bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Hemodialysis and Post-Dialysis Period on Granular Activity Levels
Authors: Larkin John W , Han Maggie , Han Hao , Guedes Murilo H , Gonçalves Priscila Bezerra , Poli-de-Figueiredo Carlos Eduardo , Cuvello-Neto Américo Lourenço , Barra Ana Beatriz L , de Moraes Thyago Proença , Usvyat Len A , Kotanko Peter , Canziani Maria Eugenia F , Raimann Jochen G , Pecoits-Filho Roberto
Published: December 2019

Background Physical activity (PA) is typically lower on hemodialysis (HD) days. Albeit intradialytic inactivity is expected, it is unknown whether recovery after HD contributes to low PA. We investigated the impact of HD and post-HD period on granular PA relative to HD timing.Methods We used baseline data from the HDFIT trial conducted from August 2016 to October 2017. Accelerometry measured PA over one week in patients who received thrice-weekly high-flux HD (vintage 3 to 24 months), were clinically stable, and had no ambulatory limitations. PA was assessed on HD days (0 to ≤24 hours after start HD), first non-HD days (>24 to ≤48 hours after start HD) and second non-HD day (>48 to ≤72 hours after start HD). PA was recorded in blocks/slices: 4 hours during HD, 0 to ≤2 hours post-HD (30 minute slices), and >2 to ≤20 hours post-HD (4.5 hour slices). Blocks/slices of PA were captured at concurrent/parallel times on first/second non-HD days compared to HD days.Results Among 195 patients (mean age 53±15 years, 71% male), step counts per 24-hours were 3919±2899 on HD days, 5308±3131 on first non-HD days (p<0.001), and 4926±3413 on second non-HD days (p=0.032). During concurrent/parallel times to HD on first and second non-HD days, patients took 1308 and 1128 more steps (both p<0.001). Patients took 276 more steps and had highest rates of steps/hour 2-hours post-HD versus same times on first non-HD days (all p<0.05). Consistent findings were observed on second non-HD days.Conclusions PA was higher within 2-hours of HD versus same times on non-HD days. Lower PA on HD days was attributable to intradialytic inactivity. The established PA profiles are of importance to the design and development of exercise programs that aim to increase activity during and between HD treatments.
Luteal blood flow as a predictive factor for methotrexate treatment outcome in women with unruptured tubal pregnancy
Authors: Wang Li , Pei Meili , Yang Ting , Zhao Juan , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: December 2019

Background Blood flow in the corpus luteum is associated with luteal function. However, the impact of luteal blood flow on the Methotrexate(MTX) treatment in women with unruptured tubal pregnancy has not been reported. The aim of the present study was to observe the impact of luteal blood flow on therapeutic effect of MTX in women with unruptured tubal pregnancy.Methods A prospective study recruited 129 women with unruptured tubal pregnancy in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University from September 2016 to June 2018. One hundred and fifteen participants were treated successfully with MTX, and women were divided into 2 groups according to the luteal blood flow, included poor luteal blood flow group and rich luteal blood flow group. The therapeutic effect were compared between the two groups.Results Women in rich luteal blood flow group had a significantly higher serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin(β-hCG) level 4 days,1 week and 2 weeks after MTX treatment compared with women in poor luteal blood flow group( P <0.05).The average diameter of ectopic mass 1 week,2 weeks and 3 weeks after MTX treatment in women with rich luteal blood flow were significantly bigger( P <0.05),and the time of serum β-hCG clearance and ectopic mass disappearance were significantly longer compared with women in poor luteal blood flow group( P <0.05).Conclusions Luteal blood flow might be as a predictive factor for MTX treatment outcome in women with unruptured tubal pregnancy, and those with rich luteal blood flow needed longer recovery time.
Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Potency of Green Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Aqueous Garlic Extract Against Microbes Causing Otitis Media
Authors: Mustafa Eman A. , Hashem Abd El Gawad , Elhifnawi Hala N. , Nada Hanady G. , Khattab Rania A.
Published: December 2019

Aim of study: Otitis media (OM) is highly prevalent worldwide and is the main cause of hearing loss in developing countries. Resistant microorganisms and biofilm formation have become a major health and economic problem. The aim of this study was to establish an eco-friendly method for synthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous garlic extract and sunlight. Moreover, detect its potential to inhibit otitis media microbes.Methods: Basically, highly resistant and biofilm forming otitis media pathogenic isolates were determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and their biofilm production qualitatively was tested. Then, compared their susceptibility to tetracyclin 30µg (for bacteria) and nystatin 100 µg (for fungi) alone and with different concentrations of green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), as well as, their biofilm production. AgNPs were prepared by easy, fast, non-toxic, economically eco-friendly way, using the direct sunlight irradiation on aqueous garlic extract. Their characterization by UV- visible spectral analysis, TEM, DLS, XRD and FTIR were studied. Results: Two multidrug resistant bacterial isolates; Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus cereus were detected as biofilm producers with black colonies on congo-red agar and three resistant fungal isolates to nystatin; Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were tested against green synthesized AgNPs. Highly significant (p-value<0.001) antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of biosynthesized AgNPs against tested pathogens were illustrated in this study. TEM images for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus flavus after treated with AgNPs, were exhibited shrinkage in the cytoplasmic materials, rupture of cell walls, precipitation of AgNPs particles inside the cells and biofilm was mostly disseminated.Conclusion: aqueous garlic extract that used to stabilize the AgNPs may be ideal natural candidates for future studies exploring their safely use in biomedical applications especially against the repeated infections caused by multi drug resistant (MDR) and biofilm forming microbials as in otitis media.
Antiphospholipid syndrome may induce non-thrombus internal jugular vein stenosis - Two cases report and literature review
Authors: Si-ying Song , Gary Rajah , Yu-chuan Ding , Xun-ming Ji , Meng Ran
Published: December 2019

Background: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is associated with artery or venous thrombosis. However, non-thrombus venous stenosis is rarely reported.Case presentation: This study described two young women with APS-related internal jugular vein stenosis (IJVS) and reviewed current literatures on this issue, including clinical features, diagnosis and treatment.Conclusions: IJVS is a rather rare complication of APS. This is first report of non-thrombus venous stenosis resulted from aPL mediated vessel wall damage. High titer of aPL could induce stenosis without thrombosis formation due to long-term standardized anticoagulation. Follow-up of autoantibodies are necessary to be done dynamically. Treatment for patients with IJVS of autoimmune etiology should be concomitant use of anticoagulants and steroids.
Genome-wide association studies for yield component traits in a macadamia breeding population
Authors: O'Connor Katie , Hayes Ben , Hardner Craig , Nock Catherine , Baten Abdul , Alam Mobashwer , Henry Robert , Topp Bruce
Published: December 2019

Background: Breeding for new macadamia cultivars with high nut yield is expensive in terms of time, labour and cost. Most trees set nuts after four to five years, and candidate varieties for breeding are evaluated for at least eight years for various traits. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are promising methods to reduce evaluation and selection cycles by identifying genetic markers linked with key traits, potentially enabling early selection through marker-assisted selection. This study used 295 progeny from 32 full-sib families and 29 parents (18 phenotyped) which were planted across four sites, with each tree genotyped for 4,113 SNPs. ASReml-R was used to perform association analyses with linear mixed models including a genomic relationship matrix to account for population structure. Traits investigated were: nut weight (NW), kernel weight (KW), kernel recovery (KR), percentage of whole kernels (WK), tree trunk circumference (TC), percentage of racemes that survived from flowering through to nut set, and number of nuts per raceme.
Results: Seven SNPs were significantly associated with NW (at a genome-wide false discovery rate of <0.05), and four with WK. Multiple regression, as well as mapping of markers to genome assembly scaffolds suggested that some SNPs were detecting the same QTL. There were 44 significant SNPs identified for TC although multiple regression suggested detection of 16 separate QTLs.
Conclusions: These findings have important implications for macadamia breeding, and highlight the difficulties of heterozygous populations with rapid LD decay. By coupling validated marker-trait associations detected through GWAS with MAS, genetic gain could be increased by reducing the selection time for economically important nut characteristics. Genomic selection may be a more appropriate method to predict complex traits like tree size and yield.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the cytokinin gene family in Brassica oleracea L. reveals its role in clubroot resistance
Authors: Zhu Mingzhao , Ning Yu , Yan Longxiang , Cao Wenxue , Kong Congcong , Zhuang Mu , Zhang Yangyong , Lv Honghao , Fang Zhiyuan , Yang Limei , Yong Wang , Hou Xilin
Published: December 2019

Background: cytokinins have important functions in regulating plant growth and response to abiotic stress. cytokinin family genes have been described in several plant species, but a comprehensive analysis of the cytokinin family genes in Brassica oleracea has not been reported to date, especially their roles in dealing with the invasion of P. brassicae. Results: Cytokinins are a class of phytohormones that promote cell division and differentiation and are thought to affect plant immunity to multiple pathogens. To reveal the mechanisms of the Brassica oleracea cytokinin family genes in response to clubroot disease, a total of 36 cytokinin genes were identified using a genome-wide search method. Phylogenetic analysis classified these genes into three groups. They were distributed unevenly across nine chromosomes in B. oleracea, and 15 of them did not contain introns. The results of colinear analysis showed that each cytokinin gene in the B. oleracea genome had at least one homologous gene in the Arabidopsis genome. A cis-element analysis indicated that these genes possessed several stress response cis-elements. The heatmap of the cytokinin gene family showed that these genes were expressed in various tissues and organs. Five and eight genes were up- and downregulated, respectively, in the susceptible material after inoculation. In addition, two and one genes were up- and downregulated, respectively, in resistant material. This may indicate that these cytokinin genes play important roles in the host plant response to clubroot disease. In addition, the results provide insights for better understanding the role of cytokinin in the B. oleracea–P. brassicae interaction. Conclusions: Our results are helpful to elucidate the role of cytokinin family genes in cabbage response to infection by P. brassicae, and lay a foundation for further study on the function of these genes. Keywords: Brassica oleracea, genome-wide, cytokinin family genes, clubroot
Indigenous uses of wild and tended plant biodiversity maintain ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes of the Terai Plains of Nepal
Authors: Thorn Jessica P. R. , Thornton Thomas F. , Helfgott Ariella , Willis Katherine J.
Published: December 2019

Background Despite a rapidly accumulating evidence base quantifying ecosystem services, the role of biodiversity in the maintenance of ecosystem services in shared human-nature environments is still understudied, as is how indigenous and agriculturally dependent communities perceive, use and manage biodiversity. The present study aims to document traditional ethnobotanical knowledge of the ecosystem service benefits derived from wild and tended plants in rice-cultivated agroecosystems, compare this to botanical surveys, and analyse the extent to which ecosystem services contribute social-ecological resilience in the Terai Plains of Nepal. Method Sampling was carried out in four landscapes, 22 Village District Committees and 40 wards in the monsoon season. Data collection was based on transects walks to collect plant specimens, structured and semi-structured interviews, and participatory fieldwork in and around home gardens, farms, and production landscapes. We asked 180 farmers to free-list vernacular names and describe use-value of biological material. Uses were categorized into eight broad groupings, and 61 biomedical ailment classifications. We assessed if knowledge of plant species diversity and abundance differed with regard to caste, age and gender. Results Nepalese farmers have a deep knowledge of the use and management of the 390 vascular plant specimens identified, which provide key provisioning, regulating, supporting and cultural ecosystem services. Altogether, plants belong to 75 distinct plant species from 49 phylogenetic families: 56 are used to cure 61 ailments, 27 for rituals, 25 for food, 20 for timber, 17 for fuel, 16 for fodder, 11 for soil enhancement, and 8 for pesticides. Four caste groups have statistically different knowledge, and younger informants report a lower average number of useful plants. Conclusion Agricultural landscapes in Nepal are reservoirs of biodiversity. The knowledge of the use of wild and tended plant species in and around these farms differs by the caste and age group of land manager. Conducting research on agroecosystems will contribute to a deeper understanding of how nature is perceived by locals, to more efficient management and conservation of the breadbasket of Nepal, and to the conservation of valuable, but disappearing traditional knowledge and practice.
Feasibility of serum Cystatin C for predicting Vancomycin concentration in abdominal cancer patients with severe infectious disease
Authors: Zhang Xiaowu , Wang Donghao
Published: December 2019

Background: This study was designed to investigate the population pharmacokinetics and impact indicator of vancomycin in abdominal cancer patients complicated with severe infectious disease. Methods: A total of 78 patients abdominal cancer patients complicated with severe infectious disease were included. Vancomycin serum trough concentrations were measured using the fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) method. The patients were divided into early and delayed groups based on whether they achieve the target concentration. And clinical factors were compared between two groups.Results: The average initial therapeutic dose of vancomycin was 15.18±3.29 mg/kg (q12h). The research revealed that the abdominal cancer patients complicated with severe infectious disease had significantly lower initial vancomycin trough concentrations (median [IQR]: 6.90[5.28-11.20] mg/L). Multiple regression analysis revealed that Cys-C was the most important variable for vancomycin target trough achievement. The duration of mechanical ventilation in Early group was considerably shorter compared with group Delayed group (χ2=4.532; p < 0.05; Fig 1E). Propensity score weighting further confirmed that the duration of mechanical ventilation (χ2=6.607; p < 0.05; Fig 1F) and vasoactive agent (χ2=6.106; p < 0.05; Fig 1D) was considerably shorter compared with group Delayed group. Conclusions: The steady-state initial vancomycin trough concentration was significantly reduced in abdominal cancer patients complicated with severe infectious disease. The baseline Cys-C level measured prior to administration of vancomycin is suggested to be the most suitable parameter to predict whether vancomycin trough concentration is up to standard dosage.
Prevalence of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in a Tertiary Hospital in Beijing, China, January 2013 to December 2018
Authors: Huang Jing-jing , Li Ying-xing , Zhao Ying , Yang Wen-hang , Xiao Meng , Kudinha Timothy , Xu Ying-chun
Published: December 2019

Background To investigate the species distribution of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) among tuberculosis (TB) specimens collected from January 2013 to December 2018 at Peking Union Medical Hospital (Beijing), China. NTM species identification was carried out by DNA microarray chip. Results Mycobacterial species were detected in 1514 specimens from 1508 patients, among which NTM accounted for 37.3% (565/1514), increasing from a prevalence of 15.6% in 2013 to 46.1% in 2018 ( P <0.001). Among the 565 NTM positive specimens, the majority (55.2%) were from female patients. Furthermore, patients aged 45-65 years accounted for 49.6% of the total patients tested. Among 223 NTM positive specimens characterized further, the majority (86.2%) were from respiratory tract, whilst 3.6% and 3.1% were from lymph nodes and pus, respectively. Mycobacterium intracellulare (31.8%) and Mycobacterium chelonae / Mycobacterium abscessus (21.5%) were the most frequently detected species, followed by M. avium (13.5%), M. gordonae (11.7%), M. kansasii (7.6%), and others. Conclusion The proportion of NTM among mycobacterial species detected in a tertiary hospital in Beijing, China, increased rapidly from year 2013 to 2018. Middle-aged patients are more likely to be infected with NTM, especially females. Mycobacterium intracellulare and Mycobacterium chelonae / Mycobacterium abscessus were the most frequently detected NTM pathogens. Accurate and timely identification of NTM is important for diagnosis and treatment.
Perspectives from primary health care providers on supporting adolescents and young adults with chronic conditions transitioning to adult care: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Schraeder Kyleigh , Dimitropoulos Gina , McBrien Kerry , Li Jessica (Yijia) , Samuel Susan
Published: December 2019

Background: Transitioning from pediatric care to adult-oriented care at age 18 (the age of transfer in most countries and jurisdictions) is a complex process for adolescents and young adults affected by chronic physical health and/or mental health conditions. The role of primary health care providers for this population is poorly understood. Perspectives from these providers, such as family physicians and other members of the primary care team, have not been explored in depth. Methods: A total of 18 participants (e.g., family physicians, social workers, nurses) were recruited from 6 Primary Care Networks in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted, and transcribed verbatim. A qualitative description approach was used to analyze the data, and included thematic analysis. Results: Five distinct, yet overlapping, roles of primary health care providers for adolescents and young adults transitioning to adult care resulted from our analysis: (1) being the “common thread” (continuous accessible care); (2) caring for the “whole patient” (comprehensive care); (3) “knowing families” (family-partnered care); (4) “empowering” adolescents and young adults to develop “personal responsibility”(developmentally-appropriate care); and (5) “quarterbacking” care (coordination of specialist and/or community-based care). Participants identified potential benefits of these roles for adolescents and young adults transitioning to adult care, and barriers in practice (e.g., lack of time, having minimal involvement in pediatric care). Conclusions: Input from family physicians, who follow their patients across the lifespan and provide the majority of primary care in Canada, are critical for informing and refining recommended transition practices. Our findings provide insights, from PHC providers themselves, to bolster the rationale for primary care involvement during transitions from pediatric specialty and community-based care for AYAs. Solutions to overcome barriers for integrating primary care and specialty care for adolescents and young adults need to be identified, and tested, with input from key stakeholders.
Oleic acid-based nanosystems for mitigating acute respiratory distress syndrome in mice through neutrophil suppression: how the particulate size affects therapeutic efficiency
Authors: Fang Jia-You , Yu Huang-Ping , Liu Fu-Chao , Umoro Ani , Lin Zih-Chan , Elzoghby Ahmed O. , Hwang Tsong-Long
Published: December 2019

Background: Oleic acid (OA) is reported to show anti-inflammatory activity toward activated neutrophils. It is also an important material in nanoparticles for increased stability and cellular internalization. We aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of injectable OA-based nanoparticles for treating lung injury. Different sizes of nanocarriers were prepared to explore the effect of nanoparticulate size on inflammation inhibition. Results: The nanoparticles were fabricated with the mean diameters of 105, 153, and 225 nm. The nanocarriers were ingested by isolated human neutrophils during a 5-min period, with the smaller sizes exhibiting greater uptake. The size reduction led to the decrease of cell viability and the intracellular calcium level. The OA-loaded nanosystems dose-dependently suppressed the superoxide anion and elastase produced by the stimulated neutrophils. The inhibition level was comparable for the nanoparticles of different sizes. In the in vivo biodistribution study, the pulmonary accumulation of nanoparticles increased following the increase of particle size. The nanocarriers were mainly excreted by the liver and bile clearance. Mice were exposed to intratracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), like lung damage. The lipid-based nanocarriers mitigated myeloperoxidase (MPO) and cytokines more effectively as compared to OA solution. The larger nanoparticles displayed greater reduction on MPO, TNF-α, and IL-6 than the smaller ones. The histology confirmed the decreased pulmonary neutrophil recruitment and lung-architecture damage after intravenous administration of larger nanoparticles. Conclusions: Nanoparticulate size, an essential property governing the anti-inflammatory effect and lung-injury therapy, had different effects on activated neutrophil inhibition and in vivo therapeutic efficacy.
Levels of sex steroid hormones and their receptors in women with preeclampsia
Authors: Lan Kuo-Chung , Lai Yun-Ju , Cheng Hsin-Hsin , Tsai Ni-Chin , Su Yu-Ting , Tsai Ching-Chang , Hsu Te-Yao
Published: December 2019

Background: Pregnant women have high serum concentrations of sex steroid hormones, which are major regulators of paracrine and autocrine responses for many maternal and placental functions. The main purpose of this study is to compare patients with preeclampsia and patients with uncomplicated pregnancies in terms of serum of steroid hormones (estradiol [E2), progesterone [P4), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate [DHEAS), and testosterone [T)) throughout pregnancy, and the levels of cord blood and placental steroid receptors during the third trimester. Methods: Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the levels of steroid hormones in the serum and cord blood, and the placental levels of estrogen receptor-α (ERα), ERβ, androgen receptor (AR), and progesterone receptor (PR). Results: There were 45 women in the uncomplicated pregnancy group and 30 women in the preeclampsia group. Serum levels of T were greater and serum levels of E2 were reduced in the preeclampsia group, but the two groups had similar levels of P4 and DHEAS during the third trimester. Cord blood had a decreased level of DHEAS in the preeclampsia group, but the two groups had similar levels of P4, E2, and T. The two groups had similar placental mRNA levels of ERα, ERβ, AR, and PR, but the preeclampsia group had a higher level of ERβ protein and a lower level of ERα protein. Immunohistochemistry indicated the preeclampsia group had a greater level of ERβ in the nucleus and cytoplasm of syncytiotrophoblasts and stromal cells. Conclusions: Women with preeclampsia had lower levels of steroid hormones, estrogen, and ERα, but higher levels of T and ERβ. These molecules may have roles in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
Exosomal microRNA Expression Profiling Analysis of the Effects of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Mice
Authors: Xiao Ya , Chen Weihao , Chen Ruixue , Luo Anling , Chen Dayi , Liang Qiuer , Liu Tianhao , Chen Xudong , Tan Wei
Published: December 2019

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pathological condition, affecting an increasing number of pregnant women worldwide. Safe and effective treatment for GDM is very important for the public health. In this study, we utilized a high-fat diet induced GDM model to evaluate the effects of LBP on GDM and examined the changes of exosomal microRNA expression profiling to decipher the potential underlying mechanism of LBP.Methods Female C57BL/6J mice were fed a control diet, HFD, or 150 mg/kg LBP- supplemented HFD for 6 weeks before conception and throughout gestation. Oral glucose tolerance test and plasma lipid levels were determined and liver histopathology was assessed. Sequencing was used to define the microRNA expression profiling of plasma exosomes in the three groups of mice and proteins expression levels of the candidate target genes were analyzed.Results LBP significantly relieved glucose intolerance, abnormal plasma lipid levels and pathomorphological changes of liver histopathology in HFD induced GDM mice. Moreover, we found that this effect of LBP was mediated by down-regulation of the increase of 6 miRNAs (miR-93-3p, miR-188-5p, miR-466k, miR-1188-5p, miR-7001-3p and miR-7115-5p) and reversing the increase protein expression of CPT1A, which is the target gene of miR-188-5p.Conclusions Our findings provide novel insights into the biological activities of LBP in the treatment of GDM.
Cultural adaptation of the mental health first aid guidelines for depression used in English-speaking countries for China: a Delphi expert consensus study
Authors: Lu Shurong , Li Wenjing , Oldenburg Brian , Wang Yan , Jorm Anthony , He Yanling , Reavley Nicola
Published: December 2019

Background: Most people who meet the criteria for a diagnosis of depression in China do not receive treatment. Family and friends can play a role in recognising the signs of depression and encouraging the person to seek treatment. However, many of them may lack the knowledge and skills to offer such help. The aim of this study was to culturally adapt the existing English-language mental health first aid (MHFA) guidelines for helping a person with depression to the Chinese context. Methods: A Delphi expert consensus study was conducted, in which two Chinese expert panels of mental health professionals (with experience in the field of clinical management of depression, n = 37) and consumers and carers (with lived experience, n = 30) rated the importance of actions that could be taken to help a person experiencing depression in mainland China. Results: Data were collected over 3 survey rounds. In the 1st round questionnaire, 175 statements translated into Chinese from the English-language guidelines were presented to the expert panels and 12 new statements were generated from panellists’ comments. Of these 187 statements, 173 were endorsed for inclusion in the adapted guidelines for China. Conclusions: Although the adapted guidelines were still quite similar to the guidelines for English-speaking countries, they also incorporated some new actions for the Chinese context, including those relating to different ways of respecting the autonomy of a person with depression and the role of their families. Further research is needed to explore the use of these guidelines by the Chinese public, including how they may be incorporated in Mental Health First Aid training.
A novel construct of anhedonia revealed in a Chinese sample via the Revised Physical and Social Anhedonia Scales
Authors: Wu Qiongqiong , He Jiayue , Fang Shulin , Zhang Panwen , Luo Xingwei , Zhang Jianghua , Xiong Yan , Luo Fusheng , Wang Xiaosheng , Yao Shuqiao , Wang Xiang
Published: December 2019

Background: Anhedonia is experienced as a symptom of a number of mental disorders including major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophreniaand schizotypal personality disorder, and schizophrenia (as a negative symptom). The Revised Physical Anhedonia Scale (RPAS) and the Revised Social Anhedonia Scale (RSAS) have been applied in clinical and non-clinical samples since 1980s. However, the factor structure of the RPAS has not been determined and the structure of the RSAS remains controversial. The construct of a unified RPAS&RSAS has never been explored. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to examine the factor structure of the RPAS, the RSAS and the unified RPAS&RSAS.Methods: The internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the RPAS and the RSAS were determined in a sample of 3,435 Chinese young adults. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were each conducted in halves of the sample to reveal the constructs of the RPAS and the RSAS. CFA was used to evaluate first- and second-order models for the unified RPAS&RSAS .Results: The psychometric robustness of the RPAS and the RSAS were confirmed by high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.884, 0.835) and test-retest reliablity (r = 0.572, 0.602) values. EFA and CFA indicated 2-factor structures for both scales, with the factors being defined as anticipatory physical/social anhedonia and consummatory physical/social anhedonia. The second-order model of the unified RPAS&RSAS had satisfactory ﬁt index values (CFI=0.901, RMSEA=0.055).Conclusions: The unified simplified Chinese RPAS&RSAS can be used to assess anhedonia in young adults. A novel second-order structure of anhedonia was revealed.
Reliability and construct validity of the modified Finnish version of the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire, and its’ content validity within biopsychosocial frame among female healthcare workers with sub-acute or recurrent LBP
Authors: Suni Jaana Helena , Virkkunen Tarja , Husu Pauliina , Tokola Kari , Parkkari Jari , Kankaanpää Markku
Published: December 2019

Background: Healthcare workers have increased risk for chronic low back pain (LBP) leading to reduced workability. Depression, a highly prevalent, costly and disabling condition, is commonly seen in patients with sub-acute LBP. This study investigated the psychometric properties and content-validity of a modified 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9-mFIN) in female healthcare workers with sub-acute LBP. Methods: Reliability (internal consistency, test-retest repeatability) was assessed with standard methods. Construct validity of the PHQ-9-mFIN was assessed as level of depression (PHQ-9-mFIN: 0-4 none, 5-9 mild, ≥10 at least moderate) against RAND-36 Health Survey, a valid measure of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Content validity was determined as the strength of the association between the levels of PHQ-9-mFIN and the selected biopsychosocial factors. Results: The internal consistency of the PHQ-9-mFIN was high (Cronbach’s α=0.82) and the test-retest repeatability scores (n=65) fair: Pearson’s correlation 0.76, Kappa-value 0.42 for the diagnostic criterion (i.e. scores 0-9 vs. 10-27). Construct validity (Spearman correlation) against the Physical and Mental component items and their summary scales of the RAND 36 were much higher for the Mental (range -0.43 to -0.70 and -0.68) than for the Physical (range -0.06 to -0.41 and -0.24), respectively. There was a clear stepwise association (p<0.001) between the levels of depressive symptoms and General health (physical component, range 59.1 to 78.8). The associations with all items of the Mental components were strong and graded (p<0.001). All participants had low scores for Bodily pain regardless of the level of depressive symptoms. There was a strong association (p≤0.003) between levels of PHQ-9-mFIN and multisite pain, lumbar exertion and recovery after work days, neuromuscular fitness in Modified push-ups, workability, and fear of pain related to work. Conclusions: The PHQ-9-mFIN showed adequate reliability, and excellent construct and content validity among female healthcare workers with recurrent LBP and physically strenuous work. Trial registration: NCT01465698
Quality of Life in chronic musculoskeletal symptomatic Chilean population: Secondary analysis of National Health Survey 2009-2010
Authors: Mena-Iturriaga Maria Jesus , Mauri-Stecca Manuel Vicente , Sizer Phillip S. , Leppe Jaime
Published: December 2019

Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is defined as the patient's perception of their health status. The HRQoL can be modified by illnesses, treatments or social and health policies. Chronic pain is a modifying factor of HRQoL that leads to lower quality of life, elevated suffering and disability. Understanding potential quality of life variations in subjects with chronic musculoskeletal symptoms (cMSS) will provide information to health teams and organizations engaged in the Chilean health system. This study aim was to determine the relationship between HRQoL and musculoskeletal symptoms measured in three difference Chilean groups: (1) without symptoms; (2) with acute symptoms; and (3) with cMSS. Results were interpreted according to age, sex, educational level and residence area. Methods: This was accomplished using a secondary analysis of SF-12 data from the 2009-10 Chilean National Health Survey (NHS) using a multivariate logistic regression model to study the relationship between cMSS and HRQoL scores, adjusted for control variables. A 5% level of significance was considered. The STATA 15 was used for statistical analyses. Results: Out of 5,293 participants in the NHS 2009-10, 5,276 subjects were included for analysis. The median age was 46 years (IQR 31-60), 59.4% women, a median of 10 years formal education (IQR 7-12) and an urban residence in 85.2% of the population of the NHS 2009-10. The observed population prevalence of people with cMSS was 42.6% (95% CI 40.4 - 44.9). Presence of cMSS is a risk factor for low HRQoL, exhibited both in the physical (OR 3.1 95% CI 2.7-3.5) and mental (OR 1.9 95% CI 1.6-2,) HRQoL dimensions, independent of control variables. Conclusions: Physical and mental HRQoL are affected in people with cMSS, low educational level and advanced age. This is especially seen in women. This information will facilitate assessment and treatment of cMSS as a prevalent and multidimensional health problem.
APPLICATION OF A CONVOLUTIONAL NEURAL NETWORK TO CREATE A DETECTOR OF TECHNICAL ANALYSIS FIGURES ON EXCHANGE QUOTES CHARTS
Authors: Skuratov Victor , Kuzmin Konstantin , Nelin Igor , Sedankin Mikhail
Published: December 2019

Today, the use of artificial intelligence based on neural networks is the most effective approach to solving image recognition problems. The possibility of using a convolutional neural network to create a pattern detector for technical analysis based on stock chart data has been investigated. The found figures of technical analysis can serve as the basis for making trading decisions in the financial markets. In the conditions of an ever-growing array of various information, the use of visual data reading tools is becoming more and more expedient, as it allows to speed up the process of searching and processing the necessary information for decision-makers. The modeling process, analysis, and results of applying the pattern detector of technical analysis are presented. The general approach to the construction and learning of a convolutional neural network is also described, and the process of preliminary processing of input data is described. Using the created detector allows to automate the search for patterns and improve the accuracy of making trading decisions. After finding the patterns, it becomes possible to obtain additional stock statistics for each type of figure: the context in front of the figures, the percentage of successfully completed figures, volume analysis, etc. These technical solutions can be used as expert and trading systems in the stock market, as well as integrated into existing ones.
An infalling observer and behind the horizon cutoff
Authors: Akhavan Amin , Alishahiha Mohsen
Published: December 2019

Using Papadodimas and Raju construction of operators describing the
interior of a black hole, we present a general relation between
partition functions of operators describing inside and outside the black
hole horizon. In particular for an eternal black hole the partition
function of the interior modes may be given in terms those partition
functions associated with the modes of left and right exteriors. By
making use of this relation we observe that setting a finite UV cutoff
will enforce us to have a cutoff behind the horizon whose value is fixed
by the UV cutoff. The resultant cutoff is in agreement with what
obtained in the context of holographic complexity.
Influence of collateral and age on corporate capital structure
Authors: Heiderich Lizardo da Silva Wanderson , Nascimento Jucá Michele , Luís Saber Campos Anderson , Hadad Júnior Eli
Published: December 2019

Being financed by third-party capital requires the companies to put up collateral or assets in guarantee, consisting of real estate, inventories, and accounts receivable that in turn depend on specific life cycles, among other aspects. The main object of this study is to analyze whether corporate debt is related to age and collateral. To do so, a sample of 194 public and private Brazilian companies was studied between 2010 and 2017. The findings indicate that more mature businesses have lower debt levels. In terms of the collateral variable and interactions between collateral and age, a negative relation was noted with financial leverage, contrary to what was expected. This fact indicates a possible lack of quality in collateral over time. Furthermore, it is noted that there is no directly proportional relationship between progression in age and collateral. The contribution of the study consists of analyzing the relationships between collateral and age in terms of the debt levels of public and private Brazilian businesses. The distinctions between these groups may throw light on organizations in the emerging countries in terms of how to handle financing decisions with financial and capital market institutions.
The Chemical Structure and Bioactivity of Cycloartane-type Compounds
Authors: Gao Wenyan , Dong Xiaoyan , Wei Taiming , Xing Wenmin
Published: December 2019

:

For decades now, compounds in the cycloartane-type series have been shown to
have versatile pharmacological activities. However, no extensive review has been written
to summarize these health-beneficial activities. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to
systematically highlight the biological activities of these compounds, including their antitumor
and anti-osteoporosis effects, their effects on receptors, cytokine release, and
chronic renal failure, as well as their tyrosinase inhibitory, anticomplement, anti-parasite,
anti-HIV, and antituberculosis activities. In this review, we have summarized the structures
of over 200 compounds based on their characteristics and described their structureactivity
relationships (SARs), and potential mechanisms of action.
Mediterranean Diet and Osteoarticular Diseases
Authors: Sanpaolo Eliana R. , Corrado Addolorata , Cantatore Francesco P.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Besides the well-known positive effect on the reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases, in the latest decades growing evidence has accumulated on the beneficial effects of MD on various aspects of health outcomes. Nevertheless, data concerning the existence of a direct positive effect of MD, irrespective of its beneficial effect on body weight, in osteo-articular diseases, are still controversial. In osteo-articular diseases, a pro-inflammatory environment is highlighted, with an increased systemic levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Objective:

Our objective is to investigate the effects of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and osteo-articular diseases.

Conclusion:

Many foods included in MD, have anti-inflammatory properties, due to the presence of nutrients, such as polyunsaturated (PUFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) fats. The two types of polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6, have opposing effects on the inflammatory process. Omega-6 stimulates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, while omega-3 fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory effects, including significant reductions in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Some studies have shown that the dietary pattern of MD consumption has an important role in the prevention and development of inflammatory arthritis. Nevertheless, the possible influence of MD on chronic osteo-articular diseases is very limited, this review updates the main experimental and clinical evidences concerning the potential beneficial effects of the Mediterranean Diet on the most diffuse osteo-articular chronic and degenerative joint disease.
Insights into the FDA 2018 New Drug Approvals
Authors: Bedair Alaa , Mansour Fotouh R.
Published: December 2019

Objective:

The Center of Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) in the food and drug administration (FDA) approves new drugs every year. This review discusses the novel drugs of the FDA in 2018, with emphasis on the breakthrough drugs, the milestones in the approved list, and drugs with the highest expected sales in 2024.

Methods:

The following scientific search engines were surveyed for the clinical trials of the drugs approved by the FDA in 2018: Pubmed, Springer link, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Wiley online library, Taylor and Francis, and Google Scholar. The total forecast sales were compared based on information from the Cortellis database, EvaluatePharma, and Nature Biobusiness Briefs.

Results:

The 2018 year was full of good news for the drug market in the USA, with 59 new drug approvals by the FDA, which is the highest number of approvals in the last twenty years. The oncology and the antimicrobial drugs represent almost 50% of the new list, which gives hope to cancer patients and subjects with infectious diseases. In the 2018 FDA list, a number of drugs are expected to exceed 1$ billion dollars of sales by 2024.

Conclusion:

The new drugs approved by the FDA in 2018 have been reviewed. This year showed the highest number of new drug approvals in the last two decades. Among the 59 drugs approved in 2018, 14 drugs are considered breakthroughs, which revive hope for many poorly managed diseases. The list also contains 19 drugs that are first in class and 43 that were given priority reviews.
Alzheimer Disease Diagnosis from fMRI Images Based on Latent Low Rank Features and Support Vector Machine (SVM)
Authors: Shahparian Nastaran , Yazdi Mehran , Khosravi Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

In recent years, resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI)
has been increasingly used as a noninvasive and practical method in different areas of neuroscience
and psychology for recognizing brain’s mechanism as well as diagnosing neurological
diseases. In this work, we use rs-fMRI data for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease.

Materials and Methods:

To do that, by using the rs-fMRI of a patient, we computed the time series
of some anatomical regions and then applied the Latent Low Rank Representation method to
extract suitable features. Next, based on the extracted features, we apply a Support Vector Machine
(SVM) classifier to determine whether the patient belongs to a healthy category, mild stage
of the disease or Alzheimer's stage.

Results:

The obtained classification accuracy for the proposed method is more than 97.5%.

Conclusion:

We performed different experiments on a database of rs-fMRI data containing the
images of 43 healthy subjects, 36 mild cognitive impairment patients and 32 Alzheimer’s patients
and the obtained results demonstrated that the best performance is achieved when the SVM with
Gaussian kernel and the features of only 7 regions were used.
Pengaruh pembelajaran POGIL berkonteks socioscientific issues terhadap kualitas keterampilan berargumentasi siswa SMA pada materi ikatan kimia
Authors: Astarina Anisyah Dasa , Rahayu Sri , Yahmin Yahmin
Published: December 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji pengaruh pembelajaran POGIL berkonteks SSI terhadap kualitas argumentasi siswa kelas X. Rancangan penelitian adalah mixed-methods. Data kuantitatif berupa tingkat kualitas argumentasi siswa yang diperoleh melalui instrumen tes keterampilan berargumentasi. Data kualitatif berupa hasil wawancara siswa tentang sikap siswa terhadap SSI dan argumentasi siswa pada proses pembelajaran. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat perbedaan keterampilan berargumentasi antara siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan POGIL berkonteks SSI dengan siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan POGIL dan konvensional. Pembelajaran POGIL berkonteks SSI lebih efektif dalam membelajarkan keterampilan berargumentasi siswa dibandingkan dua kelas lainnya berdasarkan nilai rata-rata kualitas argumentasi. The effect of POGIL with socioscientific issues context for high school argumentation skills quality in chemical bonding AbstractThe aim of the study was to examine the influence of POGIL with SSI context on the quality of high school students argumentation. The research design was mixed-methods. Quantitative data in the form of level of students’ argumentation quality collected by instrument of argument skills. Qualitative was the students’ transcript of interview about their attitude toward SSI and their argumentation in process of learning.The results showed that there was a difference in the skills of argumentation between the students who taught with the POGIL with SSI context and the students taught by POGIL and conventional instruction. POGILS with SSI context was more effective in teaching students’ argumentation skills compared to the other classes based on the average score of student argumentation.