of previous studies on the parallel evolution of sticklebacks have mainly focused on postglacial freshwater populations in the Pacific Northwest of North America and northern Europe, we recently use Japanese stickleback populations for investigating shared and unique features of adaptation and speciation between geographically distant populations. However, we currently lack a comprehensive phylogeny of the Japanese three-spined sticklebacks, despite the fact that a good phylogeny is essential for any evolutionary and ecological studies. Here, we conducted a phylogenomic analysis of the three-spined stickleback in the Japanese Archipelago. Results: We found that freshwater colonization occurred in multiple waves, each of which may reflect different interglacial isolations. Some of the oldest freshwater populations from the central regions of the mainland of Japan (hariyo populations) were estimated to colonize freshwater approximately 170,000 years ago. The next wave of colonization likely occurred approximately 100,000 years ago. The inferred origins of several human-introduced populations showed that introduction occurred mainly from nearby habitats. We also found a new habitat of the three-spined stickleback sympatric with the Japan Sea stickleback (Gasterosteus nipponicus). Conclusions: These Japanese stickleback systems differ from those in the Pacific Northwest of North America and northern Europe in terms of divergence time and history. Stickleback populations in the Japanese Archipelago offer valuable opportunities to study diverse evolutionary processes in historical and contemporary timescales.
Preparation of PLA / Chitosan Nanoscaffolds Containing Cod Liver Oil and Experimental Diabetic Wound Healing in Male Rats Study
Authors: Khazaeli Payam , Alaei Maryam , Khaksarihadad Mohammad , Ranjbar Mehdi
Published: September 2020

Background
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic disorders. One of the important metabolic complications in diabetes is diabetic foot ulcer syndrome, which causes delayed and abnormal healing of the wound. The formulation of nanoscaffolds containing cod liver oil by altering the hemodynamic balance toward the vasodilators state, increasing wound blood supply, and altering plasma membrane properties, namely altering the membrane phospholipids composition can be effective in wound healing. In this study electrospinning method was used to produce poly lactic acid/chitosan nanoscaffolds as a suitable bio substitute.
Results
The results showed that the optimum formulation of cod liver oil was 30%, which formed a very thin fiber that rapidly absorbed to the wound and produced significant healing effects. According to the results poly lactic acid / chitosan nanoscaffolds containing cod liver oil can be a suitable bio product to use in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer syndrome.
Conclusions
The poly lactic acid / chitosan nanoscaffolds containing 30% cod liver oil show more healing and less wound area on the fourteenth day which this can be due to permeability and sufficient oxygen for tissue repair. Moisture retention of the wound medium to accelerate its healing, color change and pH changes to keep the wound site safe from bacteria, contamination and non-contamination are among the characteristics of the nanoscaffold produced.
Community Health Workers’ Involvement in Mother-Child Care During the First Year After Birth, in Kaya Health District, Burkina Faso: A Contribution Analysis
Authors: Tougri Halima , Compaoré Rachidatou , Ouédraogo Adja Mariam , Blandine Bila , Temmerman Marleen , Kouanda Séni
Published: September 2020

Background: Maternal and infant morbidity and mortality remain high in the world and particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. However, actions to strengthen postpartum care are still weak and mainly limited to health facilities (HFs). The Missed Opportunities in Mother and Infant Health (MOMI) project implemented in the Kaya health district in Burkina Faso included community-based health workers (CHWs) in the care of women and children during the first year postpartum through home visits, accompanying mothers to health facilities and outreach sessions. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of CHWs to postpartum women’s health facilities attendance.Methods: We conducted an effect assessment using Mayne and Lemire's contribution analysis framework. This was a mixed methodsstudy. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through project document review and individual semi-structured interviews with key-informants.Results:The CHW carried out home visits, accompanied women to HFs, conducted outreach sessions and referred to health facilities, mothers or children who were showing signs of danger.All the participants interviewed acknowledged that the number of women, who came to postpartum care, had increased since the implementation of the project activities. Postpartum consultation rates within the first week postpartum increased from 29% in 2011 to 80% in 2015 and from 19% to 50% within 6 weeks. Others interventions such as the Performance based financing, the Save The Children (NGO) nutritional project and the health services component of MOMI were the alternative explanations.Conclusions: Community-based health workers involvement in the care of women contributed to improve their adherence to postpartum consultations in Kaya health district.
Expression of miR-195 and its target gene Bcl-2 in human intervertebral disc degeneration and their effects on nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis
Authors: Lin Xue-Lin , Zheng Zhao-Yun , Zhang Qing-Shan , Zhang Zhen , An You-Zhi
Published: September 2020

Objective: To investigate the expression of miR-195 and its target gene Bcl-2 in intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and its effect on nucleus pulposus (NP) cell apoptosis.Methods: The expressions of miR-195 and Bcl-2 in NP tissues of IVDD patients were quantified by qRT-PCR and Western blotting respectively. NP cells were divided into Blank group, TNF-α group, TNF-α + miR-NC group, TNF-α + siBcl-2 group, and TNF-α + miR-195 inhibitors + siBcl-2 group. Cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay, cell apoptosis evaluated by flow cytometry, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) tested by JC-1 staining, and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins quantified by Western blotting. Results: Compared with controls, IVDD patients had significantly increased miR-195 expression and decreased Bcl-2 protein in NP tissues. The expression of miR-195 was negatively correlated with the expression of Bcl-2 in NP tissues of IVDD patients (r = - 0.89, P < 0.001). Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay indicated that Bcl-2 was a target gene of miR-195. In comparison with Blank group, TNF-α group showed decreased cell proliferation and MMP, increased cell apoptosis, up-regulated expression of miR-195, Bax and cleaved caspase 3, and down-regulated Bcl-2 protein, these changes were attenuated by miR-195 inhibitors. Additionally, siBcl-2 can reverse the protective effect of miR-195 inhibitors on TNF-α-induced NP cells. Conclusion: IVDD patients had increased miR-195 expression in NP tissues, and inhibiting miR-195 can specifically up-regulate Bcl-2 expression to curb apoptosis of TNF-α-induced NP cells.
Metabolite Analysis of Tubers and Leaves of Two Potato Cultivars and Their Grafts
Authors: Odgerel Khongorzul , Bánfalvi Zsófia
Published: September 2020

Background: Grafting experiments have shown that photoperiod-dependent induction of tuberisation in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is controlled by multiple overlapping signals, including mobile proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs and phytohormones. The interaction of vegetative organs and tubers at metabolite level, however, has not been studied in detail in potato.Results: Grafting experiments were carried out to unravel the influence of vegetative organs on the primary polar metabolite content of potato tubers and the effect of tuberisation on the metabolite content of leaves. Two potato cultivars, Hópehely (HP) and White Lady (WL), were homo- and hetero-grafted, and the effects of grafting were investigated in comparison to non-grafted controls. Non-targeted metabolite analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that the major difference between HP and WL tubers is in sucrose concentration. The sucrose level was higher in HP than in WL tubers and was not changed by grafting, suggesting that the sucrose concentration of tubers is genetically determined. The galactinol level was 8-fold higher in the WL leaves than in the HP leaves and, unlike the sucrose concentration of tubers, was altered by grafting. A positive correlation between the growth rate of the leaves and the time of tuber initiation was detected. The time of tuber initiation was delayed in the WL rootstocks by HP scions and shortened in the HP rootstocks by WL scions, supporting the previous finding that tuberisation is triggered by source-derived mobile signals.Conclusions: We identified the major polar metabolites in leaves and tubers of two commercial potato cultivars and tested the effect of grafting on the metabolite compositions in both organs. We found significant differences in metabolite concentrations of the two cultivars. The grafting did not change substantially the metabolite levels either in leaves or tubers with the exception of galactinol, the concentration of which was slightly influenced in leaves by rootstocks.
Phylogenetic Relationships within the Nematode Subfamily Phascolostrongylinae (Nematoda: Strongyloidea) from Australian Macropodid and Vombatid Marsupials
Authors: Sukee Tanapan , Beveridge Ian , Sabir Ahmad Jawad , Jabbar Abdul
Published: September 2020

Background: The strongyloid nematode subfamily Phascolostrongylinae are parasites of the large intestine and stomach of Australian macropods (Macropodidae) and wombats (Vombatidae). Based on morphological classifications, the Phascolostrongylinae is comprised of seven genera belonging to three tribes (Phascolostrongylinea, Macropostrongyloidinea, and Hypodontinea). The phylogenetic relationships among the genera of the Phascolostrongylinae were tested using the first and second internal transcribed spacer (ITS+) sequences of the ribosomal DNA. Results: Monophyly was encountered in the tribe Phascolostrongylinea comprising two genera, Phascolostrongylus and Oesophagostomoides, found exclusively in the large intestine of wombats. The tribe Hypodontinea, represented by the genera Hypodontus and Macropicola from the ileum and large intestine of macropods was also found to be monophyletic, but with low support. The tribe Macropostrongyloidinea comprising the genera Macropostrongyloides and Paramacropostrongylus was paraphyletic with the species occurring in the stomach grouping separately to those found in the large intestines of their hosts. Finally, Macropostrongyloides dissimilis from the stomach of the swamp wallaby and Paramacropostrongylus toraliformis from the large intestine of the eastern grey kangaroo were distinct from their respective congeners. Conclusion: The current study provided strong support for the generic composition of the tribe Phascolostrongylinea and low support for the tribe Hypodontinea. However, the relationships within the tribe Macropostrongyloidinea are more complex and its monophyly was not supported by the current ITS+ dataset. The unexpected finding of M. dissimilis and P. toraliformis being distantly related to their respective congeners suggests a requirement for future taxonomic revision which may warrant separation of these species at the generic level.
Relativity and View Effects
Authors: Fischli Bernard
Published: September 2020

Relativity has been based on the implicit assumption that electromagnetism would exclusively describe interactions. Relativistic view effects are included as well, and they act with no force and no energy exchanges. The Ehrenfest paradox is solved. View effects specific to each point of view are the solution. The calculation of the deflection of light by the sun explains in detail why the deflection angle must be almost double the value obtained with Newton’s laws. The compatibility of General Relativity with the new interpretation is discussed. View effects cannot impact total energy. An object has no speed limit due to relativity but can be limited due to other causes. Inertial behavior is examined. Inertial masses are redundant, but this does not introduce gravitation to General Relativity.
Marital Status, Sex and Utilisation of Healthcare Service Among the Older Adults in India
Authors: Hossain Babul , James K.S. , Rana Md Juel
Published: September 2020

Background: The association between marital status and health status among the elderly has been at the forefront of investigation for a long time. However, the study on the effects of marital status on health care utilisation is limited. This study assesses the association between use of inpatient health services and marital status among older adults in India from the perspective of sex. Methods: Data used in the study have been obtained from the 75th Round of National Sample Survey (NSS) on "Social Consumption: Health" with the sample size of 42,762 individuals aged 60 years or above. The study implements the Andersen's behavioural framework controlling the predisposing, enabling, and need characteristics and uses binary logistic regression models to assess the effect of marital status on inpatient health service. Results: There is a significant difference in inpatient healthcare use between married and widowed elderly by age, educational level, perceived health and mobility for both sexes. The unadjusted regression analysis shows that widowed are more likely to use inpatient health services both for women (OR=1.57; CI 95%= 1.47, 1.68) and men (OR=1.11; CI 95%= 1.02, 1.2). However, after controlling the predisposing, enabling, and need factors, a strong association between healthcare services and marital status has been found for women, but not for men. Widowed women (OR=1.43; CI 95%=1.33, 1.54) are more likely to use inpatient health care than married women. Conclusion: The present study has reported the association between the utilisation of inpatient health services and marital status for the elderly in India. Our study advocates that there is a sex difference in the utilisation of inpatient health services by the marital Status in India. Older widowed women should get more focus on health and elderly policy perspectives.
The Effects of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizer Rates on Yield and Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Hawzen, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebremedhin Hilay , Gebremicheal Mehari , Fitsum Gebregwergis
Published: September 2020

Background

More than 50% of the soil in Tigray is deficient in macro essential nutrients. Hence, poor soil chemical fertility is a major challenges for low production of crops like tomato in Hawzen. The aim of this work was to study the effects of N and P rates on the yield and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Hawzen, Tigray, Ethiopia.
Methods

Four different rates of N (0, 69, 138 and 207 kg Nha− 1) and P (0, 46, 69 & 92 kg Pha− 1) were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil analysis were done before executing of the experiment. Data were collected on yield, and fruit quality of tomato.
Results

The results revealed that plant height, leaf area index, number of primary branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of flower clusters, number of fruit per clusters and fruit set were significantly influenced by the main effects of N and P rates. The interaction of N and P rates only had significant effects on marketable, total fruit yield, mean fruit weight, and fruit length. Compared to control, application of 138 kg Nha− 1 and 69 kg Pha− 1 increased mean fruit weight, marketable fruit weight and total fruit yield by 35.9%, 70.5% and 68.4%, respectively. Likewise, the main effects of N and P rates were remarkable on total soluble solids, total sugar, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, lycopene content, and protein. A significant influence on the P content of tomato was detected due to varied rates of P. fruit N concentration was significantly influenced by rates of N only.
Conclusion

Application of N and P at rates of 138 and 69 kgha− 1, respectively, showed the highest values in most yield and quality measurements and particularly increased yield by 70.5% as compared to the nil fertilizer application. Therefore, 138 kg Nha− 1 and 69 kg Pha− 1 can be used by producers for better yield and quality of tomato in the area.
Effects of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria Microbial Inoculants on the Growth, Rhizosphere Soil Properties, and Bacterial Community of Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica Annual Seedlings
Authors: Song Qian , Song Xiaoshuang , Deng Xun , Luo Jiayu , Wang Junkai , Min Kai , Song Ruiqing
Published: September 2020

[Objective] Determine the ability of three plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) strains (Pseudomonas Mandelli A36, Serratia plymuthica A13 and Pseudomonas koreensis A20) to promote plant growth, evaluate the effect of inoculation with PGPR strains on seedling biomass, root structure, nutrient index, and enzyme activity, and assess the effect of PGPR inoculation on soil nutrient index, enzyme activity, and the soil microecological environment.[Method] The ability of the three PGPR strains to secrete indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), dissolve inorganic phosphorus, and produce siderophore and hydrolase was determined by the medium color change method, pot experiment to determine the effects of three PGPR strains on plant biomass, physicochemical properties, soil physicochemical properties and microbial diversity. [Result] The three PGPR strains had the ability to secrete IAA, solubilize inorganic phosphorus, and produce siderophore, the results of the pot experiment showed that inoculation with PGPR strain had a significant effect on plant biomass, root index, nutrient index and enzyme activity, as well as soil nutrient index, enzyme activity and bacterial diversity. [Conclusion] This study provides basic data references for PGPR strains to improve the soil microecological environment and promote the growth and development of Pinus sylvestris var. Mongolica seedlings.
A Couple with Different Symptoms after Simultaneously 2019-nCoV Infected
Authors: Zhang Ying , Tang Huaping , Li Jing , Zhang Feng , Chen Jianyou , Wang Fang , Li Jiayi , Lin Sujie , Liu Fenghai , Zhou Ran , Liu Shuangmei
Published: September 2020

Background 2019-nCoV has posed a significant threat to human health since the epidemic began. So far, there is no definite safe and effective drug treatment. Proper management can help prevent mild patients from becoming severe. We report a couple with different symptoms after simultaneously infected by the same source of 2019-nCoV and analyze the changes in the diagnosis and treatment process. Case presentation We report a couple with different symptoms after simultaneously infected by the same source of 2019-nCoV in Shandong, China，describe their clinical course，characteristics and detection results in detail, and analyze the changes in the diagnosis and treatment process. The wife was mainly affected by respiratory system and had ever experienced high fever for several days. The husband's condition is lighter than his wife，mainly manifested as digestive tract symptoms，but it took longer than his wife for the nucleic acid of nasopharynx swab for 2019-nCoV to turn negative. Conclusions In the course of the disease both of the couple had hypokalemia which was easy to be corrected. CRP and ESR were consistent with the changes of the disease during the 2019-nCoV infection, which were good indicators to reflect the severity and development of the disease. Two months after discharge, both of them showed negative IgM antibody and positive IgG antibody.
Reliability and validity of A Quick Test of Cognitive Speed (AQT) in Iranian older adults
Authors: Afshar Pouya Farokhnezhad , Wiig Elisabeth H. , Malakouti Seyed Kazem , Shariati Behnam
Published: September 2020

Background: Cognitive disorders are one of the most important issues in old age. They may remain hidden in the early stages. There are many cognitive tests, but some variables affect their results (e.g., age and education.) This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of A Quick Test of Cognitive Speed (AQT) in Iranian older adults.Methods: This study aimed to test the psychometric properties of AQT. 114 older adults participated in the study and were divided into three groups (46 with mild cognitive impairments (MCI), 24 with dementia, and 45 without MCI and dementia) based on the diagnosis of two geriatric psychiatrists. Participants were assessed by AQT and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, independent t-test, and ROC curve by SPSS v.23.Results: There was no significant correlation between AQT subscales and age and no significant difference between the AQT subscales in male and female, educational levels, and marital status. The test-retest correlations (r) were significant for Color (C) 0.84, Form (F) 0.91 and Color-Form (CF) 0.94. Convergent validity was significant between MMSE and AQT. Its correlation was with Color -0.78, Form -0.71, and Color-Form -0.72. The cut-off point for Color was 43.50 s, Form 52 s, and Color-Form 89 s were based on sensitivity and specificity for differentiating older patients with MCI with controls. The cut-off point for Color was 62.50 s, for Form 111 s, and Color-Form 197.50 s based on sensitivity and specificity measures for differentiating older patients with dementia and MCI.Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that A Quick Test of Cognitive Speed (AQT) is a suitable tool for assessing cognitive function in older adults.
Fatal JC-virus Granular Cerebellar Neuronopathy associated with Autoimmune Lymphoproliferative Syndrome and Common Variable Immunodeficiency
Authors: Helweg-Larsen Jannik , Rasmussen Morten , Rosenstierne Maiken , Bay Jakob Thaning , Gjerdrum Lise Mette Rahbek , Bangsgaard Regitze , Gideon Peter , Marvig Rasmus L. , Selleberg Finn , Marquart Hanne Vibeke , Ryder Lars Peter , Fomsgaard Anders , Kondziella Daniel
Published: September 2020

Background: JC-virus (JCV) associated granular cerebellar neuronopathy (JCV-GCN), which causes severe ataxia, is a rare complication of severe immunodeficiency and caused by a variant of JCV with a VP1-deletion. JCV-GCN has not yet been reported in patients with autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS-FAS). We report a 34-year old woman with autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS-FAS) and common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) who developed JCV-GCN which progressed to fatal progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).Methods: Extensive longitudinal virologic, genetic and immunologic characterisation by JCV CSF quantification and sequencing, peripheral blood flowcytometry and exome sequencing. Results: A diagnosis of JCV-GCN was established by findings of severe cerebellar vermis atrophy on MRI and a JCV variant with a VP1-deletion (JCV-VP1) in CSF. During a period of 18 months, at which treatment with high dose immunoglobulin, cidofovir, mirtazapine and high dose fucidic acid were given, cerebellar ataxia was relatively stable. In CSF a mixture of predominantly JCV-VP1 with only low levels of wildtype JCV was found. However, classic PML ensued, with rising JCV- CSF levels and a complete change to JCV-wildtype quasi species without JCV-VP1. Immunological findings were unusual, with disappearance of the original ALPS-FAS phenotype. Trio-exome sequencing identified a heterozygote de novo variant of unknown significance in RAG1. FAS mutations were not detected in the patient or in the parents, suggesting that her previously diagnosed ALPS-FAS-FAS was caused by somatic mosaicism. At the progression to PML, increased expression of T-cell PD-1 was demonstrated, suggesting T-cell exhaustion. Treatment with pembrolizumab, an inhibitor of PD-1, was attempted but followed by rapid and fatal PML progression. Conclusion: JCV-GCN may complicate ALPS and may progress to PML. In JCV-GCN, wild-type and JCV-VP-1 can co-exist in CSF. Quantification and sequencing of JCV in CSF is helpful to characterize and monitor disease and treatment. Progression of disease may be associated with development of T-cell exhaustion, but the benefit PD-1 inhibitor treatment is uncertain.
MiR-545-3p Upregulated in Osteoporosis and Regulates The Apoptosis of Osteoblasts by Targeting SIRT6
Authors: Ma Qi-Ming , Li Xiao-Jing , Pei Shao-Bao , Li Bo-Wen , Han Guo-Song , Cao Shuang , Jiang Ting
Published: September 2020

Background: The imbalance of proliferation and apoptosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. MicroRNAs play an important role in the apoptosis of osteoblasts cells. However, the role and potential mechanism of miR-545-3p in regulating osteoblast apoptosis remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of miR-545-3p on osteoblast cells apoptosis and explore the mechanism of osteoporosis.Methods: Osteogenic medium was used to induce the differentiation of osteoblasts MC3T3-E1 to construct the osteoporosis model, and the expression of ALP, Runx2, OCN were detected by western blot; miR-545-3p mRNA was detected by RT-PCR. Transfected with miR-545-3p mimics into MC3T3-E1, then flow cytometry was used to detected the changes of apoptosis status. The expression of apoptosis related proteins Bcl-2 and Bax were detected by western blot. Bioinformatics was used to analyze the binding protein of miR-545-3p, and luciferase reporter gene experiment was used to verify whether miR-545-3p directly targets SIRT6; RT-qPCR and western blot were used to detect the expression level of SIRT6 after transfection of miR-545-3p mimics or miR-545-3p inhibitor. After co-transfection of miR-545-3p mimics and pcDNA3.1-SIRT6, the apoptosis status of osteoblasts was analyzed by flow cytometry, and the expression of apoptosis related proteins Bcl-2 and Bax were detected by western blot.Results: The expression of miR-545-3p in patients with osteoporosis was significantly higher than that of normal in GEO database (P<0.05). After osteoblasts were cultured in osteogenic medium, the expression of ALP, Runx2 and OCN was increased, and the expression of miR-545-3p was decreased. Flow cytometry analysis showed that overexpression of miR-545-3p promoted the apoptosis of osteoblasts. Western blot results showed that overexpression of miR-545-3p promoted the expression of Bax and decreased the expression of Bcl-2. Bioinformatics analysis showed that miR-545-3p could target SIRT6. The results of real-time PCR and western blot showed that SIRT6 expression was significantly inhibited by miR-545-3p mimics (P<0.05). Luciferase reporter gene assay showed that miR-545-3p significantly inhibited luciferase activity of wild-type SIRT6-3'UTR plasmid transfected cells (P<0.05), but had no effect on luciferase activity of mutant SIRT6-3'UTR plasmid transfected cells (P<0.05). However, co-transfection of miR-545-3p mimics and pcDNA3.1-SIRT6 could reduce the apoptosis, and western blot results showed that co-transfection promoted the expression of Bcl-2 and decreased the expression of Bax.Conclusions: miR-545-3p can promote the apoptosis of osteoblasts by inhibiting the expression of SIRT6, which provides a certain idea for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Sagittal Curvature and Lumbar Extensor Muscle Volume in Patients with Lower Back Pain
Authors: Yurdaisik Isil , Aksoy Süleyman Hilmi
Published: September 2020

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between spinal curvature and extensor muscle volume in patients who presented to our hospital with lower back pain and were referred to our radiology clinic for imaging investigations.Methods: A total of 150 patients with 87 being female and 63 male who presented to our hospital with the complaint of lower back pain and were referred to our radiology clinic were included in this study. Lumbar angle, lumbosacral angle, wedge angle, sacral horizontal angle, the volume of the right and left PSOAS muscles and the volume of the right and left extensor muscles were calculated and analyzed. Results: A total of 150 patients with lower back pain were included in the study. The mean lumbar angle was found as 44.2±10.6 degrees, and the mean lumbosacral angle as 56.7±10.9 degrees. The mean wedge angle of all patients included in the study was measured as 9.3±3.7 degrees. The mean sacral horizontal angle was found as 33.6±7.1 degrees. The mean right lumbar extensor muscle volume was measured as 2169.6±489.6 mm3, while the mean left lumbar extensor volume was calculated as 2286.5±1452.8 mm3. Conclusion: Our findings indicate a significant positive correlation between the volume of extensor muscles in the lower half of the lumbar spine and sagittal curvature in the same region. Clarifying the relationship between sagittal curvature and lower lumbar muscle size will provide contribution to the management of patients with lower back pain and will be helpful in determining whether these patients would benefit from intensive treatment.