bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR-4668-5p is up-regulated in serum of patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Lv Pengfei , Hao Zhengwen , Zhang Haoruo , Li Jun
Published: January 2020

Background Pancreatic cancer is the most common of gastrointestinal tumor, with a high malignancy and poor prognosis,and early and effective diagnosis is the key for prolonging patient’s overall survival, especially for fluid biopsy.Methods In this study, expression profile array was downloaded from GEO database, and differentially expressed miRNAs in serum were screened from patients with pancreatic cancer and healthy individuals, then co-expressed serum miRNAs in pancreatic cacner patients was analyzed by R software with weighted correlation network analysis(WGCNA) package. Finally, key differentially expressed miRNA was verified in serum of 16 patients with pancreatic cancer and 10 healthy individuals by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).Results Results found that there were eleven differentially expressed miRNAs(miR-155-5p, miR-4668-5p, miR-3613-3p, -miR-3201, miR-548ac, miR-486-5p, miR-548a-3p, miR-8084, miR-455-3p, miR-6068, and miR-1246) between pancreatic cancer and healthy individuals. WGCNA results further found that miR-4668-5p has a higher associated modules compared to other differentially expressed miRNAs. Then, the expression level of miR-4668-5p was further verified, and results found that serum miR-4668-5p expression level was significantly higher in patients with pancreatic cancer than that of healthy individuals.Conclusion Our results firstly substantiated that miR-4668-5p was significantly up-regulated in serum of patients with pancreatic cancer, which may be a potential biomarker for pancreatic cancer diagnosis.
Importance of internal consistency in implementation programmes. A qualitative study of focus-group interviews.
Authors: Lindholm Lars Henrik , Laitila Minna , Lassila Antero , Kampman Olli
Published: January 2020

Background Programmes for implementing evidence-based treatments (EBTs) reach their goals if they succeed in institutionalizing the EBTs into routine clinical practices. Resistance to change is a common response to such programmes, undermining their ultimate output. This also happened with Ostrobothnia Depression Programme (ODP) in Finland, which was targeted at several regional psychiatric teams. We conducted a process evaluation of it to ascertain how managerial and executive practices enable or inhibit implementation and how to overcome resistance.Methods We conducted focus group interviews to scrutinize the phases of preparation and practical execution of the ODP from the perspectives of management and programme executives. To gather the data, we applied the revised Socratic approach for health technology assessment and the rapid assessment process model. We analysed the data deductively according to the Normalization Process Theory.Results We identified two main critical issues: 1) The ODP comprised two simultaneously administered programmes, one for the implementation of two EBTs and the other to study their effectiveness. Tension between these two programmes was apparent right from the beginning. 2) The programme had a simplistic top-down design and, in the preparation phase, collaboration with its target groups was delayed and minimal. No formal implementation theory or framework was applied. In addition, independent internal processes in the separate teams influenced their reception of the ODP.Conclusion We recommend early collaboration between team leaders and prospective treatment providers right from the preparation phase of an EBT implementation programme. Agreement on goals and the instruments for achieving them is essential. The strategies for execution should be adjusted with respect to the prevailing implementation climates within the separate target teams. A collaborative approach may enhance the implementation climate and mitigate resistance. Applying some appropriate implementation theories and frameworks may facilitate that work.
Plasmodium falciparum genetic factors rather than the hosts' are likely to drive resistance to acts in ghana.
Authors: Hodoameda Peter , Quashie Nancy Duah , Hagan Charles Oheneba , Matrevi Sena , Abuaku Benjamin , Koram Kwadwo , Quashie Neils B
Published: January 2020

Background: Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT), a combination of a fast-acting artemisinin derivative and a relatively slow-acting partner drug, is used for malaria treatment in disease-endemic areas. The ACT partner drugs, currently used in Ghana are lumefantrine, amodiaquine, and piperaquine. Plasmodium falciparum isolates with reduced susceptibility to these partner drugs may affect treatment outcome. Mutations in the parasite multidrug-resistant 1 (Pfmdr1) gene is linked to reduced susceptibility to amodiaquine and lumefantrine. In addition, the potency of the partner drugs in vivo depends on the metabolism by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme in the host. Mutations in the CYP2C8 gene are linked to reduced metabolism of amodiaquine in vitro while mutations in CYP3A4 may be linked to reduced metabolism to lumefantrine in vitro. Methods: This study investigated the host and parasite genetic factors affecting the susceptibility of the malaria parasite to ACT partner drugs. Archived samples from 240 patients (120 given AL and the other half given AA) aged ≤9years participating in antimalarial drug resistance survey in sites representing the three ecological areas of Ghana were used. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by Sanger sequencing was used to determine the polymorphisms in CYP2C8, CYP3A4, and Pfmdr1 genes. Results: Of the 93 samples successfully genotyped for CYP3A4, all had wild type alleles which suggest that the hosts are good metabolizers of lumefantrine. Ninety-four samples were successfully genotyped for CYP2C8 of which 60% had wild type alleles, 35% heterozygous and 5% homozygous recessive alleles. The high percentage of wild type alleles observed also suggests that amodiaquine was metabolized efficiently by the hosts. Ninety-five samples were successfully genotyped for the Pfmdr1 gene. At codon 86, 95% were wild type (N86), 5% mutant (Y86). For codon 184, 36% were wild type (Y184) and 64% mutant (F184) while for codons 1034, 1042 and 1246, 100% (all) were wild type. The high prevalence of N86, F184, and D1246 (NFD) suggest the presence of strains of the parasites with reduced susceptibility to lumefantrine and not amodiaquine. Delayed clearance was observed in individuals with mutations in the Pfmdr1 gene and not Cytochrome 450 gene. There were both synonymous and nonsynonymous mutations observed in the Pfmdr1 at low prevalence. Conclusion: The outcome of this study indicates that parasite's genetic factors rather than the hosts' are likely to drive resistance to ACTs in Ghana.
Measuring the prevalence of 60 health conditions in older Australians in residential aged care with electronic health records: a retrospective dynamic cohort study
Authors: Lind Kimberly E. , Raban Magdalena Z. , Brett Lindsey , Jorgensen Mikaela L. , Georgiou Andrew , Westbrook Johanna I.
Published: January 2020

Background : The number of older Australians using aged care services is increasing, yet there is an absence of reliable data on their health. Multimorbidity in this population has not been well described. A clear picture of the health status of people using aged care is essential for informing health practice and policy to support evidence-based, equitable, high-quality care. Our objective was to describe the health status of older Australians living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) and develop a model for monitoring health conditions using data from electronic health record systems. Methods : Using a dynamic retrospective cohort of 9436 RACF residents living in 68 RACFs in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory from 2014-2017, we developed an algorithm to identify residents’ conditions using: aged care funding assessments; medications administered; and clinical notes from their facility electronic health record (EHR). We generated age and sex-specific prevalence estimates for 60 health conditions. Agreement between conditions recorded in aged care funding assessments and those documented in residents’ EHRs was evaluated using Cohen’s Kappa. Cluster analysis was used to describe combinations of health conditions (multimorbidity) occurring among residents. Results : Using all data sources, 93% of residents had some form of circulatory disease, with hypertension the most common (62%). Most residents (93%) had a mental or behavioural disorder, including dementia (58%) or depression (54%). For most conditions, EHR data identified approximately twice the number of people with the condition compared to aged care funding assessments. Agreement between data sources was highest for multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease and dementia. The cluster analysis identified seven groups with distinct combinations of health conditions and demographic characteristics and found that the most complex cluster represented a group of residents that had on average the longest lengths of stay in residential care. Conclusions : The prevalence of many health conditions among RACF residents in Australia is underestimated in previous reports. Aged care EHR data have the potential to be used to better understand the complex health needs of this vulnerable population and can help fill the information gaps needed for population health surveillance and quality monitoring.
Arabic version of the Hayling sentence completion test: Validation and factors associated with executive functions in a sample of the Lebanese adults
Authors: Boutros Sarah , Hachem Emilio Al , Matar Joseph , Hallit Souheil , Matar Hanna
Published: January 2020

Background To validate the Arabic version of the Hayling Sentence Completion Test (HSCT) in healthy community-dwelling Lebanese adults, and identify factors that might affect executive functions (EF), mainly inhibitory control, in these participants. Methods Between August-December 2019, 350 participants were randomly selected. The Arabic version of the HSCT, divided into automatic and inhibition conditions, was used; in each condition, participants’ response-time and number of errors commited were recorded. Results None of the scale items was removed. For the automatic condition, response-time items converged over one factor (αCronbach=0.905) and number of errors converged over seven factors (αCronbach=0.334). For the inhibition condition, response-time converged over one factor (αCronbach=0.943) and number of errors converged over four factors (αCronbach=0.728). Using electricity as a heating method inside the house was significantly associated with a lower response-time, whereas higher problematic mobile phone use was associated with higher response-time. Using wood as a heating system inside the house and higher problematic mobile phone use were associated with higher number of errors, while using Arabian incense (bakhour) inside the house was associated with lower number of errors. Conclusion We were able to validate the HSCT Arabic version for use in the Lebanese population. Problematic mobile phone use was associated with lower executive functions in terms of reponse-time and number of errors.
Early permanent cerebrospinal fluid diversion lowers the rate of nosocomial meningitis in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Croci Davide Marco , Dalolio Martina , Aghlmandi Soheila , Taub Ethan , Zumofen Daniel , Guzman Raphael , Mariani Luigi , Roethlisberger Michel
Published: January 2020

Background: Early permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion for hydrocephalus after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) might shorten the duration of external ventricular drainage (EVD) and thereby reduce infectious complications. The potential effect on the rate of delayed cerebral vasospasm (DCVS) and associated morbidity has not been studied to date. The objective of this study was to detect any association with EVD-associated infections (EVDAI), symptomatic DCVS, or delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) by the time of hospital discharge. Methods: A single-center dataset of aSAH patients who received a permanent CSF diversion procedure between 2009 and 2018 was used for the evaluation. The subjects were divided into an “early group” if such a procedure was performed up to 14 days after the ictus, and a “late group” if it was performed from the 15 th day onward. The statistical analysis employed univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: Among 274 consecutive aSAH patients, 39 (14.2 %) had a permanent CSF diversion procedure. While the blood clot burden was similarly distributed, patients with early permanent CSF diversion (20 out of 39, 51.2%) had higher levels of consciousness on admission. Early permanent CSF diversion was associated with a shorter duration of EVD (OR 0.73, 95%CI 0.58-0.92 per day). Higher catheter colonization to EVDAI ratio (1/7 out of 20 vs. 7/7 out of 19) and a markedly lower frequency of EVDAI (OR 0.08, 95 %CI 0.01-0.80) were detected. The prevalence (5 vs. 37) and the cumulative incidence (3 vs. 18) of EVDAI were remarkably lower in patients receiving early permanent CSF diversion. The occurrence of CSF-diversion device obstruction, the rate of symptomatic DCVS (OR 0.61, 95 %CI 0.16-2.27) or detected DCI on computed tomography (OR 0.35, 95 %CI 0.08-1.47), and the likelihood of a poor outcome at discharge did not differ between the two groups (OR 0.88, 95%CI 0.24-3.22). Conclusions: Early permanent CSF diversion in good grade aSAH patients is associated with a shorter duration of EVD, lower catheter colonization rates, and fewer infectious complications. The timing of permanent CSF diversion had no detectable effect on DCVS-related morbidity. These findings need to be confirmed in larger cohorts.
Prognostic Value of Early Intermittent Electroencephalography in Patients After Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Kim Yong Oh , Ko Ryoung-Eun , Chung Chi Ryang , Yang Jeong Hoon , Park Taek Kyu , Cho Yang Hyun , Sung Kiick , Suh Gee Young , Ryu Jeong-Am
Published: January 2020

Background The aim of this study was to investigate whether intermittent electroencephalography (EEG) could be used to predict neurological prognosis of patients who underwent extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). Methods This was a retrospective, single center, and observational study of adult patients who were evaluated by EEG scan within 96 hours after ECPR between February 2012 and December 2018. The primary endpoint was neurological status upon discharge from the hospital assessed with Cerebral Performance Categories (CPC) scale. Results Among 69 adult cardiac arrest patients who underwent ECPR, 32 (46.4%) patients survived until discharge from the hospital. Of these 32 survivors, 17 (24.6%) patients had favorable neurological outcomes (CPC score: 1 or 2). Sedatives or analgesics were used in 41 (59.4%) patients. Malignant EEG patterns were more common in patients with poor neurological outcome than in patients with favorable neurological outcome (73.1% vs. 5.9%, p < 0.001). All patients with highly malignant EEG patterns (43.5%) had poor neurological outcome. Moderately malignant EEG patterns were reported in 8 (11.6%) patients with poor neurological outcome and one (1.4%) patient with favorable neurological outcome. Benign EEG patterns were more common in patients with favorable neurological outcome than in patients with poor neurological outcome (94.1% vs. 26.9%, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, malignant EEG patterns (adjusted odd ratio [OR]: 53.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.956 – 476.249) and duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (adjusted OR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.011 – 1.130) were significantly associated with poor neurological outcomes in patients who underwent ECPR (Hosmer-Lemeshow Chi-squared = 7.84, df = 7, p = 0.347). Conclusions In this study, malignant EEG patterns within 96 hr after cardiac arrest were significantly associated with poor neurological outcomes in patients who underwent ECPR. Therefore, early intermittent EEG scan could be helpful for predicting neurological prognosis of post-cardiac arrest patients after ECPR.
Modeling the antimicrobial resistance of enterobacteria responsible for Urinary Tract Infections in Benin: Another way to control Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Victorien DOUGNON , Phenix ASSOGBA , Mohammed JIBRIL , Jean-Pierre GNIMATIN , Jerrold AGBANKPE , Hornel KOUDOKPON , Esther DEGUENON , Kafayath FABIYI , Consortium The Global Taskforce for AMR Control , Romarique MEDEGAN FAGLA Sèdami , Estelle LOKO Yêyinou Laura , Omédine KOUKOUI , Luc DJOGBENOU , Jacques DOUGNON , Honoré BANKOLE , Lamine BABA-MOUSSA
Published: January 2020

Background: Infectious diseases are serious public health issue both in developing countries and industrialized nations. In developing countries, they are the main cause of high mortality rates. In the second group, existing resistance strains to antibiotics is developing and growing at an alarming rate. The purpose of this study was to produce data of national interest to implement sustainable control program against the spread of antimicrobial resistance strains in Benin. Methods: One hundred and ninety (190) urine samples were collected in selected hospitals in Benin from patients with urinary tract infection. After getting the informed consent from the patients, samples collections were performed under aseptic conditions and cultured for further analysis in the laboratory. The resistance profile of the bacterial strains was established. The search for beta-lactamase production by the isolates was performed using the synergy test for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and cephalosporins. Mathematical modeling for predicting the development of resistance of the strains by the year 2024 was carried out employing the compartmental deterministic models. Results: Two hundred and thirty (230) strains were identified from the urine samples. Male individuals were the most affected by urinary tract infections. Individuals between the ages of 21-30 were predominantly infected. E. coli was the most isolated species (32.43%) in the urine samples, followed by K. pneumoniae (26.85%) and E. cloacae (25.92%). The susceptibility testing of isolates showed a high resistance to amoxicillin (91.82%). Whereas the lowest resistance was to imipenem (2%). The beta-lactamase was produced by 24.03% of the strains. Escherichia coli (32.43%) was the most productive of broad spectrum beta-lactamase, followed by K. pneumoniae (31.03%). The mathematical modeling revealed a rampant rise in resistance development of the strains to the tested antibiotics. Conclusions: These results provide important data for developing new preventive strategies against the evolution of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. It therefore, further deserves a constructive advocacy so that more actions are taken against the rampant spread of antimicrobial resistance strains in our health facilities as well as in the communities.
Prevalence of cardiac lesions in cases of bovine clostridial myositis
Authors: Newkirk Kim , Culligan Caitlin M. , Okafor Chika C. , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: January 2020

ObjectiveThe aim of this retrospective study was to determine the prevalence of cardiac lesions in cases of clostridial myositis. Clostridial myositis (blackleg) is a common cause of death in cattle and is caused by the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei. The characteristic lesions include hemorrhage, necrosis, edema, and emphysema within skeletal muscle and, less commonly, the heart.ResultsOf the 37 cases of blackleg identified, 26 animals (70.3%) had cardiac lesions, including 4 (10.8%) which had only cardiac involvement without skeletal muscle lesions. Cardiac lesions were characterized as necrotizing myocarditis (n=21), fibrinous to fibrinosuppurative pericarditis, epicarditis, or endocarditis (n=24), or both (n=19). These data demonstrate that, in cases of bovine clostridial myositis, cardiac lesions are common, while heart involvement in the absence of skeletal muscle lesions is uncommon.
Identified metabolic related genes to construct a prognostic model of Breast cancer patients
Authors: Ma Yu-Yuan , Wang Han , Qi Jie , Zhu Jie , Huang Yue-Qing , Ding Zhi-liang , Wang Wen-jie
Published: January 2020

Background: More and more evidence confirms that there are many metabolic disorders in the tumor. The occurrence and development of breast cancer (BC) is closely related to metabolism. Methods: A metabolic related genes table was obtained by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) related metabolic pathway. The edgeR package was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) breast cancer. We established a prognostic model by univariate Cox regression analysis and lasso-penalized Cox regression. The validation prognostic model was built through the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) database. Use the nomogram and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve to verify the accuracy of models. Result: We identified 178 DEGs and 14 prognostic-related genes to construct a prognostic model. In the TCGA prognostic model and the GEO validation prognostic model, patients were divided into high riskscore group and low riskscore group, the high riskscore group had worse prognosis.Conclusion: We constructed a prognostic model of metabolic related genes and verified the feasibility and accuracy of the model. It is hoped that the model can provide a basis and biomarker for breast cancer related metabolic therapy and prognosis.
Transarterial chemoembolization combined with apatinib for treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: analysis of survival and prognostic factors
Authors: Liu Ziyi , Kan Xuefeng , Zhang Lijie , Makamure Joyman , Li Qing , Zhao Dan , Zhou Guofeng , Feng Gansheng , Zheng Chuansheng , Liang Bin
Published: January 2020

Backgroud: To evaluate the overall survival (OS) after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with apatinib in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and to identify the factors affecting patient survival. Methods: Fifty-one patients with HCC who received TACE combined with apatinib in our hospital from June 2015 to May 2017 were enrolled and followed up until May 2019. The OS and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank test and Cox regression model were used to determine the factors affecting the patients’ OS. Results: The median OS and PFS of the patients were 15 months and 10 months, respectively. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 62.7%, 23.5%, and 1.8%, respectively. Univariate survival analysis showed that patients with Child-Pugh A (P = 0.008), severe reduction rate of proper hepatic artery (P = 0.013), hand-foot syndrome (P = 0.006), secondary hypertension (P = 0.042), AFP< 400 ug/L (P = 0.076), and without ascites (P = 0.013) had a better OS. Multivariate analysis showed that hand-foot syndrome (P = 0.004), secondary hypertension (P = 0.034), and reduction rate of proper hepatic artery (P = 0.028) were independent predictors of better OS. Conclusions: TACE combined with apatinib is a promising treatment for advanced HCC. Hand-foot syndrome, secondary hypertension, and the reduction rate of proper hepatic artery were associated with a better OS.
METTL14 and miR-1247 are associated with poor outcomes in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Hu Junbo , Hou Mingyue , Chen Bo , Wu Huan , Cai You , Wang Qin , Gao Xia , Lu Yanju , Pang Pei , Li Li , Tang Na
Published: January 2020

BackgroundTriple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) doesn’t have targets for therapy, and accounts for 15% of all breast cancers. m6A modification has been reported to play important role in the progression of various cancers. However, the expression and function of the m6A methyltransferase METTL14 in TNBC are unclear. MethodsThe count data of miRNA and mRNA of breast cancer patients with both tumor tissues and matched nomal tissues were downloaded from the TCGA data portal. The expression of METTL14 was determined by immunohistochemistry and western blot. The expression of has-miR-1247 was determined by qRT-PCR.The Cox regression analysis was executed for the expression levels of METTL14 and DEmiRNAs .The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were performed to establish the correlation between the expression level and survival of BC patients .ResultsWe discovered that METTL14 was significantly downregulated in TNBC tissues, and low expression of METTL14 is correlated with worse differentiation ,higher ki67 proliferation and poorer survival suggesting its potential as an independent prognostic biomarker for TNBC. We also found the positive correlation between the expression levels of METTL14 and has-miR-1247. Moreover, has-miR-1247 was significantly downregulated in TNBC tissues, and lead to poorer survival.ConclusionOur data suggested that METTL14 and miR-1247 could be valuable diagnostic tools, prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic targets for TNBC.
Comparison of a dorsal closing wedge calcaneal osteotomy versus a posterosuperior prominence resection for the treatment of Haglund syndrome
Authors: Ge Zilu , Ma Lin , Tang Hong , Yang Mingyu , Yang Aining , Yuan Chengsong , Tao Xu , Zhou Binghua , Tang Kanglai , Chen Wan
Published: January 2020

Background Haglund syndrome is a common disease that causes posterior heel pain. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes between the dorsal closing wedge calcaneal osteotomy (DCWCO) and the posterosuperior prominence resection (PPR) for the treatment of this disease. Methods The retrospective study included 12 patients who received DCWCO and 32 who patients received PPR from January 2010 to August 2016. The patients were evaluated in terms of the American Orthopedic Foot Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scale (AOFAS), the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment Scale for Achilles tendinopathy (VISA-A), the Fowler-Philip angle, Bohler’s angle, and the calcaneal pitch angle, both pre- and postoperatively (at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and the latest follow-up). Results Both groups showed a significance increase in their AOFAS and VISA-A scores after the operation. The DCWCO group showed a lower AOFAS score than the PPR group after 6 months (77.6 ± 5.1 vs. 82.8 ± 7.8, P =0.037), but received higher scores in the latest follow-up (98.2 ± 2.3, vs. 93.4 ± 6.1, P =0.030). For the VISA-A scores, the DCWCO group had lower scores for 3 months (56.9 ± 13.9, vs. 65.2 ± 11.0, P =0.044), but showed higher scores in the latest follow-up (98.2 ± 2.6, vs. 94.3 ± 5.0, P =0.010) when compared with the PPR group. Both groups had a significant change in the Fowler-Philip angle and Bohler’s angle after the operation. The postoperative Fowler-Philip angle in the DCWCO group was greater than that of the PPR group (35.9° ± 4.9°, vs. 31.4° ± 6.2°, P =0.026). However, there was no statistical difference in any other angle between the two groups, postoperatively. Conclusions The DCWCO group had poorer short-term clinical outcomes but better long-term function and symptom remission, as compared with the PPR group, in the treatment of Haglund syndrome.
Role of parathyroid hormone and vitamin D supplementation in stroke among patients on peritoneal dialysis
Authors: You Xiaohan , Zhou Ying , Zhang Jianna , Zhou Qiongxiu , Shi Yanling , Su Zhen , Chen Chaoshen , Shao Rongrong , Zhang Ji
Published: January 2020

Background Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients have a high incidence of stroke and commonly have increased parathyroid hormone levels and vitamin D insufficiency. We seek to investigate the incidence of stroke and the role of parathyroid hormone and vitamin D supplementation in stroke risk among CAPD patients.Methods This is a retrospective study enrolled a Chinese cohort of 980 CAPD patients who were routinely followed up in our department. The demographic and clinical data recorded at the time of initial CAPD and during follow-up time are collected. The included cases were separated into nonstroke and stroke groups. The role of parathyroid hormone and vitamin D supplementation for stroke in CAPD patients is evaluated. The primary endpoint is defined as the first-time occurrence of stroke, and composite endpoint events are defined as death or switch to hemodialysis during follow-up.Results A total of 757 eligible CAPD patients with a mean follow-up time of 54.7 (standard deviation (SD) 33) months were included in the study. The median incidence of stroke among our CAPD patients was 18.9 (IQR, 15.7 - 22.1) per 1000 person-years. A significant nonlinear correlation between baseline iPTH and hazard of stroke (p value of linear association = 0.2 and nonlinear association = 0.002) was observed in our univariate Cox regression analysis, and low baseline iPTH levels (≤150 pg/ml) were associated with an increased cumulative hazard of stroke. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated a significant interaction effect between age and iPTH after adjusting for other confounders. Vitamin D supplementation during follow-up was a predictive factor for stroke in our cohort.Conclusions CAPD patients suffered a high risk of stroke. Lower iPTH levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of stroke. Vitamin D supplementation is an independent predictive factor for stroke among CAPD patients.
The prevalence and immunological features of anti-glomerular basement membrane antibody in patients with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Jia Xiao-yu Jia , Cui Zhao , Chen Yan , Wang Wei , Lou Jin-li , Zhao Ming-hui , Ying Sun
Published: January 2020

Background Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease (GBM) is an autoimmune disease caused by the deposition of circulating anti-GBM antibodies. The main target antigens are the non-collagen region of the α3(IV)NC1(α3 chain of type IV collagen). EA and EB are two classical antigen epitopes on α3. It has been reported that anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) antibodies could be detected in HIV/AIDS patients, but its immunological characteristics are still unclear. In this study, the immunological characteristics of the target antigens were clarified.Methods Total 93 HIV/AIDS patients and 20 healthy volunteers were selected in Beijing Youan Hospital from 2017 to 2018. Recombinant humanα1-α5(IV)NC1, chimeric protein E A , E B were used as solid phase antigens. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed to measure concentrations and subtypes of serum IgG autoantibodies specially against GBM.Results Five out of the 93 patients with HIV/AIDS had low to moderate levels of anti-GBM antibodies. However, these patients presented with no clinical manifestation of any kidney injury or pulmonary hemorrhages. Compared with HIV/AIDS patients with negative antibodies, there were no significant differences in gender, age, CD4 + T cell count and HIV viral load. All five patients recognized non-collagenous domain1 (NC1) of alpha 3 chain of type IV collagen [(α3(IV)NC1] as classic anti-GBM patients, followed by α5(IV)NC1. The antibodies against α3(IV)NC1 was IgG3 predominant, but did not react with either of the classic epitopes on α3 (E A and E B ).Conclusion These data suggest a distinct immunological profile of anti-GBM antibodies in patients with HIV/AIDS, and might explain the non-pathogenic features of HIV/AIDS associated anti-GBM antibodies.
Effect of sugammadex versus glycopyrrolate–neostigmine mixture on catheter-related bladder discomfort after retrograde intrarenal surgery: A retrospective observational analysis
Authors: Koh Gi-Ho , Park Jun-Young , Yu Jihion , Seo Jin-Young , Lee Sang-A , Go YoonJu , Hwang Jai-Hyun , Seo Hyungseok , Kim Young-Kug
Published: January 2020

Background: Catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) is one of the most common postoperative symptoms. Although sugammadex and glycopyrrolate–neostigmine mixture are both used for the reversal of neuromuscular blockade, their effects on CRBD have not been compared side-to-side. We investigated the effect of the neuromuscular blockade reversal agents on CRBD after urologic surgery. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 136 patients who underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery between July 2018 and January 2019. Patients were divided into the S group (sugammadex; n = 65) and the G group (glycopyrrolate–neostigmine mixture; n = 71). Primary outcome was moderate-to-severe CRBD at 0 h postoperatively. We also evaluated moderate-to-severe CRBD at 1, 2, and 6 h postoperatively, duration of postanesthetic care unit (PACU) stay, postoperative pain, postoperative analgesic requirement, and drug-related side effects. Results: The incidence of moderate-to-severe CRBD at 0 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the G group than in the S group (39.4% vs. 69.2%, p = 0.001). The two groups did not show significant differences in the incidences of moderate-to-severe CRBD at 1, 2, and 6 h postoperatively, postoperative pain, and postoperative analgesic requirement. The duration of PACU stay was significantly shorter in the G group (46.0 min vs. 53.0 min, p = 0.047). Except for dry mouth, drug-related side effects did not show significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion: Compared with sugammadex, glycopyrrolate–neostigmine mixture was associated with a lower incidence of CRBD immediately after urologic surgery and shorter PACU stay.
Low uptake of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy in people with type 1 diabetes in Ireland: a retrospective cross-sectional study.
Authors: Gajewska Katarzyna Anna , Bennett Kathleen , Biesma Regien , Sree Seamus
Published: January 2020

Background: The uptake of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy in those with type 1 diabetes varies internationally and is mainly determined by the national healthcare reimbursement systems. The aim of this study is to estimate national and regional uptake of CSII therapy in children, adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes in Ireland. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing the national pharmacy claims database in 2016. Individuals using CSII were identified by dispensing of infusion sets. The uptake of CSII was calculated as the percentage of people with type 1 diabetes claiming CSII sets in 2016, both in children and adolescent (age <18 years) and adult populations (≥18 years). Descriptive statistics including percentages with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are presented, stratified by age-groups and geographical regions, and chi-square tests used for comparisons. Results: Of 20,081 people with type 1 diabetes, 2,111 (10.5%, 95%CI: 10.1%-10.9%) were using CSII in 2016. Uptake was five-fold higher in children and adolescents at 34.7% (95%CI: 32.9%-36.5%) than in adults at 6.8% (95%CI: 6.4%-7.2%). Significant geographical heterogeneity in CSII uptake was found, from 12.6% to 53.7% in children and adolescents (p<0.001), and 2% to 9.6% in adults (p<0.001). Conclusions: Uptake of CSII in people with type 1 diabetes is low in Ireland, particularly in those ≥18 years. Identification of barriers to uptake, particularly in this group, is required.
Employment of PSO algorithm to improve the neural network technique for radial distribution system state estimation
Authors: Hussein Husham Idan , Salman Ghassan Abdullah , Ghadban Ahmed Majeed
Published: January 2020

This study presented a new hybrid algorithm to improve the state estimation (SE) of radial distribution power systems (PSs). The proposed particle swarm optimization–neural network (PSO–NN) algorithm constructed an independent and fast monitoring system with high accuracy that can detect abnormal conditions or failures in a PS. In this study, PSO was adopted to determine the appropriate weights of the NN model. The speed and accuracy of PSO with the NN model were evaluated in the SE of power system networks (PSNs). The information obtained through SE was used to enhance the operations and customer service delivery in terms of energy consumption and power quality in PSNs. Capacitor banks were installed to reduce the losses and improve the voltage profiles. The PSO–NN algorithm was assessed on IEEE (9, 33, and 69) bus standards. Simulation results proved that the new technique can be tested on any distribution network because of its accurate and efficient SE. Results indicated that the PSO–NN algorithm had better performance than the phasor measurement units.
Implementing a lightweight Schmidt-Samoa cryptosystem (SSC) for sensory communications
Authors: Al-Haija Qasem Abu , Marouf Ibrahim , Asad Mohammad M. , Nasr Kamal Al
Published: January 2020

One of the remarkable issues that face wireless sensor networks (WSNs) nowadays is security. WSNs should provide a way to transfer data securely particularly when employed for mission-critical purposes. In this paper, we propose an enhanced architecture and implementation for 128-bit Schmidt-Samoa cryptosystem (SSC) to secure the data communication for wireless sensor networks (WSN) against external attacks. The proposed SSC cryptosystem has been efficiently implemented and verified using FPGA modules by exploiting the maximum allowable parallelism of the SSC internal operations. To verify the proposed SSC implementation, we have synthesized our VHDL coding using Quartus II CAD tool targeting the Altera Cyclone IV FPGA EP4CGX22CF19C7 device. Hence, the synthesizer results reveal that the proposed cryptographic FPGA processor recorded an attractive result in terms of critical path delay, hardware utilization, maximum operational frequency FPGA thermal power dissipation for low-power applications such as the wireless sensor networks.
Сравнение политиофеновых мемристорных устройств, изготовленных послойным и центрифужным нанесением
Authors: Прудников Н. В. , Коровин А. Н. , Емельянов А. В. , Малахова Ю. Н. , Демин В. А. , Чвалун С. Н. , Ерохин В. В.
Published: January 2020

Проведено сравнение основных характеристик мемристорных элементов на основе политиофена, изготовленных методами Ленгмюра–Шефера и центрифужного нанесения (спин-коатинга). Продемонстрирована стабильность элементов на протяжении более 500 циклов электрической перезаписи для обоих методов. Показано, что элементы, изготовленные методом спин-коатинга, обладают более медленной кинетикой переключения, что, предположительно, связано с относительно более высокой однородностью поверхности пленки. Данное исследование может быть полезно для разработки политиофеновых мемристорных элементов с воспроизводимыми стабильными характеристиками, пригодными для различных применений: от элементов памяти до носимой и имплантируемой электроники и нейроморфных вычислительных систем.
UBERIZAÇÃO DO TRABALHO: A PERCEPÇÃO DOS MOTORISTAS DE TRANSPORTE PARTICULAR POR APLICATIVO
Authors: Moraes Rodrigo Bombonati de Souza , Oliveira Marco Antonio Gonsales de , Accorsi André
Published: January 2020

No contexto da economia de plataforma, objetivou-se analisar a percepção dos motoristas sobre o trabalho que realizam para as empresas-aplicativo (transporte particular por aplicativo) em São Paulo. Metodologicamente, trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva, com método Survey e análise fatorial. O questionário, na escala Likert, foi aplicado a 100 motoristas. Os resultados mostram que, devido ao desemprego, os motoristas passam a trabalhar para as empresas-aplicativo, ao mesmo tempo em que buscam outra oportunidade de emprego. Apesar da satisfação com a autonomia para organizar seu tempo de trabalho, gostariam de ter as garantias do emprego formal, além de indenização por acidentes, assaltos e parada para reparos no veículo. Sob o discurso do empreendedorismo e da magia da tecnologia, a uberização intensifica e precariza o trabalho.
Assessment of Cau River water quality assessment using a combination of water quality and pollution indices
Authors: Son Cao Truong , Giang Nguyen Thị Huong , Thao Trieu Phuong , Nui Nguyen Hai , Lam Nguyen Thanh , Cong Vo Huu
Published: January 2020

This research aims at using a combined water quality index (WQI) and pollution index (PI) to assess and characterize river water quality of Cau River which is one of the longest rivers in the north of Vietnam. Five different water quality and water pollution indices were used including the Water Quality Index (WQI), Comprehensive Pollution Index (CPI), Organic Pollution Index (OPI), Eutrophication Index (EI), and Trace Metal Pollution Index (TPI). The combined water pollution indices show more serious pollution towards the river downstream. In particular, CPI and OPI reveal a high risk of eutrophication. Cluster analysis was applied to classify water monitoring points into different quality groups in order to provide a better understanding of the water status in the river. This study indicates that a combined water quality analysis could be an option for decision making water use purposes while its single index shows the current situation of water quality.
MColiPAT kit for early detection of coliforms in water
Authors: Tambi Ashish , Brighu Urmila , Gupta A. B.
Published: January 2020

Determining the microbial quality of drinking water by assessing the presence/absence (P/A) or enumeration of indicator bacteria continues to be widely practiced worldwide. However, rapid tests are required for microbiological water quality assessment so that the information is available in the shortest possible time for initiating a timely intervention. Traditional methods for the enumeration of indicator bacteria are not only expensive but also need trained personnel. We have developed a low-cost kit, MColiPAT, and have validated its application for detection of coliforms in drinking water using the IDEXX Colilert-18 Quanti tray method. MColiPAT kit medium was able to detect coliforms down to a level of 3.1 MPN/100 ml within 10.5 hours. The sensitivity and specificity of the kit were 95.45% and 100% respectively. MColiPAT is found to be reliable and accurate for the detection of coliforms in drinking water.
Örgütsel Bağlılığın Kişisel Özelliklere Göre Farklılıklarının İncelenmesi: Adana İli Alan Çalışması
Authors: Surat Aylin , Polat Harun
Published: January 2020

Örgütün bir parçası olan örgüt çalışanının, örgütün değerlerine bağlı olması, örgütün amaçlarını ve hedeflerini kendi amaçları ve hedefleri olarak görmesi örgütün faaliyetlerinin uzun dönemde devam etmesine ve varlığını sürdürmesine büyük katkı sağlayacaktır. Bu nedenle tüm örgütler örgütsel bağlılıkları yüksek seviyede olan çalışanlara sahip olmak isterler. Bu araştırmada çalışanların örgütsel bağlılık konusunun incelenmesi üç boyutlu örgütsel bağlılık sınıflaması olan duygusal bağlılık, devam bağlılığı ve normatif bağlılık çerçevesinde ele alınmaya çalışılmıştır. Örgütsel bağlılığı etkileyen faktörlerin sınıflaması çeşitli başlıklar altında araştırmacılar tarafından yapılmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında, kişisel özellikler, iş özellikleri ve iş deneyimleri sınıflaması üzerinden örgütsel bağlılığı etkileyen faktörler incelenmiştir. Çalışmayla, kişilik özelliklerine göre örgütsel bağlılık ifadelerine verilen yanıtların farklılıkları incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma hedef kitlesini Adana il merkezindeki küçük ve orta ölçekli mağaza ve dükkânlardaki çalışanlar oluşturmuştur. Kitleden örneklem seçimi basit tesadüfî örnekleme yöntemiyle yapılmıştır. Verilerin derlenmesinde veri toplama yöntemi olarak yüz yüze anket yöntemi uygulanmıştır. Değişkenler arasındaki ilişkilere dayalı değişkenleri sınıflamada kümeleme analizi ve farklılıkları belirlemede Mann-Whitney U ile Kruskal-Wallis H testi uygulanmıştır. Elde edilen bulgulara göre belirlenen kümelerde kişisel özelliklere göre farklılıklar yorumlanmaya çalışılmıştır.
The Power of Matrix Factorization: Methods for Deconvoluting Genetic Heterogeneous Data at Expression Level
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wen Zhining , Li Menglong
Published: January 2020

Background::

The utilization of genetic data to investigate biological problems has recently
become a vital approach. However, it is undeniable that the heterogeneity of original samples at the
biological level is usually ignored when utilizing genetic data. Different cell-constitutions of a sample
could differentiate the expression profile, and set considerable biases for downstream research. Matrix
factorization (MF) which originated as a set of mathematical methods, has contributed massively to
deconvoluting genetic profiles in silico, especially at the expression level.

Objective:

With the development of artificial intelligence algorithms and machine learning, the
number of computational methods for solving heterogeneous problems is also rapidly abundant.
However, a structural view from the angle of using MF to deconvolute genetic data is quite limited.
This study was conducted to review the usages of MF methods on heterogeneous problems of genetic
data on expression level.

Methods:

MF methods involved in deconvolution were reviewed according to their individual
strengths. The demonstration is presented separately into three sections: application scenarios, method
categories and summarization for tools. Specifically, application scenarios defined deconvoluting
problem with applying scenarios. Method categories summarized MF algorithms contributed to
different scenarios. Summarization for tools listed functions and developed web-servers over the latest
decade. Additionally, challenges and opportunities of relative fields are discussed.

Results and Conclusion:

Based on the investigation, this study aims to present a relatively global
picture to assist researchers to achieve a quicker access of deconvoluting genetic data in silico, further
to help researchers in selecting suitable MF methods based on the different scenarios.
Модель термополевой нестабильности p-МОП-транзисторов при отрицательном смещении затвора
Authors: Александров О.В.
Published: January 2020

Abstract A new quantitative model of the negative-bias temperature instability (NBTI) of p -MOS (metal-oxide-semiconductor) transistors is developed. The model is based on the reaction of the depassivation of surface states at the Si–SiO_2 interphase boundary (IPB) and hydrogen-containing hole traps near the Si–SiO_2 IPB by positively charged hydrogen ions H^+, accumulated in the p ^+-type inversion layer of the silicon substrate. The dependences of the surface and space charges in p -MOS transistors on the NBTI time are controlled by the kinetics of H^+-ion diffusion and drift from the silicon substrate to the Si–SiO_2 IPB. The effect of the gate voltage on the NBTI is explained by the effect of the electric-field strength on the H^+ ion segregation coefficient at the Si–SiO_2 IPB. The relaxation of positive space charge introduced into the gate dielectric during NBTI is described by the tunnel discharge of oxide traps by silicon-substrate electrons.
Сравнительный анализ инжекционных микродисковых лазеров на основе квантовых ям InGaAsN и квантовых точек InAs/InGaAs
Authors: Моисеев Э.И. , Максимов М.В. , Крыжановская Н.В. , Симчук О.И. , Кулагина М.М. , Кадинская С.А. , Guina M. , Жуков А.Е.
Published: January 2020

The results are presented on a comparative analysis of the spectral and threshold characteristics of diode microdisk lasers operating at room temperature in a spectral range of 1.2xx μm with different active regions: InGaAsN/GaAs quantum wells or InAs/InGaAs/GaAs quantum dots. It was found that microlasers of a comparable size with quantum wells have higher lasing threshold compared to microlasers with quantum dots. At the same time, the latter are characterized by a noticeably smaller fraction of the radiated power with the laser modes. They are also characterized by a jump to excited-state optical transition lasing. The InGaAsN-based microdisk lasers lack these disadvantages.