bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do people in China think about causes of their back pain? A predominantly qualitative cross-sectional survey
Authors: Li Yijun , Coppieters Michel W , Setchell Jenny , Hodges Paul , Scholten-Peeters Gwendolyne GM
Published: April 2020

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is the second highest cause of health burden in China. Delayed recovery, poor clinical outcomes and persistence of LBP are associated with negative pain beliefs about LBP. Chinese philosophies are nested into Chinese people’s daily life, which is likely to influence pain beliefs. However, there is lack of knowledge about people’s thinking patterns regarding their LBP in China. The primary aim of this study was to explore the patterns of beliefs (discourses) underlying Chinese people’s beliefs about what causes their persistent or recurrent LBP. The secondary aim was to investigate the sources of these pain beliefs. Methods: People (n=152) from South Central, East and North Mainland China with LBP completed an online survey about what they believed caused their persistent or recurrent LBP and where these understandings came from. Potential causes of persistent or recurrent LBP were explored qualitatively using discourse analysis. The sources of these discourses were assessed by descriptive statistics with conventional content analysis. Results: Five discourses were identified to underpin participants’ beliefs about what caused their persistent or recurrent LBP, namely: (1) biomedical problems (66.4%), (2) unbalanced lifestyle (48.7%), (3) menstruation and ‘kidney’ status (9.2%), (4) the ‘Five Elements’ imbalance (7.9%), and (5) energy status (5.9%). Most participants responded that their pain beliefs were based on information derived from healthcare professionals (59.2%), followed by the internet (24.3%) and family (23.0%). Conclusions: Chinese people from moderately and well-developed parts of Mainland China think predominantly in line with a Western biomedical viewpoint about their LBP. Traditional Chinese medicine related pain beliefs were evident on contemporary Chinese society’s understandings of LBP. These cultural beliefs could be relevant to consider in LBP management and involve healthcare professionals, family and patient in this process.
A cross-sectional study on associations of physical symptoms, health self-efficacy and suicidal ideation among Chinese hospitalized cancer patients following diagnosis.
Authors: Xu Qingyi , Jia Shuhua , Fukasawa Maiko , Lin Lin , Na Jun , Mu Zhen , Li Bo , Li Ningning , Zhao Tong , Ju Zaishuang , He Meng , Yu Lianzheng , Kawakami Norito , Jiang Chao
Published: April 2020

Background: To examine the association between physical symptoms and suicidal ideation among Chinese hospitalized cancer patients post-diagnosis, and test the modifying effect of health self-efficacy on this association. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 544 cancer patients from oncology setting in two general hospitals in northeastern China. Suicidal ideation data was collected by face-to-face interview using the Yale Evaluation of Suicidality scale (YES). Patients also rated on the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (MQOL), the Hamilton Depression Rating scale (HAMD-17) and the Strategies Used by People to Promote Health scale (SUPPH). Multivariable logistic regression was applied to examine the impact of physical symptoms, health self-efficacy and their interactions on suicidal ideation. Results: We found a suicidal ideation rate of 26.3% in patients following cancer diagnosis. Logistic regression showed that insomnia (aOR=1.84, 95% CI 1.13 to 3.00, p =0.015), lack of appetite (aOR=2.14, 95% CI 1.26 to 3.64, p =0.005) were significantly associated with suicidal ideation, low health self-efficacy showed a marginally significant exaggerating effect on the association between pain and suicidal ideation (aOR = 2.77, 95% CI 0.99 to 7.74, p =0.053), even after controlling socio-demographic, clinical characteristics and depression. Conclusions: Insomnia, loss of appetite, even after adjusting depression, are associated with suicidal ideation, health self-efficacy play a moderating role on pain and suicidal ideation among Chinese cancer patients. Paying attention to these physical symptoms and promoting the sense of health self-efficacy could be useful for suicide intervention.
Perspectives and practices of health workers around diagnosis of paediatric tuberculosis in hospitals in a resource-poor setting – modern diagnostics meet age-old challenges
Authors: Oliwa Jacquie Narotso , Odero Sabina Adhiambo , Nzinga Jacinta , Hensbroek Michaël Boele van , Jones Caroline , English Mike , Hoog Anja van't
Published: April 2020

Background Detection of tuberculosis (TB) in children in Kenya is sub-optimal. Xpert MTB/RIF® assay (Xpert®) has potential to improve speed of TB diagnosis due to its sensitivity and fast turnaround for results. Significant effort and resources have been put into making it widely available in Kenya, but its use remains low, especially in children. We set out to explore the reasons for the under-detection of TB and underuse of Xpert® in children, identifying challenges that may be relevant to other newer diagnostics in similar settings.Methods This was an exploratory qualitative study and data collection involved semi-structured interviews; small-group discussions; key informant interviews; observations of TB trainings, sensitisation meetings, policy meetings, hospital practices; and desk review of guidelines, job aides and policy documents. The Capability , Opportunity and Motivation (COM-B) framework was used to interpret emerging themes.Results At individual level, knowledge, skill, competence and experience, as well as beliefs and fears impacted on capability (physical & psychological) as well as motivation (reflective) to diagnose TB in children and use diagnostic tests. Hospital level influencers included hospital norms, processes & patient flows and resources which affected how individual health workers attempted to diagnose TB in children by impacting on their capability (physical & psychological) , motivation (reflective & automatic) and opportunity (physical & social). At the wider system level, community practices & beliefs, and implementation of TB programme directives impacted some of the decisions that health workers made through capability (psychological) , motivation (reflective & automatic) and opportunity (physical).Conclusion We used comprehensive approaches to identify influencers of TB case detection and use of TB diagnostic tests in children in Kenya. These results are being used to design a contextually-appropriate intervention to improve TB diagnosis, which may be relevant to similar low-resource, high TB burden countries.
HfB2-doped ZrB2-30 vol.% SiC composites: Oxidation resistance behavior
Authors: Dodi Ebrahim , Balak Zohre
Published: April 2020

In order to investigate the HfB2 on microstructure and oxidation resistance of ZrB2-30 vol% SiC, ZrB2-30 vol% SiC composites with different amount of HfB2 (4, 8 and 12 vol%) were SPSed. Microstructural evaluations were done by scanning electron microscopic (SEM). In order to investigate the oxidation resistance, the samples were placed in box furnace at the temperature of 1400 C for different times. The samples were weighted before and after the oxidation and the 𝛥w was applied as criterion of oxidation. Thickness of SiO2 layer and Si depleted layer were also used as oxidation criterion. The results showed that HfB2 addition, caused to decrease 𝛥w and better oxidation resistance.
Negative impacts of excessive nitrogen fertilization on the abundance and diversity of diazotrophs in black soil with monocropping maize
Authors: Chen La , Li Keke , Shi Wenjun , Wang Xiaolin , Wang Entao , Sui Xinhua , Mi Guohua , Tian Changfu , Chen Wenxin
Published: April 2020

Background: Excessive nitrogen fertilizer input and low nitrogen fertilizer use efficiency in maize in China are serious ecological and economic problems, which might affect the procedures in the nitrogen cycle. To reveal the effects of long-term excessive nitrogen fertilization on diazotrophs in maize rhizosphere and bulk soil, we performed a long-term (five-year) N-input experiment (N rates from 0 to 300 kg N ha -1 ) in black soil maize in northeast China. The effect of N fertilizer application rates on the abundance, structure and compositions of diazotrophic community in both the bulk soil and rhizosphere of maize were investigated by Real-time quantitative PCR and high-throughput sequencing, and a structural equation model was constructed based on this study.Results: 1) Excessive N fertilization significantly reduced the abundance and diversity of diazotrophs. 2) The accumulation of Sphingobium was correlated positively with soil nitrate concentration and soil EC, and negatively with soil pH. The contrast correlation was found in Burkholderia . 3) Diazotrophs were enriched in maize rhizosphere, but the diversity and compositions of diazotrophic community were less affected by maize rhizosphere effect. 4) The enriched Bradyrhizobium and Methylobacterium in maize rhizosphere showed a significant positive correlation with of maize plant biomass. Conclusions: Our results suggest that through affecting soil pH, nitrate and EC values, long-term excessive N input increase Sphingobium accumulation and reduce the abundance of beneficial diazotrophs such as Bradyrhizobium and Burkholderia ，which contribute to the decreased nitrogen use efficiency.
What determines the price of Bonga sheep at the market level in Southwestern Ethiopia? A Hedonic Price Analysis
Authors: Tarekegn Kassa
Published: April 2020

Bonga sheep is a mutton type breed with long-fat-tail and higher body weight at maturity. The breed is mainly located in Kaffa, Bench-Majji and Sheka zones of the southwestern mid and highland land areas of Ethiopia. Currently, the breed was well known in Ethiopia and also its price is higher as compared to other breeds in the country. However, empirical evidence is lacking on price determinants of the breed in Ethiopia. Therefore, this research was attempted to analyze the factors that determine the market prices of Bonga sheep in southwestern Ethiopia. Data from 300 traded sheep and sheep marketers were collected from five major sheep marketing centers in the Kaffa zone. The hedonic pricing models adjusted for heteroscedasticity were employed to analyze the collected data. The analysis result confirmed that the attributes of the sheep were the important guiding criteria in price formulation. The result also showed that the attributes of the sheep like age, sex, colour, body condition, tail type and presence of horn as well as types of buyers, market place and season were the significant determinants of sheep price. Therefore, targeting in systematic selection the attributes demanded by the market and establishment of community-based selection breeding program in Kaffa and neighboring zones to make sheep improvement sustainable and sheep keepers benefit from the intervention. Besides, effort should be geared to transform the system into a market-oriented system using a value chain framework by improving linkages to markets, access to market information systems.
Distribution of sources of household air pollution: a cross-sectional study in Cameroon.
Authors: Baame Esong Miranda , Goura André Pascal , Mbatchou Bertrand Hugo Ngahane , Walage Berenice , Simo Herman Styve Yomi , Medjou Romarique Mboumo , Sonkoue Martial Pianta , Djouda Cyrielle Douanla , Ngnewa Rose Suzie Fowoh , Guiagain Milaine Sandra Teugueu , Agokeng Brice-Donald Kemnang , Homla Olivia Tania Megaptche , Pope Dan , Ateudjieu Jerome
Published: April 2020

Background: Household air pollution (HAP) is a recognised risk factor for many diseases, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular/circulatory disorders, adverse pregnancy outcomes and cataracts. Population exposure to biomass fuels, including wood, varies among countries and from one fuel source to the other. This study aimed to investigate the different sources of HAP in peri-urban and rural communities in Cameroon.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a representative sample of households from the Dschang Health District ( DHD) region. This included 848 homes in which a range of fuels for cooking including biomass (firewood, charcoal, sawdust), kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were used both indoors and outdoors.Results: Of the study households, 651 (77%) reported exclusive use of firewood and 141 (17%) reported using more than one source of fuel. Exclusive use of firewood was greater in rural communities (94%) than in peri-urban communities (38%). In peri-urban communites, use of multiple fuels including LPG, wood, sawdust and kerosene, was more common (44.75%). A total of 25.03% of households in both peri-urban and rural communities reported using bottled gas (or liquified petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking. Motivations for choice of fuel included, price, availability (easy access), rapidity, tradition or culture related factors.Conclusions: Work to help households (especially those who are resource poor) to adopt LPG equipment for cooking, and use in a more exclusive way is required. Education could help address some of the concerns over the use of LPG.
Resistin Levels In Healthy Non-Diabetes Nigerian-Africans: Effect Of Obesity The ABU Adiporesistin Survey
Authors: Onyemelukwe Obiageli UZOAMAKA , Ogoina Dimie , (MON) Geoffery Chukwubuike Onyemelukwe
Published: April 2020

Background Conflicting findings exist on the mechanisms of resistin in obesity and insulin resistance among white populations, as data on these in black Africans are scarce, on account of genetic/geographical differences. Hence, the study aimed to determine plasma resistin levels in Nigerian-Africans and explore its relationship with obesity and selected cardiometabolic risks. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study on 87 randomly-selected non-diabetes Nigerians of both genders allocated into three study groups: 24 normal weight; 23 overweight and 40 obese groups by the WHO criteria. Fasting Insulin (FI), Homeostasis Model Assessment-Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and obesity indices were determined. Plasma resistin was measured via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. One-way Kruskal-Wallis test determined cardiometabolic parameters across the groups with Spearman’s correlation assessing relationships. Results Resistin levels were higher in overweight and obese than normal weight subjects {6.6±3.8, 6.7±4.2 versus 5.6±2.9 µIU/mL, ( p<0.001 )}, with highest concentrations in severely obese than mildly and non-obese subjects {(7.4±5.6 versus 6.7±4.2 versus 6.05±3.0 µIU/mL ( p<0.001 , One-way Kruskal-Wallis). However, resistin showed no significant ( p>0.05 ) correlations to HOMA-IR, FI and obesity indices. The higher HOMA-IR found in overweight and obese than normal weight subjects (3.7±3.5, 2.9±2.4 vs. 2.1±0.4, p<0.001 ), was positively correlated to obesity and FI, which also increased from mild to severe BMI categories. Conclusion Higher resistin concentrations are found in severe obesity among non-diabetes black Africans, but its lack of correlation with insulin resistance and obesity indices may suggests possible interplay of other pro-inflammatory cytokines or hormones which may be evaluated in further studies.
A Competing-Risk Nomogram Predicting Second Primary Malignancy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Survivors
Authors: Sun Xuqi , Chen Jinbin , Wang Juncheng , Zhou Zhongguo , Xu Li , Zhang Yaojun , Hu Dandan , Chen MS
Published: April 2020

Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) survivors are increasing due to the improvement of survival. Follow-up scheme to prevent recurrence is routinely recommended, but are these patients exposed to increased risks of second malignancies remains unknown. We aimed to identify risk factors for second primary malignancies (SPM) among HCC survivors and develop a predicting model accordingly. Methods: We identified HCC patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2004 to 2014. For the incidence of specific SPMs, standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated. The proportional hazard model was performed in order to discover hazards of SPM, and a competing-risk nomogram was developed to stratify patients with different incidences for SPM. Results:The crude incidence of SPM was 2.70% in HCC survivors, with the SIR of 1.09. HCC survivors had significantly higher incidences of SPM in the following sites: oral cavity and pharynx, stomach, intra and extrahepatic bile duct, lung and bronchus, kidney and renal pelvis, thyroid and lymphatic system (p< 0.05). Patients with diagnosed age at 61-75 years old, smaller tumor size, better histologic differentiation, earlier AJCC stage or surgical history had higher risks for SPM. The c-index of the competing-risk nomogram was 0.663. The cumulative incidences of SPM were significantly different among each quartile of patients stratified by the predicting model (p< 0.05). Conclusion:HCC survivors had an excess risk for SPMs, especially those with promising prognostic factors. This nomogram was the first competing-risk model for identifying high-risk cohort and assist clinical screening.
Comparative population genomic analysis uncovers novel genomic footprints and genes associated with small body size in Chinese pony
Authors: Nanaei Hojjat Asadollahpour , Esmailizadeh Ali , Mehrgardi Ahmad Ayatollahi , Jianlin Han , Wu Dong-Dong , Li Yan , Zhang Ya-Ping
Published: April 2020

Background Body size is considered as one of the most fundamental properties of an organism. Due to intensive breeding and artificial selection throughout the domestication history, horses exhibit striking variations for heights at withers and body sizes. Debao pony (DBP), a famous Chinese horse, is known for its small body size and lives in Guangxi mountains of southern China. In this study, we employed comparative population genomics to study the genetic basis underlying the small body size of DBP breed based on the whole genome sequencing data. To detect genomic signatures of positive selection, we applied three methods based on population comparison, fixation index (FST), cross population composite likelihood ratio (XP-CLR) and nucleotide diversity (Pi), and further analyzed the results to find genomic regions under selection for body size-related traits.Results A number of protein-coding genes with significant (P-value < 0.01) higher FST values (367 genes), XP-CLR scores (681 genes), and a lower value for nucleotide diversity (332 genes) were identified. The most significant signal of positive selection was mapped to the NELL1 gene, probably underlies the body size and development traits, and may also have independently been selected for short stature in the DBP population. In addition, some other loci on different chromosomes were identified to be potentially involved in the development of body size.Conclusions Results of our study identified some positively selected genes across the horse genome, which are possibly involved in body size traits. These novel candidate genes may be useful targets for clarifying our understanding of the molecular basis of body size and as such they should be of great interest for future research into the genetic architecture of relevant traits in horse breeding program.
Evaluation of four scoring systems in prognostication of acute pancreatitis for elderly patients
Authors: Li Yajie , Zhang Jun , Zou Jihong
Published: April 2020

Objectives : To evaluate the four scoring systems, including Ranson, BISAP, Glasgow, and APACHE II in the prognostic assessment of acute pancreatitis (AP) for elderly patients. Methods: A retrospective study of 918 patients presenting with AP was done at Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, from January 2015 to December 2018. The patients were divided into two groups: 368 patients who were ≥60 years old, and 550 patients who were <60 years old. Four scoring systems were used to analyze all patients. Results: The severity of the disease, and mortality are significantly different between the two groups (p-value <0.05), while the difference between the two groups about pancreatic necrosis is statistically insignificant (p-value =0.399). The differences of the AUCs (Area under curves) in prognostication of SAP (severe acute pancreatitis) between the two groups are statistically significant (p-value <0.05) for Ranson and APACHE II, while for BISAP and Glasgow, the differences are statistically insignificant. All the four scoring systems are effective and similar in prediction of pancreatic necrosis and death for both groups.Conclusions: Prediction of severity, pancreatic necrosis and death in AP for elderly patients can be performed very well by using BISAP. APACHE II is more suitable for younger patients when dealing with severity. Ranson and Glasgow can be used to evaluate all AP patients in most cases, however, Ranson is more effective for younger patients when used to assess severity.
Prevalence and associated factors of antenatal depression among women attending antenatal care follow up at Michu Clinic in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia 2019.
Authors: Beyene Birhane Gebrehiwot , Gebremichael Gebrewahd Bezabhy , Gebreselassie Abreha Tsegay
Published: April 2020

Background

Antenatal depression is a serious mental health problem that can negatively affect the lives of women. Depressive disorders are not only common and chronic among women throughout the world but also the principal source of disability. The scarce information and limited attention to the problem might aggravate the consequence of the problem and can limit the intervention to be taken. So the purpose of the study is to determine the prevalence and associated factors of antenatal depression among women.

Methods

An institutional based cross sectional study was conducted by systemic random sampling technique among 203 pregnant women following Antenatal care at Michu clinic in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from March to June 2019. An interviewer administered Beck Depression Inventory (II) questionnaire was used to assess individual’s depression condition after consent obtained from participants. Data was entered and analyzed by using statically package for social science version 22. Then bivariate regression with p-value ≤0.25 was entered in to multivariate regression with p-value
The nutriRECIPE-Index - Development and Validation of a Nutrient-Weighted Index for the Evaluation of Recipes
Authors: Forner Frank , Volkhardt Ina , Meier Toni , Christen Olaf , Stangl Gabriele I.
Published: April 2020

Background: Our objective was to develop a nutrient-based index for evaluating and improving menus in public catering. The nutriRECIPE-Index comprises 24 nutrients/nutrient groups, and in developing the index, the following steps were included: setting the goals of the index, nutrient selection, target metrics and scaling, weighing, proof of concept and the validation of the index. Furthermore, a unique database was created to integrate bioactive plant compounds in the assessment. An assessment of standard recipes and supposedly healthy recipes should show a significant difference in the results of the nutriRECIPE-Index. Finally, the nutriRECIPE-Index should prove to generate similar or more specific results than existing indices like the nutriScore and the Healthy Meal Index.Methods : A whole meal cycle (comprising 6 weeks, 106 recipes and including different menu lines, partially with different side dishes) at a university canteen was analysed with the Federal Food Code (BLS) and the nutriRECIPE-Index. The Healthy Meal Index (comprising 3 nutritionally relevant items) and the nutriScore-algorithm (comprising 7 items) were used to validate the nutrient composition and the results of the nutriRECIPE-Index.Results : The resulting scores of the recipes and menu lines show substantial differences, while the meals of a health-promoting menu line usually received higher scores than the standard recipes. A correlation between the scores of the nutriRECIPE-Index and the scores of the Healthy Meal Index (0.604) and the Nutri-Score (0.591) was observed. The nutriRECIPE-Index was better in identifying the worst menus, and in separating mediocre menus from the good ones.Conclusion : The nutriRECIPE index is a useful and comprehensive tool to evaluate the nutritional value of recipes and is the first to consider bioactive plant compounds. Further adjustments to different target populations, settings, and cultural backgrounds are possible.
Development and validation of prognostic factors for lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancer: A SEER analysis
Authors: Li Xingchen , Cheng Yuan , Dong Yangyang , Zhou Jingyi , Yang Xiao , Shen Boqiang , Wu Xiaotong , Wang Zhiqi , Li Xiaoping , Wang Jianliu
Published: April 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a nomogram that can be used to predict lymph node metastasis (LNM) in patients with endometrial carcinoma (EC). Methods: Clinical data of EC patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 were retrieved from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) registry. The nomogram was constructed using independent risk factors chosen using a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Accuracy was validated for both groups using discrimination analysis and calibration curves. The predictive accuracy and clinical value of the nomogram and Mayo criteria were compared using decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: The final study group consisted of 63,836 women that met specific inclusion criteria. The factors that were identified in the multivariate analysis to be notable predictors of LNM were age, tumor size, histological type, cervical stromal invasion, tumor grade, and myometrial invasion. These risk factors were included in the nomogram. Discriminations of the nomogram and Mayo criteria were 0.848 (95% CI: 0.843-0.853) and 0.806 (95%CI: 0.801-0.812), respectively. In the validation group, the AUC values were 0.847 (95%CI: 0.840-0.857) and 0.804 (95%CI: 0.796-0.813) for the nomogram and the Mayo criteria, respectively ( P <0.01). Calibration plots showed that training and validation cohorts were well-calibrated. DCA revelaed that by using the nomogram always had a positive net benefit compared to using the Mayo criteria. Conclusions: A nomogram was developed to predict LNM in EC patients based on a large population-based analysis. The nomogram showed good performance for predicting LNM in patients with EC.
Serum lipid profiles of patients taking efavirenz based antiretroviral regimen compared to ritonavir-boosted atazanavir with an optimized back ground at Zewditu Memorial Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Belete Abebe Muche , Seifu Daniel , Menon Menakath , Amogne Wondwossen , Shewa Aster , Tefera Alemu Adela
Published: April 2020

Background: Dyslipidemia represent significant health care concerns in Human immune deficiency virus (HIV) infected patients taking highly active antiretroviral therapy due to their association with cardiovascular disease risk. There is limited data regarding the effects of boosted atazanavir (ATV/r) treatment in the lipid profiles of Ethiopian HIV patients. Thus, this study compares the lipid profile changes of HIV patients on ATV/r-based regimen compared to efavirenz (EFV)-based regimen, while the background nucleos/tide backbone is optimized.Materials and methods: A comparative Hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted among adult HIV-infected patients at Zewditu Memorial Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from July-September 2017. Equal number of EFV and ATV/r-treated patients (n = 90 each) taking for one year and above were included in the study. Serum lipid parameters (triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)) were measured using fully automated mind ray, Chemistry analyzer. Data comparison used chi-square test, Student t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Multivariate regression analysis and p-value<0.05 was used to identify associated factors of serum lipid profiles.Results: In the present study ATV/r-treated group resulted significantly higher in the median values of TG [207 (56-1094) vs. 145(42-768) mg/dL; p=0.001] and the mean value of TG/HDL-C ratio (6.6 vs. 4.4; p=0.001) as compared to EFV-treated group. EFV-treated group showed significantly higher in the mean value of HDL-C (44.7 vs. 38.7mg/dL; p= 0.001) as compared to ATV/r-treated group. No significant difference was found in TC (p=0.5), LDL-C (p=0.6), TC/HDL-C (p=0.5) and LDL-C/HDL-C (p=0.1) between EFV and ATV/r-treated patients. In ATV/r-treated patients, CD4 count and body mass index (BMI) was significantly associated with TC. In EFV-treated patients, BMI was significantly associated with increased serum LDL-C and TC in female participants.Conclusion: In conclusion, ATV/r raises TG and TG/HDL-C while, HDL-C was higher in EFV than ATV/r-treated group. Both groups have less atherogenic lipid profiles in terms of TC/HDL-C and LDL/HDL-C.
Glucose 6-phosphate transport regulatory protein UhpA regulates the virulent genes in Edwardsiella piscicida
Authors: Wang Xuepeng , Chen Jiakang , Sun Yongcan , Ye Tingqi
Published: April 2020

Edwardsiella piscicida (E. piscicida) is an important zoonotic pathogen, which infects animals by colonizing the intestine. Glucose 6-phosphate (Glu6P) was an important carbohydrate in intestine and could be used as a regulate signal. Here we identify a virulence-regulating pathway named Glu6P transport regulatory protein UhpA, which affects the virulent genes of hemolysins, flagellar, T3SS, T6SS and metabolism related genes how to promote E. piscicida infect the host. The results showed that the metabolism related gene expression of cysteine synthase (orf 1134) and sulfate transporter (ychM) in the uhpA mutant strain ΔuhpA was 0.76-fold and 0.68-fold lower than the ones in the wild strains (P < 0.05), the gene expression of ethA and ethB in the ΔuhpA strain was 0.80-fold and 0.72-fold lower than the ones in the wild strains (P < 0.05). However, the gene expression of fliC and flgN in the ΔuhpA was 1.51-fold and 1.21-fold higher than the ones in the wild strains (P < 0.05), the gene expression of T3SS (esrB and esrC) and T6SS (evpB and evpC) in the ΔuhpA was 1.27-fold, 1.13-fold 1.28-fold and 1.23-fold higher than the ones in the wild strains (P < 0.05). Besides, the survival rate of fish challenged with E. piscicida EIB202 and ΔuhpA was 50% and 30% respectively. These suggested that although the uhpA gene deletion decreased the metabolic level and the hemolysins related gene expression in E. piscicida, the uhpA gene could down regulate the key virulent gene expression to decrease the pathogenicity of E. piscicida in fish.
Evaluating the Impact of Social Deprivation on Press Ganey® Outpatient Medical Practice Survey Scores
Authors: Stephens Andrew R , Potter Jared W , Tyser Andrew R , Kazmers Nikolas H
Published: April 2020

Background Social deprivation has been shown to affect access to health care services, and influences outcomes for a variety of physical and psychological conditions. However, the impact on patient satisfaction remains less clear. The objective of this study was to determine if social deprivation is an independent predictor of patient satisfaction, as measured by the Press Ganey® Outpatient Medical Practice Survey (PGOMPS). Methods We retrospectively reviewed unique new adult patient (≥18 years of age) seen at a tertiary academic hospital and rural/urban outreach hospitals/clinics between January 2014 and December 2017. Satisfaction was defined a priori as achieving a score above the 33 rd percentile. The 2015 Area Deprivation Index (ADI) was used to determine social deprivation (lower score signifies less social deprivation). Univariate and multivariable binary logistic regression were used to determine the impact of ADI on PGOMPS total and provider sub-scores while controlling for variables previously shown to impact scores (wait time, patient age, sex, race, specialty type, provider type, and insurance status). Results Univariate analysis of PGOMPS total scores revealed a 4% decrease in odds of patient satisfaction per decile increase in ADI (p < 0.001). Patients within the most deprived quartile were significantly less likely to report satisfaction compared to the least deprived quartile (OR 0.79, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that the odds of achieving satisfaction decreased 2% for each decile increase in ADI on the Total Score (p < 0.001), independent of other variables previously shown to impact scores. For PGOMPS Provider Sub-Score, univariate analysis showed that patients in the lowest ADI quartile were significantly less likely be satisfied, as compared to the least deprived quartile (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.70 to 0.86; p < 0.001). A 5% decrease in a patient being satisfied was observed for each decile increase in ADI (OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.94 to 0.96; p < 0.001). Conclusions Social deprivation was an independent predictor of outpatient visit dissatisfaction, as measured by the Press Ganey® Outpatient Medical Practice Survey. These results necessitate consideration when developing health care delivery policies that serve to minimize inequalities between patients of differing socioeconomic groups.
Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Fields Enhance Mesenchymal Stem Cells Differentiation via DNMT1 regulated OCT4/NANOG gene expression
Authors: Li Kejia , Ning Tong , Wang Hao , Jiang Yangzi , Zhang Jue , GE Zigang
Published: April 2020

Background: Multiple strategies have been proposed to promote the differentiation potential of MSCs, which is the fundamental property in tissue formation and regeneration. However, these strategies are relatively inefficient that limit the application, thus more advanced methods are needed. In this study, we report a novel and efficient strategy, nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEFs) stimulation, which can enhance the trilineage differentiation potential of MSCs; and further explained the mechanism behind. Methods: We used histological staining to screen out the nsPEFs parameters that promoted the trilineage differentiation potential of MSCs, and further proved the effect of nsPEFs by detecting the functional gene. In order to explore the corresponding mechanism, we examined the expression of pluripotency genes and the methylation of their promoters. Finally, we targeted the DNA methyltransferase which was affected by nsPEFs. Results: The trilineage differentiation of bone marrow derived MSCs was significantly enhanced in vitro by simply pre-treated with 5 pulses of nsPEFs stimulation (energy levels as 10 ns, 20 kV/cm; 100 ns, 10 kV/cm), and this was due to the nsPEFs demethylated the promoters of stem cell pluripotency genes OCT4 and NANOG through instantaneous downregulation of DNA Methylation Transferase 1 (DNMT1), thereby increased the expression of OCT4 and NANOG for up to 3 days, and created a treatment window period of stem cells. Conclusions: In summary, nsPEFs can enhance MSCs differentiation via the epigenetic regulation, and could be a safe and effective strategy for future stem cell application.
Distribution Of Tsetse Flies And Significance To The Control Of African Trypanosomiasis In Busia County, Kenya
Authors: Adungo Ferdinard , Mokaya Tom , Makwaga Olipher , Mwau Matilu
Published: April 2020

Background: Tsetse flies are the cyclical vectors of both human and animal diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa. Since 2012, Kenya has not recorded a case of human trypanosomiasis. However, African animal trypanosomiasis continues to be a major challenge to livestock production despite decades of control efforts. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of tsetse flies in Busia County post intervention and to build the capacity of local inhabitants in vector control activities. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2018 and December 2018 in Teso South and Teso North sub-counties. Odour-baited biconical traps were deployed for 48 hours in each sampling area and captured tsetse flies were analysed for trypanosome infections. Additionally, training and field demonstrations were conducted as part of capacity building to enhance participation of local inhabitants in tsetse control activities. Results: In Teso South sub-county, 62 tsetse flies were captured in Kwangamor, six in Obekai and 14 in Ngelechom sites. All the captured tsetse flies were classified as G. fuscipes fuscipes. In Teso North sub-county sites of Kapesur, three G. pallidipes were captured, while the Ikapolok sites yielded 12 tsetse flies all G. fuscipes fuscipes. The apparent density of tsetse flies was between 0.08 and 1.55 flies-per trap-per-day across the five study areas with G. fuscipes fuscipes being the dominant species. Microscopic examination of 72 G. fuscipes fuscipes identified three T vivax and one T. congolense positive tsetse flies. No trypanosomes were observed in all the G. pallidipes. Overall infection rate of 1.39% and 4.17% was observed for T. congolense and T. vivax respectively. With regards to capacity building, a total of 26 community members were trained on tsetse fly control activities. Out of which five were selected as focal persons and were further trained on integrated vector management techniques and tsetse survey methods. Conclusions: Tsetse flies in Teso South sub-county, albeit low density, harbour trypanosomes. This calls for an urgent attention to stop potential spread and transmission. Moreover, training of local inhabitants in tsetse control activities will help to strengthen and sustain efforts towards elimination of African trypanosomiasis in Busia County.
A Novel Chalcone derivative suppresses Melanoma cell growth through targeting Fyn/Stat3 pathway
Authors: Tang Ling , Long Jing , Li Keke , Zhang Xu , Chen Xiang , Peng Cong
Published: April 2020

Background: Fyn has been documented to have oncogenic features in multiple tumors, which might be a potential therapeutic target, however, few studies on the function role of Fyn and its specific inhibitors in melanoma.Methods: We investigated the impacts of Fyn and its inhibitors Lj-1-60 on melanoma by way of bioinformatics analysis, western blot, cell viability, cell cycle and apoptosis and xenograft tumor model as well as immunohistochemical staining. Pull-down and in vitro phosphorylation assay to further demonstrate Lj-1-60 targeting Fyn. Transcriptome sequencing and RT-PCR to confirm the potential mechanisms of Lj-1-60 in melanoma.Results: Our findings showed that Fyn is overexpressed in melanoma cells and knock down of Fyn suppresses the proliferation of melanoma cells. To identify the potential inhibitors of Fyn, our in-house library including total of 11277 chemicals was conducted to vitro screening, among those compounds, eighty-three inhibitors were further detected to explore the effect on melanoma cells growth and discovered a novel chalcone derivative Lj-1-60 exhibited low cellular toxicity and high anti-tumor efficacy. Lj-1-60 directly associates with Fyn and inhibits the Fyn kinase activity with Stat3 as substrate. What’s more, Lj-1-60 suppresses the proliferation of melanoma in vitro and in vivo through inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Moreover, the activation of Stat3 had also been abrogated both in Lj-1-60 treated melanoma cells or Fyn knocking down cells.Conclusion: Our study revealed a novel Fyn inhibitor could significantly suppress melanoma growth, which is a promising potential inhibitor for melanoma treatment.
COVID-19 Impact Estimation on ICU Capacity at Andalusia, Spain, Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Prieto F. A. , Baltas N. G. , Rios-Pena L. , Rodriguez P.
Published: April 2020

The objective of this article is to evaluate the spread of the virus and estimate the cases of infected population in need of urgent hospitalization, in order to provide sufficient resources to public health. To this end, a deep learning tool based on deep neural networks (DNN) was developed to predict COVID-19 infection and the need for urgent hospitalization in some of the infected patients. We associated the available resources of public hospitals and evaluated the need to increase them after the possible substantial increase caused by SARS-CoV-2 by provinces in the regions of Andalusia, Spain.
A method for evaluation of patient-specific lean body mass from limited-coverage CT images and its application in PERCIST: comparison with predictive equation
Authors: Shang Jingjie , Tan Zhiqiang , Cheng Yong , Tang Yongjin , Guo Bin , Gong Jian , Ling Xueying , Wang Lu , Xu Hao
Published: April 2020

Background : To introduce a novel and reliable method for estimating LBM by limited-coverage (LC) CT images from PET/CT examinations and test its validity, then to analyse whether SUV normalised by LC-based LBM could change the PERCIST 1.0 response classifications, based on LBM estimated by the James predictive equation (PE). Methods: First, 199 patients who received whole-body PET/CT examinations were retrospectively retrieved. A patient-specific LBM equation was developed based on the relationship between LC fat volumes (FV LC ) and whole-body fat mass (FM WB ). This equation was cross-validated with an independent sample of 97 patients who also received whole-body PET/CT examinations. Its results were compared with the measurement of LBM from whole-body CT (reference standard) and the results of the James PE. Then, 241 patients with solid tumours who underwent PET/CT examinations before and after treatment were retrospectively retrieved. The treatment responses were evaluated according to the PE-based and LC-based PERCIST 1.0. Concordance between them was assessed using Cohen’s κ coefficient and Wilcoxon’s signed-ranks test. The impact of differing LBM algorithms on PERCIST 1.0 classification was evaluated. Results: The FV LC were significantly correlated with the FM WB (r=0.977). Furthermore, the results of LBM measurement evaluated with LC images were much closer to the reference standard than those obtained by the James PE. The PE-based and LC-based PERCIST 1.0 classifications were discordant in 27 patients (11.2 %; κ = 0.823, P =0.837). These discordant patients’ percentage changes of SUL peak were all in the interval above or below 10 % from the threshold (± 30 %), accounting for 43.5 % (27/62) of total patients in this region. The degree of variability is related to changes in LBM before and after treatment. Conclusions: LBM algorithm-dependent variability in PERCIST 1.0 classification is a notable issue. SUV normalised by LC-based LBM could change PERCIST 1.0 response classifications based on LBM estimated by the James PE, especially for patients with a percentage variation of SUL peak close to the threshold.
An SDN-Based Energy-Aware Traffic Management Mechanism
Authors: Vieira Alex B. , Paraizo Wallace Nascimento , Chaves Luciano Jerez , Correa Luiz H. A. , Silva Edelberto Franco
Published: April 2020

Green computing is a central theme in many computer science areas, including computer networks. Dynamic solutions that can properly adjust network resources can prevent infrastructure over-provision and mitigate power consumption during low demand periods. In this work, we propose DTM (Dynamic mechanism for Traffic Management), an energy-aware dynamic mechanism for traffic management, built upon the SDN paradigm. DTM continuously monitors the use of network links to concentrate traffic and disconnect idle equipment without degrading the offered quality of service. Our simulations show that the mechanism can save up to 46% of energy on average. When compared to an existing solution, DTM is, on average, 4% to 7% better, depending on the evaluated scenario.
Informative archaeological signatures at Bahía de las Ánimas, Baja California
Authors: Ritter Erie W. , Foster John W. , Orlins Robert I. , Payen Louis A. , Bouey Paul D.
Published: April 2020

Bahía de las Ánimas along Baja California's central GuIf coast was a major focus of prebistoric activities. Here family groups relied on a rich and diverse marine and terrestrial food base close at hand. Numerous archaeological sites are evident including shellmounds, f1aked stone tool worlcshops, smaller residential bases, and a mortuary center. Occupation is evident from initial Mission-era sites with brown ware ceramics to remains perhaps thousands of years old. It is hypothesized that over time the regional inhabitants may have intensified and diversified their food gathering practices with concomitant popuJation increases and links with areas nearby including those to the interior and Bahía de los Ángeles. Stress reduction mechanisms, in addition to the regionallinks with othec groups, may have included various ritual activities and the beginnings of social differentiation.
Contribución al debate sobre la vocación espacial rural. Un enfoque sobre el modelo residencial ejidal del valle de Mexicali
Authors: Toudert Djamel
Published: April 2020

¿Tenemos los medios para hacer dos políticas, una urbana y otra rural? ¿Podemos considerar la salvación del mundo rural dentro de una alternativa diferente a la de la política agricola? En este trabajo, más que aportar soluciones, se plantean diversos cuestionamientos; el propósito es reflexionar sobre el debate de las mutacionesespaciales que afectan al mundo rural, visto a través de algunas interacciones del modelo residencial dentro del marco de la conurbación del desplazamiento laboral. En el valle de Mexicali, la agricultura es aún la actividad principal del espacio rural, pero sus objetivos y sus medios se han modificado. Este espacio ofrece un campo de visión de primer orden para el análisis de la relación con el complejo urbano industrial. Se resalta aquí la idea de la participación a distancia y de la reconfiguración aureolar dentro de una ecuación que suma funcionalidad y subordinación espacial, integración territorial y polarización de oportunidades del desarrollo.
Entre límite y frontera: El recorrido histórico de la integración entre el norte
Authors: Bandieri Susana
Published: April 2020

El propósito de este artículo es dar a conocer los antecedentes históricos de las relaciones económicas, sociales y culturales vigentes entre el norte de la Patagonia Argentina y el sur de Chile desde la etapa de dominación indígena. Avanzado el siglo XX, importantes medidas arancelarias tomadas por ambos Estados nacionales, como producto de la necesidad de asegurar sus propios mercados internos, provocarían la afirmación de los controles de tránsito a través de Los Andes y el fin de la integración, transformando definitivamente un área fronteriza en área limítrofe. Se analizan también proyectos sucesivos más recientes como la construcción de un ferrocarril trasandino. Este y otros proyectos se recuperan hoy en el marco de la discusión por la incorporación de Chile al Mercosur, Argentina y Chile tiene  actualmente, a causa de la globalización mundial, sobrados motivos para discutir el tema de la integración como una forma de sobrevivencia posible para los países del cono sur de América, cuya condición actual de desintegración y aislamiento constituye un dato más de la realidad vigente en el conjunto latinoamericano.
El proceso del cambio tecnológico en zonas de borde. El caso andaluz (España)
Authors: Jordá Borrell Rosa
Published: April 2020

El tema central del artículo es abordar el proceso de cambio tecnológico de una zona perférica de borde (Andalucía) situada al sur de la Unión Europea y de España y, que además, hace frontera con Marruecos a través del estrecho de Gibraltar. Este proceso de cambio provocado, en nuestra opinión, por el mercado único y las instituciones regionales ha dado lugar entre 1990 y 1998 a una modernización tecnológica, a la comormación de la trama organizacional del entorno, a la aparición de algunos clusters innovadores relacionados con la industria que tiende a externalizar el proceso de producción (aeronáutica, automóvil) y al surgimiento de empresasinnovadoras creadoras de investigación y desarrollo (I+D)
Las fronteras de Europa central y oriental
Authors: Sivignon Michel
Published: April 2020

La reubicación reciente de las fronteras en Europa parece responder a procesos marcados por los antiguos límites teóricamente inexistentes de los impreios ya desaparecidos (alemán, austro-húngaro, ruso-otomano), pero que en los acontecimientos más recientes han hecho sentir su influencia. Aquí pretendemos realizar una tipología de las nuevas fronteras europeas y caracterizar su funcionamiento.