bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of multiple apolipoprotein A-I and B genetic variations on insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Xinyi Li , Zhihui Fu , Huajun Xu , Jianyin Zou , Huaming Zhu , Zhiqiang Li , De Huai , Hongliang Yi , Jian Guan , Shankai Yin
Published: May 2020

Background
The relationships between apolipoprotein A-I (APOA-I), apolipoprotein B (APOB) with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome (MetS) are unclear in OSA. We aimed to evaluate whether the multiple single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants of APOA-I and APOB exert a collaborative effect on insulin resistance and MetS in OSA.
Methods
Initially, 12 APOA-I SNPs and 30 APOB SNPs in 5,259 subjects were examined. After strict screening, four APOA-I SNPs and five APOB SNPs in 4,007 participants were included. For each participant, the genetic risk score (GRS) was calculated based on the cumulative effect of multiple genetic variants of APOA-I and APOB. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the relationships between APOA-I/APOB genetic polymorphisms, insulin resistance, and MetS in OSA.
Results
Patients with insulin resistance had a lower APOA-I GRS and higher APOB levels after adjustments [odds ratio (OR) = 0.917, P = 0.001; OR = 3.168, P < 0.001, respectively]. Individuals with MetS had a lower APOA-I GRS and higher APOB levels after adjustments (OR = 0.870, 6.098, respectively, all P < 0.001). In addition, individuals in the top quintile of the APOA-I genetic score distribution had a lower risk of insulin resistance and MetS after adjustments (OR = 0.761, P = 0.007; OR = 0.637, P < 0.001, respectively).
Conclusions
In patients with OSA, cumulative effects of APOA-I genetic variations decreased the risk of insulin resistance and MetS, whereas multiple APOB genetic variations had no associations with insulin resistance and MetS.
Whey protein preloading can alleviate stress adaptation disorder and improve hyperglycemia in women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Feng Yan , Feng Qi , Song Xinna , Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Yinghong , Hu Jianwei
Published: May 2020

Background
Whey protein (WP) intake has been shown to improve hperglycemia.
Objective
The aim of this study was to investigate the change of stress hormones, oxidative stress and insulin resistance (IR) in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) after supplement whey protein, in an attempt to gain insights into the prevention and treatment of GDM.
Methods
60 GDM women were recruited in this study, and 30 women receive a preload drink containing 25 g whey protein as group GDM-W, and the other 30 women receive control flavoring drink as group GDM, and the trial last for 14 days. Plasma epinephrine (E), noradrenaline (NE), and cortisol were detected, we also investigate levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH). Homeostasismodel assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was used to assesse IR.
Results
In GDM-W group, postprandial blood glucose was decreased significantly on 3d, 5d, 7d and 14d (p < 0.05), plasma 2 h insulin was increased by 7.2%, 8.6% and 20.5% on days 5, 7 and 14 (p < 0.05). HOMA-IR was decreased significantly on days 14 (P < 0.01). MDA was increased by 20.7% on days 14 (P < 0.01), and anti-oxidative enzymes SOD was increased by 13.4% on days 14 (P < 0.01) and GSH was increased by 16.7% and 29.1% on days 7 and 14 (both P < 0.05). Stress hormones E and cortisol were decreased by 10.8% and 19.8% respectively on days 14 (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Whey protein supplementation may improve hyperglycemia by alleviate stress disorder and oxidative stress injury in GDM women.
Influenza and Other Respiratory Viral Infections Associated with Absence from School Among Schoolchildren in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA: A Cohort Study
Authors: Read Jonathan M. , Zimmer Shanta , Vukotich Charles , Schweizer Mary Lou , Galloway David , Lingle Carrie , Yearwood Gaby , Calderone Patti , Noble Eva , Quadelacy Talia , Grantz Kyra , Rinaldo Charles , Gao Hongjiang , Rainey Jeanette , Uzicanin Amra , Cummings Derek
Published: May 2020

Background Information on the etiology and age-specific burden of respiratory viral infections among school-aged children remains limited.Methods We conducted a cohort study to determine the etiology of ILI (influenza like illness) among 2,519 K–12 students during the 2012–13 influenza season. We obtained nasal swabs from students with ILI-related absences. Generalized linear mixed-effect regressions determined associations of outcomes, including ILI and laboratory-confirmed respiratory virus infection, with school grade and other covariates.Results Overall, 459 swabs were obtained from 552 ILI–related absences. Respiratory viruses were found in 292 (63.6%) samples. Influenza was found in 189 (41.2%) samples. with influenza B found in 134 (70.9%). Rates of influenza B were significantly higher in grades 1 (10.1%, 95% CI 6.8–14.4%), 2 (9.7%, 6.6–13.6%), 3 (9.3%, 6.3–13.2%), and 4 (9.9%, 6.8–13.8%) than in kindergarteners (3.2%, 1.5–6.0%). After accounting for grade, sex and self-reported vaccination status, influenza B infection risk was lower among kindergarteners in half-day programs compared to kindergarteners in full-day programs (OR = 0.19; 95% CI 0.08–0.45).Conclusions ILI and influenza infection is concentrated in younger schoolchildren. Reduced infection by respiratory viruses is associated with a truncated school day for kindergarteners, but requires further investigation in other grades and populations.
Perception survey of Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication in an acute hospital in the management of COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore
Authors: Yong Lai Meng Ow , Xin Xiaohui , Wee Jennifer Mei Ling , Poopalalingam Ruban S/O , Kwek Kenneth Yung Chiang , Thumboo Julian
Published: May 2020

Background Emergency risk communication is a critical component in emergency planning and response. It has been recognised as significant for planning for and responding to public health emergencies. While there is a growing body of guidelines and frameworks on emergency risk communication, it remains a relatively new field. There has also been limited attention on how emergency risk communication is being performed in public health organisations, such as acute hospitals, and what the associated challenges are. This article seeks to examine the crisis and emergency risk communication in an acute hospital in response to COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore and to identify its associated enablers and barriers.Methods A 13-item Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) Survey, based on the US Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) CERC framework, was developed and administered to hospital staff during February 24–28, 2020. The survey also included an open-ended question to solicit feedback on areas of CERC in need of improvement. Chi-square test was used for analysis of survey data. Thematic analysis was performed on qualitative feedback.Results Of the 1154 participants who responded to the survey, most (94.1%) reported that regular hospital updates on COVID-19 were understandable and actionable. Many (92.5%) stated that accurate, concise and timely information helped to keep them safe. A majority (92.3%) of them were clear about the hospital’s response to the COVID-19 situation, and 79.4% of the respondents reported that the hospital had been able to understand their challenges and address their concerns. Sociodemographic characteristics such as occupation, age, marital status, work experience, gender, and staff’s primary work location influenced the responses to hospital CERC. Local leaders within the hospital would need support to better communicate and translate hospital updates in response to COVID-19 to actionable plans for their staff. Better communication in executing resource utilization plans, expressing more empathy and care for their staff, and enhancing communication channels, such as through the use of secure text messaging rather than emails would be important.Conclusion CERC is relevant and important in the hospital setting to managing COVID-19 and should be considered concurrently with hospital emergency response domains.
Whole exome sequencing identifies a novel mutation in spermine synthase gene (SMS) associated with Snyder-Robinson Syndrome
Authors: Qazi Talal J. , Wu Qiao , Aierken Ailikemu , Lu Daru , Bukhari Ihtisham , Hussain Hafiz M. J. , Yang Jingming , Mir Asif , Qing Hong
Published: May 2020

Background: Mutations in the spermine synthase (SMS) gene have been reported to cause a rare x-linked intellectual disability known as Snyder-Robinson Syndrome (SRS). Besides intellectual disability, SRS is also characterized by reduced bone density, bone deformities, osteoporosis and facial dysmorphism. SRS phenotypes evolve with age from childhood to adulthood. Methods: Whole exome sequencing was performed to know the causative gene/mutation. Later we confirmed the mutation through sanger sequencing. Furthermore, we also performed the mutational analysis through HOPE SERVER and SWISS-MODEL. Also, radiographs were also obtained for affected individual to confirm the disease features. Results: In this article, we report the first Pakistani family consisting of three patients with SRS and a novel missense mutation in the SMS gene (c.905C >T: p.S302L). In addition to the typical phenotypes, one patient presented with epilepsy from an early age that was characterized by generalized seizures. The clinical, genetic and in-silico analysis, review of the literature links the affected patients of the family with Snyder-Robinson syndrome and mutation affects the spermine synthase activityConclusion: A novel missense mutation in the SMS gene (c.905C >T: p.S302L) causing Snyder-Robinson Syndrome (SRS) reported in Pakistan Family.
Development of a Multivariable Prediction Model to Identify Patients Unlikely to Complete a Colonoscopy Following an Abnormal FIT Test in Community Clinics
Authors: Petrik Amanda , Keast Erin , Johnson Eric , Smith David H. , Coronado Gloria D.
Published: May 2020

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 2nd leading cancer killer in the US. The Strategies and Opportunities to STOP Colon Cancer in Priority Populations (STOP CRC) project aimed to increase CRC screening among patients in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) through a mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT) outreach program. However, rates of completion of the follow-up colonoscopy following an abnormal FIT remain low. We developed a multivariable prediction model using data available in the electronic health record to assess the probability of patients obtaining a colonoscopy following an abnormal FIT test. Methods: To assess the probability of obtaining a colonoscopy, we used Cox regression to develop a risk prediction model among a retrospective cohort of patients with an abnormal FIT result and a year of follow-up data. Results: Of 1596 patients with an abnormal FIT result, 556 (34.8%) had a recorded colonoscopy within 6 months. The model shows adequate separation of patients across risk levels for non-adherence to follow-up colonoscopy (bootstrap-corrected C-statistic > 0.63). The refined model included 8 variables: age, race, insurance, GINI income inequality, long term anticoagulant use, receipt of a flu vaccine in the past year, frequency of missed clinic appointments, and clinic site. Probability of obtaining a follow-up colonoscopy within 6 months varied across quintiles; patients in the lowest quintile had an estimated 18% chance, whereas patients in the top quintile had a greater than 55% chance of obtaining a follow-up colonoscopy. Conclusions: Knowing who is unlikely to follow-up on an abnormal FIT test could help identify patients who need an early intervention aimed at complete a follow-up colonoscopy. Trial registry: This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01742065) on December 5, 2012. The protocol is available.
Metabolomic profiling of female mink serum during early to mid-pregnancy to understand factors associated with embryo diapause
Authors: li zheng , liu chengjun , deng liang , cao maosheng , zheng xue , chen lu , yuan chenfeng , zhao zijiao , li chunjin
Published: May 2020

Background：The mink exhibits embryo diapause after fertilization.Mink embryos enter a period of diapause after the embryo develops into the blastocyst. The specific process of embryo diapause regulation and reactivation is remains largely un-examined. The aim of this study was to identify key factors associated with mink embryo diapause and reactivation by comparing and analyzing differences in serum metabolites up to twenty-nine days after mating. Material and methods: Blood samples were taken on the first day of mating, and then once a week until the fifth week. Metabolomic profiles of the serum samples taken during this period were analysed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Results: Multivariate statistical analyses identified differential metabolite expression at different time points in both positive ion mode and negative ion modes. Dopamine may be the major inhibitory compound for mink embryo reactivation; moreover, and the levels of L-proline, L-threonine, taurine, D-ornithine, L-valine, L-kynurenine, and particularly L-leucine may be related to embryo reactivation. Conclusions: We compared blood serum metabolites at different stages in the pregnancy. The study makes a significant contribution to the literature as we found that dopamine is a strong candidate as an inhibitor of embryo reactivation.The study showed that levels of seven amino acids, but especially L-leucine, may be correlated with embryo reactivation.
NGS based expanded carrier screening for genetic disorders in North Indian population reveals unexpected results – a pilot study
Authors: Singh Kanika , Bijarnia-Mahay Sunita , Ramprasad Vedam Lakshmi , Puri Ratna Dua , Nair Sandhya , Sharda Sheetal , Saxena Renu , Kohli Sudha , Gujral Kanwal , Ganguli Indrani , Verma Ishwar Chander
Published: May 2020

Purpose
To study the carrier frequency and pathogenic variants of common genetic disorders in the north Indian population using next generation sequencing (NGS) in a pilot project of 200 individuals for 88 genes suspected to be common.
Methods
Screening for variants in 88 genes was carried out in 200 individuals, including 88 unrelated couples, by NGS technology, after pre-test counselling. The variants were classified as per ACMG criteria. Pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants were subjected to thorough literature-based curation in addition to the usual filters. Variants of unknown significance (VUS) were not reported. Individuals were counselled explaining the implications of the results, and cascade screening was advised when necessary.
Results
Of the 200 participants, 52 (26%) were found to be carrier of one or more disorders. Twelve individuals were identified to be carriers for congenital deafness, giving a carrier frequency of one in 17 for one of the four genes tested (SLC26A4, GJB2, TMPRSS3 and TMC1 in decreasing order). Nine individuals were observed to be carriers for cystic fibrosis, with a frequency of one in 22. Three individuals were detected to be carriers for Pompe disease (frequency one in 67). None of the 88 couples screened was found to be carriers for the same disorder.
Conclusion
Carrier rate for genetic deafness was the highest, followed by cystic fibrosis and Pompe disease. Cystic fibrosis was observed to be common in Indians, contrary to the previous reports in the literature. The pathogenic variants observed in many disorders were different from those observed in the West, emphasizing that population-based carrier screening panels need to be developed and whole gene sequencing strategy should be preferred over targeted genotyping of specific variants.
The Persian Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire: validation in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain
Authors: Karimi-GhasemAbad Sarvenaz , Akhbari Behnam , Saeedi Ahmad , Moghaddam Saeed Talebian , Ansari Noureddin Nakhostin
Published: May 2020

Background: The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ) is used as an instrument to assess the patients’ perception of illness. Illness perceptions of patients vary across different conditions. The psychometric properties of the Persian version of BIPQ have not been adequately evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of the Persian BIPQ in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP).Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 116 patients with chronic non-specific LBP with a mean (standard deviation) age of 36.4 years (10.7) participated. Fifty patients reexamined after 10-12 days for test-retest reliability. Internal consistency reliability, construct validity, concurrent criterion validity, and structural validity were evaluated. The concurrent validity was examined by using the Short Form -36 Health Survey.Results: There were no floor and ceiling effects. The Cronbach’s alpha for the total score was 0.9. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for test-retest reliability was 0.9. The standard error of measurement and the minimal detectable change was found 3.26 and 9.04, respectively. The convergent correlations confirmed the construct validity. The concurrent criterion validity was demonstrated by significant negative correlations with the SF-36. The Exploratory Factor Analysis produced the two factors (Emotional illness representations and Cognitive ıllness representations) with an eigenvalue > 1.0 that jointly accounted for 58.86% of the total variance.Conclusions: The Persian BIPQ is a reliable and valid two-factor instrument and can be used for assessing illness perception in patients with chronic non-specific LBP.
Correlation Between the Extension of the Maxillary Sinus Floor and Malocclusion in Adolescent Patients Using a Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: xu min , zhang xiaoxiao , he jiacai , guo xinxing , sang yuanyuan , zhang zheng , wang yuanyin , xu wenhua , xu jianguang
Published: May 2020

Background: The correlation between extension of the maxillary sinus floor and vertical facial skeletal patterns is important for designing orthodontic treatment plans. We correlated the extension of the maxillary sinus (MS) floor with different facial skeletal malocclusion in adolescent patients aged 10-19 years old using a cone-beam computed tomography. Methods: The relationship between the root tips of upper posterior teeth and the sinus floor was typed and scored (0-4) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Scores of each tooth and each patient were formulated.The cephalometric radiographs were analyzed with Dolphin software to diagnose patients' facial skeletal types into three groups according to Frankfort mandibular plane angle (FMA) as high-angle, average-angle and low-angle groups and ANB angle as Class I, Class II and Class III groups separately. The influences caused by age, sex, and facial skeletal malocclusion on the tooth and patient score were analyzed. Results: In high-angle group, the first molar (FM) score was significantly higher than that in the average-angle and low-angle groups (P = 0.018). Age has a positive effect on the patient score and some of the tooth scores, such as the second premolar (SPM) score, FM score, and the second molar (SM) score, and in the skeletal facial malocclusion. With increasing age, SM score increased along with the Frankfort mandibular plane angle (FMA). No significant difference was found in the distribution of patient and tooth scores by ANB angles. Conclusion: The relationship between the maxillary posterior roots and the sinus floor is correlated with facial skeletal malocclusion in 10- to 19-year-old adolescents. More first molar root tips were inside the sinus in the high-angle group compared with the average-angle and low-angle skeletal patterns. With advancing age, more second molar root tips were more close to contact the sinus floor in the high-angle group. Consideration of the root-sinus position in the posterior maxillary area before establishing an orthodontic treatment plan is recommended.
A biomechanics study about ligaments injury in anterior posterior compression type Ⅱ pelvic injury
Authors: kong jianzhong , Chu Yupeng , Zhou Chengwei , Sun shuaibo , Bao guodong , Xu yu , Guo xiaoshan , Shui xiaolong
Published: May 2020

Background
Anterior posterior compression(APC)type II pelvis fracture is considered to be a typical one caused by the destruction of pelvic ligaments, while the mechanism of ligaments injury is still controversial. This study aims to explore ligaments injury in APC type II pelvic injury.
Method:
Fourteen human cadaveric pelvis samples with sacrospinous ligament (SPL), sacrotuberous ligament (SBL), anterior sacroiliac ligament (ASL) and partial bone retaining unilaterally were made for this study. They were divided into hemipelvis restricted group and unrestricted group randomly. Record the separation distance of pubic symphysis and anterior sacroiliac joint, external rotation angle and force when the ASL ruptured. Continuing external rotation violence, observing bone and pelvic ligaments change.
Result
When ASL failed, there were no significant differences in mean separation distance of pubic symphysis (28.6 ± 8.4 mm to 23.6 ± 8.2 mm,P = 0.11) and anterior sacroiliac joint (11.4 ± 3.8 mm to 9.7 ± 3.9 mm ,P = 0.30) between restricted group and unrestricted group, but external rotation angle(33.9 ± 5.5° to 48.9 ± 5.2°,P < 0.01) and force(553.9 ± 82.6 N to 756.6 ± 41.4 N,P < 0.01) were not. In restricted group, both of SAL and SPL injury occurred, which was different in unrestricted group. Besides, separation distance of pubic symphysis between two groups ranged from 14 mm to 40 mm. With external rotation violence continuing, SPL ruptured firstly, then SBL ruptured and the interosseous sacroiliac ligament was damaged while posterior ligament was not; in another group, interosseous sacroiliac ligament, posterior sacroiliac ligaments were damaged while SAC and SPL were not. When all of ASL, SBL, SPL failed, mean separation distance of pubic symphysis and anterior sacroiliac joint between two groups increased significantly (from 28.6 ± 8.4 to 42.0 ± 7.6 mm, 11.4 ± 3.8 to 16.7 ± 4.2 mm respectively, all P < 0.05).
Conclusion
First, pelvic external rotation injury can divide into hemipelvis is restricted and unrestricted, which result into different outcomes; When ASL ruptures, the unrestricted group needs more external rotation angle and force, without SBL or SPL injury. But in restricted group, both of two ligaments are injured. Second, when ASL fails, pubic symphysis displacement has a high fluctuation. Third, ASL rupture does not mean SBL and SPL are injured inevitably.
Treatment and monitoring remain the purview of the doctor: Health literacy of people struggling with insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes. A longitudinal qualitative study
Authors: Debussche Xavier , Balcou-Debussche Maryvette , Ballet Delphine , Caroupin-Soupoutevin Jessica
Published: May 2020

Background

Assessing complex health literacy needs is a key element to improve management of diabetes in vulnerable people. This study aimed to analyse health literacy and practices in insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes.
Methods

Data are issued from the qualitative ERMIES-ethnosocio study nested in the ERMIES randomized controlled trial testing a 2 years structured care in type 2 diabetes. A total of 42 participants were seen at the beginning and after the completion of the trial. Interviews explored experiences and views on daily management of diabetes. Health literacy was assessed via the multidimensional Health Literacy Questionnaire.
Results

Eight themes grouped in 3 main poles could be individualized: health knowledge, disease management, expertise and social support. Participants exhibited a primarily one-way relationship to treatment and monitoring, leaving the health care providers (HCP) the initiatives. In contrast, relation to food practices and exercise were more interactive. After 2 years participants tended to engage a more interactive relation to treatment. Having sufficient, appraising, and feeling able to find good health information were at stake while social support for health and relation to HCP and services were important determinants for managing health.
Conclusion

This longitudinal qualitative study shows the inter-individual et intra-individual variations of health literacy related to disease management, with the importance of the relation type to HCP, as well as social context with complex and evolving interactions. Decision-making as a shared social task beside the resources for engaging with health services are key considerations in the co-design of relevant interventions in type 2 diabetes.
Barriers and facilitators of completing the steps in the PMTCT cascade at Midwife Obstetric Units in Gauteng - Healthcare Provider and Patient's views
Authors: Mongwenyana Constance , Jinga Nelly , Mohomi Given , Buthelezi Sindisiwe , Nkopane Nancy , Moolla Aneesa , Onoya Dorina
Published: May 2020

Background: The implementation of Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) programmes at midwifes obstetric units (MOU) involves the confirmation of HIV diagnosis during labour, early infant HIV diagnosis (EID), initiation/continuation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for mother and baby as appropriate and counselling for postpartum care. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators to completing the steps in the PMTCT cascade at MOUs as defined by healthcare providers and recently postpartum women. Methods: We conducted 10 in-depth interviews with healthcare providers, and 24 HIV positive and HIV negative women at the four MOUs and Primary Healthcare Centres (PHC’s) in Gauteng South Africa (SA). Results: The implementation of PMTCT at MOU is impeded by maternal denial of HIV status (both new diagnoses and ANC diagnoses). Challenges with acceptance and disclosure of HIV status were thought to compromise patient commitment to EID tests and postpartum adherence to infant ART. Newly diagnosed (during labour) patients have limited time to process new HIV diagnosis and clinics have limited nurse/counsellor capacity for further one on one counselling. Additional challenges include communication challenges with foreign women and turnaround time for birth HIV tests. Results are often not available at postnatal visit and unclear processes for referral to Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) for postpartum care increase risk of postpartum loss to follow up. Conclusion: We need to strengthen MOU capacity to prepare women for postpartum PMTCT requirements and facilitate access to EID results. Patient referral processes, including communication of infant HIV test results to the referral PHC, needs improvement.
Hypertension prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control and predicted 10-year CVD risk: a cross-sectional study of Seven Communities in East and West Africa (SevenCEWA)
Authors: Okello Samson , Muhihi Alfa , Mohamed Shukri F , Ameh Soter , Ochimana Caleb , Oluwasanu Abayomi Olabayo , Bolarinwa Oladimeji Akeem , Sewankambo Nelson , Danaei Goodarz
Published: May 2020

Background
Few studies have characterized epidemiology and management of hypertension across several communities with comparable methodology in sub-Saharan Africa. We assessed prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension and predicted 10-year cardiovascular disease risk across seven sites in East and West Africa.
Methods
Between June and August 2018, we conducted household surveys in 7 communities in Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda and collected data on socio-demographics, health insurance, and healthcare utilization. We measured blood pressure using a standardized protocol and digital monitors. We estimated 10-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk using a country-specific risk score and fit hierarchical models to identify determinants of hypertension prevalence, awareness and treatment.
Results
We analyzed data of 3549 participants with a mean age of 39·7 years (SD 15·4), 60·5% of whom were women, 9·6% had ever smoked, and 32·7% were overweight/obese. A quarter (901, 25·1% (95% Confidence Interval 23·7%, 26·6%)) of participants had hypertension, half of whom (515, 57·6%) were diagnosed. Among diagnosed, 50·5% (260) were taking medication, and among those taking medication 47·3%(123) were controlled. After adjusting for other determinants, older age was associated with increased hypertension prevalence, awareness, and treatment whereas primary education was associated with lower hypertension prevalence. Health insurance was associated with lower hypertension prevalence and higher chances of treatment. Median predicted 10-yr CVD risk across sites was 4·9% Interquartile range, IQR (2·4%, 10·3%) and 13·2% had risk of 20% or greater while 7·1% had risk of > 30%.
Conclusion
In seven communities in east and west Africa, a quarter of adults had hypertension, about 40% were unaware, half of those aware were treated and half of those treated were controlled blood pressure. Access to health insurance is needed to improve awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa.
Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases and its Risk Factors among Ijegun-Isheri Osun Residents in Lagos State, Nigeria: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Israel Idris Oluwaseyidayo , Oguntade Ayodipupo Sikiru , Mensah Ekow Adom , Kitamura Noriko
Published: May 2020

Background
The rapid epidemiologic transition of diseases has adverse implications for low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to their limited healthcare, weaker health systems and the westernization of lifestyle. There is the need to evaluate the enormity or otherwise of the NCD burden and address it. However, there is a paucity of literature on the burden of NCDs in Nigeria. We therefore conducted this survey to determine the prevalence of NCDs and its risk factors among the Ijegun- Isheri Osun community residents of Lagos, Nigeria.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional survey design was applied with 215 participants selected consecutively during a population preventive health campaign. Prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia were calculated, with further exploration on associations between these variables done. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the risk factors of the three NCDs (hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia).
Results
The prevalence of hypertension was 35.3% (95%CI 29.0-42.1), diabetes 4.6% (95%CI 2.2–8.4) and dyslipidemia 47.1% (95%CI 41.1–54.8). Three major risk factors evaluated showed prevalence of smoking to be 41.3% (95%CI 34.2–48.6), alcohol consumption 72.5% (95% CI 65.5–78.7), and physical activity 52.9 (95%CI 45.5–60.2). The independent significant risk factors of hypertension were age ≥ 60 years (aOR 4.56 95%CI: 1.72–12.09) and dyslipidaemia (aOR 5.01 95%CI: 2.26–11.13). Age age ≥ 60 years (aOR 8.83 95%CI: 1.88–41.55) was an independent risk factor of diabetes. Age age ≥ 60 years aOR 29.32 95%CI: 4.78-179.84), being employed (aOR 11.12 95%CI: 3.10-39.92), smoking (aOR 2.34 95%CI: 1.03–5.33) and physical activity (aOR 0.34 95%CI: 0.15–0.76) were independent risk factors of having dyslipidaemia.
Conclusions
The results suggest that prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia together with their associated risk factors are high, highlighting the need for further implementation research and policy directions to tackle the NDC burden in the research community, Nigeria, sub-Saharan Africa and the world at large. These strategies must be community specific, prioritizing the various risk factors and addressing them accordingly.
Ethnomedicine and Traditional Health Care System of a Particular Vulnerable Tribal Group in India: Application of Plant Extracts
Authors: Sahoo Amiya Kumar , Behera Hari Charan , Behura Ajit Kumar
Published: May 2020

Background

The exploration on association of between human and nature has made conceivable to comprehend the undercurrent lifestyle of the communities and the ecosystem in which they inhabit together. Over the last decade there has been a rise of ethnomedicinal studies, still small is known about use of ethnomedicine in traditional health care system of the Juang, which is one of the 75 particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) in India. Traditional system is unique and undeniably an important cultural ingredient. The aim of the present study was to document the ethnomedicinal practices of the Juang, who live in forest fringes and hill tracks and derive their livelihood from forest-based resources. They used varieties of plant extracts, traditional knowledge and belief system for treatment as well as prevention of from various disease and ailments.
Methods

Besides questionnaire as a tool for data collection, Interview, observation (both participant and non-participant observation) and focus group discussion (FGD) were used. Field surveys were carried out in three phases. The informants were selected through the snowball sampling technique. Twelve males and two females key informants were interviewed. The study was exploratory and qualitative in nature.
Results

It was found that 38 medicinal plant species belong to 26 families as having ethnomedicinal uses in the traditional health care practice among the Juang community. Comparatively leaf part (36%) frequently utilized followed by root (21%), seed (7%), bark (7%), fruit (6%), rootstock (4%) and tender twig (3%) for medicinal purposes.
Conclusions

Our study can be concluded that the Juang people are rich in indigenous knowledge and have provided novel information on the use of medicinal plants to cure, protect and prevent from various diseases and ailments, that are scientific in nature. The novel information has been generated in the present study which will through a light in the direction of modern medical science for the sustainability of human society and recognize the indigenous knowledge as well. We suggested that indigenous knowledge need to be documented and integrated with scientific knowledge to develop new health care management programme.
Comparison of Volume Changes in Different Environmental Conditions After Retrofilling Using Three Calcium Silicate Cements
Authors: kwon so yeon , seo minseock
Published: May 2020

Background The present study aimed to compare the marginal sealing ability of three calcium silicate cements after retrofilling at different pH levels via micro-computed tomography (CT) scan.Methods Forty-two extracted human single-rooted teeth were randomly assigned to three groups according to the retrofilling materials used (Biodentine, Endocem MTA, and ProRoot MTA). Each group was divided into two subgroups according to the setting condition. The teeth in one group were immersed in normal saline for 5 days at room temperature, and the teeth in the other group were immersed in butyric acid (pH = 5.4) for 5 days at room temperature. To investigate marginal sealing ability, the volume ratios of the retrofilling material were calculated via micro-CT imaging.Results The volume ratios of the Biodentine and Endocem MTA groups were significantly different between the two setting environment, and these groups had significantly lower filled volume ratio (Vf, %) in the acidic environment than in the saline environment (pH = 5.4). Meanwhile, the volume ratio of the ProRoot MTA group did not significantly differ between the two setting environments. All materials under the acidic setting condition had relative radiolucency in the area in contact with the acidic solution.Conclusions The Vf ratio of the Biodentine and Endocem MTA cements was significantly lower in the acidic environment than in the saline environment. Meanwhile, no statistically significant difference was observed in the Vf ratio of ProRoot MTA between the two setting environments.
The Role of Fever Clinic During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A case study of 1034 febrile patients
Authors: Tang Li , He Yanxia , Bai Fangjing , Luo Bin
Published: May 2020

Background

Since winter of 2019, when coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) emerged in China and rapidly spread throughout the entire world, many fever clinics were rearranged and enlarged to triage febrile patients in China.
Methods

This study included fever clinic visits of Sichuan Provincial Peoples’ Hospital to summarize the characteristics of these febrile patients retrospectively.
Results

From 24th January to 31th March, 1034 fever clinic visits with 530 male and 504 female, were triaged, treated and recorded. About 64.9% of them were checked with body temperature higher than 37.3℃. Cough (25.0%) and sore throat (19.2%) were the most common symptoms in addition to fever. Chest CT scan was ordered for 900 patients, and 172 cases (16.6%) were found ground grass opacity, 134 (13.0%) found local patchy shadowing, and 26 (2.5%) found bilateral patchy shadowing. At last 851 patients (82.3%) were excluded for COVID-19 or other severe diseases. Eighty patients (7.7%) were admitted to hospitalization for other conditions. One hundred and three (9.9%) patients were suspected or confirmed of COVID-19 at fever clinic, and then admitted to isolation ward.
Conclusions

The result of this study again verified the extraordinary role of fever clinics in pandemics. When confronted with a mass of unknown febrile patients, a well organized fever clinic may avoid the frustration of all medical staffs.
From SARS to COVID-19: A Bibliometric study on Emerging Infectious Diseases with Natural Language Processing technologies
Authors: Hu Yinjun , Chen Mengmeng , Wang Qian , Zhu Yue , Wang Bei , Li Sufei , Xu Yongbin , Zhang Yaohua , Liu Meihua , Wang Ying , Hu Yihe , Liu Jinyuan
Published: May 2020

[Background] On January 7, 2020, the novel coronavirus named "COVID-19" aroused worldwide concern was identified by Chinese scientists. Many related research works were developed for the emerging, rapidly evolving situation of this epidemic. This study aimed to analyze the research literatures on SARS, MERS and COVID-19 to retrieve important information for virologists, epidemiologist and policy decision makers. [Methods] In this study, we collected data from multi data sources and compared bibliometrics indices among COVID-19, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) up to March 25, 2020. In purpose to extract data in corresponding quantity and scale, the volume of search results will be balance with the limitation of publication years. For further analysis, we extracted 1,480 documents from 1,671 candidates with Natural Language Processing technologies. [Results] In total, 13,945 research literatures of 7 datasets were selected for analysis. Unlike other topics, research passion on epidemic may reach its peak at the first year the outbreak happens. The document type distribution of SARS, MERS and COVID-19 are nearly the same (less than 6 point difference for each type), however, there were notable growth in the research qualities during these three epidemics (3.68, 6.63 and 11.35 for Field-Weighted Citation Impact scores). Asian countries has less international collaboration (less than 35.1\%) than the Occident (more than 49.5\%), which should be noticed as same as research itself. [Conclusions] We found that research passion on epidemics may always reach its peak at the first year after outburst, however, the peak of research on MERS appeared at the third year because of its outburst of reproduction in 2015. For the research quality, although we did better in research qualities than before especially on COVID-19, research on epidemics not started from our own country should not be looked down. Another important effective strategy for enhancing epidemic prevention for China and other Asian countries is to continue strengthening international collaboration.
Perceptions of Fathers and Special Education Teachers Concerning Oral Health of Children with Down Syndrome: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: ALGAHTANI FARIS
Published: May 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Vaccine Design against Coronavirus Spike (S) Glycoprotein in Chicken: Immunoinformatic and Computational Approaches
Authors: Ali Sumaia Awad Elkariem , Awadelkareem Eman Ali
Published: May 2020

Background: Infectious bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious respiratory disease in chickens and produces economic loss within the poultry industry. It is caused by a single stranded RNA virus belonging to Cronaviridae family. Methods: The present study used various tools in Immune Epitope Database (IEDB) to predict conserved B and T cell epitopes against IBV spike (S) protein that may perform a significant role in provoking the resistance response to IBV infection. Results: In B cell prediction methods, three epitopes (1139KKSSYY1144, 1140KSSYYT1145, 1141SSYYT1145) were selected as surface, linear and antigenic epitopes. Many MHCI and MHCII epitopes were predicted for IBV S protein. Among them 982YYITARDMY990 and 983YITARDMYM991 epitopes displayed high antigenicity, no allergenicity and no toxicity as well as great linkage with MHCI and MHCII alleles. Moreover, docking analysis of MHCI epitope produced strong binding affinity with BF2 alleles. Conclusion: Five conserved epitopes were expected from spike glycoprotein of IBV as the best B cell and T cell epitopes due to high antigenicity, no allergenicity and no toxicity. In addition, MHC epitopes showed great linkage with MHC alleles as well as strong interaction with BF2 alleles. These epitopes should be designed and incorporated and then tested as multi-epitope vaccine against IBV.
LncRNA XIST acts as a microRNA-520 sponge to regulate the cisplatin resistance in NSCLC cells by mediating BAX through ceRNA network
Authors: Liu Ting-Ting , Li Rui , Liu Xiao , Zhou Xi-Jia , Huo Chen , Li Jian-Ping , Qu Yi Qing
Published: May 2020

Background: In recent years, LncRNA acts as a member of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), playing an important role in drug resistance of lung cancer. The aim of this study was to identify potential biomarkers about cisplatin resistant lung cancer cells using a comprehensive ceRNA network.Methods: GSE6410 (GPL-201) analyzed gene expression changes about cispaltin resistance in A549 NSCLC cells. GSE43249 (GPL-14613) included noncoding RNA expression profiling derived from the cisplatin resistant A549 lung cells. GEO2R, an online analysis tool, analyzed the differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs (DEmRNAs and DEmiRNAs). To explore the functional enrichment implication of differentially expressed mRNAs, we used the GO and KEGG pathway analysis. Through miRDB、Targetscan、Starbase、miRWalk, we found targeted miRNAs. The Kaplan-Meier curve method was used to show clinical survival analysis of targeted RNAs (P<0.05). The Starbase database predicted potential lncRNAs mediated targeted miRNAs. Eventually, the novel ceRNA network of lncRNAs, miRNAs, mRNA was constructed by cytoscape3.7.2.Results:118 differentially expressed mRNAs were the basis of the mediated ceRNA network. DAVID and Kaplan-Meier picked out BAX, an apoptosis regulator. Venn Diagram demonstrated 8 miRNAs commomly regulating Bax. Starbase predicted lncRNA XIST mediated miRNAs. Finally, lncRNA XIST maybe a useful biomarker regulating cisplatin resistance in lung cancer cells.Conclusions: LncRNA XIST competitively bound to miRNA 520 in the regulation of cisplatin resistance by BAX , participating apoptosis in the p53 signaling pathway.
Clinical and radiological characteristics of brain abscess caused by Streptococcus species: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Su Jiachun , Hu Bin , Zhang Yixin , Li Ying
Published: May 2020

Background: Streptococcus species are mostly reported the predominant organisms causing brain abscess (BA), however, there is no article focusing on the characteristics of patients with BA caused by Streptococcus species to date. This study aimed to describe the clinical and radiological features of patients with BA caused by Streptococcus species. Methods: All patients who were hospitalized due to BA with intracranial pus culture result of Streptococcus species alone after neurosurgical intervention from May 2015 to August 2018 in Huashan Hospital in Shanghai were included in this study. The data of patient demographics, clinical and radiological presenting features, microbiological results, surgical and antimicrobial treatment, and outcomes were collected. Results: Thirteen patients (10 male, 3 female) of primary brain abscesses were involved. The most frequent clinical presentations included headache (76.9%), fever (38.5%) and limb weakness (38.5%).The radiological features of abscesses in these patients included singularity, big size, thick wall and obvious oedema. The average abscess diameter before surgery was 51.62±11.00mm. The mean thickness of abscesses wall was 5.23±1.78mm. The mean range of oedema and distance between abscess margin were 93.62±16.31mm, 26.38±8.03mm, respectively. The strains isolated in this study all belonged to the viridans group and showed high susceptibility to cefotaxime and levofloxacin. All patients had good outcomes at discharge. Conclusion: Patients with BAs caused by Streptococcus species had unspecific clinical signs, but specific radiological features, which might be helpful for early diagnosis.
Endoscopic surgical treatment with nasal cavity approach for chondrosarcoma of paranasal sinus and the skull base
Authors: Gao Junxiao , Zhu Zhenchao , Ye Yudong , Qiu Qianhui , Fu ming
Published: May 2020

Background Chondrosarcoma(ChSa) is a rare malignant tumor. But it’s necessary to discuss the clinical characteristics and treatments for ChSa of paranasal sinus and the skull base.We aimed to Observe the effect of Endoscopic surgical treatment with nasal cavity approach for chondrosarcoma of paranasal sinus and the skull base
Methods The clinical characteristics of chondrosarcoma of paranasal sinus and skull base in 10 patients (6 males and 4 females) from 2001 to 2017 were analyzed. They all underwent by endoscopic surgery. The patients’ age ranged from 18 to 47 years, with a median of 35 years. Clinical symptoms: stuffy, nose bleeding, runny, headache, diplopia, eye outreach limited, blurred vision and even blindness. Surgery methods：under nasal endoscopy, after the attachment sites of the tumors to normal tissues were confirmed, the tumors were peeled off along the clear boundary between the tumors and normal tissues, and the potential residual tumor tissues on bones were cleared by a drill. If internal carotid artery (ICA) were involved, flap would be used to protect it.
Objectives Results All patients were treated with endoscopic surgery，followed up postoperatively for 24 to 108 months, with a median of 36 months. 8 of 10 patients were no recurrence,2 were alive with tumor.
Conclusion Chondrosarcoma of paranasal sinus and skull base can be treated by nasal endoscopic surgery with good clinical results.