bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Introduction to Motivic Feynman Integrals
Authors:   Universit&, Rella Claudia ,   #233,   de Gen&,   #232,   ve, Switzerland
Published: March 2021

This article gives a short step-by-step introduction to the representation of parametric Feynman integrals in scalar perturbative quantum field theory as periods of motives. The application of motivic Galois theory to the algebro-geometric and categorical structures underlying Feynman graphs is reviewed up to the current state of research. The example of primitive log-divergent Feynman graphs in scalar massless phi4 quantum field theory is analysed in detail.
Green Bank Telescope Observations of 3He+: Planetary Nebulae
Authors: Bania T. M. , Balser Dana S.
Published: March 2021

We use the Green Bank Telescope to search for 3He+ emission from a sample of four Galactic planetary nebulae: NGC 3242, NGC 6543, NGC 6826, and NGC 7009. During the era of primordial nucleosynthesis, the light elements 2H, 3He, 4He, and 7Li were produced in significant amounts, and these abundances have since been modified primarily by stars. Observations of 3He+ in H ii regions located throughout the Milky Way disk reveal very little variation in the 3He/H abundance ratio—the “3He Plateau”—indicating that the net effect of 3He production in stars is negligible. This is in contrast to much higher 3He/H abundance ratios reported for some planetary nebulae. This discrepancy is known as the “3He Problem.” We use radio recombination lines observed simultaneously with the 3He+ transition to make a robust assessment of the spectral sensitivity that these observations achieve. We detect spectral lines at ∼1–2 mK intensities, but at these levels, instrumental effects compromise our ability to measure accurate spectral line parameters. We do not confirm reports of previous detections of 3He+ in NGC 3242 nor do we detect 3He+ emission from any of our sources. This result calls into question all reported detections of 3He+ emission from any planetary nebula. The 3He/H abundance upper limit we derive here for NGC 3242 is inconsistent with standard stellar production of 3He and thus requires that some type of extra-mixing process operates in low-mass stars.
A New Method for Simulating Photoprocesses in Astrochemical Models
Authors: Mullikin Ella , Anderson Hannah , O’Hern Natalie , Farrah Megan , Arumainayagam Christopher R. , van Dishoeck Ewine F. , Gerakines Perry A. , Vasyunin Anton I. , Majumdar Liton , Caselli Paola , Shingledecker Christopher N.
Published: March 2021

We propose a new model for treating solid-phase photoprocesses in interstellar ice analogs. In this approach, photoionization and photoexcitation are included in more detail, and the production of electronically excited (suprathermal) species is explicitly considered. In addition, we have included nonthermal, nondiffusive chemistry to account for the low-temperature characteristic of cold cores. As an initial test of our method, we have simulated two previous experimental studies involving the UV irradiation of pure solid O2. In contrast to previous solid-state astrochemical model calculations, which have used gas-phase photoabsorption cross-sections, we have employed solid-state cross-sections in our calculations. This method allows the model to be tested using well-constrained experiments rather than poorly constrained gas-phase abundances in interstellar medium regions. Our results indicate that inclusion of nonthermal reactions and suprathermal species allows for reproduction of low-temperature solid-phase photoprocessing that simulates interstellar ices within cold (∼10 K) dense cores such as TMC-1.
The Clusters Hiding in Plain Sight (CHiPS) Survey: Complete Sample of Extreme BCG Clusters
Authors: Somboonpanyakul Taweewat , McDonald Michael , Gaspari Massimo , Stalder Brian , Stark Antony A.
Published: March 2021

We present optical follow-up observations for candidate clusters in the Clusters Hiding in Plain Sight survey, which is designed to find new galaxy clusters with extreme central galaxies that were misidentified as bright isolated sources in the ROSAT All-Sky Survey catalog. We identify 11 cluster candidates around X-ray, radio, and mid-IR-bright sources, including six well-known clusters, two false associations of foreground and background clusters, and three new candidates, which are observed further with Chandra. Of the three new candidates, we confirm two newly discovered galaxy clusters: CHIPS 1356-3421 and CHIPS 1911+4455. Both clusters are luminous enough to be detected in the ROSAT All-Sky Survey data if not because of their bright central cores. CHIPS 1911+4455 is similar in many ways to the Phoenix cluster, but with a highly disturbed X-ray morphology on large scales. We find the occurrence rate for clusters that would appear to be X-ray-bright point sources in the ROSAT All-Sky Survey (and any surveys with similar angular resolution) to be 2% ± 1%, and the occurrence rate of clusters with runaway cooling in their cores to be <1%, consistent with predictions of chaotic cold accretion. With the number of new groups and clusters predicted to be found with eROSITA, the population of clusters that appear to be point sources (due to a central QSO or a dense cool core) could be around 2000. Finally, this survey demonstrates that the Phoenix cluster is likely the strongest cool core at z < 0.7—anything more extreme would have been found in this survey.
Prise en compte de la durée et de l’intensité du tabagisme dans l’estimation de la mortalité attribuable au tabac : une nouvelle méthode appliquée au cancer du poumon en France
Authors: Grignon Michel , Renaud Thomas , Guerrouche Karine
Published: March 2021

La méthode canonique d’estimation de la mortalité attribuable au tabac ne prend en compte ni le nombre d’années durant lesquelles l’individu a fumé, ni le temps écoulé depuis l’arrêt le cas échéant. Elle ne permet donc pas de mettre en oeuvre des projections incluant des scénarios alternatifs de modification des comportements d’initiation ou d’arrêt du tabagisme. Cet article propose une nouvelle méthode qui combine, d’une part, les valeurs empiriques provenant de la littérature épidémiologique des effets de la durée (du tabagisme et depuis l’arrêt) sur la mortalité et, d’autre part, les distributions réelles de ces durées dans la population. Cette nouvelle méthode est plus coûteuse en données que la méthode canonique, notamment appliquée dans le cas du cancer du poumon en France en agrégeant des enquêtes transversales répétées (enquêtes « Baromètre Santé » de l’INPES de 1975 à 2010) pour créer des pseudo-cohortes. Selon ce modèle, la mortalité par cancer du poumon augmenterait de 50 % jusqu’en 2035, avant de se stabiliser. Les simulations montrent que diviser par deux le taux d’initiation chez les adolescents sauverait 20 500 vies au cours de la période 2010-2060, alors qu’un doublement du taux de cessation chez les adultes sauverait 53 000 vies sur la même période. Ce travail permet de quantifier l’intuition selon laquelle les interventions et politiques visant à augmenter le sevrage sauveraient plus de vies à moyen terme que celles visant à prévenir l’initiation.
Football et littérature contemporaine. Où sont les femmes ? Poule D (2014) de Yamina Benahmed Daho ou l’immersion dans le monde du football au féminin
Authors: Gaucher Julie , Legalle Julien
Published: March 2021

Nous proposons de questionner l’un des seuls témoignages littéraires contemporains sur le football pratiqué par des femmes : Poule D de Yamina Benahmed Daho, publié en 2014. Ce roman retient particulièrement notre attention car il offre un témoignage intime d’une pratiquante écrivaine. Son regard personnel, mais aussi fictionnel, invite le lecteur ou la lectrice à pénétrer dans l’univers du football amateur au féminin. Dès lors, il s’agira de décrypter l’univers du football pratiqué par les femmes à travers la perspective de cette autrice, mais aussi de mettre en lumière les difficultés matérielles d’accès à la pratique. Alors que la littérature sportive connaît un plein essor depuis 10 ou 15 ans, nous tenterons également de comprendre la rareté de la figure romanesque de la joueuse de football. En effet, comment expliquer ce relatif silence alors que la pratique du football par les femmes est reconnue depuis 1970 par la Fédération Française de Football (FFF) et que la 8 e  édition de la Coupe du monde féminine de football s’est déroulée en France en 2019 ? Notre approche empruntera à la sociopoétique. Nous recourrons également à l’interview de l’autrice afin de mieux comprendre les processus à l’œuvre dans l’écriture de ce roman. Enfin, une lecture genrée de Poule D nous permettra de mieux comprendre la portée de ce texte quant à l’histoire des femmes et plus spécifiquement du football au féminin.
Des femmes de l’ombre chez les hommes en noir : deux pionnières de l’arbitrage dans le football professionnel en France (1997-2019)
Authors: Chovaux Olivier
Published: March 2021

Si l’histoire des arbitres constitue un nouveau champ de recherches dans une histoire du football ayant atteint l’âge de sa majorité, l’essentiel des travaux se décline pour le moment au masculin autant qu’il concerne les « athlètes de l’arbitrage », évoluant au plus haut niveau du monde professionnel. Par-delà ce parti pris historiographique, cette invisibilité tient avant tout à la sociologie d’un football qui demeure un bastion de la masculinité : au 30 juin 2017, la Fédération Française de Football (FFF) ne compte que 159 128 licenciées (toutes catégories d’âge et fonctions confondues) sur un total de 2,16 millions de licencié·es. En 2014, moins de 2 % des arbitres sont des femmes (682 sur 27 343). Au cours de la saison 2018-2019, seules Stéphanie Frappart et Manuela Nicolosi évoluent dans le championnat professionnel de Ligue 2, la première au centre, la seconde en tant qu’assistante. Les pionnières de l’arbitrage, à l’image de Corinne Lagrange, Ghislaine Labbé ou Nelly Viennot ne semblent guère avoir fait d’émules depuis le milieu des années 1990 : en dépit de récents plans de féminisation du football, le rectangle vert demeure un « plafond de verre ». Prolongeant des travaux très contemporains français ou étrangers, cet article se propose, par l’étude de deux parcours biographiques (Ghislaine Labbé et Stéphanie Frappart) d’observer à l’intervalle d’une génération, la place singulière occupée par ces femmes de l’ombre. La consultation de la presse sportive, des archives de la FFF et les entretiens conduits permettent de retracer leur trajectoire personnelle et sportive : en identifiant les facteurs ayant contribué à leur ascension puis leur maintien au sein de l’élite par la fabrication d’une expertise ; en examinant leur relation à l’institution, à leurs pairs et aux hommes lors des matchs ; en interrogeant par le jeu de la comparaison les singularités et traits communs de leur carrière respective. À ce titre, le fait que Stéphanie Frappart soit devenue la première femme à arbitrer un match de Ligue 1 le 28 avril 2019 semble plus avoir valeur de « symbole » (au moins dans son traitement médiatique) qu’il n’incarne une rupture véritable.
Effect of total replacement of inorganic with organic sources of key trace minerals on performance and health of high producing dairy cows
Authors: Pomport P.H. , Warren H.E. , Taylor-Pickard J.
Published: March 2021

The aim of this trial was to compare the effect of complete replacement of certain inorganic trace minerals with organic, chelated minerals (Bioplex®, Selplex®; Alltech Inc, USA) against standard and reduced inorganic mineral levels in feed on the performance and health of dairy cows during a 10-week trial (W0-W10) period. Three treatment groups, each containing 36 dairy cows, were assigned to one of three diets that varied only in mineral feed composition: (1) Inorganic (CON) Cu (1,042 mg/kg), Se (26 mg/kg) and Zn (4,200 mg/kg) as per normal industry inclusion levels; (2) Inorganic (INORG) Cu (-35%: 680 mg/kg), Se (-60%; 10 mg/kg) and Zn (-66%; 1,360 mg/kg) (based on the lower organic levels in diet 3); and (3) Organic (proteinates and selenium-enriched yeast) minerals (ORG) Cu, Se and Zn as per INORG levels. The cows in the ORG group had the highest milk yield (32.6 kg; P=0.0165) with the INORG group the least (31.3 kg), production (energy corrected milk 31.5 kg (P=0.008) vs CON 31.0 kg and INORG 30.7 kg), protein synthesis (ORG 1,024 g/d (P<0.0001) vs CON 1,013 g/d and INORG 982 g/d) and ORG had the highest (P<0.01) milk lactose content. There were no differences between treatments in plasma Zn, Cu and GSH-PXE levels. Pregnancy rate and number of artificial insemination services appeared improved. Mastitis rates were lowest for the ORG group (two cows affected), vs four cows for the INORG group and six cows for the CON group. Somatic cell counts were consistently lower in the ORG cows (P<0.05), being less than 300,000 cell counts, compared to peaks of 380,000 counts in the INORG and 550,000 counts in the CON groups. Five cows were affected by lameness in the INORG group, compared to three for the CON and one in the ORG groups.
Mycotoxins contamination of market maize and the potential of density sorting in reducing exposure in unregulated food systems in Kenya
Authors: Ngure F.M. , Ngure C. , Achieng G. , Munga F. , Moran Z. , Stafstrom W. , Nelson R.J.
Published: March 2021

Aflatoxins and fumonisins commonly contaminate key food staples in tropical countries, causing recurring acute and chronic public health problems. The present study was conducted to assess the potential of a simple device designed for density-based sorting of maize for its potential to reduce aflatoxins and fumonisins in diverse samples of naturally contaminated maize. A cross sectional survey was conducted, analysing market maize samples (n=204) from eight counties in Western Kenya. A quarter (25%) of the maize samples were contaminated with aflatoxin B1 above the legal limit of 5 μg/kg and nearly half (48%) were contaminated with fumonisins at levels above the legal limit of 2 μg/g. Analysis of additional samples (n=24) from Meru County showed that contamination of maize with the two toxins was also common in Eastern Kenya. A simple density sorter was used to separate grain samples into heavy and light fractions. With an out-sort rate of 31%, density sorting was effective in separating maize by bulk density and 100-kernel weight (P<0.001). Bulk density was negatively correlated with aflatoxins in unsorted (r=-0.20,P<0.01) and heavy fractions (r=-0.32,P<0.01). Density sorting was effective at reducing fumonisins; for maize samples with >1 μg/g, the heavy (accepted) fraction had 66% lower fumonisins than the unsorted maize. After density sorting, the light and heavy fractions fumonisin levels differed by an average of 8.38 μg/g (P<0.001). However, sorting was not effective at significantly reducing aflatoxin levels in maize that was highly contaminated. A simple density sorting equipment that could be adopted by local small-scale millers has potential to reduce fumonisins in maize. Additional and complementary sorting technologies, such as size screening and spectral sorting might improve the effectiveness of reducing aflatoxins in maize.
Expansão geográfica, fronteira e regionalização: a região de Carajás
Authors: Monteiro Maurílio de Abreu , Silva Regiane Paracampos da
Published: March 2021

O artigo discute os fundamentos da expansão geográfica e da reorganização espacial, que produziram a fronteira amazônica. Indica que a apropriação espacial na fronteira efetiva-se de forma seletiva por grupos sociais com poderes econômicos e políticos diversos, regionalizando-a. Nesse contexto, os caminhos metodológicos percorridos visam a lançar luz sobre a segmentação do espaço, apontando especificidades históricas e geográficas que permitem afirmar que a configuração territorial da região de Carajás consolidou-se na segunda metade dos anos 80 do século XX.
“Nossa energia tem um Norte”: propostas e (des) encontros no planejamento energético na Amazônia Oriental
Authors: Martin Andrey Minin
Published: March 2021

The Northern region of Brazil has historically stood out as a space with natural potential that has always awakened public and private concerns regarding the exploitation of resources and recently the development of large projects. From the extraction of latex to current mining projects, as in the Grande Carajás project, these ventures have been seen as imperative to establish new conditions of integration and even improvements for the northern part of the country. Together, a new force intensified from the second half of the twentieth century as an element and central pillar so that all these undertakings could be realized. Energy production thus became a goal and synonymous with exploiting the potential of the Amazon, entering complacent spaces and producing new narratives about this region. This article proposes to debate how transformations occurred between the planning process and a non-existent structuring of this sector in the Eastern Amazon. Taking as a motto the documentary production of companies involved in this process, such as Eletronorte, Celpa and Eletrobrás, as well as by observing the debates that permeated government media and speeches, the article seeks to bring subsidies to understand how the paths followed by these projects, from the present to the past , are apprehended as dynamic elements of a region, but that historically have not consolidated a real execution focused on the interests and needs of this space.
Turnover among Foreign Nurses in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alreshidi Nashi Masnad , Alrashidi Laila Mohammad , Alanazi Abdulrahman Nayir , Alshammeri Eida Habeeb
Published: March 2021

Background

Globally, nursing turnover has become a contemporary concern that significantly influences the financial proficiency of healthcare systems. Not only costs, but healthcare accessibility and quality also reverberate the consequence of the phenomenon.

Design and methods

The study explores the factors that attribute to turnover among foreign registered nurses working in Saudi Arabia. A quantitative-based cross-sectional descriptive study design that uses survey data to make statistical inferences about foreign nurse turnover in Saudi Arabia, was conducted to ascertain factors influencing the termination of foreign nurses working with the Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals.

Results

Factors influencing turnover were categorized into 9 dimensions, professional growth and development, leadership style, management, wage and benefits, workload, interpersonal relationship, housing facilities and services, hospital facilities and intent to stay and turn-over intention, of which the professional growth (4.1±0.7) and development had the highest mean agreement scores (4.0±1.1), whereas housing (2.3±1.3) and hospital facilities (2.1±1.0) showed the lowest mean scores.

Conclusions

Wage benefits and workload factors were found to be the most significant causes of expatriate nursing turnover, closely followed by inadequate housing and hospital facilities. Recommendations from nursing staff on how to improve retention were also noted.
Differences of Mentally Ill Patients’ Satisfaction Degree during their Involuntary or Voluntary Stay in a Psychiatric Clinic
Authors: Goula Aspasia , Margetis Evaggelos , Stamouli Maria-Aggeliki , Latsou Dimitra , Gkioka Vasiliki
Published: March 2021

Background

Mental health illness is not considered as a private matter, as it affects not only the mental patient's life and those who are considered his/her immediate family, but also the society as a whole. The involuntary examination and/or hospitalization in the field of mental health as the basic first-line therapeutic solution in Greece, calls for an immediate intervention, which is supposed to counterbalance the need for therapy and patient's rights of personal freedom and safety.

Design and methods

A research using questionnaire was realized, consisting of 100 hospitalized patients in psychiatric clinics (50 voluntarily and 50 involuntarily hospitalized) at the Psychiatric Hospital of Attica. The sampling scheme was the stratified sampling and the level of statistical significance was set to α=0.05.

Results

The results have shown that involuntarily and voluntarily hospitalized mental patients did not differ significantly with almost the entirety of the questionnaire; however, the involuntarily patients were significantly more satisfied with the conditions of hospitalization as well as assessing the overall quality of the services provided during their hospitalization.

Conclusions

For mentally ill patients, greater importance and stronger correlation with gratification, does not constitute the admission procedure to the psychiatric clinic but the development of effective communication and therapeutic relationship with the staff, full knowledge and update about patient's health condition, medication, participation in therapeutic planning and hospitalization in a regime of autonomy and respect for their rights.
Rapid progression of aortic stenosis in a 3-month-old infant with bicuspid aortic valve and DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome
Authors: Takajo Daiji , Katato Ghadir , Aggarwal Sanjeev
Published: March 2021

A 3-month-old female was diagnosed at 1 month of age with DeSanto-Shinawi syndrome (DSS) and bicuspid aortic valve with trivial stenosis. The aortic valve stenosis progressed to severe within 2 months and required balloon aortic valvuloplasty. This is the first case of aortic stenosis (AS) associated with DSS, and the syndrome may be the reason for the rapid worsening of AS in this case.
Benign fibrous histocytoma of the maxilla
Authors: Soman Sooraj , Das T. Ajay , Thomas Abhilash Mathews , Aslam Sachin , Thomas Tom , VIjayakumar Dipeesh
Published: March 2021

Fibrous histiocytoma can present as malignant or benign and may involve either the soft or hard tissues. The treatment of choice to oral BFH is generally en-block resection. The prognosis is good and the oral BFH recurs only if not completely excised. Hereby presenting a case of a 29 year old male with a chief complaint of pain and swelling in the left side of the face since 2 months. Treatment plan of Subtotal maxillectomy was performed under general anesthesia through a Weber Ferguson incision with infraorbital extension after histopathological and radiological confirmation.
An Interesting Case of Mitral-Aortic Intervalvular Fibrosa Pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Thakre Abhay , Arneja J. S. , Sharma Avinash
Published: March 2021

Pseudoaneurysm of the mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa (MAIF) usually occurs as a rare complication of aortic valve endocarditis; however, it may also be idiopathic in etiology. We report a 45-year-old male presenting with acute-onset progressive dyspnea of 2 weeks duration. There was no history of fever. Symptoms were secondary to MAIF aneurysm rupturing into the left ventricular outflow tract causing a large shunt which was diagnosed on echocardiography. The MAIF aneurysm that is idiopathic in etiology is a relatively rare entity as compared to that because of infective endocarditis.
Comparing Venous Thrombosis Rates in Hand-Sewn Anastomosis to Anastomotic Coupler Devices
Authors: Dogan Zeynep Akdeniz , Aydin Cem , Çavus-Özkan Melekber , Saçak Bülent , Bayramicli Mehmet
Published: March 2021

Background:

Anastomotic coupling device (ACD) has reached wide popularity, especially in venous anastomosis of free-tissue transfers. There are scant reviews in the literature about the reliability of these devices in venous anastomosis. We retrospectively analyzed our free flap cases to compare the thrombosis rates between ACDs and handsewn anastomosis and other possible risk factors that may contribute to venous thrombosis.

Materials and Methods:

Data of all microvascular free-tissue transfers performed between January 2015 and August 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient characteristics were recorded. Reconstruction characteristics such as venous anastomosis type (hand-sewn vs. anastomotic coupler device), reconstruction site, and number of surgical interventions were also recorded.

Results:

A total of 385 consecutive-free microvascular reconstructions were identified. Total venous thrombosis rate was 4.7%. There was no statistically significant difference between hand-sewn anastomosis and anastomosis with coupler device (5.2% vs. 3.2%, P = 0.58). Only reconstruction site was found to be significantly associated with higher venous thrombosis (P = 0.03).

Discussion:

Our results involving different reconstruction sites and including multiple flap types demonstrated comparable revision rates between ACDs and hand-sewn anastomosis. This finding is consistent with the current literature.
Radial Polydactyly
Authors: Çiloglu Sinem , Duran Alpay
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

The purpose is to propose a modification of Wassel/Flatt classification system for radial polydactyly based on radiological findings and previously described classification systems.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-five patients with radial polydactyly were included in the study. There were 47 supernumerary fingers. Patients' clinical and radiological data were evaluated retrospectively. Family history, sex, age, unilateral or bilateral placement, the origin of radial polydactyly, coexisting anomalies, and syndromes of each patient were documented. We classified cases into 13 different subgroups, according to X-rays and clinical findings.

Results:

One supernumerary digit was rudimentary Type, 2 were hypoplastic type, one was Wassel Type I, 3 were Wassel Type II, and 5 were Wassel Type III, 12 were Wassel Type IV, 5 were Wassel Type V, 7 were Wassel Type VI, 9 were Wassel Type VII, one was symphalangism, one was complicated type.

Conclusion:

We think it is beneficial to add complicated type (tetraplication, triplication) symphalangism, rudimentary and hypoplastic malformations together as a single comprehensive classification system to better define diagnosis and treatment plans.
Demographic Properties and Functional Result Analysis of Patients with Palatal Defects Reconstructed with Microvascular Tissue Transfer
Authors: Demiröz Anil , Yildiz Tugba Feryal , Çetinkale Oguz
Published: March 2021

Background:

Palatal defects are still challenging for the reconstructive surgeon since the palate carries important functional roles in swallowing and articulating while providing an adequate airway. The aim of this article is to discuss the preferred free flap types for palatal reconstruction and present the functional outcome.

Material and Methods:

Records of patients who underwent microsurgical palatal reconstruction between 2012 and 2017 were reviewed for demographic properties, defect properties, flap of choice, and complication rates. A questionnaire was applied to the patients for assessment of speech, swallowing, regurgitation, snoring, and overall satisfaction.

Results:

Four patients were operated for palatal defects with a mean size of 23.25 cm2. The most commonly used free flap was the radial forearm flap in our four patient series. All patients reported improvement for every functional criterion in the questionnaire.

Conclusion:

Free flaps are an acceptable method for restoring palatal function. Radial forearm free flap was the flap of choice for reconstruction of large palatal defects in this retrospective review.
Vps34 Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Invasion by Regulating Endosome-Lysosome Trafficking via Rab7-RILP and Rab11
Authors: Qi Chenyang , Zou Liping , Wang Suxia , Mao Xing , Hu Yuan , Shi Jiaoyu , Zhang Zhigang , Wu Huijuan
Published: March 2021

Purpose The role of vacuolar protein sorting 34 (Vps34), an indispensable protein required for cell vesicular trafficking, in the biological behavior of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has yet to be studied.Materials and Methods In the present study, the expression of Vps34 in HCC and the effect of Vps34 on HCC cell invasion was detected both in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, by modulating the RILP and Rab11, which regulate juxtanuclear lysosome aggregation and recycling endosome respectively, the underlying mechanism was investigated.Results Vps34 was significantly decreased in HCC and negatively correlated with the HCC invasiveness both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, Vps34 could promote lysosomal juxtanuclear accumulation, reduce the invasive ability of HCC cells via the Rab7-RILP pathway. In addition, the deficiency of Vps34 in HCC cells affected the endosome-lysosome system, resulting in enhanced Rab11 mediated endocytic recycling of cell surface receptor and increased invasion of HCC cells.Conclusion Our study reveals that Vps34 acts as an invasion suppressor in HCC cells, and more importantly, the endosome-lysosome trafficking regulated by Vps34 has the potential to become a target pathway in HCC treatment.
The Roger–Yang skein algebra and the decorated Teichmüller space
Authors: Moon Han-Bom , Wong Helen
Published: March 2021

Based on hyperbolic geometric considerations, Roger and Yang introduced an extension of the Kauffman bracket skein algebra that includes arcs. In particular, their skein algebra is a deformation quantization of a certain commutative curve algebra, and there is a Poisson algebra homomorphism between the curve algebra and the algebra of smooth functions on decorated Teichmüller space. In this paper, we consider surfaces with punctures which are not the 3-holed sphere and which have an ideal triangulation without self-folded edges or triangles. For those surfaces, we prove that Roger and Yang’s Poisson algebra homomorphism is injective, and the skein algebra has no zero divisors. A section about generalized corner coordinates for normal arcs may be of independent interest.
Prelacteal Feeding Practices among Mothers in Motta Town, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tewabe Tilahun
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Optimal breastfeeding is recommended up to two years, i.e, it prevents 1.4 million child deaths per year. Despite this prelacteal feeding is commonly practiced in Ethiopia due to different reasons. The objective of this study was to assess prelacteal feeding and associated factors among mothers who have infants less than six months of age.METHOD: A community based quantitative cross sectional study was conducted from April 7, 2015 to May 7, 2015. Using simple random sampling method total of 423 mothers with infant less than six months old were included in this study.The data were collected by using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Both simple and multiple logistic regression analyses were computed to identify factors associated with prelacteal feeding.RESULTS: Prevalence of prelacteal feeding was 20.3% [95% CL: 16.38% - 24.02%]. The most common prelacteal feeding in the study area was butter (62.2%). Mothers with younginfant who fed colostrum [AOR=3.540 (1.534, 8.173), initiated breastfeeding on time AOR=4.4832 (1.823, 11.028)] and supported by husband’s [AOR=2.686 (1.037, 6.953)] were less likely to practice prelacteal feeding to their infant than their counterparts.CONCLUSIONS: Prelacteal feeding was common in the study area. Colostrum feeding, timely initiations of breastfeeding and husband support were the independent predictors of prelacteal feeding practices. Recommendation to avoid prelacteal feeding practices were: increasing the habit of mothers to initiate breastfeeding timely and to feed colostrum through education, empowering husbands regarding to breastfeeding and avoiding traditional practices that hinder optimal breastfeeding like colostrum avoidance.KEYWORDS: Prelacteal feeding, Prevalence, Associated Factors, Motta, Ethiopia.
Skilled Delivery Service Utilization and Associated Factors among Mothers Who Gave Birth in the Last Two Years in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaw Nigus , Gizachew Ayu , Kassa Getachew Mullu , Abajobir Amanuel Alemu
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Giving birth in a medical institution, under the care and supervision of trained health-care providers, reduces the risk of maternal mortality and promotes child survival. Despite this, most others in Ethiopia are giving birth at home. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the level of skilled delivery service use and associated factors among mothers in Enarje Enawga District, Northwest Ethiopia.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community-based crosssectionalstudy design was employed to recruit a total of 777 mothers who gave birth in the last two years. Data were collected using structured questionnaire. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to assess factors associated with skilled delivery service use. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were computed.RESULTS: Only 156 (20.1%) of the mothers had utilized skilled delivery service in the last two years. Mothers aged 15-24 years (AOR = 5.57), residing in urban areas (AOR = 1.80), and residing within a walking time of 16-30 minutes from health facility (AOR = 3.52) were more likely to use skilled delivery practice. Additionaly, mothers who had four and more antenatal care (ANC) visits (AOR = 4.94) and mothers who received health education (AOR = 5.04) were more likely to use skilled delivery service.CONCLUSION: The level of skilled delivery service use among mothers was low. Age, residence, distance from health facility, number of ANC visits and health education were found to be associated with skilled delivery service use. Community-based health education programs regarding the risks of home delivery is necessary with a special focus on younger mothers residing in rural area.KEYWORDS: Mother of reproductive age group, skilled delivery, associated factors, community-based cross-sectional study
Discourses on Sexuality and Sexual Health Perspectives among Wachemo University Students, Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Agide Feleke Doyore , Shakibazad Elham
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life. Discourse analysis is used to understand discussion, conversation, talk, dialogue, debate, consultation and chat in the people perception and language. Therefore, this study aims to explore sexuality and sexual health perspectives among Wachemo University students in Ethiopia.METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted in Hosanna Town among Wachemo University students. A criterion related sampling (purposive sampling) was used to select a variety of young people. Eight focus group discussions and four in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Data was transcribed first and translated from Amharic into English. Atlas ti.7 software was used to analyze data. Then, their discourses were stated in narration and direct quotation.RESULT: Discursive explanation of words and languages differ in different sub-cultures and societies. Languages and vocabularies were mostly attached to sexual relationships, love, affiliation and intention to be intimate with the opposite sex on a campus. This affiliation is known as “campus life”. The students' perspectives of what constitutes sexuality and sexual health were quite consistent. However, approaching opposite sex with unique languages and words depends on individual talents.CONCLUSION: Discursive expressions of sexuality issues are becoming complex than ever in this generation. Therefore, further research is needed to reach this group with a variety of interventions through concurrent triangulation of qualitative research and longitudinal studies.
Effect of Conventional and Microwave Tissue Processing Technique on DNA Integrity: A Comparative Molecular Analysis
Authors: Dwivedi Dhara , Kasetty Sowmya , Tijare Manisha S. , Kallianpur Shreenivas , Prabhakar Nitin , Ragavendra T. Raju , Desai Ami
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Methods of diagnostic molecular biology are routinely applied on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues processed via conventional method. Recently, there has been a growing interest to use microwave technology in histopathology laboratories to overcome the deficiencies of the conventional processing method. Thefore, this study was aimed to compare and analyze the quality and quantity of DNA obtained from tissues processed by conventional and microwave tissue processing techniques and to further ascertain the applicability of the latter for PCR (polymerase chain reaction based research).METHODS: Thirty fresh tissues of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were included, and each sample was cut into two equivalent halves. One tissue half was processed by conventional manual method whereas the other half was processed using a domestic microwave oven. DNA was obtained from all the tissues which were then subjected to Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to evaluate GAPDH (Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase) gene expression.RESULTS: The results revealed better DNA yield from microwave processed tissue while the quality of the DNA was alike from both the techniques.CONCLUSION: On the basis of the results obtained, it can be concluded that DNA produced by microwave processed tissues was similar to that obtained by conventional processing technique in terms of quantity and quality. Thus, microwave processed tissue samples can be successfully used for further molecular studies and researches.
Dietary Diversity and Its Association with Anemia among Pregnant Women Attending Public Health Facilities in South Ethiopia
Authors: Delil Romedan , Tamiru Dessalegn , Zinab Beakal
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Anemia is a major public health problem among pregnant women in developing countries like Ethiopia. Nutritional deficiency related to anemia is an important contributor to maternal mortality and poor fetal outcomes.METHODS: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women to assess the prevalence of anemia and its association with dietary diversity in Hossana Town from March 15 to April 30, 2017. Systematic random sampling procedure was employed to select 314 study subjects. Data were collected using an interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire supplemented with laboratory tests. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the independent predictors of anemia.RESULTS: The prevalence of mild to moderate anemia among pregnant women was 56.6% and 40.8% respectively. The mean dietary diversity and food variety score of study participants were 7 and 22 respectively. Maternal education (AOR=10.5; 95% CI:2.2, 27), occupation of spouse (AOR=9.3; 95% CI:1.6, 53), nutrition education (AOR=2.5; 95% CI:1.5, 6.4) and dietary diversity (AOR=18.6; 95% CI: 4.4, 28) were significantly associated with anemia.CONCLUSION: Anemia was found to be a moderate public health problem in Hossana Town. Therefore, there is a need of nutrition education and promotion awareness on healthy diets to prevent anemia among pregnant women.
Mothers’ Experiences of Maze Path of Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis in Children
Authors: Khandan Maryam , Tirgari Batool , Abazari Farokh , Cheraghi Mohammad Ali
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Incidence of diabetes Type 1 in children with non-classic symptoms is one of the reasons for the delay in their follow-up. Failure in its diagnosis by the health professional exposes the mothers tomany challenges. This study was conducted to exploremothers’ experiences in the diagnosis pathway of diabetes Type 1 in children.METHODS: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with fifteen mothers of children with Type 1 diabetes.theywere selected by the purposefull sampling method.Their child had a medical file in diabetes centers in Kerman, Iran, at least one year has passed of diabetes diagnosis in their child and the maximum age of the child is 14 years. Data were analyzed using content analysis.Three themes and nine sub-themes emerged during dataanalysis.RESULTS: The extracted themes included “presence in the maze path to the child's disease”, “facing the reality of the child's disease”, and “to grin and bear with new conditions”.CONCLUSIONS: According to the finding, these mothers experienced various challenges. Therefore, identification of thesechallenges by health professionals to prevent and decrease of Them, is necessary.
The Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients at a Tertiary Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Biadgo Belete , Melak Tadele , Ambachew Sintayehu , Baynes Habtamu Wondifraw , Limenih Miteku Andualem , Jaleta Kefyalew Negerie , Tachebele Belaynesh , Melku Mulugeta , Abebe Molla
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors that is responsible for the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of MetS and its components among T2DM patients.METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Diabetes Clinic of the Hospital, from June to July, 2015. Data were entered into EPI INFO software and exported to SPSS 20 for analysis. MetS prevalence was estimated using NCEP ATPIII and IDF criteria. Anthropometric measurements, investigations of serum glucose and lipid profiles were done. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate associated factors. A P-value ≤ 0.05 wasconsidered statistically significant.RESULT: A total of 159 participants were included in the study; 119 (59.7%) were females with mean (±SD) age of (49.8±8.7) year. The prevalence of MetS was 66.7% in NCEP-ATP III and 53.5% in IDF definitions. The most prevalent component of MetS was elevated triglyceride (56.6% in ATPIII and 62.3% in IDF criteria), followed by abdominal obesity (61%) IDF and elevated blood pressure (55.4%) NCEP-ATPIII criteria. The regression analysis showed that increased age, being female, high BMI, having diabetes for over 5 years and poor glycemic control were significantly associated with metabolic syndrome.CONCLUSION: The prevalence of MetS and its components among T2DM patients were high, suggesting that diabetic patients are at increased risk of CVD and other complications. Efforts should be geared towards addressing these abnormalities through lifestyle modification, health awareness and medications in order to reduce this complication.
Zingiber Officinale Roscoe and Echinops Kebericho Mesfin Showed Antiplasmodial Activities against Plasmodium Berghei in a Dosedependent Manner in Ethiopia
Authors: Biruksew Abdissa , Zeynudin Ahmed , Alemu Yonas , Golassa Lemu , Yohannes Moti , Debella Asfaw , Urge Geme , Spiegeleer Bart De , Suleman Sultan
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: The emergence and spread of Plasmodium falciparum resistance to antimalarial drugs necessitated the search for new drugs from natural products. Zingiber officinal Roscoe and Echinops Kebericho Mesfin are traditional herbal medicines widely used for the treatment of malaria in Ethiopia. The aim of the study was to assess the toxicity profile and in vivo antiplasmodial activities of 70% methanol crude extracts of both plant materials against Plasmodium berghei.METHODS: Healthy male Swiss Albino mice of age 4-5 weeks and weight 25-36 g were infected by P. berghei. The extracts were administered orally at doses 5000, 2500 and 1250 mg/kg for acute toxicity of E. kebericho Mesfin. Graded doses at 1000, 500 and 250 mg/kg used for four days suppressive studies. Parasitemia, body weight, packed cell volume (PCV) and survival time were determined. SPSS Version 20 was used for the analysis of data of parasitemia, body weight, PCV, and survival times. Statistical significance was determined by one-way ANOVA. Independent ttest was used to compare results. Results were presented as a mean ± standard error of the mean (M ± SEM). All data were analyzed at a 95% confidence interval (α= 0.05).RESULTS: At the dose of 5000 mg/kg, E. kebericho Mesfin showed no toxic effects. The LD50 of extract could go beyond the dose used. In vivo antiplasmodial activity of extracts showed excellent chemo suppression at 500 and 1000 mg/kg in a dose dependent manner compared with the negative control. The chemo suppressions of the 1000 mg/kg of both plant extracts were 49.53 ± 1.90% and 32.83 ± 1.03%, respectively. The survival times of P. berghei infected mice were also a dose dependent manner while failed to prevent weight loss.CONCLUSION: The extracts of both medicinal plants showed antiplasmodial activities against P. berghei. It confirmed the literature findings and their traditional uses.
Clinical Outcomes and Risk Factors of Meningitis among Children in Referral Hospital, Ethiopia, 2016: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Tewabe Tilahun , Fenta Amare , Tegen Abaynesh , Mezgebu Muluwork , Fentie Temesgen , Zeleke Tigist
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Meningitis remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity in patients in many countries of the world including Ethiopia. Information on clinical outcomes of meningitis, susceptibility of the causative microorganism to rationalize treatment and associated risk factors is scare. The objective of this study was to assess the risk factors and clinical outcomes of meningitis among children in Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia.METHOD: A retrospective cross sectional study was conducted in Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital from January 2016 to May 2016. Data were checked for completeness, inconsistencies and entered into SPSS for windows version 20.0. Lottery method was used to select charts. One hundred seventy-nine pediatric patient files were used in the study.RESULT: About 15% children with meningitis developed poor outcomes: developed complication, referred to higher facility, died and left against medical advice. In this study, season of admission [AOR= 5 (1.191, 20.991)], immunization status [AOR= 20.912 (3.325, 131.502)], clinical presentations [AOR= 8.779 (1.599, 48.192)] and corticosteroid administration [AOR= 8.215 (1.220,55.328)] were the determinant factors for clinical outcome of meningitis.CONCLUSION: In this study, about 15% of children with meningitis developed poor outcomes. The determinant factors for poor outcome of meningitis were: season of admission, immunization status, clinical presentations and corticoid administration. Creating community awareness about risk factors of meningitis, early diagnosis and treatment of cases, improving vaccination coverage and use of corticosteroids are recommended to improve the clinical outcome of children affected with meningitis.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Blood Donation among Graduating Undergraduate Health Science Students at the University of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Melku Mulugeta , Asrie Fikir , Shiferaw Elias , Woldu Berhanu , Yihunew Yalelet , Asmelash Daniel , Enawgaw Bamlaku
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Blood transfusion is one of the most essential needs to manage patients suffering from various medical conditions. Nowadays, voluntary blood donors are the only source of blood in the blood banks. There is a great need to create awareness among the population at large and students about blood donation to maintain a regular blood supply. Health Science students can be used as best model to lead this initiative. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding blood donation among graduating undergraduate Health Science students.METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among graduating undergraduate Health Science students at University of Gondar using structured pre-tested self-administered questionnaire. Stratified sampling technique was employed to select study participants. A total of 225 students participated in the study. Data was entered into and analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Mean score was used to categorize the knowledge and attitude. Binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitude and practice regarding blood donation.RESULT: Among 255 undergraduate Health Science graduate students, 123(48.2%) and 202(79.2%) had adequate knowledge about and positive attitude regarding blood donation, respectively. About 12.5% of them had ever donated blood before. Age ≥25 years was significantly associated with practice of blood donation (AOR=4.33; 95%CI: 1.60, 11.76).CONCLUSION: Although the majority of the students had positive attitude regarding blood donation, blood donation practice was low. Age was found to be significantly associated with blood donation practice. Targeted strategies should be designed to increase awareness of health science students about blood donation. Strategies which encourage the students to donate blood voluntarily should also be designed. KEYWORDS: Knowledge, attitude, practice, blood donation