bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moiety modeling framework for deriving moiety abundances from mass spectrometry measured isotopologues
Authors: Jin Huan , Moseley Hunter N. B.
Published: October 2019

Background

Stable isotope tracing can follow individual atoms through metabolic transformations through the detection of the incorporation of stable isotope within metabolites. This resulting data can be interpreted in terms related to metabolic flux. However, detection of a stable isotope in metabolites by mass spectrometry produces a profile of isotopologue peaks that requires deconvolution to ascertain the localization of isotope incorporation.

Results

To aid the interpretation of the mass spectroscopy isotopologue profile, we have developed a moiety modeling framework for deconvoluting metabolite isotopologue profiles involving single and multiple isotope tracers. This moiety modeling framework provides facilities for moiety model representation, moiety model optimization, and moiety model selection. The moiety_modeling package was developed from the idea of metabolite decomposition into moiety units based on metabolic transformations, i.e. a moiety model. The SAGA-optimize package, solving a boundary-value inverse problem through a combined simulated annealing and genetic algorithm, was developed for model optimization. Additional optimization methods from the Python scipy library are utilized as well. Several forms of the Akaike information criterion and Bayesian information criterion are provided for selecting between moiety models. Moiety models and associated isotopologue data are defined in a JSONized format.

By testing the moiety modeling framework on the timecourses of 13C isotopologue data for uridine diphosphate N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) in human prostate cancer LnCaP-LN3 cells, we were able to confirm its robust performance in isotopologue deconvolution and moiety model selection.

Conclusions

SAGA-optimize is a useful Python package for solving boundary-value inverse problems, and the moiety_modeling package is an easy-to-use tool for mass spectroscopy isotopologue profile deconvolution involving single and multiple isotope tracers. Both packages are freely available on GitHub and via the Python Package Index.
A hierarchical integration deep flexible neural forest framework for cancer subtype classification by integrating multi-omics data
Authors: Xu Jing , Wu Peng , Chen Yuehui , Meng Qingfang , Dawood Hussain , Dawood Hassan
Published: October 2019

Background

Cancer subtype classification attains the great importance for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment of cancer. Latest developments in high-throughput sequencing technologies have rapidly produced multi-omics data of the same cancer sample. Many computational methods have been proposed to classify cancer subtypes, however most of them generate the model by only employing gene expression data. It has been shown that integration of multi-omics data contributes to cancer subtype classification.

Results

A new hierarchical integration deep flexible neural forest framework is proposed to integrate multi-omics data for cancer subtype classification named as HI-DFNForest. Stacked autoencoder (SAE) is used to learn high-level representations in each omics data, then the complex representations are learned by integrating all learned representations into a layer of autoencoder. Final learned data representations (from the stacked autoencoder) are used to classify patients into different cancer subtypes using deep flexible neural forest (DFNForest) model.Cancer subtype classification is verified on BRCA, GBM and OV data sets from TCGA by integrating gene expression, miRNA expression and DNA methylation data. These results demonstrated that integrating multiple omics data improves the accuracy of cancer subtype classification than only using gene expression data and the proposed framework has achieved better performance compared with other conventional methods.

Conclusion

The new hierarchical integration deep flexible neural forest framework(HI-DFNForest) is an effective method to integrate multi-omics data to classify cancer subtypes.
LncRNA MEG3 influences the proliferation and apoptosis of psoriasis epidermal cells by targeting miR-21/caspase-8
Authors: Jia Hai-Yan , Zhang Kai , Lu Wen-Jing , Xu Gui-Wen , Zhang Jian-Fen , Tang Zhan-Li
Published: October 2019

Background

It was reported that microRNA-21(miR-21) was differentially expressed in the keratinocytes of psoriasis patients, and it may influence the apoptosis and proliferation of cells. The role of lncRNA maternally expressed gene3 (MEG3), a competing endogenous RNAs of miR-21, in the progression of psoriasis remains unclear. We aimed to unfold the influence of MEG3 and miR-21 on the proliferation and apoptosis of psoriasis epidermal cells.

Methods

50μg/L TNF-α was used to treat HaCaTs and NHEKs cells for 24 h, and then different experiments were conducted. qRT-PCR were applied for measuring the mRNA level of MEG3, miR-2, and caspase-8, and the protein expression of caspase-8 was measured with western blotting. Flow cytometry was used for assessing apoptosis. Cell proliferation was detected using MTT and colony formation assays. Dual luciferase reporter assay was applied for confirming the binding site between MEG3 and miR-21, miR-21 and Caspase-8.

Results

A cell model for in vitro studying the role of MEG3 in psoriasis pathophysiology was established using HaCaT and HHEKs. MEG3 was significantly down-regulated in HaCaT, HHEKs, and psoriatic skin samples. MEG3 inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis of Activated-HaCaT (Act-HaCaT) and Activated-HHEKs (Act- HHEK) by regulating miR-21, and the binding site between MEG3 and miR-21 was identified. We also found that miR-21 could inhibit the level of caspase-8 and identified the binding site between caspase-8 and miR-21. Some down-stream proteins of caspase-8, Cleaved caspase-8, cytc, and apaf-1 were regulated by miR-21 and MEG3.

Conclusion

MEG3/miR-21 axis may regulate the expression of caspase-8, and further influence the proliferation and apoptosis of psoriasis keratinocyte, Act-HaCaT and Act- HHEK. Therefore, our findings may provide a new thought for the study of pathogenesis and treatment of psoriasis.
Genetic variation of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae from Brazilian field samples
Authors: Assao Viviane Sisdelli , Scatamburlo Thalita Moreira , Araujo Elaine Nery , Santos Marcus Rebouças , Pereira Carlos Eduardo Real , Guedes Roberto Maurício Carvalho , Bressan Gustavo Costa , Fietto Juliana Lopes Rangel , Chang Yung-Fu , Moreira Maria Aparecida Scatamburlo , Silva-Júnior Abelardo
Published: October 2019

Background

Porcine enzootic pneumonia is a worldwide problem in swine production. The infected host demonstrates a respiratory disease whose etiologic agent is Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhp). A total of 266 lung samples with Mycoplasma-like lesions were collected from two slaughterhouses. We analyzed the genetic profile of Mhp field samples using 16 genes that encode proteins involved in the mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis and/or the immune responses of the host. Bioinformatic analyses were performed to classify the Mhp field samples based on their similarity according to the presence of the studied genes.

Results

Our results showed variations in the frequency of the 16 studied genes among different Mhp field samples. It was also noted that samples from the same farm were genetically different from each other and samples from different regions could be genetically similar, which is evidence of the presence of different genetic profiles among the Mhp field strains that circulate in Brazilian swine herds.

Conclusion

This work demonstrated the genetic diversity of several Mhp field strains based on 16 selected genes related to virulence and/or immune response in Brazil. Our findings demonstrate the difference between Mhp field strains could influence the virulence, and we hypothesize that the most frequent genes in Mhp field strains could possibly be used as vaccine candidates. Based on our results, we suspect that Mhp genetic variability may be associated with the frequency of genes among the field strains and we have demonstrated that some Mhp field samples could not have many important genes described in the literature.
Comparative phosphoproteomic analysis of blast resistant and susceptible rice cultivars in response to salicylic acid
Authors: Sun Ranran , Qin Shiwen , Zhang Tong , Wang Zhenzhong , Li Huaping , Li Yunfeng , Nie Yanfang
Published: October 2019

Background

Salicylic acid (SA) is a significant signaling molecule that induces rice resistance against pathogen invasion. Protein phosphorylation carries out an important regulatory function in plant defense responses, while the global phosphoproteome changes in rice response to SA-mediated defense response has not been reported. In this study, a comparative phosphoproteomic profiling was conducted by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, with two near-isogenic rice cultivars after SA treatment.

Results

Thirty-seven phosphoprotein spots were differentially expressed after SA treatment, twenty-nine of which were identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF MS, belonging to nine functional categories. Phosphoproteins involved in photosynthesis, antioxidative enzymes, molecular chaperones were similarly expressed in the two cultivars, suggesting SA might alleviate decreases in plant photosynthesis, regulate the antioxidant defense activities, thus improving basal resistance response in both cultivars. Meanwhile, phosphoproteins related to defense, carbohydrate metabolism, protein synthesis and degradation were differentially expressed, suggesting phosphorylation regulation mediated by SA may coordinate complex cellular activities in the two cultivars. Furthermore, the phosphorylation sites of four identified phosphoproteins were verified by NanoLC-MS/MS, and phosphorylated regulation of three enzymes (cinnamoyl-CoA reductase, phosphoglycerate mutase and ascorbate peroxidase) was validated by activity determination.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that phosphorylation regulation mediated by SA may contribute to the different resistance response of the two cultivars. To our knowledge, this is the first report to measure rice phosphoproteomic changes in response to SA, which provides new insights into molecular mechanisms of SA-induced rice defense.
Interventional cardiac catheterization predictors at Al-Arabi heart Center in Palestine in 2017
Authors: Alkaiyat Abdulsalam , Abumadi Reham , Atari Shuruq , Sayeh Wasef , Al Zabadi Hamzeh , Sarawan Zaid , Bisharat Fekri , Shakhshir Nizar
Published: October 2019

Background

Cardiac catheterization is performed for both therapeutic and diagnostic reasons, in which the outcome may vary from only medical treatment to the need of percutaneous coronary intervention and ending with coronary artery bypass graft. The primary goal of this study was to determine predictors of revascularization.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on data collected from records of patients who underwent cardiac catheterization at Al-Arabi Heart Center in Palestine in 2017. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out to assess the association of sociodemographic and pre-catheterization clinical predictors with revascularization.

Results

A total of 1550 patients were included in the study. The participants mean age was 58 with a SD of 11.7 years, 73.6% were males. 50.2% of patients who underwent an interventional cardiac catheterization tested negative for troponin on presentation. Multivariate logistic regression showed Troponin (RR = 4.5), Age (RR = 1.0), Female gender (RR = 0.4) previous catheterization (RR = 2.0), and existence of diabetes as significant predictors for revascularization. The correlation between ECG on presentation and the subsequent need for an interventional cardiac catheterization was significant only in case of ST-Elevation (RR = 1.5), and T wave inversion (RR = 1.6). CK-MB, Hypertension and ECG with ST-depression were not significant predictors.

Conclusion

This study assessed revascularization predictors in addition to characteristics and outcomes of patients who have undergone cardiac catheterization. The results showed the especially high predictive value of troponin in determining the need for revascularization which outweighed the importance of ECG findings on presentation in making clinical decision regarding catheterization.
Molecular characteristics of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp. from clinical infection samples and fecal survey samples in Southern China
Authors: Li Si , Duan Xiaonv , Peng Yuan , Rui Yongyu
Published: October 2019

Background

Carbapenem resistance among Acinetobacter species has become a life-threatening problem. As a last resort in the treatment of gram-negative bacteria infection, resistance to colistin is also a serious problem. The aim of study was to analyze the mechanism of resistance and perform genotyping of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter from clinical infection and fecal survey samples in Southern China.

Methods

One hundred seventy and 74 carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter were isolated from clinical infection samples and fecal survey samples, respectively. We detected the related genes, including carbapenemase genes (blaKPC, blaIMP, blaSPM, blaVIM, blaNDM, blaOXA-23-like, blaOXA-24/40-like, blaOXA-51-like, and blaOXA-58-like), colistin resistance-related genes (mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3, mcr-4, and mcr-5), a porin gene (carO), efflux pump genes (adeA, adeB, adeC, adeI, adeJ, and adeK), mobile genetic element genes (intI1, intI2, intI3, tnpU, tnp513, IS26, ISAba1, and ISAba125), and the integron variable region. Genotyping was analyzed by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR and dendrogram cluster analysis.

Results

Among the 244 carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter, the common carbapenemase-positive genes included the following: blaOXA-51-like, 183 (75.00%); blaOXA-23-like, 174 (71.30%); blaNDM-1, 57 (23.40%); and blaOXA-58-like, 30 (12.30%). The coexistence of mcr-1 and blaNDM-1 in five strains of A. junii was found for the first time. Eleven distinct carO gene variants were detected in 164 (67.20%) strains, and ten novel variants, which shared 92–99% identity with sequences in the Genbank database, were first reported. Efflux system genes were present in approximately 70% of the isolates; adeABC and adeIJK were observed in 76.23 and 72.13%, respectively. Class 1 integrons were detected in 180 (73.80%) strains and revealed that four gene cassette arrays contained 11 distinct genes. The genotyping by ERIC-PCR demonstrated a high genetic diversity of non-baumannii Acinetobacter, and greater than 90% similarity to A. baumannii.

Conclusions

The blaNDM-1 gene was identified in up to 77% of the carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter isolated from fecal survey samples, indicating that the gut might be a reservoir of resistant opportunistic bacteria. Intestinal bacteria can be transmitted through the fecal-hand, which is a clinical threat, thus, the monitoring of carbapenem-resistant bacteria from inpatients’ feces should be improved, especially for patients who have been using antibiotics for a long time.
Prevalence of and risk factors for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriage in the West of Iran: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Ahmadi Elham , Khojasteh Mohammad , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad , Khan-Mohammadi Fatemeh , Kazemnia Ali , Beheshtipour Javad , Raeeszadeh Mahdieh
Published: October 2019

Background

Several reports designate the recent increase in community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) nasal carriage. Because of the scanty information regarding the nasal carriage sate of MRSA in the west of Iran, the purpose of the present study was to determine the frequency of CA-MRSA in Sanandaj city.

Methods

Swabs collected from anterior nares of 600 volunteers were analyzed for the presence of S. aureus. The isolates were further investigated for methicillin resistance by using the cefoxitin disk diffusion test, followed by PCR-amplification of the mecA gene. SCCmec types and the presence of the Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (pvl) encoding genes were determined through PCR. Finally, the antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was determined by the agar diffusion method.

Results

Nasal screening identified 181 S. aureus, of which 55 isolates were MRSA. SCCmec types IV and V were detected in MRSA at frequencies of 80 and 20%, respectively. The overall frequency of pvl genes among the MRSA isolates was 14.54%. MRSA isolates were highly susceptible (98.18%) to mupirocin, gentamicin, and fusidic acid.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of CA-MRSA carriage in the population could pose a serious public health concern for the region. Additionally, advent of drug-resistant pvl-positive strains demands continuous surveillance on the colonization state of CA-MRSA in order to prevent dissemination of the bacterium in the community.
Predictive factors of disease-free survival after complete pathological response to neoadjuvant radiotherapy for rectal adenocarcinoma: retrospective case series
Authors:   on behalf of the Moroccan Society of Surgery, Souadka Amine , Majbar Mohammed Anass , Benkabbou Amine , Serji Badr , Souiki Tarik , Bouchentouf Sidi Mohammed , Abid Mourad , El Khannousi Basma , El Harroudi Tijani , El Malki Hadj Omar , Raiss Mohammed , Ifrine Lahsen , Mazaz Khalid , Zentar Aziz , Mohsine Raouf , Souadka Abdelilah , Belkouchi Abdelkader , Ahallat Mohammed , Hrora Abdelmalek
Published: October 2019

Background

Many data suggest that patients with low rectal adenocarcinoma who achieved ypT0N0 status have improved survival and disease-free survival (DFS) compared to all other stages however only few data are available regarding the specific prognosis factors of this subgroup. This study aimed to evaluate predictive factors for disease free survival after complete pathological response (CPR) in cases of low rectal adenocarcinoma.

Materials and methods

From January 2005 to December 2013, all patients with low rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by total mesorectal excision and achieved CPR were included at 7 Moroccan and 1 Algerian centres. Predictive factors for disease-free survival were analysed by uni and multivariate analysis.

Results

Eigthy-four (12.1%) patients achieved a CPR (ypT0N0). Multivariate analysis revealed that both poorly differentiated tumors (OR, 9.23; 95 CI 1.35–62.82;P = 0.023) and the occurrence of perineal sepsis (OR, 13.51; 95 CI 1.96–93.12;P = 0.008) were independently associated with impaired DFS.

Conclusions

Patients with low rectal cancer who exhibited a CPR after neoadjuvant therapy have good prognoses; however, the occurrence of perineal sepsis and/or poor initial differentiation may be associated with impaired DFS in these patients.

Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered the 28th July 2018 inClinicalTrials.govregister with the reference NCT03601689.
SUPR-3D: A randomized phase iii trial comparing simple unplanned palliative radiotherapy versus 3d conformal radiotherapy for patients with bone metastases: study protocol
Authors: Olson Robert , Schlijper Roel , Chng Nick , Matthews Quinn , Arimare Marco , Mathews Lindsay , Hsu Fred , Berrang Tanya , Louie Alexander , Mou Benjamin , Valev Boris , Laba Joanna , Palma David , Schellenberg Devin , Lefresne Shilo
Published: October 2019

Background

Bone metastases in the lower spine and pelvis are effectively palliated with radiotherapy (RT), though this can come with side effects such as radiation induced nausea and vomiting (RINV). We hypothesize that high rates of RINV occur in part because of the widespread use of inexpensive simple unplanned palliative radiotherapy (SUPR), over more complex and resource intensive 3D conformal RT, such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT).

Methods

This is a randomized, multi-centre phase III trial of SUPR versus VMAT. We will accrue 250 patients to assess the difference in patient-reported RINV. This study is powered to detect a difference in quality of life between patients treated with VMAT vs. SUPR.

Discussion

This trial will determine if VMAT reduces early toxicity compared to SUPR and may provide justification for this more resource-intensive and costly form of RT.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03694015.

Date of registration: October 3, 2018.
Clinical results of Intraductal Meibomian gland probing combined with intense pulsed light in treating patients with refractory obstructive Meibomian gland dysfunction: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Huang Xiaodan , Qin Qiyu , Wang Linping , Zheng Jiao , Lin Lin , Jin Xiuming
Published: October 2019

Background

This study aims to optimize the therapeutic regimen for refractory obstructive meibomian gland dysfunction (o-MGD) patients by combining intraductal meibomian gland probing (MGP) and intense pulsed light (IPL) to enhance their positive effects and reduce their limitations.

Methods

This randomized, assessor blind study includes 45 patients (90 eyes) with refractory o-MGD who were divided into 3 groups via allocation concealment: IPL (group I, received an IPL treatment course: 3 times at 3-week intervals), MGP (group II, received MGP one time), and combined MGP-IPL (group III, MGP first followed by an IPL treatment course). Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness score (SPEED), tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), meibum grade, and lid margin finding results were assessed at baseline, 3 weeks after final treatment for groups I and III, 3 and 12 weeks after MGP for group II. Six months after final treatment, the SPEED and willingness to receive any treatment again were also collected for all groups. Paired Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney U with Bonferroni correction, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for data analysis.

Results

For all 3 groups, all previously mentioned indexes improved significantly following treatment (P<0.01). MGP-IPL was better than IPL and MGP in terms of post-treatment SPEED, TBUT, meibum grade, and lid telangiectasia (P<0.05/3). Furthermore, the MGP-IPL was better than IPL in terms of lid tenderness and better than MGP in terms of orifice abnormality (P< 0.05/3). Six months later, the SPEED for the MGP-IPL was also significantly lower than other groups (P<0.05/3). Moreover, no patients in the MGP-IPL group expressed the need to be treated again compared to 35.7% or 20% of patients in the IPL or MGP groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Compared with IPL or MGP alone, the combination MGP-IPL produced best results in relieving all signs and symptoms and helping patients attain long-lasting symptom relief.

Trial registration

http://clinicaltrials.gov, ChiCTR1900021273 (retrospectively registered February 9, 2019).
Serotonergic hallucinogens/psychedelics could be promising treatments for depressive and anxiety disorders in end-stage cancer
Authors: dos Santos Rafael Guimarães , Bouso José Carlos , Hallak Jaime E. C.
Published: October 2019

In a recent issue of the BMC Psychiatry, the evidence of effectiveness of treatments for psychiatric conditions in end-stage cancer patients was reviewed (Johnson, 2018). The review was comprehensive, and included traditional and non-traditional/alternative treatments, including herbal medicines and spirituality. However, evidence showing that classic or serotonergic hallucinogens/psychedelics such as psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) could be effective treatments for depressive and anxiety disorders in end-stage cancer was not included. In this commentary, we expand the information available on the original article by briefly reviewing data from recent placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over clinical trials showing evidence that administration of single (or few) doses of LSD and psilocybin was associated with rapid and sustained reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with end-stage cancer and other life-threatening diseases (e.g., Bechterew’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Celiac disease). Since these substances seem to produce rapid and sustained therapeutic effects with single (or few) doses and well tolerated, large-scale, prospective, multi-site studies of end-stage cancer and classical/serotonergic hallucinogens/psychedelics should be performed to improve our understanding of the therapeutic potentials of these drugs and their use on clinical practice.
Associations between Chinese adolescents subjected to traditional and cyber bullying and suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide attempts
Authors: Peng Zhekuan , Klomek Anat Brunstein , Li Liping , Su Xuefen , Sillanmäki Lauri , Chudal Roshan , Sourander Andre
Published: October 2019

Background

The incidence of bullying is high among adolescents. Adolescents who were victims of bullying have a higher risk of self-harm and suicidal behavior than adolescents who were non-victims. However, research on suicide and both traditional and cyber bullying was limited in China. Therefore, this study examined the associations between Chinese adolescents who were the victims of traditional and cyber bullying and the prevalence of suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide attempts.

Methods

This was a population-based study of 2647 students (51.2% girls) with a mean age of 13.6 ± 1.1 years from 10 junior high schools in Shantou, China. Information on bullying victimization, suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide attempts were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and the psychopathology of the students was assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The associations were examined with multinomial logistic regression, adjusted for covariates.

Results

Traditional bullying victimization was reported by 16.7% of the adolescents, cyber bullying victimization by 9.0% and both by 3.5%. The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 23.5%, self-harm was 6.2% and suicide attempts was 4.2%. Psychopathology symptoms were risk factors for suicide ideation only, ideation plus self-harm, self-harm only and suicide attempts. Victims of both traditional and cyber bullying had the highest risk of suicidal ideation only, ideation plus self-harm and suicide attempts, compared to those reporting one form of bullying. Victims of cyber bullying only had the second highest risk of suicidal ideation only and suicidal ideation plus self-harm compared to non-victims.

Conclusions

Adolescents who were victims of both traditional and cyber bullying had greater risks of adverse outcomes of suicidal ideation only, suicidal ideation plus self-harm and suicide attempts. The results of the current study suggest that those exposed to both forms of bullying should be routinely screened for suicidal risk. In addition, school-based anti-bully interventions should also target cyber bullying.
Creating a healthy eating and active environment survey (CHEERS) for childcare: an inter-rater, intra-rater reliability and validity study
Authors: Lafave Lynne M. Z.
Published: October 2019

Background

The CHEERS is a self-administered tool to measure gaps, weaknesses, and strengths of an early childhood education and care (ECEC) centre-based nutrition and physical activity environment. ECEC settings have the potential to profoundly influence early dietary and physical activity behaviours. Content validation of the CHEERS tool has been previously reported. The purpose of this study was to develop reliability and validity evidence for the CHEERS audit tool and the proposed subscales of food served, healthy eating environment, program planning, and physical activity environment in ECEC centre-based programs.

Methods

This cross-sectional study consisted of 2 phases: Phase 1 included inter-, intra-rater and Cronbach’s α. A subset of this sample was invited to participate in a second survey (Trial 2) for intra-rater assessment within 3 weeks of completing the first survey (Trial 1). Phase 2 included concurrent validity assessment between a nutrition expert and the ECEC director using within a one-week period.

Results

One hundred two directors and 85 educators (total of 187) returned the survey. Of these, there were 75 matched pairs for inter-rater reliability analysis providing a CHEERS ICC score of 0.59 and ICC scores ranging from 0.40 to 0.58 for the subscales. The ICC for intra-rater reliability of the CHEERS score was 0.81 for 40 participants completing the survey a second time and a range of 0.72 to 0.79 for the subscales. The CHEERS tool demonstrated very good internal consistency (α = 0.91) and α scores ranging from 0.73 to 0.79 for the subscales. In phase 2, concurrent validation was ICC = 0.65 (n = 30) CHEERS scores with a range of 0.42 to 0.69 for the subscales.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of inter-, intra-rater reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity of an environmental assessment audit tool to assess the nutrition and physical activity environment of ECEC centre-based programs. The results demonstrate that the self-administered CHEERS instrument is stable overtime and between evaluators at the same ECEC centre. The scores obtained with CHEERS self-administered audit tool are reasonably accurate compared to an expert rater (dietitian) assessment. This study adds additional support to establishing the psychometric soundness of the CHEERS tool.
An integrated health delivery platform, targeting soil-transmitted helminths (STH) and canine mediated human rabies, results in cost savings and increased breadth of treatment for STH in remote communities in Tanzania
Authors: Lankester Felix , Davis Alicia , Kinung’hi Safari , Yoder Jonathan , Bunga Catherine , Alkara Shayo , Mzimbiri Imam , Cleaveland Sarah , Palmer Guy H.
Published: October 2019

Background

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of a 90% reduction in neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) by 2030 requires innovative control strategies.

This proof-of-concept study examined the effectiveness of integrating control programs for two NTDs: mass drug administration (MDA) for soil-transmitted helminths in humans and mass dog rabies vaccination (MDRV).

Methods

The study was carried out in 24 Tanzanian villages. The primary goal was to demonstrate the feasibility of integrating community-wide MDA for STH and MDRV for rabies. The objectives were to investigate the popularity, participation and cost and time savings of integrated delivery, and to investigate the reach of the MDA with respect to primary school-aged children and other community members. To implement, we randomly allocated villages for delivery of MDA and MDRV (Arm A), MDA only (Arm B) or MDRV only (Arm C).

Results

Community support for the integrated delivery was strong (e.g. 85% of focus group discussions concluded that it would result in people getting “two for one” health treatments). A high proportion of households participated in the integrated Arm A events (81.7% MDA, 80.4% MDRV), and these proportions were similar to those in Arms B and C. These findings suggest that coverage might not be reduced when interventions are integrated. Moreover, in addition to time savings, integrated delivery resulted in a 33% lower cost per deworming dose and a 16% lower cost per rabies vaccination.

The median percentage of enrolled primary school children treated by this study was 76%. However, because 37% of the primary school aged children that received deworming treatment were not enrolled in school, we hypothesize that the employed strategy could reach more school-aged children than would be reached through a solely school-based delivery strategy.

Conclusions

Integrated delivery platforms for health interventions can be feasible, popular, cost and time saving. The insights gained could be applicable in areas of sub-Saharan Africa that are remote or underserved by health services. These results indicate the utility of integrated One Health delivery platforms and suggest an important role in the global campaign to reduce the burden of NTDs, especially in hard-to-reach communities.

Trial registration

clinicaltrials.gov NCT03667079, retrospectively registered 11th September 2018.
The association of multimorbidity, loneliness, social exclusion and network size: findings from the population-based German Ageing Survey
Authors: Kristensen Kaja , König Hans-Helmut , Hajek André
Published: October 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to examine the association between multimorbidity and (i) loneliness, (ii) social exclusion and (iii) network size, respectively.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from a German representative sample of community-dwelling adults aged 40 and over was used (N = 7604). Multimorbidity was indicated with the presence of two or more diseases. Self-rated loneliness was assessed with a short form of the validated De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale and social exclusion was measured with a validated scale developed by Bude and Lantermann. Counts of important people in regular contact represented the network size of respondents.

Results

Multimorbidity was present in 68% of the sample. While controlling for potential confounders, multiple linear regression analysis yielded that multimorbidity was associated with increased loneliness (b = 0.08;p < 0.001) and increased social exclusion (b = 0.10;p < 0.01). Multimorbidity was also associated with an increased network size (b = 0.27;p < 0.001).

Conclusion

While there was an association between multimorbidity and increased social exclusion as well as increased loneliness, regressions also revealed an association between multimorbidity and an increased network size. Although the association between multimorbidity and our outcome measures is weak, its complex nature should be investigated further using a longitudinal approach.
Are young female suicides increasing? A comparison of sex-specific rates and characteristics of youth suicides in Australia over 2004–2014
Authors: Stefanac Nina , Hetrick Sarah , Hulbert Carol , Spittal Matthew J. , Witt Katrina , Robinson Jo
Published: October 2019

Background

Australian mortality statistics suggest that young female suicides have increased since 2004 in comparison to young males, a pattern documented across other Western high-income countries. This may indicate a need for more targeted and multifaceted youth suicide prevention efforts. However, sex-based time trends are yet to be tested empirically within a comprehensive Australian sample. The aim of this study was to examine changes over time in sex-based rates and characteristics of all suicides among young people in Australia (2004–2014).

Methods

National Coronial Information System and Australian Bureau of Statistics data provided annual suicide counts and rates for 10–24-year-olds in Australia (2004–2014), stratified by sex, age group, Indigenous status and methods. Negative binomial regressions estimated time trends in population-stratified rates, and multinomial logistic regressions estimated time trends by major suicide methods (i.e., hanging, drug poisoning).

Results

Between 2004 and 2014, 3709 young Australians aged 10–24 years died by suicide. Whilst, overall, youth suicide rates did not increase significantly in Australia between 2004 and 2014, there was a significant increase in suicide rates for females (incident rate ratio [IRR] 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01 to 1.06), but not males. Rates were consistently higher among Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander youth, males, and in older (20–24-years) as compared to younger (15–19 years) age groups. Overall, the odds of using hanging as a method of suicide increased over time among both males and females, whilst the odds of using drug-poisoning did not change over this period.

Conclusions

We showed that suicide rates among young females, but not young males, increased over the study period. Patterns were observed in the use of major suicide methods with hanging the most frequently used method among both sexes and more likely among younger and Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander groups. Findings highlight the need to broaden current conceptualizations of youth suicide to one increasingly involving young females, and strengthen the case for a multifaceted prevention approach that capitalize on young females’ greater help-seeking propensity.
Evaluation of a school based comprehensive sexuality education program among very young adolescents in rural Uganda
Authors: Kemigisha Elizabeth , Bruce Katharine , Ivanova Olena , Leye Els , Coene Gily , Ruzaaza Gad N. , Ninsiima Anna B. , Mlahagwa Wendo , Nyakato Viola N. , Michielsen Kristien
Published: October 2019

Background

Limited research has been conducted on the effectiveness of sexuality education for very young adolescents (VYAs) ages 10–14 years in Sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, evaluations of sexuality education programs often report outcomes of risky sexual practices, yet positive aspects of sexuality are hardly studied and rarely reported. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) intervention for VYAs in Uganda, analyzing both positive and negative outcome indicators.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods study, incorporating a cluster randomized trial (NCT03669913) among pupils in 33 randomly selected primary schools in Mbarara district. This was followed by a qualitative evaluation of the intervention in 4 schools that included 14 in-depth interviews and 3 focus group discussions distributed among pupils, teachers and parents. Quantitative data were analyzed using ordered logistic regression to compare differences in the change from baseline to endline between the intervention and control arms. We conducted bivariate analysis and multiple regression analysis controlling for key covariates, including age, gender, school location (rural vs urban), truancy, and orphanhood. Qualitative data were analyzed by thematic approach using ATLAS TI.

Results

Between July 2016 and August 2017, 1096 pupils were recruited. Outcomes were studied among 380 pupils in the intervention arm and 484 pupils in the control arm. The proportion of pupils who ever had sex increased from 9 to 12.1% in intervention compared to 5.2 to 7.4% in the control group between baseline and endline, however the differences between groups were not statistically significant. We found greater improvements in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge among intervention schools (AOR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.66–2.86) and no significant differences in self-esteem, body image or gender equitable norms. Qualitative evidence echoes perceived SRH knowledge acquisition, increased their perception of SRH related risks, and intentions to delay sexual intercourse to prevent unwanted pregnancy, HIV and other STIs.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that CSE can improve SRH knowledge and behavioral intentions among VYAs in Uganda. These results further emphasize the importance of initiating sexuality education before most adolescents have started engaging in sexual activity, enabling them to make informed decisions in the future.

Trial registration

NCT03669913, registered retrospectively on September 13th, 2018.
Biological safety of Electroacupuncture with STS316 needles
Authors: Choi Kwang-Ho , Yeon Sun Hee , Cho Seong Jin , Kwon O Sang , Lee Sanghun , Seo Su Yeon , Kang Suk-Yun , Ryu Yeonhee
Published: October 2019

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) is often used in clinical settings due to its analgesic effect, but its safety has not been verified due to the lack of clear criteria. This study examined the critical range of the corrosion of stainless steel types STS304 and STS316, which have been used clinically, and the relationship between needle corrosion and cell necrosis.

Method

The critical point of corrosion for STS304 and STS316 was identified by varying the time, frequency, and stimulation intensity. In a tissue necrosis experiment, EA stimulation was applied to rats using STS316 needles with different thicknesses at maximum intensity for 60 min, and the presence of corrosion and tissue necrosis was determined. A cytotoxicity experiment was also conducted and assessed the needles and tissue necrosis.

Results

The results showed that STS316 was more stable than STS304 and that only coated needles corroded. Furthermore, tissue necrosis was observed regardless of corrosion, and slight cell necrosis was associated with needles with corrosion.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that non-coated STS316 was the most stable for EA stimulation and that corrosion byproducts and cell necrosis were not directly related.
Protective effects of Oxya chinensis sinuosa Mishchenko against ultraviolet B-induced photodamage in hairless mice
Authors: Im A-Rang , Park InWha , Ji Kon-Young , Lee Joo Young , Kim Ki Mo , Na MinKyun , Chae Sungwook
Published: October 2019

Background

Edible insects, including Oxya chinensis sinuosa Mishchenko (Oc), which is consumed as food in Asia, are considered as a human food shortage alternative, and also as a preventive measure against environmental destruction. Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation, which causes skin photodamage, is considered as an extrinsic skin aging factor. It reduces skin hydration, and increases wrinkle formation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokine expression. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the anti-aging effects of an ethanol extract of Oc (Oc.Ex).

Methods

A UVB-irradiated hairless mouse model was used to examine relevant changes in skin hydration, wrinkle formation, and skin epidermal thickness. Also, antioxidant markers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were analyzed, and Oc. Ex skin protective effects against UVB irradiation-induced photoaging were examined by determining the levels of skin hydration factors.

Results

Oc.Ex improved epidermal barrier dysfunctions such as increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and capacitance reduction in UVB-irradiated mice. It upregulated skin hydration-related markers, including hyaluronic acid (HA), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, and pro-collagen, in UVB-irradiated mice, compared with the vehicle control group. It also reduced UVB-induced wrinkle formation, collagen degradation, and epidermal thickness. Additionally, it remarkably suppressed the increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and restored the activity of SOD and CAT in UVB-irradiated mice, compared with the vehicle control group. Furthermore, Oc. Ex treatment downregulated the production of inflammatory cytokines and phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathway activated by UVB irradiation.

Conclusion

This study revealed that Oc. Ex reduced skin thickness and the degradation of collagen fibers by increasing hydration markers and collagen-regulating factors in the skin of UVB-irradiated mice. It also inhibited UVB-induced antioxidant enzyme activity and inflammatory cytokine expression via MAPK signaling downregulation, suggesting that it prevents UVB-induced skin damage and photoaging, and has potential for clinical development in skin disease treatment.
Distribution and retention trends of physician-scientists in Japan: a longitudinal study
Authors: Ishikawa Masatoshi
Published: October 2019

Background

Physician Scientists (PSs) play a significant role in medical science because of their clinical practice and research expertise. Although it is important to analyze the distribution and retention trends in the number of PSs in Japan, research on this topic has been insufficient. Thus, the purpose of this study is to analyze PSs distribution and retention trends, identify factors related to their retention, and consider the policy implications.

Method

I analyzed individual data from 1996 to 2016 from a national census survey that had been administered by the national government of Japan every 2 years. The number of PSs in 1996 and 2016 were 4930 (2.1% of all physicians) and 5212 (1.6%), respectively. I conducted a descriptive analysis and identified retention trends. I then used a multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the factors related to the retention of PSs.

Results

Between 1996 and 2016, the total number of PSs in Japan increased by 6%. The number of PSs aged 39 years or younger decreased by 48%, while those aged between 55 and 69 increased by 91%, indicating a notable decrease in the number of PSs under the age of 39. From 2014 to 2016, the annual retention rate of PSs was estimated to be 75.5%, which represented a low and stable rate compared to other physicians over the study period. The odds of continuing to practice as a PS were significantly higher for those who have between 15 to 29 years of experience after qualification as a physician.

Conclusion

This study indicates that it is likely for the total number of PSs to decrease in the future. Although the Japanese government has implemented various measures to retain PSs, these have not been effective. Possible new interventions to address this problem include increasing the knowledge of medical students and younger physicians of the role of PSs and the benefits of a career as a PS, providing specific career paths for PSs, securing specific positions for PSs, and increasing the compensation for PSs.
Field study of a web service for stimulating the positive side of stress: entrepreneurs’ experiences and design implications
Authors: Heikkilä Päivi , Mattila Elina , Ainasoja Mari
Published: October 2019

Background

Digital services have been found promising in managing different aspects of health, also stress. We developed a web service for cultivating the positive side of stress based on the stress experiences of entrepreneurs. In this paper, we present a field study conducted to evaluate the user acceptance and the user experience of the developed service.

Methods

Twenty-two participants, working as entrepreneurs or having an entrepreneurial-type job description, used the web service for 6 weeks. User experiences were collected from all participants with electronic questionnaires, and 10 participants were interviewed to gain deeper understanding and to formulate design implications. In addition, usage logs of the web service were analysed to assess how actively the participants used the service and a pre and post questionnaires on stress and work engagement were conducted to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of the service.

Results

The usage activity of the service was relatively low, on average, the service was used on 3 days and a total of 101 min. During the usage period, the participants’ negative stress measured by the perceived stress scale decreased and their self-reported positive stress experiences had increased. The participants considered the positive perspective to stress useful. In the Eustress Toolbox service, the users appreciated especially the off-line and reflection exercises, as well as the quotations from peers, but the design should have supported more active triggering to use the service.

Conclusions

Based on user experience, we propose four design implications: Integrate the service into the daily hassle of entrepreneurs, Provide personal guidance while maintaining a possibility to explore, Recognise the user’s progress and accomplishments in a meaningful way and Support implicit learning from peer entrepreneurs.

Trial registration

ISRCTN14739582, Sept 3 2019, retrospectively registered.