bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification combined with colorimetric and lateral flow dipstick visualization as the potential point-of-care testing for Corynebacterium diphtheriae
Authors: Zasada Aleksandra Anna , Wiatrzyk Aldona , Czajka Urszula , Brodzik Klaudia , Formińska Kamila , Mosiej Ewa , Prygiel Marta , Krysztopa-Grzybowska Katarzyna , Wdowiak Karol
Published: February 2020

Background Diphtheria outbreaks occurred in endemic areas and imported and indigenous cases are reported in UE/EEA. Because of the high infectiveness and severity of the disease, early and accurate diagnosis of each suspected case is essential for the treatment and management of the case and close contacts. The aim of the study was to establish simple and rapid testing methods based on Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) assay for the detection of Corynebacterium diphtheriae and differentiation between toxigenic and non-toxigenic strains. Methods Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans isolates from the National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene collection were used for the development of LAMP assay for the diagnosis of diphtheria and nontoxigenic C. diphtheriae infections. Various colorimetric methods for visualization of results were investigated. Sensitivity and specificity of the assay were examined using a collection of DNA samples from various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Results The LAMP assay for tox and dtxR genes was developed. The sensitivity and specificity of the assay were calculated as 100%. The detection limit was estimated as 1.42 pg/µl concentration of DNA template when the reaction was conducted for 60 min. However, the detection limit was lowered 10 times for every 10 minutes of reduction in the time of incubation during the reaction. Positive results were successfully detected colorimetrically using hydroxynaphthol blue, calcein, QuantiFluor, and lateral flow Milenia HybriDetect dipsticks. Conclusion The assay developed in the study might be applied for point-of-care testing of diphtheria and other C. diphtheriae infections as well as for other infections caused by diphtheria-toxin producing Corynebacterium species. It is highly sensitive, specific, inexpensive, easy to use, and suitable for low-resource settings.
Catastrophic Healthcare Expenditure and Coping Strategies among Patients Attending Cancer Treatment Services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kasahun Gebremicheal Gebreslassie , Gebretekle Gebremedhin Beedemariam , Gecho Yohannes Hailemichael , Woldemariam Aynalem Abraha , Fenta Teferi Gedif
Published: February 2020

Background: With the rapid increase in magnitude and mortality of cancer, which is costly disease to manage, several patients particularly in developing countries are facing a huge financial burden.Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine the level of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE), identify associated factors and coping strategies among patients attending cancer treatment services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods: A hospital based cross-sectional survey of patients with cancer was conducted in public and private hospitals between January and March 2018. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. All direct medical and nonmedical expenditures were measured and reported as expenditure (US$) per patient (1US$ equivalent to 23.41 Ethiopian Birr). The CHE was estimated using a threshold of 10% of annual household income.Results: A total of 352 (response rate of 87.1%) participants were interviewed. Majority (73.3%) of the respondents were females; most (94%) from public hospitals and their mean (±SD) age was 48±13.2years. The distribution of cancer was mostly concentrated among 35-44 (30.4%) age group category. Breast (36.9 %) and Cervical (16.5%) cancers accounted the largest proportion. Vast majority (74.4%) of patients experienced CHE with mean overall expenditure of $2366 per patient (median: $1708). Medical expenditure shared the highest overall expenditure (83.6%) with mean medical and nonmedical costs of $1978 (median: $1394) and $388 (median: $222), respectively. Patients who took greater than six cycles of chemotherapy (AOR: 3.64; 95% CI: 1.11-11.92), and age (AOR: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01-1.06) were significantly associated with CHE. Household saving (85.5%) followed by financial support (43.0%) were the main coping strategies.Conclusion: A substantial number of patients with cancer are exposed to CHE with considerable medical expenditure. Hence, efficient mobilization of the health insurance scheme is urgently needed to ensure financial risk protection and realize universal health coverage for patients with cancer.
Decomposing the educational inequalities in the factors associated with severe acute malnutrition among under-five children in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Fagbamigbe Adeniyi Francis , Kandala Ngianga- Bakwin , Uthman Olalekan
Published: February 2020

Background: Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) have remained plagued with the burden of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). The decomposition of the educational inequalities in SAM across individual, neighbourhood and national level characteristics in LMIC have not been explored. This study aims to decompose educational-related inequalities in the development of SAM among under-five children in LMIC and identify the risk factors that contribute to the inequalities.
Methods: We pooled successive secondary data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted between 2010 and 2018 in 51 LMIC. We analysed data of 532,680 under-five children nested within 55,823 neighbourhoods. Severe acute malnutrition was the outcome variable while the literacy status of mothers was the main exposure variable. The explanatory variables cut across the individual-, household- and neighbourhood-level factors of the mother-child pair. Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition method was used at p=0.05.
Results: Mothers with no formal education ranged from 0.1 % in Armenia and Kyrgyz to as much as 86.1 % in Niger. The overall prevalence of SAM in the group of children whose mothers had no education was 5.8 % compared with 4.2 % among those whose mothers were educated, this varied within each country. Fourteen countries (Cameroon(p<0.001), Chad(p<0.001), Comoro(p=0.047), Burkina Faso(p<0.001), Ethiopia(p<0.001), India(p<0.001), Kenya(p<0.001), Mozambique(p=0.012), Namibia(p=0.001), Nigeria(p<0.001), Pakistan(p<0.001), Senegal(p=0.003), Togo(p=0.013), and Timor Leste(p<0.001) had statistically significant pro-illiterate inequality while no country showed statistically significant pro-literate inequality. We found significant differences in SAM prevalence across child’s age(p<0.001), child’s sex(p<0.001), maternal age(p=0.001), household wealth quintile(p=0.001), mother’s access to media(p=0.001), birth weight(p<0.001) and neighbourhood socioeconomic status disadvantage(p<0.001). On the average, neighbourhood socioeconomic status disadvantage, location of residence were the most important factors in most countries. Other contributors to the explanation of educational inequalities are birth weight, maternal age and toilet type.
Conclusions: SAM is prevalent in most LMIC with wide educational inequalities explained by individual, household and community-level factors. Promotion of women education should be strengthened as better education among women will close the gaps and reduce the burden of SAM generally. We recommend further studies of other determinate causes of inequalities in severe acute malnutrition in LMIC.
Comparison of bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis(BISAP) and modified CT severity index(MCTSI) for predicting the severity of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis(HLAP)
Authors: Nie Lan , Cheng Yi , Yao Fei , Wu Ru Shuo , Li Ming , Zhang Junjun , Wu Ming qing , Long Hui , Fang Ming Xiang
Published: February 2020

Background: In recent years, the incidence of hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis(HLAP) is rapidly increasing. It is important for clinicians to identify the severity at early stage of HLAP. AIMS: The goal of this paper was to compare bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis(BISAP) and modified CT severity index(MCTSI) for predicting the severity and local complications of HLAP. Methods: We collected 167 patients with HLAP, including 133 cases of Mild acute pancreatitis(MAP), 34 cases of Moderately severe acute pancreatitis(MSAP) and Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP). The study retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics of two groups(MAP group,MSAP and SAP group) of patients. Correlation analysis was demonstrated by Spearman,s test. In addition,the accuracy was investigated through the study of the receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curve to predict the severity of HLAP by BISAP and MCTSI score. Results：There are significantly statistical differences(P<0.05) in Triglycerides(TG), Total cholesterols(TC), Hospitalization days, Fatty liver and Local complications between two groups. However, there are no statistical differences(P>0.05) in Gender, Age,Serum amylase, Alanine aminotransferase(ALT), Aspertate aminotransferase(AST), Hypertension, Type2 diabetes and Hyperuricemia. The Area Under the Curve(AUC) of BISAP and MCTSI in predicting the severity of HLAP respectively were 0.89、0.78, sensitivity were 73.5%、79.4%, specificity were95.5%、60.2%, positive predictive value(PPV) were 80.6%、33.8%, negative predictive value(NPV) were 93.4%、92.0%. Furthermore, the AUC respectively were 0.73、0.87, sensitivity were 37.5%、90.1%, specificity were 93.2%、78.6%, PPV were 77.4%、72.5%, NPV were 70.6%、93.1% in predictionig local complications. Conclusion：Compared to MCTSI score, BISAP score may be a better prognostic scoring system for predicting the severity of HLAP in view of accuracy and easiness. Keywords: Hyperlipidemic acute pancreatitis; Triglycerides; BISAP score; MCTSI score; Severe acute pancreatitis
DJ-1 exerts anti-inflammatory effects and regulates NLRX1-TRAF6 via SHP-1 in stroke
Authors: Peng Li , Zhou Yang , Jiang Ning , Wang Tingting , Zhu Jin , Chen Yanlin , Li Linyu , Zhang Jinyan , Yu Shanshan , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2020

Background : Acute inflammation developed by reactive astrocytes after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is important in protecting the resultant lesion. Our previous study demonstrated the abundant expression of DJ-1 in reactive astrocytes after cerebral I/R injury. Here, we show that DJ-1 negatively regulates the inflammatory response by facilitating the interaction between SHP-1 and TRAF6, thereby inducing NLRX1 dissociation from TRAF6. Methods : We used oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) in vitro in primary astrocyte cultures and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) in vivo to mimic ischemic reperfusion insult. Results: The inhibition of DJ-1 expression increased the expression of the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. DJ-1 knockdown facilitated the interaction of NLRX1 with TRAF6. However, the loss of DJ-1 attenuated the interaction of SHP-1 with TRAF6. In subsequent experiments, a SHP-1 inhibitor altered the interaction of SHP-1 with TRAF6 and facilitated the interaction of NLRX1 with TRAF6 in DJ-1-overexpressing astrocytes. Conclusion: This finding suggests that DJ-1 exerts a SHP-1-dependent anti-inflammatory effect and induces the dissociation of NLRX1 and TRAF6 in cerebral I/R injury. Thus, DJ-1 may be an efficacious therapeutic target for the treatment of I/R injury.
The impact of Clonorchis sinensis infection on immune response in mice with type II collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: li xiangyang , Yang Ying , Qin Su-Ping , Kong Fan-Yun , Yan Chao , Cheng Wan-Peng , Pan Wei , Yu Qian , Hua Hui , Zheng Kui-Yang , Tang Ren-Xian
Published: February 2020

Background: Clonorchis sinensis infection could trigger strong immune responses in mice and humans. However, whether the C.sinensis infection has an impact on arthritis is unknown. Here we investigated the effect of C.sinensis infection on type II collagen-induced arthritis in BALB/c mice.
Results: The mice were firstly infected with 45 C.sinensis metacercariae by oral gavage. Four weeks later, arthritis in mice was induced by type II collagen. Joint inflammation with severe redness and swelling in hind paws was observed in type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice. Besides, the physical activity was significantly reduced, but the respiratory exchange ratio was increased in CIA mice. Compared with CIA mice, C.sinensis infection could increase the severity of arthritis in CIA mice, based on the results of disease score and pathological changes. Compared to CIA mice, increased neutrophils and Ly6C hi monocytes, decreased B cells and CD4 + T cells, were found in C.sinensis infected CIA mice. Besides these, C.sinensis infected mice also displayed significantly higher levels of serum IL-4 and IL-17 than those in CIA mice.
Conclusions: Taken together, our data suggest that C.sinensis infection have a bad effect on arthritis, and could induce the abnormality of the immune response in mice with CIA.
Women’s Economic Empowerment, Participation in Decision-Making and Exposure to Violence as Risk Indicators for Early Childhood Caries
Authors: Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin , Tantawi Maha El , Vukovic Ana , Schroth Robert , Gaffar Balgis , Al-Batayneh Ola B. , Amalia Rosa , Arheiam Arheiam , Obiyan Mary , Daryanavard Hamideh
Published: February 2020

Objectives In view of the association between early childhood caries [ECC] and maternal social risk factors, this study tried to determine if there were associations between indicators of processes, outputs and outcomes of women’s empowerment, and the prevalence of ECC. Methods In this ecological study, indicators measuring the explanatory variables - economic empowerment, decision-making and violence against women - were selected from the Integrated Results and Resources Framework of the UN-Women Strategic Plan 2018-2021 and WHO database. Indicators measuring the outcome variables - the prevalence of ECC for children aged 0 to 2 years, and 3 to 5 years - were extracted from a published literature. The general linear models used to determine the association between the outcome and explanatory variables were adjusted for economic level of countries. Regression estimates (B), 95% confidence intervals and partial eta squared (η 2 ) were calculated. Results Countries with more females living under 50% of median income had higher prevalence of ECC for 3 to 5-year olds (B= 1.82, 95% CI= 0.12, 3.52). Countries with higher percentage of women participating in their own health care decisions had higher prevalence of ECC for 0 to 2-year-olds (B= 0.85, 95% CI= 0.03, 1.67). Countries with higher percentage of women participating in decisions related to visiting family, relatives and friends had higher prevalence of ECC for 3 to 5-year-olds (B= 0.67, 95% CI= 0.03, 1.32). None of the indicators for violence against women was significantly associated with the prevalence of ECC. Conclusion Empowerment of women is a welcome social development that may have some negative impact on children’s oral health. Changes in policies and norms are needed to protect children’s oral health while empowering women.
Impact of cutaneous adverse events on the quality of life in patients receiving anticancer agents: Results from an observational, cross-sectional study
Authors: Oh Hae-Jin Suh , Menéndez Ángeles Flórez , Santos Víctor Sacristán , Ribeiro Francisca Fernández , Vilanova-Trillo Lucía , Figueiras Manuel Constenla , Ferreiros Manuel Pereiro
Published: February 2020

Background: despite the growing interest in cutaneous adverse events (CAEs) and their management in oncology patients, they are often under-reported and there are no extensive data on their impact on quality of life. Health care professionals should pay attention to this issue in order to minimize its negative impact on quality of life (QoL) and improve patient outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of CAEs on QoL in patients receiving anticancer drugs and to determine differences in QoL between conventional chemotherapy versus targeted therapies. Methods: 114 cancer patients with CAEs were included in this observational, cross-sectional study. Patient-reported outcomes instruments (FACT-G, DLQI and SKINDEX-16) were used. Results: Mean (SD) score in FACT-G was 65.3 (13.4), while in DLQI it was 8.4 (5) and in SKINDEX-16 it was 30.8 (16.9), showing a moderate impact on QoL. No significant differences in QOL indices according to the type of treatment (conventional chemotherapy vs targeted therapy) were observed Conclusions: CAEs had a moderate impact on QoL in cancer patients, evaluated with three different PRO instruments, but having more severe or two or more CAEs had a significant negative impact on QoL. No differences between conventional chemotherapy and targeted therapy were observed.
Lifestyle factors and reversion to normoglycaemia by prediabetes type in PREDAPS study.
Authors: SORIANO LUCIA CEA , Giráldez-García Carolina , Albadalejo Romana , Franch-Nadal Josep , Mata-Cases Manel , Díez-Espino Javier , Artola Sara , Serrano Rosario , Regidor Enrique
Published: February 2020

Background: Healthy lifestyle interventions and drug therapies are proven to have a positive preventative influence on normal glucose regulation in prediabetes; however, there is little evidence to support the role of these factors according to the various stage of the prediabetes state. Aims : This study aims to investigate the role of lifestyle factors on the reversion to normal glucose regulation according to the different stage of the prediabetes state based on most up-to-date American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines. Design and Setting: Observational prospective cohort study. The Cohort study in Primary Health Care on the Evolution of Patients with Prediabetes from 2012-2015 Methods: A total of 1184 individuals aged 30 to 74 years old were included and classified based on the ADA in three mutually exclusive groups using either fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels (from 100-125 mg/dl, FPG group), (HbA 1c (5.7%–6.4%, HbA1c group) or both impaired parameters group. Information on lifestyle factors and biochemical parameters were collected at baseline Reversion to normal glucose regulation was calculated at third year of follow-up. Relationship of lifestyle factor and type of prediabetes with reversion were estimated using odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusting by different groups of confounders. Results: Proportion of reversion rates were 31% for FPG group, 31% for HbA1c group and 7.9% for both altered parameters group, respectively. Optimal life style factors such as BMI<25 kg/m 2 [OR (95% CI): 1.90 (1.20-3.01)], high adherence to Mediterranean diet 1.78 (1.21-2.63) and absence of abdominal obesity 1.70 (1.19-2.43) were the strongest predictors for reversion to normal glucose. ORs of reversion to normal glucose were 4.87 (3.10-7.65) for FPG group and 3.72 (2.39-5.78) for HbA1c group, taking as reference those with both impaired parameters. These estimates remained almost the same after further adjustment for biochemical parameters and lifestyle factors. Conclusions: Although optimal lifestyle factors showed to be a positive predictor for reversion to normal glucose regulation, they do not seem to explain the differences according to the type of prediabetes.
Effective establishment of donor gut microbiota in gnotobiotic mice
Authors: Choo Jocelyn M , Rogers Geraint B
Published: February 2020

Background: Determining whether associations between gut microbiota characteristics and host physiology represent causal relationships is a fundamental challenge for microbiome research. One way these associations can be investigated is to instil donor faecal material into gnotobiotic mice and to assess the extent to which donor phenotype is recapitulated. However, the manner in which this process is performed varies considerably between studies, and assessment of microbiota re-establishment in recipient animals is not always carried out. We report a detailed investigation of microbiome assembly in germ-free mice and compare the effects of single and multiple rounds of faecal gavage, using both native and antibiotic-disrupted donor material. Results: Levels of bacteria within the faeces of recipient animals increased rapidly following the instillation of donor material. However, considerable instability in microbiota composition continued during the first two weeks post-gavage, with substantial changes in taxon relative abundance occurring in parallel to declining faecal pH. Relative compositional stability was not achieved until day 28 and persistent differences between recipient and donor microbiota remained. These included an increased relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, and a reduced relative abundance of Firmicutes. Of taxa detected in donor material, 52% were represented in stable recipient microbiota following transplantation with native faecal material (single gavage), increasing to 66% following three rounds of gavage. These taxa accounted for 95% and 91% of total donor bacterial abundance, respectively. Performing multiple rounds of gavage significantly increased microbiota similarity between donor and recipient, and significantly reduced within-group dispersion (P<0.05). Instillation of antibiotic-associated microbiota resulted in substantially lower temporal and inter-animal variance, with multiple rounds of gavage providing no substantial benefit. Conclusions: Microbiome assembly in recipient animals is not immediate and several weeks are required for microbiota stability to be achieved. Multiple rounds of faecal gavage result in greater similarity to donor microbiota and reduced inter-animal variance. The process of donor microbiota re-establishment, and therefore the interval required prior to investigations using recipient animals, is influenced by donor microbiota characteristics.
Molecular ecological network complexity drives stand resilience of soil bacteria to mining disturbances among typical damaged ecosystems in China
Authors: Ma Jing , Lu Yongqiang , Chen Fu , Li Xiaoxiao , Zhang Shaoliang , Wang Hui
Published: February 2020

Background: Understanding the interactions among soil microbial species and how they responded to disturbances are essential to ecological restoration and resilience in the semi-humid and semi-arid damaged mining areas. This information, however, remains unclear and poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the bacterial distribution in disturbed mining areas across three provinces of China, and constructed molecular ecological networks to reveal the interactions among soil bacterial communities in different locations. Furthermore, we examined the relationship between the microbial network topology and environmental factors to show if there is a correlation between the resilience of bacterial community and external pressure.
Results: Bacterial community diversity and composition differed dramatically among different locations, such as the semi-humid and semi-arid disturbed mining areas. Additionally, based on the network topology, we distinguished key microbial populations across these mining areas, which belonged to Proteobacteria , Acidobacteria , Actinobacteria , and Chloroflexi . Moreover, the network modules were significantly correlated with some environmental factors, which suggested that microbial interactions might change the soil resilience to the interference resulted from damaged mining areas, then furtherly affect soil ecosystem functions.
Conclusions: This study showed that network interactions were completely different across the different mining areas. The keystone species in different mining areas suggested that selected different microbial communities to resist the adverse environment. Moreover, the results of trait-based module significances showed that several environmental factors were significantly correlated with some keystone species. Our study also implied that the complex network of microbial interaction might drive the stand resilience of soil bacteria in the semi-humid and semi-arid disturbed mining areas.
Scientific Image Tampering Detection Based On Noise Inconsistencies: A Method And Datasets
Authors: Xiang Ziyue , Acuna Daniel Ernesto
Published: February 2020

Background: Scientific image tampering is a problem that affects not only authors but also the general perception of the research community. Although previous researchers have developed methods to identify tampering in natural images, these methods may not thrive under the scientific setting as scientific images have different statistics, format, quality, and intentions. Methods: We propose a scientific-image specific tampering detection method based on noise inconsistencies, which is capable of learning and generalizing to different fields of science. We train and test our method on a new dataset of manipulated western blot and microscopy imagery, which aims at emulating problematic images in science. Results: With an average AUC score of 0.927 and an average F1 score of 0.770, it is shown that our method can detect various types of image manipulation in different scenarios robustly. It outperforms other existing general-purpose image tampering detection schemes. Conclusions: The experiment results shows that our method is capable of detecting manipulations in scientific images in a more reliable manner. We discuss applications beyond these two types of images and suggest next steps for making detection of problematic images a systematic step in peer review and science in general. Keywords: Scientific images; Digital image forensics; Noise inconsistency; Scientific image manipulation dataset
Time dependent variational principle for tree Tensor Networks
Authors: Bauernfeind Daniel , Aichhorn Markus
Published: February 2020

We present a generalization of the Time Dependent Variational Principle (TDVP) to any finite sized loop-free tensor
network. The major advantage of TDVP is that it can be employed as long as a representation of the Hamiltonian in the
same tensor network structure that encodes the state is available. Often, such a representation can
be found also for long-range terms in the Hamiltonian. As an application we use TDVP for the Fork Tensor
Product States tensor network for multi-orbital Anderson impurity models. We demonstrate that TDVP allows to account
for off-diagonal hybridizations in the bath which are relevant when spin-orbit coupling effects are important, or when
distortions of the crystal lattice are present.
Global imperatives for development of international production networks: case of Ukraine
Authors: Duginets Ganna
Published: February 2020

The paper studies the theoretical and methodological principles, regularities, and new trends in the formation of international production networks (IPNs) in the global economic space. It determines the imperatives of their development, substantiating the priority nature of integrating national actors into IPNs. The author applies the methods of fuzzy clustering and classification using the artificial intelligence technologies to data on the dynamics of key economic and technological markers of 35 countries in the 2007–2016 time frame.The work identifies a clustering-like structure in the sample country set; allowing determining patterns in the correlation between a country’s manifested potential for ascending into and within international production networks and certain development and international integration indicators. The sample is thus grouped into six clusters based on the degree of integration into IPNs. Due to the use of classification analysis, the rules for assigning a country to a particular cluster were obtained. According to the results of the study, it was concluded that the main imperative for the development of international production networks is innovative development. The overall concept of localization of Ukrainian enterprises at all stages of value creation within networks was offered.
Evaluation of coupled ANN-GA model to prioritize flood source areas in ungauged watersheds
Authors: Dehghanian Naser , Saeid Mousavi Nadoushani S. , Saghafian Bahram , Damavandi Morteza Rayati
Published: February 2020

An important step in flood control planning is identification of flood source areas (FSAs). This study presents a methodology for identifying FSAs. Unit flood response (UFR) approach has been proposed to quantify FSAs at subwatershed and/or cell scale. In this study, a distributed ModClark model linked with Muskingum flow routing was used for hydrological simulations. Furthermore, a fuzzy hybrid clustering method was adopted to identify hydrological homogenous regions (HHRs) resulting in clusters involving the most effective variables in runoff generation as selected through factor analysis (FA). The selected variables along with 50-year rainfall were entered into an artificial neural network (ANN) model optimized via genetic algorithm (GA) to predict flood index (FI) at cell scale. The case studies were two semi-arid watersheds, Tangrah in northeastern Iran and Walnut Gulch Experimental Watershed in Arizona. The results revealed that the predicted values of FI via ANN-GA were slightly different from those derived via UFR in terms of mean squared error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and relative error (RE). Also, the prioritized FSAs via ANN-GA were almost similar to those of UFR. The proposed methodology may be applicable in prioritization of HHRs with respect to flood generation in ungauged semi-arid watersheds.
Contando histórias de quem “dormiu para sempre”:
Authors: Silveira Rosa Maria Hessel
Published: February 2020

A morte não é, correntemente, considerada um tema adequado para se falar com crianças. Assim, é comum ser tratada em narrativas infantis através de analogias que tentam amenizar emoções e sentimentos como dor, sofrimento e perda. Nesse artigo, articulamos o campo da literatura infantil – especificamente os estudos sobre o tema da morte nas obras para crianças - os estudos sobre a morte e sobre narrativas infantis. Analisamos narrativas produzidas por crianças de uma turma de 4º ano de escola pública após uma sessão de leitura compartilhada da obra Menina Nina, de Ziraldo, cuja temática central é a morte. A leitura da obra motivou as crianças a contarem suas próprias histórias em relação ao tema, com elementos de seu cotidiano, como a violência e a religiosidade. Entendemos que a leitura e a conversa sobre o tema são importantes ferramentas para a expressão das emoções das crianças sobre a morte, a perda e o luto.
MicroRNA-582-5p Reduces Propofol-induced Apoptosis in Developing Neurons by Targeting ROCK1
Authors: Zhang Zhongjie , Xu Yan , Chi Songyuan , Cui Longji
Published: February 2020

Background:

Propofol is an intravenous drug commonly used in anesthesia procedures
and intensive care in children. However, it also has neurotoxic effects on children. MicroRNA
plays an important role in neurological diseases and neurotoxicity.

Methods:

In this study, primary rat hippocampal neurons were used to investigate the role of miR-
582-5p in propofol-induced neurotoxicity. Cell viability was monitored by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl)-
2,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, while the expression
of proteins was monitored by real-time quantitation polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and
western blot. TargetScan and double luciferase report assay were used to predict the targeting relationship
between miR-582-5p and Rho-associated serine-threonine protein kinase 1 (ROCK1).

Results:

In the present study, the viability of neurons and the expression of miR-582-5p were decreased
in a time-dependent manner after propofol treatment. Besides, miR-582-5p overexpression
significantly reduced the toxicity of propofol on neuron cells but had no significant effect on normal
nerve cells. In addition, miR-582-5p overexpression significantly reversed the expression of
apoptosis-related proteins (cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved caspase 9) induced by propofol but had
no significant effect in normal nerve cells. TargetScan and Dual-luciferase report assay revealed
that ROCK1 was a targeted regulatory gene for miR-582-5p, and propofol treatment up-regulated
ROCK1 expression by inhibiting miR-582-5p expression. Notably, miR-582-5p overexpression
significantly increased cell viability, while ROCK1 overexpression reversed the effect of miR-582-
5p.

Conclusion:

Taken together, these findings suggest that miR-582-5p alleviated propofol-induced
apoptosis of newborn rat neurons by inhibiting ROCK1.
Association Between Preoperative Midline Shift Growing Rate and Outcomes of Decompressive Craniectomy in Patients with Malignant Middle Cerebral Artery Infarction
Authors: Yuan Ruozhen , Wu Simiao , Cheng Yajun , Ye Kaili , Hao Zilong , Zhang Shihong , Liu Yi , Liu Ming
Published: February 2020

Background:

Whether preoperative midline shift and its growing rate are associated
with outcomes of decompressive craniectomy in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction
is unknown.

Methods:

We retrospectively included patients: 1) who underwent decompressive craniectomy for
malignant middle cerebral artery infarction in West China Hospital from August 2010 to December
2, 2018) who had at least two brain computed tomography scans before decompressive craniectomy.
Midline shift was measured on the first and last preoperative computed tomography
scans. Midline shift growing rate was calculated by dividing Δmidline shift value using Δ time.
The primary outcome was inadequate decompression of the mass effect. Secondary outcomes were
3 month death and unfavorable outcomes.

Results:

Sixty-one patients (mean age 53.7 years, 57.4% (35/61) male) were included. Median
time from onset to decompressive craniectomy was 51.8 h (interquartile range: 39.7-77.8). Rates
of inadequate decompression, 3 month death, 3 month modified Rankin Scale 5-6 and 4-6 were
50.8% (31/61), 50.9% (29/57), 64.9% (37/57) and 84.2% (48/57), respectively. The inadequate decompression
group had a higher midline shift growing rate than the adequate decompression group
(median: 2.7 mm/8 h vs. 1.4 mm/8 h, P=0.041). No intergroup difference of 3 month outcomes
was found in terms of preoperative midline shift growing rate.

Conclusion:

Higher preoperative midline shift growing rate was associated with inadequate decompression
of decompressive craniectomy in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery
infarction.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and its Trafficking Regulation by Acetylation: Implication in Resistance and Exploring the Newer Therapeutic Avenues in Cancer
Authors: Kumar Manvendra , Joshi Gaurav , Chatterjee Joydeep , Kumar Raj
Published: February 2020

Background:

The EGFR is overexpressed in numerous cancers. So, it becomes one of the most favorable drug targets. Single-acting EGFR inhibitors on prolong use induce resistance and side effects. Inhibition of EGFR and/or its interacting proteins by dual/combined/multitargeted therapies can deliver more efficacious drugs with less or no resistance.

Objective:

The review delves deeper to cover the aspects of EGFR mediated endocytosis, leading to its trafficking, internalization, and crosstalk(s) with HDACs.

Methods and Results:

This review is put forth to congregate relevant literature evidenced on EGFR, its impact on cancer prognosis, inhibitors, and its trafficking regulation by acetylation along with the current strategies involved in targeting these proteins (EGFR and HDACs) successfully by involving dual/hybrid/combination chemotherapy.

Conclusion:

The current information on cross-talk of EGFR and HDACs would likely assist researchers in designing and developing dual or multitargeted inhibitors through combining the required pharmacophores.
Synthesis of TFA-protected α-Amino Acid Chloride via a Vilsmeier Reagent for Friedel–Crafts Acylation
Authors: Tachrim Zetryana Puteri , Oida Kazuhiro , Ohashi Fumina , Kurokawa Natsumi , Wang Lei , Suzuki Takeyuki , Hashimoto Makoto
Published: February 2020

α-Amino acid chlorides are reactive coupling agents in amide (peptide) formation. The
Vilsmeier reagent ((chloromethylene)dimethylammonium chloride) offers a convenient way to prepare
α-amino acid chlorides for peptide synthesis. Its use with N-trifluoracetyl (TFA)-protected isoleucine
and allo-isoleucine is described. The 1H-NMR of the α-proton signal offers a convenient way to monitor
the chirality retention in the acid chloride forming reaction and subsequent Friedel-Crafts acylation
of arenes which result in α-amino acid aryl-ketone with no loss of chirality.
Identifying Breast Cancer-induced Gene Perturbations and its Application in Guiding Drug Repurposing
Authors: Zhuang Jujuan , Dai Shuang , Zhang Lijun , Gao Pan , Han Yingmin , Tian Geng , Yan Na , Tang Min , Kui Ling
Published: February 2020

Background:

Breast cancer is a complex disease with high prevalence in women, the molecular mechanisms of which are still unclear at present. Most transcriptomic studies on breast cancer focus on differential expression of each gene between tumor and the adjacent normal tissues, while the other perturbations induced by breast cancer including the gene regulation variations, the changes of gene modules and the pathways, which might be critical to the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of breast cancer are more or less ignored.

Objective:

We presented a complete process to study breast cancer from multiple perspectives, including differential expression analysis, constructing gene co-expression networks, modular differential connectivity analysis, differential gene connectivity analysis, gene function enrichment analysis key driver analysis. In addition, we prioritized the related anti-cancer drugs based on enrichment analysis between differential expression genes and drug perturbation signatures.

Methods:

The RNA expression profiles of 1109 breast cancer tissue and 113 non-tumor tissues were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Differential expression of RNAs was identified using the “DESeq2” bioconductor package in R, and gene co-expression networks were constructed using the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). To compare the module changes and gene co-expression variations between tumor and the adjacent normal tissues, modular differential connectivity (MDC) analysis and differential gene connectivity analysis (DGCA) were performed.

Results:

Top differential genes like MMP11 and COL10A1 were known to be associated with breast cancer. And we found 23 modules in the tumor network had significantly different co-expression patterns. The top differential modules were enriched in Goterms related to breast cancer like MHC protein complex, leukocyte activation, regulation of defense response and so on. In addition, key genes like UBE2T driving the top differential modules were significantly correlated with the patients’ survival. Finally, we predicted some potential breast cancer drugs, such as Eribulin, Taxane, Cisplatin and Oxaliplatin.

Conclusion:

As an indication, this framework might be useful in understanding the molecular pathogenesis of diseases like breast cancer and inferring useful drugs for personalized medication.
Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals Functions of MicroRNAs in Rice Under the Drought Stress
Authors: Peng Yan , Liu Yuewu , Chen Xinbo
Published: February 2020

Background:

Drought is one of the most damaging and widespread abiotic stresses that can severely limit the rice production. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as a promising tool for improving the drought tolerance of rice and have become a hot spot in recent years.

Objective:

In order to further extend the understanding of miRNAs, the functions of miRNAs in rice under drought stress are analyzed by bioinformatics.

Method:

In this study, we integrated miRNAs and genes transcriptome data of rice under the drought stress. Some bioinformatics methods were used to reveal the functions of miRNAs in rice under drought stress. These methods included target genes identification, differentially expressed miRNAs screening, enrichment analysis of DEGs, network constructions for miRNA-target and target-target proteins interaction.

Results:

(1) A total of 229 miRNAs with differential expression in rice under the drought stress, corresponding to 73 rice miRNAs families, were identiﬁed. (2) 1035 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, which included 357 up-regulated genes, 542 down-regulated genes and 136 up/down-regulated genes. (3) The network of regulatory relationships between 73 rice miRNAs families and 1035 DEGs was constructed. (4) 25 UP_KEYWORDS terms of DEGs, 125 GO terms and 7 pathways were obtained. (5) The protein-protein interaction network of 1035 DEGs was constructed.

Conclusion:

(1) MiRNA-regulated targets in rice might mainly involve in a series of basic biological processes and pathways under drought conditions. (2) MiRNAs in rice might play critical roles in Lignin degradation and ABA biosynthesis. (3) MiRNAs in rice might play an important role in drought signal perceiving and transduction.
Stevia as a Natural Sweetener: A Review
Authors: Arumugam Balakrishnan , Subramaniam Arunambiga , Alagaraj Praveena
Published: February 2020

:

Stevia rebaudiana of the Asteraceae family is a perennial shrub. It is a sweetener herb also
known as sweet weed, sweet leaf, sweet herbs and honey leaf, native to Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay.
The leaves of stevia are sweeter than sucrose with zero calories. Steviol, a diterpenoid glycoside
derivative identified from this plant, is sweeter than sucrose and is safe when used as a sweetening
agent. Diabetic and obese people with hyperglycemia who are in a condition to follow a strict diet
can use stevioside as an alternative sweetener. In addition to its hypoglycemic property, the plant
also exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, antiseptic, diuretic, anti-fertility and cardiotonic
properties. It has also been documented to show good effects on treating skin diseases such
as dermatitis, acne, eczema etc. The leaves of stevia with enriched phytoconstituents could be an alternative
natural sweetener for children, adults and old age persons who have a craze to drink beverages
and eat sweetened food products in their habitual life.
La economía antioqueña antes de la Independencia, 1760-1821
Authors: Jurado Jurado Juan Carlos , García Estrada Rodrigo de J.
Published: February 2020

A partir de la historiografía más destacada, este artículo revisa la historia económica de la región antioqueña durante el periodo 1760-1810, mostrando los cambios más significativos de las estructuras y, en particular, de las relaciones dinámicas entre los diferentes sectores económicos. Teniendo presente la diferenciación y especialización de las distintas regiones neogranadinas, se evidencian las particularidades del caso antioqueño, caracterizado por el crecimiento sostenido de la población, el acelerado proceso de mestizaje, la descomposición de la institución esclavista y el predominio de población libre y multiétnica. Este agente económico permite comprender el desarrollo de la minería aurífera en manos de los llamados mazamorreros, cuya capacidad de consumo explica la proliferación de personas dedicadas al comercio, así como la creación de un mercado interno.
A Cardiology Handbook App to Improve Medical Education for Internal Medicine Residents: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Torabi Asad , Khemka Abhishek , Bateman Pantila V
Published: February 2020

Background

At most institutions, internal medicine residents struggle with balancing clinical duties and learning opportunities, particularly during busy cardiology ward rotations. To improve learning experiences for residents, we helped develop a cardiology handbook app to supplement cardiology education.

Objective

The aim of this study was to report the development, implementation, and preliminary impact of the Krannert Cardiology Handbook app on graduate medical education.

Methods

In June 2017, 122 residents at Indiana University were invited to download the digital handbook in the Krannert app. The Krannert app featured a total of 13 chapters written by cardiology fellows and faculty at Indiana University. Residents were surveyed on their self-reported improvement in cardiology knowledge and level of satisfaction after using the Krannert app. Residents were also surveyed regarding their preference for a digital handbook app versus a paper handbook.

Results

Of the 122 residents, 38 trainees (31.1%) participated in survey evaluations. Among all respondents, 31 app users (82%) reported that the app helped improve their cardiology knowledge base. The app had an overall favorable response.

Conclusions

The Krannert app shows promise in augmenting clinical education in cardiology with mobile learning. Future work includes adding new topics, updating the content, and comparing the app to other learning modalities.
In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation Practices and Outcomes in Maintenance Dialysis Patients
Authors: Starks Monique Anderson , Wu Jingjing , Peterson Eric D. , Stafford Judith A. , Matsouaka Roland A. , Boulware L. Ebony , Svetkey Laura P. , Chan Paul S. , Pun Patrick H. ,   for American Heart Association’s Get With the Guidelines-Resuscitation Investigators
Published: February 2020

Background and objectives

Patients on maintenance dialysis with in-hospital cardiac arrest have been reported to have worse outcomes relative to those not on dialysis; however, it is unknown if poor outcomes are related to the quality of resuscitation. Using the Get With The Guidelines-Resuscitation (GWTG-R) registry, we examined processes of care and outcomes of in-hospital cardiac arrest for patients on maintenance dialysis compared with nondialysis patients.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We used GWTG-R data linked to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid data to identify patients with ESKD receiving maintenance dialysis from 2000 to 2012. We then case-matched adult patients on maintenance dialysis to nondialysis patients in a 1:3 ratio on the basis of age, sex, race, hospital, and year of arrest. Logistic regression models with generalized estimating equations were used to assess the association of in-hospital cardiac arrest and outcomes by dialysis status.

Results

After matching, there were a total of 31,144 GWTG-R patients from 372 sites, of which 8498 (27%) were on maintenance dialysis. Patients on maintenance dialysis were less likely to have a shockable initial rhythm (20% versus 21%) and less likely to be within the intensive care unit at the time of arrest (46% versus 47%) compared with nondialysis patients; they also had lower composite scores for resuscitation quality (89% versus 90%) and were less likely to have defibrillation within 2 minutes (54% versus 58%). After adjustment, patients on maintenance dialysis had similar adjusted odds of survival to discharge (odds ratio [OR], 1.05; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.97 to 1.13), better acute survival (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.26 to 1.40), and were more likely to have favorable neurologic status (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.22) compared with nondialysis patients.

Conclusions

Although there appears to be opportunities to improve the quality of in-hospital cardiac arrest care for among those on maintenance dialysis, survival to discharge was similar for these patients compared with nondialysis patients.
The content of geodetic support
Authors: Oznamets V.V.
Published: February 2020

Currently, geodetic support is a complex of technologies and methods that solve a wide range of problems. A significant part of geodetic support performs the functions of supporting various areas of national economic activity (for example, in the field of cadastre or sustainable development of territories). Extensive experience has been accumulated in the use and development of geodetic support and there is a need for its generalization and systematization of geodetic support methods. Geodetic support develops with the improvement of equipment and technologies. It meets the information and technological needs of the society. The author highlights the main tasks of geodetic support, which result from two concepts of the development of geodesy