bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
External Validation and Comparison of Simple Tools to Screen for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver disease in Chinese community population
Authors: Zhang Liuxin , Wang Min , Wang Minxian , Zhang Ru , Wang Hongliang , Zhang Wei , Ding Yajie , Wang Jie
Published: November 2020

Background: Various non-invasive tools based on anthropometric indicators, blood lipids, and liver enzymes, etc. have been developed to screen for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with different diagnostic performance and cut-off values among studies. We aimed to validate and compare eight NAFLD-related models developed by simple indicators and to define their cut-off values in Chinese community population.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a health examination cohort of 3259 people. NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography. General, anthropometric and biochemical data were collected. Fatty liver index (FLI), fatty liver disease index (FLD), Zhejiang University index (ZJU), lipid accumulation product (LAP), regression formula of controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), triglyceride and glucose index (TyG), and visceral adiposity index (VAI) were calculated. The accuracy and cut-off points to detect NAFLD were evaluated by area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) and the maximum Youden index analysis, respectively. A head-to-head comparison between these models and Decision Curve Analysis were conducted.Results: All of eight models are significant in different degrees of NAFLD. In 8 noninvasive diagnostic models of NAFLD, AUCs of FLI and FLD for NAFLD were higher than those of other models in the whole (0.852 and 0.852), male (0.826 and 0.824), and female (0.897 and 0.888) population, respectively. Decision Curve Analysis showed that FLI, FLD and ZJU have higher net benefit to screen for NAFLD compared to other models. The cut-off points of FLI and FLD for NAFLD were different in the total (20.6 and 28.7), male (25.3 and 29.0), and female (8.4 and 26.1) population.Conclusions: FLI and FLD could be the most accurate and applicable of 8 models for the noninvasive diagnosis of NAFLD in both male and female groups.
Chemical Quality and Antibacterial Activity of Lutjanus Dentatus (Dumeril, 1860) Oils as a Function of Extraction Method
Authors: NOUTSA Boris SIMO , Danelle DEUTCHOUA DJITIEU Arlette , ZOKOU Ronice , ngamga Fabrice Hervé NJIKE , MOUOKEU Raymond Simplice , Tchoumbougnang Fraçois , WOMENI Hilaire Maciare
Published: November 2020

Background: The limits of antibiotic prompted researchers to explore foods components as antimicrobial. The present study was initiated to value the oils extracted from the fat tissues of Lutjanus dentatus against food poisoning bacteria.Methods: The oils were extracted from the adipose tissue by drying at 45°C for 24 hours and by cooking in a pressure cooker at 95°C for 20 minutes followed by pressing. Subsequently, the oil extraction yield and the chemical characterization from quality indices according to standard methods and physical analysis by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were evaluated. The oils antibacterial activity, their emulsion as well as their interactions with some common antibiotics were evaluated by the broth microdilution method.Results: L. dentatus oil adipose tissue extraction yield obtained by cooking at 95oC was high (66.83%) compared to that obtained after drying at 45oC (55.50%). The oil extracted from L. dentatus adipose tissue by drying at 45oC showed peroxide (9.76±1.19 meqd’O2) and anisidine indices (40.94±0.8) higher than those obtained by cooking at 95°C (6.56±0.40 meq d’O2 and 37.85±0.34 respectively). However, the acid, iodine and thiobarbituric acid value of oils extracted using the two methods were not significantly different P≤0.05. The FTIR profile provided information on the functional groups present in the oil and enable to appreciate the variation of the peaks compared to the quality indicesThe antibacterial test showed that the oils studied all had antibacterial activity. The best spectrum of action (23/23 bacteria tested 16 ≤ MIC ≤ 256 mg / ml) was noted with the oil extracted by cooking at 95oC. Regardless of the extraction method, emulsions have better antibacterial activity compared to the oils (0.39 ≤ MIC ≤ 12.5 mg/ml). Moreover L. dentatus oil adipose tissue potentiated the activity of Ciprofloxacin, Tetracyclin, Gentamicin, Amoxicilin and Chloramphenicol on the bacterial strains tested.Conclusion: These results are a source of motivation for a much more in-depth exploration of the antimicrobial properties of the L. dentatus oil.
Defining major trauma: A Delphi study.
Authors: Thompson Lee , Hill Michael , Lecky Fiona , Shaw Gary
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Retrospective trauma scores are often used to categorise trauma, however, they have little utility in the prehospital or hyper-acute setting and do not define major trauma to non-specialists. This study employed a Delphi process in order to gauge degrees of consensus/disagreement amongst expert panel members to define major trauma.Method: A two round modified Delphi technique was used to explore subject-expert consensus and identify variables to define major trauma through systematically collating questionnaire responses.After initial descriptive analysis of variables, Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to determine statistically significant differences (p <0.05) in response to the Delphi statements between professional groups. A hierarchical cluster analysis was undertaken to identify patterns of similarity/difference of response.A grounded theory approach to qualitative analysis of data allowed for potentially multiple iterations of the Delphi process to be influenced by identified themes.Results: Of 55 expert panel members invited to participate, round 1 had 43 participants (Doctor n=20, Paramedic n=20, Nurse n=5, other n=2). No consistent patterns of opinion emerged with regards to professional group. Cluster analysis identified three patterns of similar responses and coded as trauma minimisers, the middle ground and the risk averse. Round 2 had 35 respondents with minimum change in opinion between rounds.Consensus of >70% was achieved on many variables which included the identification of life/limb threatening injuries, deranged physiology, need for intensive care interventions and that extremes of age need special consideration. It was also acknowledged that retrospective injury severity scoring has a role to play but is not the only method of defining major trauma. Various factors had a majority of agreement/disagreement but did not meet the pre-set criteria of 70% agreement. These included the topics of surgical intervention, use of Tranexamic Acid, burns, spinal immobilisation and whether a major trauma centre is the only place where major trauma can be managed.Conclusion: Based upon the output of this Delphi study, major trauma may be defined as: “Significant injury or injuries that have potential to be life-threatening or life-changing sustained from either high energy mechanisms or low energy mechanisms in those rendered vulnerable by extremes of age”.
Diagnosis of Severe Tetanus Assisted by Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis of Etiology: A Case Report
Authors: An Yuling , Fan Mingming , Li Ziyu , Peng You , Yi Xiaomeng , Wei Xuxia , Yi Huimin
Published: November 2020

We shared our successful treatment experience of a severe tetanus patient in China. A 50 year old male patient was admitted to our hospital 10 days after the right arm injury due to pain and masticatory weakness. The pathogen of wound secretion was confirmed to be clostridium tetanus by next-generation sequencing (NGS).The patient's condition rapidly progressed to a severe state with autonomic instability. After debridement and comprehensive treatment in ICU, including deep analgesia and sedation with dexmedetomidine, ventilator support and anti-infection treatment, the patient finally recovered and discharged. This case suggested that early diagnosis and reasonable intervention of severe tetanus could reduce mortality.
Socio-ecological Determinants of Under-five Mortality in Nigeria: Exploring the Interaction Effects of Neighbourhood Poverty and Solid Cooking Fuel
Authors: Imo Chukwuechefulam Kingsley
Published: November 2020

Background: In the context of global child health priority, under-five mortality remains considerably high with the current rate of 132 deaths per 1,000 live births in Nigeria, which translates to 1 in 8 children dying before his or her fifth birthday. This has been attributed to exposure of children to household air pollution due to environmental context and inefficient cooking practices. Therefore, this study examined the interaction effects of neighbourhood poverty and use of solid cooking fuels on under-five mortality in Nigeria.Methods: Data for the study were drawn from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey and covered a weighted sample of 124,442 birth history of childbearing women who reported using cooking fuels in kitchens located within the house. Descriptive and analytical analyses were carried out, including frequency tables, Pearson’s chi-square test, and multivariate using Cox proportional regression model.Results: The findings of this study showed that the risks of under-five mortality were significantly higher for children whose mothers were found in the areas of high neighbourhood poverty (HR: 1.44, CI: 1.34-1.54) and those whose mothers reported using solid cooking fuels within the house (HR: 2.26, CI: 2.06-2.49). The results further showed that the risks of death significantly reduced for children whose mothers had secondary or tertiary education (HR: 0.82, CI: 0.75-0.90) and children of mothers whose partners had at least primary education, but increased for children of mothers who were rural residents (HR: 1.25, CI: 1.16-1.35); and those found in the North-east (HR: 1.31, CI: 1.18-1.46) and North-west (HR: 1.84, CI: 1.68-2.02), compared with those in the reference categories. Conclusion: The risks of under-five mortality are significantly linked to areas of high neighbourhood poverty and use of solid cooking fuels in kitchens located within the house in Nigeria. There is the need for more pragmatic strategies to re-educate people, especially mothers on the need to use clean cooking fuels from the little resources they have to reduce the children’s exposure to harmful emissions within the house.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis awareness among men who have sex with men in Brazil
Authors: Queiroz Artur Acelino Francisco Luz Nunes , Sousa Alvaro Francisco Lopes , Dias Sonia , Mendes Isabel Amélia Costa
Published: November 2020

AIM: We aim to characterize PEP and PrEP awareness in alarge national sample of Brazilian MSM. SUBJECT: Various disparities exist in HIV transmission among men who have sex withmen (MSM). Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)has been shown as important strategies to prevent HIV, but there is variation in uptakewithin the MSM population. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional,population survey-based, analytical study, conducted exclusively online in all theregions of Brazil, with a sample of 2250 MSM. The multivariate logistic regressionmodel was adopted to produce adjusted odds ratios (ORa), considering a significancelevel at .05. RESULTS: We found a low knowledge about forms of prevention, with 54.6%claiming to know PEP and 46.4% PrEP. Men who did not recognize themselves ashomosexual, that is bisexual (ORa = 1.89, 95% CI 1.48-2.40) and heterosexual (ORa =3.83, 95% CI 2.80-5.24) were more likely to know the PEP. Having a higher minimumwage (ORa = 0.72, 95% CI 0.56-0.93) decreased the chances of knowing PrEP, aswell as having a higher level of education, factors that usually coexist, with thegraduate level being the highest of them (ORa = 0.13, 95% CI 0.06-0.28). CONCLUSION: Men still seem to know PEP from experience, after the failure of other preventivemeasures and not beforehand. PrEP awareness is permeated by barriers related tostructure and social determinants.
Incidence and Predictors of Lost to Follow up Among Children Attending ART Clinic at Dessie Referral Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Menshaw Tiruye , Birhanu Shiferaw , Endalamaw Aklilu , Gébermaryam Tigist
Published: November 2020

Background: Despite, antiretroviral therapy could reduce the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus and related morbidity, loss to follow up is a main challenge among children living with human immunodeficiency virus. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the incidence and predictors of loss to follow up among under 15 years old children attending antiretroviral therapy clinic at Dessie referral hospital, North east Ethiopia.Methods: A ten-year institution based retrospective cohort study was employed among 448 under 15 years’ old children who were enrolled on antiretroviral therapy. Data were entered and cleared using Epi- data version 3.1 and then exported to STATA version 14 for further statistical analysis. Kaplan Meier survival curve was used to estimate the survival time and log rank test was used to compare the survival time between different categories of the explanatory variables. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was fitted to identify predictors of loss to follow up and p-value < 0.05 was considered as statically significant.Results: The overall incidence rate of loss to follow up was 6.3 per100 children in years of observation. Being male (AHR=2.1, CI =1.37 ,3.34), age 1-5 years (AHR=1.6, CI=1.05,2.46), poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (AHR = 6.6; CI=4.11,10.66), fair adherence to antiretroviral therapy (AHR= 2.2; CI = 1.13 ,4.20), regimen was not changed (AHR = 4.1; CI = 2.59 ,6.45), world health organization stage III and IV (AHR= 2.2; CI =1.40, 3.33) and height for age < -2 z score (AHR = 2.2; CI = 1.43, 3.44) were predictors of loss to follow up.Conclusion: The incidence rate of loss to follow was high. Age 1-5 years, world health organization stage III and IV, poor and fair adherence to antiretroviral therapy, regimen was not changed, being male and stunted were higher risk for loss to follow up. Therefore, close monitoring to the higher risk groups for loss to follow up highlighted in this study could decrease the rate of loss to follow up. Improving the adherence of children to antiretroviral therapy and nutritional support for stunted children were also recommended.
Lactate Secreted by PKM2 Upregulation Promotes Galectin-9-Mediated Immunosuppression via Inhibiting NF-κB Pathway in HNSCC
Authors: Chang Hanyue , Xu Qiaoshi , Li Jiayi , Li Mingyu , Zhang Zhiyuan , Ma Hailong , Yang Xi
Published: November 2020

Background: Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) is a key rate-limiting enzyme in glycolysis, and which plays a critical role in tumor progression in various malignancies. However, whether PKM2 can promote head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) progression and immunosuppression remains unknown. Methods: PKM2 expression was evaluated using immunohistochemical staining. The biological functions of PKM2 were investigated in vitro and in vivo. Lactate production and the expression of galectin-9, a critical immunosuppression molecule, were detected after PKM2 knockdown and overexpression in HNSCC cells. Results: Overexpression of PKM2 correlates with poor prognosis in HNSCC patients. Silencing PKM2 markedly inhibits proliferation and metastasis capacity in vivo and in vitro, and vice versa. Furthermore, lactate production induced by PKM2 significantly promotes migration and invasion. A positive correlation between PKM2 and galectin-9 expression is observed in HNSCC tissues. Finally, the induction of galectin-9 expression by PKM2 can be affected by a lactate transporter inhibitor.Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that PKM2 promotes tumor progression and galectin-9-mediated immunosuppression via NF-κB signaling inhibition in HNSCC, which bridges metabolism and immunosuppression. The novel PKM2-lactate-galectin-9 axis might be a potential therapeutic target in HNSCC.
Comparing Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Obese and Nonobese Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Huang Xiaoxiong , Qin Wanjin , Yang Huilin , Shen Minjie
Published: November 2020

Background: Our study aimed to compare the outcomes of obese and nonobese patients following minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF).Methods: Relevant studies comparing the outcome of MIS-TLIF between obese and nonobese patients were involved to make a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. All of the comparative studies published in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases as recently as 10 July 2020, were included. Primary outcomes (complications) and secondary outcomes (Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, the length of hospital stay, the duration of surgery, and the estimated blood loss) were assessed between obese patients and nonobese patients. Statistical analysis was performed by Review Manager 5.3 and forest plots were made for each outcome.Results: Nine studies were enrolled in this meta-analysis. BMI correlated significantly with complications, and postoperative complications occurred more frequently in obese patients. Additionally, obese patients after MIS-TLIF were associated with similar Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, Visual Analog Scale score for back pain(BP-VAS), and Visual Analog Scale score for leg pain(LP-VAS) scores in early (≤6 months after MIS-TLIF) and late period (≥24 months after MIS-TLIF). There was no significant difference in intraoperative complications, duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, and estimated blood loss between the two groups.Conclusion: Obese patients should not be excluded from MIS-TLIF procedures due to worry about higher postoperative complication rates. Understanding common postoperative complications after MIS-TLIF will improve the treatment of obese patients with the degenerative lumbar disease.
Identification of Novel Survival Related lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Competing Endogenous RNA Network Associated with Immune Infiltration in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Jianxin , Han Ting , Wang Xin , Wang Yinchun , Yang Qingqiang
Published: November 2020

Background: Increasing studies have reported that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in the initiation and progression of carcinogenesis. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA related competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in colorectal cancer (CRC) are not fully understood.Methods: Dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in CRC samples were screened from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. After that, the key miRNAs were filtered out through a comprehensive assessment of their expression levels and prognostic values. Subsequently, the targeted downstream mRNAs and upstream lncRNAs of the key miRNAs were predicted by using multiple bioinformatic databases. A ceRNA network was constructed by using Cytoscape, and the Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed on this network using the DAVID database. Ultimately, expression levels and prognostic values of the lncRNAs and mRNAs were evaluated, and a survival related ceRNA network was constructed and visualized by using Cytoscape. In addition, the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) software package was employed to identify the pathways in which this survival related ceRNA network was enriched. Furthermore, correlations of ceRNA network with immune infiltration level were estimated by the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) databases.Results: In total, 28 dysregulated miRNAs were obtained, and two of them were identified as key miRNAs based on expression levels and prognostic values analyses. Subsequently, a total of three upstream lncRNAs and 309 downstream mRNAs were predicted by using bioinformatic tools, and two key lncRNAs and eight key mRNAs were identified by expression and survival analysis. A ceRNA regulatory network associated with the prognosis of CRC patients was constructed. Furthermore, GSEA analysis indicated the possible association of key mRNAs with CRC onset and progression. Importantly, immune infiltration analysis revealed that the ceRNA network was remarkably associated with infiltration abundance of multiple immune cells and expression levels of immune checkpoints.Conclusions: We constructed a survival related ceRNA regulatory network in human CRC, NEAT1 and XIST are potential prognostic factors that affect CRC onset and progression by targeting miR-195-5p.
A COVID-19 model with a nonlinear incidence rate and intervention exit strategies for Kenya
Authors: Mbogo Rachel Waema , Nyabadza Farai
Published: November 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a novel infection caused by SARS-CoV-2, a corona virus type that has previously not been seen in humans. The speedy spread of COVID-19 globally has greatly affected the socio-economic environments and health systems. To effectively address this rapid spread, it is imperative to have a clear understanding of the COVID-19 transmission dynamics. In this study we evaluate a COVID-19 epidemic model with a nonlinear incidence function and a saturating treatment rate. We propose an SLIRD data driven COVID 19 model which incorporates individual self initiated behavior change of the susceptible individuals. The proposed model allows the evaluation of the impact of easing intervention measures at specific times. To estimate the model parameters, the model was fitted to the daily reported COVID-19 cases in Kenya. Self initiated behavioral responses by individuals and large scale persistent testing proved to be the most effective measures to flatten the epidemic infection curve. Evidence from the simulations points out that, return to normalcy from COVID -19 pandemic will require individual behavior change in adhering to intervention measures and especially proper wearing of face masks and personal hygiene, alongside effective contact-tracing and active testing. The results have significant impact on the management of COVID-19 and implementation of the intervention exit strategies.
Addressing Well-being, Burnout, and Professional Fulfillment in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Trainees during the COVID-19 Pandemic through Implementation of a Virtual Balint-like Group: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chochol Megan D. , Pease Eric , Swintak Cosima , Anand Uma
Published: November 2020

Objective: Physicians, including psychiatrists and psychiatry trainees, are at higher risk of burnout compared to the average working population. The COVID-19 pandemic heightens this risk. The purpose of this pilot was to enhance professional fulfillment and sense of professional support while decreasing risk of burnout in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (CAP) trainees’ through virtual delivery of a novel Balint-based well-being curriculum.Methods: The pilot included six CAP trainees. The 8 fortnightly 60 minute sessions were co-facilitated by a psychologist and psychiatrist. Sessions combined emotional awareness skills with a Balint-based approach to case review. The authors assessed trainee well-being, professional fulfillment, and sense of professional support pre- and post-intervention with the Well-being Index (WBI), Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index (PFI), and the authors’ own supplemental survey questions assessing sense of professional support.Results: Trainees found the curriculum feasible and useful. Pre- and post-intervention surveys showed a 23.3% reduction in burnout (p=0.027) as well as significant improvements in happiness at work, enthusiasm toward work, sensitivity to others, and connectedness with colleagues. The authors found positive trends in additional aspects of professional fulfillment and sense of professional support.Discussion: A novel well-being curriculum focused on combining emotional awareness skills with a Balint-like approach enhances professional fulfillment and a sense of professional support and decreases the risk of burnout, even when delivered virtually. Virtual delivery is especially important as such platforms play prominent roles during COVID-19. This pilot demonstrates feasibility and utility, and supports the planned expansion of this low-cost, high-value intervention for trainee well-being.
Intubation prognosis in COVID-19 patients and associated factors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohammadi Mostafa , Varpaei Hesam Aldin , Amini Majid
Published: November 2020

Background: In December 2019, a new pathogen, HCoV, or New Corona Virus 2019 (2019-nCoV), was recognized in Wuhan, China, causing a pandemic. COVID-19 has a wide range of clinical severity. Approximately 3.2% of patients within some periods of the disease require intubation and invasive ventilation. Methods: This study was descriptive-analytical and was conducted in the Imam Khomeini Hospital. Patients with Covid-19 who required endotracheal intubation were identified and their clinical signs and laboratory parameters were recorded. SPSS23 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: 120 patients with coronavirus with different conditions were evaluated. The mean age was 55±14. 30 patients had cardiovascular disease (hypertension) and 20 endocrine disease(diabetes). Respiratory acidosis, decreased oxygen saturation, lymphopenia, and increased CRP were the most common finding before intubation. 31 patients had no comorbidity conditions. However, 27 patients had more than one comorbidity condition, and 23 experienced acute respiratory distress syndrome. The mortality rate was 49.2%. Discussion: Although all laboratory parameters and patients symptoms can affect the treatment outcome, it was found that WBC and absolute lymphocyte count, BUN, SOFA and APACHE scores, inflammatory index ratio CRP / LDH % CRP / ESR% and ESR / LDH%, arterial blood gas indices, pulse rate, and patient temperature before intubation are among the parameters that can affect the patient's 14-day prognosis. Conclusion: Except for the mentioned items, CRP / LDH% ratio seems to be a good indicator for checking the prognosis of discharge or death of patients within 14 days, However, CRP / ESR% and ESR / LDH% are appropriate criteria for determining the prognosis for discharge or stay in the ICU for more than 14 days.
FOUR score versus GCS in patients with traumatic brain injury in the prehospital setting
Authors: Furman Matej Rubelli , Gorenjak Mario , Ravnik Janez
Published: November 2020

Background: In the last few decades, different coma scoring scales have been proposed. The purpose of this study is to compare two coma scales, the GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale) and the FOUR score (Full Outline of UnResponsiveness score), aiming to examine which scale is better for predicting outcome in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in the prehospital setting.Methods: We evaluated the GCS and FOUR scores in the prehospital setting at three different prehospital timepoints, and we reassessed the scores in surviving patients 24 hours, one month and three months after the injury. Then, we compared the outcomes.We used the χ² method, and based on the analysis with the best cut-off point for each model, we calculated the sensitivity, specificity and correct prediction of outcomes with four severity scores. The Youden index, Z score, McNemar's test and ROC curve were also assessed. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Both scales were ranked with gain ratios.Results: We included 200 TBI patients who were treated in a prehospital setting by a prehospital specialized medical unit. In terms of the predictions of positive outcomes, our study showed the following:1. Twenty-four hours after the injury, the best cut-off points obtained were from the FOUR 1 and GCS 1 models.2. One month after the injury, the best cut-off points obtained were from the following models: FOUR 2 and GCS 3 as well as FOUR 3 and GCS 3.3. Three months after the injury, the best cut-off points obtained were from the following models: FOUR 2 and GCS 1, FOUR 3 and GCS 1, and GCS 1 and GCS 2.Conclusions: In our study, the results of our research confirm that there are no practical or clinical differences between the GCS and FOUR scores in terms of predicting morality outcomes 24 hours, one month, and three months after injury. No statistically significant differences were found in the Youden index or the area under the ROC curve 24 hours, one month or three months after the injury.
IMPORTÂNCIA DO SISTEMA ÚNICO DE SAÚDE BRASILEIRO PARA O ENFRENTAMENTO DE EMERGÊNCIAS DE SAÚDE PÚBLICA
Authors: Macêdo Dartagnan Ferreira de
Published: November 2020

O objetivo deste artigo é refletir sobre a importância do Sistema Único de Saúde brasileiro num contexto de enfrentamento de emergências de saúde pública, como a COVID-19, declarada como pandemia pela Organização Mundial de Saúde. Três décadas após sua criação, o SUS registra diversos avanços, beneficiando a todos, especialmente a população mais vulnerável socioeconomicamente, em um país com tantas desigualdades. Porém, diversos desafios ainda são vivenciados, principalmente no que se refere à gestão e ao financiamento do setor. Ainda assim, mesmo com as dificuldades existente, o SUS demonstra sua relevância e essencialidade. A sociedade precisa se unir pela valorização do SUS e pela exigência da priorização de maiores investimentos governamentais em saúde, educação e ciência. Reforça-se, assim, a necessária defesa do Sistema Único de Saúde, que representa uma das mais importantes conquistas da nação brasileira e de seus cidadãos.
Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu Olan Çocuğa Sahip Annelerin Uyguladığı Uyarlanmış Fiziksel Aktivitelerin Annelerin Yaşam Kalitesine Etkisi
Authors: ESENTÜRK Oğuz Kaan , YARIMKAYA Erkan
Published: November 2020

Giriş: Bu araştırmada, Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu (OSB) olan çocuğa sahip anneler tarafından uygulanan uyarlanmış fiziksel aktivite (UFA) programının annelerin yaşam kalitesi üzerindeki etkilerinin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır.Yöntem: Karma modelde desenlenen araştırmaya OSB olan çocuğa sahip 24 anne katılmıştır (uygulama grubu = 12, kontrol grubu = 12). Uygulama grubunda yer alan anneler ve OSB olan çocukları ile birlikte 12 hafta süresince UFA programı yürütülmüştür. UFA programı öncesi, annelerin programda yer alan aktiviteleri uygulama becerisi kazanmaları için üç gün süreyle aile eğitimi oturumları düzenlenmiştir. Araştırmanın nicel verileri Beach Center Aile Yaşam Kalitesi Ölçeği aracılığıyla, nitel verileri ise yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu kullanılarak elde edilmiştir.Bulgular: Bulgular, annelerin yaşam kalitelerinde UFA programı öncesi ve sonrası arasında olumlu yönde anlamlı farklılık olduğunu göstermiştir. Araştırmadan üç hafta sonra elde edilen izleme testinde, UFA programı sonrası annelerin yaşam kalitelerinde gözlenen olumlu yöndeki değişimin devam ettiği belirlenmiştir.Tartışma: Sonuç olarak, anneler tarafından uygulanan UFA programının araştırmaya katılan annelerin yaşam kaliteleri üzerinde olumlu bir etki oluşturduğu ortaya konulmuştur.
O LUGAR DE FALA NA FORMAÇÃO DO ESTUDANTE/INTEGRANTE DOS GRUPOS TEATRAIS ENQUANTO PROJETOS DE EXTENSÃO DO DEPARTAMENTO DE ARTES DA UFRN
Authors: Vieira Marcilio de Souza , Da Silva Martins Oceni
Published: November 2020

O texto objetiva refletir o lugar de fala na formação dos estudantes de grupos teatrais em projetos de extensão do Departamento de Artes da UFRN. A metodologia aqui desenvolvida se baseou na dinâmica de uma pesquisa qualitativa, num método descritivo, a partir das observações e a análise de conteúdo. Os projetos de extensão existentes na UFRN são oriundos de pesquisas desenvolvidas pelos professores, os quais divulgam uma espécie de ementa de seu projeto e assim ampliam a busca de participantes através do sistema Integrado de Gestão de Atividades Acadêmicas-SIGAA.
Confinamento
Authors: Carvalho Pinto Vieira Nicolle
Published: November 2020

Uma crise de saúde mundial mudou os modos de existir radicalmente de uma hora para outra. Ruas antes lotadas se esvaziaram. As conversas, os carros, os aviões, passos acelerados ou preguiçosos, a rotina... tudo se recolheu para o interior das casas. Os espaços foram silenciando cada vez mais enquanto as mentes e corações se angustiavam com as dúvidas, medos, incertezas, ameaças... mas principalmente com as distâncias. O corpo estava aprisionado, temporariamente por tempo indeterminado, numa tentativa de proteger-se a si mesmo e aos outros. Não sabe se mais a si ou se ao outro, ou as vezes até mesmo sem saber ao certo porque. Os antigos sentidos já não cabiam mais na nova realidade pois a existência transformara-se tão radicalmente que a alma ainda tentava achar o seu lugar. Corpo recluso, alma perdida, coração angustiado, mente em tormenta porque a nossa liberdade última é a liberdade de pensamento. Nem sempre podemos escolher o quê irá nos acontecer, mas podemos sempre escolher como vamos lidar com aquilo que nos acontece, com aquilo que nos aconteceu. O corpo então poderia estar preso, confinado, mas por carregar em si a bagagem de todas as experiências até então vividas, todas as memórias de mundo, escolhe não se render. Escolhe ser resiliente. Então abre a mala, respira, se permite sentir, se recolhe em sua interioridade para continuar encontrando sentido e assim poder seguir em frente.
POINT DOS IMPORTADOS
Authors: De Sousa Victor Hugo , Neves de Oliveira Victor Hugo
Published: November 2020

Este texto se propõe a relatar e discutir o experimento artístico Point dos Importados, uma obra videográfica criada em tempos de pandemia e isolamento domiciliar a partir dos diálogos entre arte e antropologia. Este experimento é o resultado de pesquisa desenvolvida na Universidade Federal da Paraíba, através do Programa de Iniciação Científica com Bolsa do CNPQ, junto ao Grupo de Pesquisa Antropologia-Dança. Discutimos a crise como um fenômeno social permanente que desafia os processos de criação em artes.
W poszukiwaniu „brakującego ogniwa”
Authors: Tomczyk Jacek
Published: November 2020

Eighty years ago Raymond A. Dart wrote the papers about Australopithecus africanus and decided to classify it as a “missing link". The creature from Taung represented an ultra-simian and pre-human stock. Therefore, he proposed a new family Homo - simiadae. Nowadays, scientists on the occasion of this anniversary publish, many papers about this event. They want to remind discussion about Taung's child and in homage to Raymond A. Dart. Surprisingly, the discussion which took place in the thirties and forties was an exact repetition of the earlier debate about Trinil's fossil! In 1890/91 Dubois had found already ancient fossils in Java which classified as Pithecanthropidae - this new family was an evolutionary "bridge" between apes and man. However, despite the fact that anthropologists wanted to find a “missing link” they rejected those interpretations! Some of them thought that fossil form Taung and Trinil belonged to a true ape. Whereas the others believed that remains should have been classified as a hominid family. Those two debates indicate one scheme of thinking: 1. theoretical view of “missing link”; 2. empirical researching; 3. taxonomic debate about fossil; and 4. rejecting the idea of “missing link”.
Microvesicles-mediated Cell Communication in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Chen Lei , Gu Ying-Jian , Zhou Ming-Yuan , Cheng Lin , Wang Yun
Published: November 2020

Background:

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is one of the chronic diseases
that affect human health. Microvesicles participate in the communication between cells
by fusing with the recipient cells to transfer the bioactive molecules, such as lipids, proteins,
RNA, etc., to the target cells. Microvesicles are involved in various biological processes
and have the functions of regulating immunity, promoting angiogenesis, and so
on. Microvesicles derived from various cells may become the diagnostic biomarkers or
therapeutic targets for the diseases. Therefore, exploring the role of microvesicles-mediated
cell communication has become a potential therapeutic target for pulmonary arterial
hypertension.

Objective:

It is to clarify the classification, features, and mechanism of microvesicles in
cell communication and to discuss the potentially important roles of microvesicles-mediated
cell communication in pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Results:

Inflammation is an important pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Many studies have shown that microvesicles from different cells can participate in the
pathological process of pulmonary arterial hypertension by transferring the inflammatory
factors contained in them.

Conclusion:

Microvesicles-mediated cell communication may become the therapeutic
target for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Chitosan Nanoparticles Potentiate the in vitro and in vivo Effects of Curcumin and other Natural Compounds
Authors: Lopes Vanessa Falchetti , Giongo Camila Nascimento , de Almeida Campos Laís , Abraham Wolf-Rainer , Mainardes Rubiana Mara , Khalil Najeh Maissar
Published: November 2020

The development of biodegradable nanoparticles is an important tool for the biological
transport of chemical compounds. The nanoencapsulation reduces the biopharmaceutical
and pharmacokinetic drawbacks of compounds and enhances their biological
properties. Naturally occurring polymers such as proteins and polysaccharides have been
widely applied in the development of nanostructured systems of several therapeutic
agents. Among them is chitosan, a crustacean-carapace-chitin derived biopolymer. In addition
to its biocompatibility and biodegradability, chitosan is known for its mucoadhesion
properties. Chitosan-based nanostructured systems potentiate most of the aspects of
the loaded drugs, including cellular transport and other biological effects. The use of chitosan
nanoparticles enhances permeation, stability, and bioactivity of natural compounds.
In this review, an overview of the main features of chitosan nanoparticles that improved
in vitro and in vivo effects of bioactive natural molecules is given, emphasizing the results
obtained with curcumin.
Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Native Chilean Plants
Authors: Salehi Bahare , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Herrera-Bravo Jesús , Salazar Luis A. , Delporte Carla , Barra Gabriela Valenzuela , Cazar Ramirez Maria-Elena , López Maria Dolores , Ramírez-Alarcón Karina , Cruz-Martins Natália , Martorell Miquel
Published: November 2020

:

The native flora of Chile has unique characteristics due to the geographical situation of the country,
with the vast desert in the North, Patagonia in the South, the Andean Mountains on the east and the Pacific
Ocean on the west. This exclusivity is reflected in high concentrations of phytochemicals in the fruits and
leaves of its native plants. Some examples are Aristotelia chilensis (Molina), Stuntz (maqui), Berberis microphylla
G. Forst. (calafate), Peumus boldus Molina (boldo), Ribes magellanicum Poir. (Magellan currant), Ugni
molinae Turcz. (murtilla), Rubus geoides Sm. (miñe miñe), Drimys winteri J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. (canelo),
Luma apiculata (DC.) Burret (arrayán) distributed throughout the entire Chilean territory. Some of these Chilean
plants have been used for centuries in the country's traditional medicine. The most recent studies of phytochemical
characterization of parts of Chilean plants show a wide spectrum of antioxidant compounds, phenolic
components, terpenoids and alkaloids, which have shown biological activity in both in vitro and in vivo studies.
This manuscript covers the entire Chilean territory characterizing the phytochemical profile and reporting some
of its biological properties, focusing mainly on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, chemopreventive
and cytotoxic activity, and potential against diabetes, metabolic syndrome and gastrointestinal disorders.
Withdrawal Notice: Circulatory Cells as Tumortropic Carrier for Targetability
Improvement
Authors: Zou Dan , Weng Yajun , Yang Ping
Published: November 2020

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the editor of the journal Current Drug Deliverydue to incoherent content.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

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Identification of Proteases: Carboxypeptidase and Aminopeptidase as Putative Virulence Factors of Fusarium solani Species Complex
Authors: Madhu Swati N. , Sharma Savitri , Gajjar Devarshi U
Published: November 2020

Background:

Fusarium keratitis accounts for around 50% of mycotic keratitis cases. Major virulence factors produced by keratopathogenic fungi are proteases.

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to identify proteases contributing to corneal pathogenicity of Fusarium species.

Methods:

Culture filtrates from fourteen Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC) isolates and three F. delphinoides isolates were evaluated for protease activity and gelatine zymography. Mass spectroscopy was carried out using a partially purified enzyme and total extracellular extract. Protease gene expression in an in-vitro condition and an ex-vivo goat corneal infection model was measured using qRT-PCR. Specific activity was observed in a wide range and at a broad pH range; and isolates Cs1 (maximum) and Cc50 (minimum) were selected for the infection model.

Results:

Gene expression in in-vitro condition showed the highest fold change for proteases (C7YY94, C7Z7U2 and C7Z6W1) while in an ex-vivo infection highest fold change was seen for proteases (C7Z6W1, C7YQJ2 and C7Z7U2); in decreasing order, respectively. Expression of aminopeptidase (C7Z6W1) was 50-fold higher in the infected cornea in both isolates (Cs1 and Cc50); while expression of carboxypeptidase (C7YVF3) was 15-fold higher only in isolate Cs1. Corneal histology showed less penetration of Cc50 than Cs1 into the stroma. Mass spectrometry showed the presence of carboxypeptidase (C7YVF3) and tripeptidyl amino peptidase.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that clinical isolates of FSSC produce varying amounts of proteases and differ in specific activity and gene expression in both conditions (in vitro and ex vivo). Carboxypeptidase and aminopeptidase contribute to the pathogenic potential of Fusarium solani species complex.
Cookeina colombiana (Pezizomycetes, Ascomyocota) una especie nueva para el Departamento de Córdoba, Colombia
Authors: Raymundo Tania , Montes-Fuentes Gabriel , Valenzuela Ricardo
Published: November 2020

Antecedentes y Objetivos: El género Cookeina se caracteriza por sus apotecios estipitados a sésiles, de colores brillantes, con o sin pelos en el excípulo ectal, ascas cilíndricas, suboperculadas y ascosporas hialinas, lisas o con ornamentación. El género es de amplia distribución y se conocen 18 especies principalmente en regiones tropicales y subtropicales. Cinco especies se han registrado de Colombia: Cookeina colensoi, C. speciosa, C. sulcipes, C. tricholoma y C. venezuelae. El objetivo del presente trabajo es describir e ilustrar a Cookeina colombiana, una especie nueva del departamento Córdoba en la región del Caribe colombiano.Métodos: Los ejemplares se recolectaron en un bosque húmedo tropical en la Estación Ecológica Las Guartinajas, en el departamento Córdoba en Colombia. Se registraron los datos de campo y características morfológicas de acuerdo con las técnicas tradicionales en micología. El material está depositado en los herbarios ENCB, de la Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional en México, y HUC, de la Universidad de Córdoba en Colombia.Resultados clave: Se describe Cookeina colombiana, una especie nueva que se caracteriza por los colores de los apotecios. En la superficie himenial son de color naranja marrón, marrón pálido, marrón a marrón rojizo, en el centro marrón obscuro a casi negro en algunos especímenes, mientras que en la superficie exterior son rojo pastel, rojo marrón, marrón pálido a marrón rojizo. Crece sobre madera en descomposición de un árbol de eudicotiledónea. Conclusiones: Esta especie pertenece al complejo de Cookeina speciosa, caracterizado por una hilera de pelos en el borde del apotecio e hileras de pelos alrededor del borde hacia abajo, así como por las paráfisis setoides. Cookeina colombiana se diferencia por el tamaño de las ascosporas, las cuales son más grandes (35-37 × 14-17 µm) que las de C. speciosa (27.5-30 × 17-18 μm).
USER AWARENESS, IMPEDIMENTS AND PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ONE STOP CENTRE (OSC) ONLINE 3.0 SYSTEM. CASE STUDY: MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF SUBANG JAYA, SELANGOR, MALAYSIA
Authors: Kamaruddin Siti Mazwin , Mohd Rosmi Rozdiana , Muhamad Halil Faridah , Misni Alamah , Marzukhi Marlyana Azyyati
Published: November 2020

This study provides an insight into an adoption of online submission approach at a planning stage. The case study is an implementation of One Stop Centre (OSC) Online 3.0 System at a Local Authority. Local Authority is Majlis Perbandaran Subang Jaya (MPSJ) as one of the pioneers to implement this system. Currently, not all Local Authorities implement the system fully. For this study, the data collected consisted of primary and secondary data. Primary data of users' knowledge, readiness and satisfaction of the system were collected through a survey in a form of questionnaire. In contrast, secondary data were acquired from Local Government Department, MPSJ OSC Department and reliable sources, such as reports of the development plan, Local Authorities, relevant agencies, and websites. The findings indicated that almost half of the users found the system effective and successful while suggesting that there was still room for improvement relevant in shaping the alignment between technology, organisation and human factor. The resulting knowledge from this study could help to improve e-government implementation in Malaysia and could benefit other Local Authorities towards digital e-submission of plans online.