bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culture of the seaweed, Gracilaria tenuistipitata in brackishwater pond as well as lagoon of Muttukadu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Sarkar Soumyabrata , Nila Rekha P. , Ambasankar K. , Vijayan K.K.
Published: April 2020

In this study, an attempt was made to standardise the method of culture of the seaweed Gracilaria tenuistipitata in brackishwater ecosystems. The species was selected as it is available in abundance due to its tolerance for a wide range of salinity, as seaweed culture in brackishwater ecosystem requires a suitable species which is adaptable and proliferating, An experiment was conducted to estimate the proliferation capacity of G. tenuistipitata with different methods of propagation viz., rope culture and net bag culture with different initial biomass intensity (50, 100 and 200 g m-1 in rope and 50, 100 and 200 g m-2 in net bag) in different ecosystems viz., lagoon and pond. The results showed that G. tenuistipitata proliferates in both lagoon and in pond ecosystem, with high SGR in rope culture compared to net bag method. With respect to different initial biomass intensity in rope method, there was no significant difference in specific growth rate (SGR) between 50 g m-1 (12.86±0.35%) and 100 g m-1 (10.94±0.34%) but it was significantly higher when compared to 200 g m-1 (6.14±1.1%) during 20 days of culture in lagoon ecosystem. It was also observed that SGR was significantly higher with 50 g m-2 (7.23±0.46%) when compared with 100 g m-2 (5.86±0.03%) and 200 g m-2 (5.64±0.02%) in net bag culture in pond ecosystem. Moreover, 20 days of culture showed significantly higher SGR with 50 and 100 g m-1 than 40 and 60 days of culture period in lagoon ecosystem. It can be concluded that rope cultivation of G. tenuistipitata with 50-100 g m-1 of initial biomass intensity was ideal in lagoon for 20 days of culture at brackishwater salinity regime of 19-25 ppt.
Relative condition factor and food and feeding of Jones' pony fish Eubleekeria jonesi (James, 1971) from Mandapam waters, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Remya L. , Zacharia P.U. , Shukla S.P. , Varghese Molly , Jaiswar A.K. , Abdul Nazar A.K.
Published: April 2020

The relative condition factor (Kn) based on length-weight relationship and food and feeding habits of Jones’ pony fish Eubleekeria jonesi (James, 1971) off Mandapam waters was studied during December 2016 - April 2018. The Kn values showed variations on a monthly basis with maximum value during September (1.23) for male and March (1.53) for female. Analysis of fullness of stomach of 961 samples within the size range of 51-130 mm revealed 40.87% fishes as actively fed, 36.19% as moderately fed and remaining 22.94% as poorly fed. The monthly mean fullness index (FI) was highest during September for both sexes. Highest gonadosomatic index (GSI), vacuity index (VI) and Kn value were observed during March-April in females, probably indicating a spawning peak and hence meagre feeding, which resulted in lowest fullness index (FI). Fishes of smallest length group (51-70 mm) had highest FI and minimum VI and vice versa. The values of index of relative importance (IRI) indicated that the species was planktivorous as well as detritivorous, with top priority towards crustaceans (27.6%) followed by bivalves (23.6%), foraminifera (15.4%), phytoplankton (12.5%), gastropods (9.1%) and nematodes (8.3%) in the gut contents. Diet did not show significant variation either sex-wise or size-wise.
Phytoremediation effect of Medicago sativa colonized by Piriformospora indica in the phenanthrene and cadmium co-contaminated soil
Authors: Li Liang , Zhu Pengyue , Wang Xiaoyang , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: April 2020

Background: The coexistence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals has deleterious effects on environmental quality. Few reports have studied the mechanisms of plant inoculation with Piriformospora indica to remediate PAH-metal co-contaminated soil by analyzing the chemical speciation of the contaminants. This study investigated the influence of the inoculation of Medicago sativa with P. indica to remediate soil co-contaminated with phenanthrene (a kind of PAH) and cadmium (a heavy metal) by analyzing plant growth, physiological parameters and chemical speciation in rhizosphere and nonrhizosphere soils.Results: The presence of P. indica significantly increased plant tolerance, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, maximum quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry and electron transport rate values in phenanthrene- and/or cadmium-contaminated soil. P. indica inoculation in M. sativa roots increased fluorescein diacetate activities in soils contaminated with phenanthrene, cadmium or both, especially in the nonrhizosphere. The presence of phenanthrene prevented the inoculated plant from accumulating cadmium to some extent, whereas the presence of cadmium did not prevent the degradation of phenanthrene in either the rhizosphere or the nonrhizosphere after P. indica colonization. Although the low bioavailability of cadmium in the rhizosphere restricted its transportation into the stem, P. indica colonization in plants effectively increased cadmium accumulation in roots in soil co-contaminated with cadmium and phenanthrene.Conclusions: In conclusion, this work provides a theoretical basis for the use of P. indica combined with M. sativa for the remediation of PAH-metal co-contaminated soil.
Serum platelet-derived growth factor is a novel biomarker for the prediction of vulnerable plaque in patients with NSTE-ACS
Authors: Zhang Hong , Zhang Ying , Liu Yujie , Ma Kejing , Zhou Jia , Guan Jingjing
Published: April 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Depression, anxiety, and burnout among medical students and residents of a medical school in Nepal: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Pokhrel Nishan Babu , Khadayat Ramesh , Tulachan Pratikchya
Published: April 2020

Background: Medical students and residents were found to have suffered from depression, anxiety, and burnout in various studies. However, these entities have not been adequately explored in the context of Nepal. We proposed to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, burnout, their associated factors, and identify their predictors in a sample of medical students and residents in a Nepalese medical school.Methods: It was a cross-sectional study with 651 medical students and residents chosen at random between December 2018 and February 2019. The validated Nepali version of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, and Medical Students' Stressor Questionnaire were used to assess depression, anxiety, burnout, and stressors respectively. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify the correlation of predictor variables with depression, anxiety, and burnout.Results: The overall prevalence of burnout (48.8%; 95% CI 44.9-52.7) and anxiety (45.3%; 95% CI 41.4-49.2) was more than that of depression (31%; 95% CI 27.5-34.7). Burnout and depression were more prevalent in residents than in medical students (burnout: 64.5% vs 37.6%, P-value < 0.0001; depression: 33.7% vs 29.1%, P-value 0.21). Whereas, medical students were found more anxious than residents (46.3% versus 43.96%, P-value 0.55). Academic related stressors caused high-grade stress to participants. Multivariable model for depression significantly showed anxiety, personal burnout, and work-related burnout as risk enhancing correlates; satisfaction with academic performance as a protective correlate. Similarly, the multivariate model for anxiety significantly identified female gender, depression, personal burnout, teaching and learning related stressors, and past history of mental illness as risk enhancing correlates; being satisfied with academic performance, getting adequate sleep, and being a second-year resident as protective correlates. The logistic model for burnout significantly showed being a first-year resident, depression, anxiety, and drive and desire related stressors as positive predictors. None of the variables were identified as significant negative predictors of burnout. Conclusions: A high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and burnout was seen among medical students and residents. Most of them were stressed with academic-related factors. A strong correlation between teaching and learning-related stressors with depression and anxiety may be a call for an efficient and more student-friendly curriculum.
The clinical significance of IL-6s and IL-27s in Bronchoalveolar lavage fluids from children with mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Zhao Jie , Li Yuyun , Zhang Wen
Published: April 2020

Background: IL-6 was associated with the severity of mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP). But the relationship between IL-27 and MPP was unknown. Methods: 98 patients with MPP < 14 years old were enrolled in this study and divided into groups by severity (mild cases and severe cases), infection types (MP single infection group and MP mixed infection group) and DNA loads (low MP DNA loads group and high MP DNA loads group), respectively. 15 children with foreign bodies in bronchus were also enrolled as control. IL-6s and IL-27s in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs) from these children were measured by ELISA. Results: There were significant differences in IL-6s of BALFs from patients between mild cases and severe cases, MP single infection group and MP mixed infection group, and low MP DNA loads group and high MP DNA loads group, respectively (P﹤0.05). Compared with IL-6s of BALFs from control, IL-6s in BALFs from the 6 patient groups were significantly higher (P﹤0.05). IL-27s in BALFs from MP mixed infection group were significantly lower than those from MP single infection group and control (P﹤0.05) respectively. Conclusion: IL-6 was firmly associated with MPP and had potential application in clinical practice while IL-27 was not related to MP infection.
CA724 predicts overall survival in locally advanced gastric cancer patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Tong Yilin , Zhao Yan , Shan Zexing , Zhang Jianjun
Published: April 2020

Background: Serum tumor markers are of great importance in diagnosis, prognostic predicting and recurrence monitoring in gastrointestinal malignancy, including AFU, AFP, CEA, CA199, CA125 and CA724. However, their significances in gastric cancer (GC) patients with neoadjuvant therapy (NCT) are still uncertain. The aim of this study is to evaluate the predictive value of these six tumor markers in locally advanced GC patients with NCT and curative surgery. Methods: 290 locally advanced GC patients with NCT and D2 radical gastrectomy were retrospectively analyzed. Their tumor markers before (pre-) and after (post-) NCT and pathological characters were exacted from the database in our hospital. The optimal cutoff values of six tumor markers were calculated by ROC and Youden index. Their predictive significances were analyzed and survival curves on overall survival (OS) were obtained by Kaplan-Meier method. Associations between categorical variables were explored by Chi-square test or Fisher's exact method. Multivariate analyses were performed by Cox regression model. Results: Not only the pre- and post- CA199, CA125 and CA724 could predict the OS respectively, but also the changes (diff-) between post- and pre- groups were related to the prognosis (P < 0.05). In multivariable analysis, only pre- (P = 0.016) and post-CA724 (P = 0.033) remained significant, and the significance of diff-CA724 was on borderline (P = 0.085). Besides, pre- and post-CA199, CA125 and CA724 were associated with the metastasis of lymph node (N- vs N+) and pathological stage (Ⅰ-Ⅱ vs Ⅲ) (P < 0.05). Post-CA724 was related to the invasion of vascular or lymphatic vessels (P = 0.019), and pre-CA724 was nearly remarkable (P = 0.082). However, AFU, AFP and CEA showed no association with survival (P > 0.05). Conclusions: CA724 is an independent factor to prognosis, and could be used to predict the ypN and ypTNM stage in locally advanced GC patients undergone NCT and curative resection.
A European Field Assessment of the efficacy of fluralaner (Bravecto®) chewable and spot-on formulations for treatment of dogs with generalized demodicosis
Authors: Petersen Ivo , Chiummo Rafael , Zschiesche Eva , Karas-Tecza Joanna , Rapti Dhimiter , Roepke Rainer , thomas emmanuel
Published: April 2020

Background: Recent reports indicate that the isoxazoline compounds have the potential to provide safe and effective treatment of canine generalized demodicosis, a condition that has been traditionally difficult to cure. Controlled field studies are needed to confirm this potential. A study was therefore initiated to investigate the efficacy of a single oral or spot-on treatment with fluralaner, an isoxazoline, compared with multiple topical treatments with imidacloprid-moxidectin, in dogs naturally affected by generalized demodicosis. Methods: Veterinary clinics in 5 European countries enrolled 134 dogs diagnosed with generalized demodicosis. Dogs were randomized to treatment with either fluralaner chewables, fluralaner spot-on, or topical imidacloprid-moxidectin in a 2:2:1 ratio. Both fluralaner formulations were administered once, at the approved dose rate, on day 0. Imidacloprid-moxidectin was administered per label on day 0, and every 4 weeks, more frequently if necessary. At each visit (days 0, 28, 56, 84), dogs were monitored for demodectic mites, using deep skin scrapings, and observed for health and for severity of skin lesions. Treatment was considered efficacious if more than 90% of the dogs were free of live mites at both days 56 and 84.Results: Of 124 dogs completing the study, 57 were diagnosed with juvenile-onset demodicosis and 67 with the adult-onset form. A single treatment with oral or spot-on fluralaner was efficacious, each eliminating mites from at least 98.0% of treated dogs on days 56 and 84. Against juvenile-onset demodicosis, efficacy of the oral and spot-on formulations was 96.0% and 100%, respectively, and against adult-onset demodicosis 100% and 96.7%. Multiple administrations of imidacloprid-moxidectin were not efficacious, eliminating mites from 87.5% of dogs (92.0% with juvenile-onset demodicosis cured; 81.8% with adult-onset demodicosis). All groups showed a marked reduction in skin lesions by day 28, with continuing clinical improvement at each subsequent visit through day 84. There were no treatment-related adverse events.Conclusion: A single administration of fluralaner chewables or fluralaner spot-on is highly effective against juvenile-onset and adult-onset forms of generalized canine demodicosis. Topically applied imidacloprid-moxidectin at weekly to monthly intervals over the 84-day study did not achieve the proportion of mite-free dogs required to demonstrate efficacy.
Registered Nurses´ Views on Telephone Nursing for Patients with Respiratory Tract Infections in Primary Health Care – A qualitative interview study
Authors: Kaminsky Elenor , Aurin Ingrid Edvardsson , Hedin Katarina , Andersson Lisbet , Andre Malin
Published: April 2020

Background : Telephone nursing in primary healthcare has been suggested as a solution to the increased demand for easy access to healthcare, increased number of patients with complex problems, and lack of general practitioners. Registered nurses’ assessments may also be of great importance for antibiotic prescriptions according to guidelines. The aim of this study was to describe registered nurses’ views of telephone nursing work with callers contacting primary healthcare centres regarding respiratory tract infections. Methods : A descriptive, qualitative study was performed through interviews with twelve registered nurses in Swedish primary healthcare. Results : The overarching themes for registered nurses’ views on telephone nursing were captured in two themes: professional challenges and professional support. These included three and two categories respectively: Communicate for optimal patient information; Differentiate harmless from severe problems; Cope with caller expectations; Use working tools; and Use team collaboration. Optimal communication for sufficiently grasping caller symptoms and assess whether harmful or not, without visual input, was underlined. This generated fear of missing something serious. Professional support used in work, were for example guidelines and decision support tool. Colleagues and teamwork collaboration were requested, but not always offered, support for the interviewed registered nurses. Conclusions : The study deepens the understanding of telephone nursing as an important factor for decreasing respiratory tract infection consultations with general practitioners, thus contributing to decreased antibiotic usage in Sweden. To cope with the challenges of telephone nursing in primary healthcare centres, it seems important to systematically introduce the use of the available decision support tool, and set aside time for inter- and intraprofessional discussions and feedback. The collegial support and team collaboration asked for is likely to get synergy effects such as better work environment and job satisfaction for both registered nurses and general practitioners. Future studies are needed to explore telephone nursing in primary healthcare centres in a broader sense to better understand the function and the effects in the complexity of primary health care.
Korean medicine students' entrance factors and satisfaction with their college experience: a quantitative nationwide study
Authors: Kim Hyun-Seok , Lee Joohyun , Kim Hwimun , Yang Unho , Kim Hyunho
Published: April 2020

Background: Korean medicine (KM) has equal legal rights with conventional Western medicine in South Korea and is taught at KM colleges. To date, no research has been conducted on the entrance factors and satisfaction of KM college students. Thus, this study attempts to fill this gap in the literature.Methods: Content validity tests and face validity tests were conducted during the development of the questionnaires used in this study. The scores of each item and the correlation between items and sub-items were analyzed and factors were correlated with students’ satisfaction and willingness to re-enter KM colleges. Results: A total of 420 students responded to the survey. The means of the items considering stable incumbency and examination scores were the highest. The highest correlation between an item and sub-item concerned interaction with people. The questionnaire items or sub-questionnaire items that showed moderate high correlation with the questionnaire items asked whether participants were willing to re-enter the KM colleges and were both about independent choices. Conclusions: Identifying college entrance factors can contribute to increasing current students’ academic satisfaction and decreasing drop-out rates. This study highlights factors that can be applied in college curriculum or subject teaching, such as interest in research on KM.
Health-Related Quality of Life Among Children With Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia: A Cross-Sectional Study in Malaysia
Authors: Shafie Asrul Akmal , Chhabra Irwinder Kaur , Yi Jacqueline Wong Hui , Mohammed Noor Syahireen , Ibrahim Hishamshah Mohd , Alias Hamidah
Published: April 2020

Background The treatment of children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) in Malaysia has progressed since 2005. This study provides an updated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) assessment for children with the disorder and the factors affecting the HRQoL. Methods A cross-sectional HRQoL survey of Malaysian children with TDT was conducted using the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Patients with non-transfusion dependent thalassemia and other haemoglobinopathies were excluded. Parent-proxy and self-reported HRQoL scores were obtained using a multi-stage convenient sampling. The relationship between HRQoL scores and demographic factors were tested using association, correlation and regression analysis. Results A total of 368 patients were recruited. The mean (SD) Total Summary Score (TSS) was 80.12(13.87). Predictors for a lower TSS was an increasing age group and the use of dual chelating agents (R2 = 0.057, F (4, 359) = 5.40, p = <0.001). The mean (SD) Physical Health Summary Score (PHSS) was 82.21 (16.82). Predictors of a higher PHSS score was being male, while predictors of a lower score was an increasing age group and parent-proxy reports(R2 = 0.075, F (5,358) = 5.80, p = <0.001). The mean (SD) Psychosocial Health Summary Score (PCHS) was 79.39 (14.81). Predictors for a lower PCHS was the use of dual chelating agents(R2 = 0.041, F (1, 362) = 15.60, p = <0.001). The school functioning score had the lowest mean (SD) score of 69.52(20.92) in the psychosocial dimension. Conclusion The HRQoL of TDT children in Malaysia has improved over the last decade owing to the better access in treatment. However, further effort is needed to improve the school functioning dimension.
Evaluation of Role of Hyperbilirubinemia as a New Diagnostic Marker of Complicated Appendicitis.
Authors: Bakshi Sabyasachi , Mandal Nilay
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND:Hyperbilirubinemia has also been found in infective diseases involving organs other than liver. The bacteremia/endotoxemia resulting in impaired hepatocyte function and bile secretion along with increased acute phase reactants contribute to the pathogenesis. In appendicitis, elevated intra-luminal pressure and ischemic necrosis of mucosa causes tissue gangrene or perforation. This is accompanied by bacterial cytotoxin facilitated progressive bacterial invasion. This elevated load of bacteria causes direct invasion or translocation into the portal system. Direct invasion of bacteria into the hepatic parenchyma interferes with the bilirubin excretion into the bile canaliculi biochemically rather than by any obstructive pathway.In the present study, establishment of a possible role of hyperbilirubinemia as a marker of gangrenous/perforated appendicitis has been studied.METHODS:After matching the inclusion and exclusion criteria, all cases of clinically diagnosed acute appendicitis were taken for this prospective, single center, observational study. Per-operative diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination.RESULTS:Out of 110 subjects of acute appendicitis 41 subjects (37.27%) had hyperbilirubinemia. Out of 35 subjects diagnosed as complicated appendicitis 32 subjects (91.42%) had raised total bilirubin levels, while the remaining 03(8.58%) had normal levels .Among 75 subjects diagnosed as acute simple appendicitis 09 subjects (12%) had raised total bilirubin level, while the remaining 66 subjects (88%) had normal levels .It was Mixed Type Of Hyperbilirubinemia in gangrenous/perforated appendicitis.The sensitivity of Total serum bilirubin in predicting complicated appendicitis was found 91.43% (76.942% to 98.196%), where as the specificity of this test was 88.00% (78.439% to 94.363%). positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 78.03% and 95.65% respectively.Positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio were found to be 7.619 and 0.097 respectively taking prevalence of Complicated appendicitis be 31.80%.ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) curve was obtained which shows optimal criterion at Total Bilirubin Level 1.06 mg/dl where sensitivity was 91.43% and specificity was 97.33% at 95% confidence interval with 31.8% disease prevalence.CONCLUSIONS:This is to conclude that Serum bilirubin level estimation, which is a simple, cheap and easily available laboratory test, can be added to the routine investigations in clinically suspected cases of acute appendicitis for early diagnosis of complications.Trial Registration: Registered with Clinical Trials Registry-India (ICMR-NIMS) with Registration number CTRI/2019/05/018879 Dated 01/05/2019. Trial URL: http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pdf_generate.php?trialid=33113&EncHid=99780.32960&modid=1&compid=19%27,%2733113det%27
Validity and Reliability of the Korean Anesthesia Surrendering Instrument
Authors: Lee Hanna , Han Jeongwon , Kang Jisoon
Published: April 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
A pilot study: lenticule quality of hyperopic small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) in rabbits
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhao Feng , Han Tian , Zhao Jing , Zhou Xingtao
Published: April 2020

Background: To evaluate lenticule surface characteristics of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for hyperopia correction in rabbits.Methods: The left and right eyes of 8 rabbits were divided into two groups. The right eyes were assigned to a hyperopia group, and the left eyes to a myopia group. The rabbits received SMILE procedures with +3.00 D and –3.00 D correction for the hyperopia and myopia groups, respectively. Extracted lenticules were examined via scanning electron microscopy. Lenticules from odd-numbered rabbits were accessed with the anterior surface, and lenticules from even-numbered rabbits were observed with the posterior surface. A previously established scoring system was used to evaluate lenticule surface characteristics. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the scores between the two groups.Results: All procedures were performed successfully, and the lenticules were extracted smoothly. One myopia lenticule that was facing downward was handled failed in preparation for imaging, thus 15 lenticules were ultimately graded. Twelve lenticules exhibited smooth surfaces, and regularly arranged tissue bridges were observed in almost all regions. Three lenticules exhibited a partially rough surface and irregularities affecting more than 10% of the lenticules (2 in the hyperopia group and 1 in the myopia group). Rough lenticules occurred in twice as many Lenticules in the hyperopia group compared to the myopia group.Conclusions: Scan quality of lenticules after SMILE for hyperopia correction is comparable to that of myopia lenticules. The shape of hyperopic lenticule may increase the difficulty of surgical manipulation and result in surface roughness.
Fast and efficient face recognition system based on kernel sparse representation and fast CoSaMP
Authors: Lahaw Zied Bannour , Seddik Hassene
Published: April 2020

Kernel sparse representation based classification (KSRC) in compressive sensing (CS) represents one of the most interesting research areas in pattern recognition, image processing and especially facer recognition and identification. First, it applies dimensionality reduction method to reduce data dimensionality in kernel space and then employs the L1 -norm minimization to reconstructing sparse signal. Nevertheless, these classifiers suffer from some shortcomings. KSRC is greedy in time to achieve an approximate solution of sparse representation based on L1 -norm minimization. In this paper, a new method is mathematically developed and applied for face recognition based on Gabor-wavelets for feature extraction and KSRC for precise classification. The aim of the proposed algorithm is to improve the computational efficiency of KSRC by applying a supervised kernel locality preserving projections (SKLPP) for dimension reduction. In fact, the L1 -norm minimization is performed by the use of the fast compressive sampling matching pursuit method (FCoSaMP). Experimental results prove that the proposed classification method is efficient, fast, and robust against variations of illumination, expression, and pose. Indeed, its computation time is highly reduced compared to the baseline performances.
Association between social capital and mental health among older people living with HIV: The Sichuan Older HIV-Infected Cohort Study (SOHICS)
Authors: Han Jiayu , Jia Peng , Huang Yuling , Gao Bo , Yu Bin , Yang Shifan , Yu Jun , Xiong Jun , Liu Chang , Xie Tian , Dong Peijie , Yang Chao , Wang Zixin , Yang Shujuan
Published: April 2020

Background: Mental health problems are common among older people living with HIV and associated with poorer health outcomes. Social capital is an important determinant of mental health problems but under-studied in this population. This study investigated the association between social capital and mental health problems among older people living with HIV in China. Methods: The study was based on the baseline data of a cohort study investigating mental health among older people living with HIV in Sichuan, China during November 2018 to February 2019. Participants were people living with HIV aged ≥50 years living in Sichuan province. Stratified multi-stage cluster sampling was used to recruit participants from 30 communities/towns; 529 out of 556 participants being approached completed the face-to-face interview. Social capital was measured by two validated health-related social capital scales: the Individual and Family scale and the Community and Society scale. Presence of probable depression (CES-D-10 score ≥10) and probable anxiety (GAD-7 score ≥5) were used as dependent variables. Two-level logistic regression models were applied to examine the association between social capital and probable depression/anxiety. Results: The prevalence of probable depression and probable anxiety was 25.9% (137/529) and 36.3% (192/529) , respectively. After adjusting for significant covariates, the individual/family level of social capital was inversely associated with both probable depression (odds ratios (OR): 0.89, 95%CI: 0.84-0.93, p <0.001) and probable anxiety (OR: 0.90, 95%CI: 0.86-0.95, p <0.001). The community/society level social capital was associated with probable depression (OR: 0.91, 95%CI: 0.84-0.99, p <0.001) but not probable anxiety ( p >0.05). Conclusions: Interventions building up social capital should be considered to improve mental health of older people living with HIV. Some useful strategies include cognitive processing therapy, improving community networking and engagement, and promoting social bonding with neighborhood.
Initial experience of complete laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy combined with transvesical laparoscopic excision of distal ureter in patients with upper urinary tract cancer
Authors: Miyake Makito , Nishimura Nobutaka , Aoki Katsuya , Ohmori Chihiro , Shimizu Takuto , Owari Takuya , Hori Shunta , Morizawa Yosuke , Gotoh Daisuke , Nakai Yasushi , Anai Satoshi , Torimoto Kazumasa , Tanaka Nobumich , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: April 2020

Background: Selecting the treatment procedure for cancer patients is a challenging task. We report our initial experience of complete laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for patients with upper urinary tract urothelial cancer (UTUC).Methods: A total of four patients with UTUC underwent complete laparoscopic RNU combined with transvesical laparoscopic excision of the distal ureter using three 5-mm ports. Transvaginal specimen extraction was applied in female patients to reduce incisional pain and improve cosmesis. Peri-operative complications were evaluated using the Clavien–Dindo classification system. Postoperative pain was evaluated during hospitalization using a numeric pain rating scale (scales of 1 to 10). Patients who underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic surgery combined with open excision of the distal ureter during the same period were included as a control group (conventional RNU, consisting of laparoscopic nephrectomy with open bladder cuff excision) for pain scale evaluation.Results: The novel surgery was successfully completed for all four patients (two males and two females). The mean pneumoperitoneum time for retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy and specimen extraction was 174 min, while the mean pneumovesicum time for the ureteral orifice excision was 88 min. One male patient had bladder leakage at the suture site of the bladder wall, which lasted for two weeks. No patient experienced recurrent disease during the follow-up period (median, 10 months). Mild to moderate pain lasted for 5 or 6 days after RNU. A couple of days after surgery, the numeric pain rating scale of complete laparoscopic RNU and conventional RNU group reached its peak level at 3.0 ± 1.8 and 5.3 ± 2.8, respectively. There was no statistical difference in the degree of postoperative pain (P=0.31).Conclusions: We described our initial experience and outcome of complete laparoscopic RNU for UTUC. Further experience and research are required to determine whether this advanced laparoscopic technique yields better outcomes and has true clinical value.
Literature meta-analysis about the efficacy of anti-programmed death protein 1 and anti-programmed death ligand 1 re-challenge in cancer patients
Authors: Gobbini Elisa , Charles Julie , Toffart Anne-Claire , Leccia Marie-Thérèse , Moro-Sibilot Denis , Levra Matteo Giaj
Published: April 2020

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICPis) re-challenge could be an attractive therapeutic option considering its good safety profile. However, little data is available regarding anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 retreatment. We conducted a meta-analysis focusing on outcomes of solid cancer patients performing this strategy.

Methods

Fourteen full papers involving 74 patients were included. Individual data about best response or progression-free survival (PFS) upon the first and second course of anti-PD-1/ anti-PD-L1 were collected.

Results

Non-small-cell lung cancer (53%) and melanoma (34%) were the most represented cancers. Higher objective response (46% versus 24%, p = 4.10 -4 ) and disease control rates (73% versus 52%, p = 7.10 -3 ) were obtained upon the first ICPi course compared to re-challenge. No association between responses obtained with the two ICPis courses was found ( p = 3.10 -1 ). The PFS upon the first ICPi (PFS1) was longer than that after re-challenge (PFSR) (6.6 versus 2.8 months, hazard ratio (HR) 0.57, p = 2.10 -3 ). A longer PFSR was obtained in patients with a longer PFS1 ( p = 6.10 -3 ), in those who discontinued the first ICPi due to toxicity or per protocol (8.8 versus 2.1 months if disease progression occurs, p = 2.10 -3 ), and in those not receiving intercalated treatment between the two ICPis (6.6 versus 2.1 months for the treated ones, p = 1.10 -3 ).

Conclusion

Anti-PD-1/anti-PD-L1 re-challenge showed interesting clinical activity in selected patients, mainly in those achieving a long-term response upon the first ICPi course, that do not discontinue therapy because of disease progression, or that are able to keep a treatment-free period.
Opioid Prescribing Practices Among Surgical Providers: The Relationship with Patient-Level Factors: Rural Residency or Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Thiesset Heather F. , Huang Lyen C , Schliep Karen C , Valentin Virginia L , Gren Lisa H. , Porucznik Christina A
Published: April 2020

Background Patients living in rural communities and patients with a cancer diagnosis are two areas potentially overlooked in opioid prescribing clinical decision making that may relate to the amount of overprescribed opioids in the postsurgical environment.Methods A 35-item questionnaire was administered to surgeons, residents/ fellows (trainees), and advanced practice clinicians (APCs). Descriptive statistics were generated.Results Surgeons, trainees, and APCs self-reported that they give the same amount of opioids to rural patients as other patients. APCs were more likely to agree that it is easy to e-prescribe (56%) than surgeons (41%) and trainees (35%), so rural patients do not need different consideration. Surgeons (50%) and trainees (50%) agreed compared to APCs (0%) that it is easier to give more opioids so a patient does not have get refills if needed for pain. Compared to APCs (5%), 21% of surgeons and 45% of trainees acknowledged giving more opioid narcotics to patients with cancer than patients without a cancer diagnosis.Conclusions While both groups of prescribing providers reported that they gave the same amount of opioids to rural patients, they differed in their knowledge about e-prescribing and what healthcare access disparities may exist for the rural patient. No differences were reported between provider groups for cancer patients. Responses indicate an opportunity to work with providers to identify potential solutions for improving opioid prescribing practices in rural and cancer patients.
Spatial characteristics of open park spaces and perceived warmness in a tropical city
Authors: Hanif Noor Rosly , Fong Chng Saun , Ramakreshnan Logaraj , Aziz Wan Nor Azriyati Wan Abd , Aini Ainoriza Mohd , Sulaiman Nik Meriam , Aghamohammadi Nasrin
Published: April 2020

Background: Rapid urbanization in Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan City (KLMC) has resulted in urban heat island (UHI) effect that deteriorated public health of the urban dwellers. In a motive of identifying the heat sources, this study reported the perceived warmness and the characteristics of Open Park Spaces (OPS) that induce the reported warmness of the surrounding environment in Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan City (KLMC), a tropical city of Malaysia.Methods: A cross sectional survey using structured questionnaires is conducted on randomly clustered respondents in selected localities of KLMC from January to May, 2018. Pearson correlation is performed to examine the relationship between perceived characteristics of OPS and perceived warmness of the surrounding environment according to three time slots of a day.Results: The outcomes demonstrated that respondents felt warm during nights (89%) compared to morning (75%) and afternoon (87%). Meanwhile, the existing OPS are reported to be equipped with a mix of biodiversity such as birds, rodents and insects (89%), a mix of natural plants and animal populations (88%), water bodies (88%), variety of plants (86%), well-maintained grass surfaces (80%), ornamental flowers (79%) as well as wooded pasture (78%) in their neighbourhood. As the maximum warming sensation is reported to be felt at nights, especially in the presence of water bodies (r= 0.318, p<0.01) and wooded pasture (r= 0.222, p<0.01) in the vicinity, the integration of heat ameliorators across the existing water bodies and wood pasture deemed essential to reduce the surrounding heat impacts.Conclusion: The findings of this preliminary investigation are useful for urban designers and policy makers to make tacit evidence-based decisions.
Enhanced production of Canine parvovirus VP2 protein using improved Baculovirus expression system and its immunogenicity
Authors: Chang Dao , Liu Yangkun , Chen Yangyang , Hu Xiaomin , Burov Andrey , Puzyr Alexey , Bondar Vladimir , Yao Lunguang
Published: April 2020

Background : Canine parvovirus (CPV) is now recognized as a serious threat to dog industry worldwide. Vaccination remains the principal tool to control CPV infection. However, due to low yield, production of VP2 protein of CPV in baculovirus expression system remains challenging. The aim of this study was to increase the VP2 protein production by using a improved baculovirus expression system (Multibac) and evaluate the immunogenicity of the purified VP2 protein in mice. Results: The results showed that CPV VP2 protein was successfully expressed in the improved baculovirus expression system efficiently. A high level of expression of the full length VP2 protein was achieved using our modified system. The recombinant virus carrying two copies of VP2 showed the highest expression level, with a productivity of 186 mg/L, which is about 1.4-1.6 fold that of the recombinant viruses carrying only one copy. The purified protein could react with Mouse anti-His tag monoclonal antibody and Rabbit anti-VP2 polyclonal antibody with good reactogenicity. The mice were then immunized with purified full length VP2 protein to evaluate its immunogenicity. After vaccination, VP2 protein could induce the mice produce high level of hemagglutination inhibition antibodies. Conclusions: Full length CPV VP2 protein was successfully expressed at high level and purified efficiently. And it stimulated mice to produce high level of antibody. The full length VP2 expressed in this study could be used as a putative economic and efficient subunit vaccine against CPV infection.
Temporal trends in behavioral risk and protective factors and their association with mortality rates: results from Brazil and Argentina
Authors: Santos Leonardo Pozza , Meller Fernanda de Oliveira , Amann Valeria Romina , Schäfer Antônio Augusto
Published: April 2020

Background: Despite available information on trends in behavioral factors for Brazil and Argentina, little is known about the association of these trends with mortality. Understanding this association is important to avoid early deaths.Objectives: To evaluate temporal trends in behavioral risk and protective factors in Brazil and Argentina, and to assess their association with overall and cause-specific mortality rates.Methods: Ecological study with data from two population surveys from Brazil and Argentina. Weighted prevalence of tobacco smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, fruit and vegetable consumption and physical activity for the 27 Brazilian state capitals and for the 23 Argentinean provinces were used as behavioral factors. Information on overall mortality as well as cardiovascular diseases and cancer mortality for the year 2015 was collected from national mortality banks of both countries. Estimated prevalence rates were used to describe trends in behavioral factors from 2006 to 2014 in Brazil, and from 2005 to 2013 in Argentina, while Pearson’s correlation and linear regression models were used to assess their association with overall and cause-specific mortality rates.Results: Brazil presented improvements in behavioral risk and protective factors: sharp decrease in tobacco smoking prevalence (from 15% to 9%), increase in regular fruit and vegetable consumption (from 28% to 36%), and increase in physical activity (45% to 51%). In Argentina, results were more disappointing: small reduction in tobacco smoking (from 55% to 50%) and decrease in physical activity (from 55% to 45%). In both countries, excessive alcohol consumption remained stable, with increase only among women. The association between behavioral factors and mortality showed that in those Brazilian capitals with higher prevalence of regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, there were lower overall mortality rates. Stratification by gender revealed that significant results were only found among women.Conclusion: Prevalence of regular consumption of fruits and vegetables increased in Brazilian capitals and was associated with lower overall mortality rate, suggesting a positive impact of Brazilian policies to improve dietary intake patterns on its population’s mortality. Approaches focusing on behavioral factors are especially needed in Argentina to reach similar results of those seen in Brazil.
How to choose kinematic or mechanical alignment individually according to preoperative characteristics of patients?
Authors: Luan Chong , Xu Dong-Tan , Chen Ning-Jie , Wang Fei-Fei , Tian Kang- Song , Wei Chao , Wang Xian-Bin
Published: April 2020

Background Making decision in alignment techniques in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. This study aims to identify the potential patients who were suitable for the kinematic (KA) or mechanical alignment (MA). Methods We reviewed 296 patients (296 TKAs, including 114 KA-TKAs and 182 MA-TKAs) who underwent unilateral TKA using a portable navigation system from 2016 to 2018 in our prospectively maintained database. The minimum followup was 1 year. Clinical outcomes including range of motion (ROM) and knee society score (KSS) were compared between KA-TKAs and MA-TKAs. Multiple regression models were used to evaluate the relationship between alignment techniques and KSS at the 1-year followup. Interaction and stratified analyses were conducted according to gender, age, body mass index (BMI), preoperative hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle, ROM and KSS. Results ROM and KSS at the 1-year followup didn’t differ between MA-TKAs and KA-TKAs (all p>0.05). Alignment techniques did not associate with postoperative ROM (Adjusted β=0.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.3, 1.6; p=0.752) or 1-year KSS (Adjusted β=2.2, 95%CI: -0.7, 5.6; p=0.107). Patients with BMI more than 30 kg/m^2 achieved better 1-year KSS when using MA than KA (p for interaction<0.05), Additionally, patients with preoperative HKA angle more than 10 degrees varus benefited more from KA than MA (p for interaction<0.05). Conclusions Patients with severe varus deformity may be suitable for the KA technique, whereas MA should be used in obese patients.
Soil origin and plant genotype structure distinct microbiome compartments in the model legume Medicago truncatula
Authors: Brown Shawn P. , Grillo Michael A. , Podowski Justin C. , Heath Katy Denise
Published: April 2020

Background: Understanding the genetic and environmental factors that structure plant microbiomes is necessary for leveraging these interactions to address critical needs in agriculture, conservation, and sustainability. Legumes, which form root nodule symbioses with nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, have served as model plants for understanding the genetics and evolution of beneficial plant-microbe interactions for decades, and thus have added value as models of plant-microbiome interactions. Here we use a common garden experiment with 16S rRNA gene amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing to study the drivers of microbiome diversity and composition in three genotypes of the model legume Medicago truncatula grown in two native soil communities.Results: Bacterial diversity decreased between external (rhizosphere) and internal plant compartments (root endosphere, nodule endosphere, and leaf endosphere). Community composition was shaped by strong compartment x soil origin and compartment x plant genotype interactions, driven by significant soil origin effects in the rhizosphere and significant plant genotype effects in the root endosphere. Nevertheless all compartments were dominated by Ensifer, the genus of rhizobia that forms root nodule symbiosis with M. truncatula , and additional shotgun metagenomic sequencing suggests that the nodulating Ensifer were not genetically distinguishable from those elsewhere in the plant. We also identify a handful of OTUs that are common in nodule tissues, which are likely colonized from the root endosphere.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate strong host filtering effects, with rhizospheres driven by soil origin and internal plant compartments driven by host genetics, and identify several key nodule-inhabiting taxa that coexist with rhizobia in the native range. Our results set the stage for future functional genetic experiments aimed at expanding our pairwise understanding of legume-rhizobium symbiosis towards a more mechanistic understanding of plant microbiomes.
Open submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection for special submucosal tumors originating from the muscularis propria
Authors: Huang Silin , Tu Sufang , Fu Jingwen , Tang Xiaowei , Yang Genhua , Gong Wei
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose Esophageal submucosal tumors (SMTs) are primarily benign but can have the potential for malignancy. Surgery is the primary treatment; however, the development of endoscopic techniques has promoted the use of endoscopic resection for esophageal SMTs. Submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER) is the current optimal treatment for esophageal SMTs; however, it is challenging to perform in cases of tumors located in the upper esophagus and cardia as well as those with a diameter > 3.5 cm. Based on STER, we proposed and used open STER (O-STER) for special esophageal SMTs. The study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of O-STER for special esophageal SMTs, including those located in the upper esophagus and cardia and those with a diameter > 3.5 cm. Methods The study enrolled 21 patients whose baseline characteristics, clinical data, and follow-up results were retrospectively analyzed. Results A total of 21 lesions were resected. The mean patient age was 44.2 ± 14.4 years. The mean tumor size was 38.2 ± 12.2 mm; 16 (76.2%) tumors had a diameter ≥ 3.5 cm. Tumors were in the cardia in 14 (66.7%) cases and in the upper esophagus in 2 (9.5%) cases. The mean operation time was 56.7 ± 19.3 minutes. The en bloc and complete resection rates were both 100%. There was 1 (4.8%) case of subcutaneous emphysema; no other serious complications were noted. Pathological examinations suggested that most tumors were leiomyomas and had negative margins. During the mean follow-up period of 26.7 months, no cases of residue, recurrence, or metastasis were observed. Conclusions O-STER is a safe and effective treatment for special esophageal SMTs that can reduce operative difficulty and complication rate.