bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalência de Chikungunya e manejo clínico em idosos
Authors: Alves Hérick Hebert da Silva , Santos Sandna Larissa Freitas dos , Silveira John Elvys Silva da , Oliveira Carla Patrícia de Almeida , Barros Karla Bruna Nogueira Torres , Barreira Filho Donato Mileno
Published: March 2020

Objetivo: verificar a prevalência de Chikungunya e as medidas terapêuticas utilizadas entre os idosos que frequentam a casa de acolhida Remanso da Paz-CE. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo do tipo transversal, descritivo, explicativo com abordagem baseado em evidências de caráter quali-quantitativo, realizado durante os meses de outubro a dezembro de 2017, no município de Quixadá-CE, incluído idosos com idade acima de 60 anos e portadores da infecção mencionada. Foi aplicado um formulário para coleta de dados e colhido a opinião dos idosos que se sentiram dispostos a relatar sobre a contribuição dos serviços prestados depois do estudo, sendo disponibilizado no final um folder educativo contendo informações sobre a doença. Dos 27 idosos entrevistados, apenas 19 idosos continuaram na pesquisa. O trabalho foi submetido e aprovado pelo comitê de ética em pesquisa com seres humanos com o parecer nº 2.316.127. Resultados: 70,3% dos idosos entrevistados tiveram infecção pelo vírus Chikungunya, e alegaram ter viajado para regiões epidêmicas. Houve maior predominância de mulheres 52,6% entre 63 a 92 anos de idade. As manifestações clínicas relatadas foram febre e dores articulares (100%). Foram usadas compressas de gelo (52,6%), hidratação (63,2%), Dipirona (84,2%), Paracetamol (89,5%) e Ácido Acetilsalicílico (36,8%). Para suprir a falta de informação, realizaram-se atividades na forma de palestras e conversação individualizada, disponibilizando ao final da entrevista um folder informativo. Conclusão: notou-se uma prevalência elevada da infecção pelo vírus Chikungunya e a carência de um acompanhamento multiprofissional, porém, as ações educativas aplicadas supriram a falta de informação.
Metástase linfonodal de adenoma pleomórfico recidivado – relato de caso
Authors: Lima Gabriel Silva , Freitas Jônatas Catunda de , Rolim Francieudo Justino , Pereira Glebert Monteiro , Pereira Filho Francisco Januário Farias , Ferreira Luis Alberto Albano , Nogueira Teresa Neuma Albuquerque Gomes
Published: March 2020

O adenoma pleomórfico é a neoplasia mais comum das glândulas salivares maiores e menores; entretanto, sua variante metastática é rara. Assim, o objetivo desse trabalho é relatar um caso dessa entidade. Paciente feminina de 42 anos realizou uma ressecção transoral de adenocarcinoma de glândulas salivares menores em mucosa jugal esquerda em 2008. Após 8 anos, apresentou recidiva tumoral e metástase para linfonodos submandibulares, sendo esta identificada como adenoma pleomórfico. Paciente foi submetida a ressecção da lesão, com maxilectomia e esvaziamento radical modificado, com reconstrução a partir de retalho do músculo masseter. Paciente foi encaminhada para radioterapia adjuvante e está livre de doença há 1 ano. A metástase dos adenomas pleomórficos se manifestam anos após o tumor primário. O mecanismo fisiopatológico da disseminação é incerto e marcadores tumorais de maior agressividade para esses adenomas estão sendo estudados. Reafirma-se, portanto, a necessidade de excisão completa e tecnicamente perfeita da neoplasia primária.
Protocolo de tratamento do mieloma múltiplo: serviço de hematologia Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio, abril - 2019
Authors: De Sousa Jacqueline Holanda , Silva Herivaldo Ferreira da , Gurgel Livia Andrade , Leitão João Paulo de Vasconcelos , Araújo Beatriz Stela Gomes de Sousa Pitombeira , Barroso Karine Sampaio Nunes , Viana Thaisa Marjore Menezes , Lemes Romélia Pinheiro , Duarte Fernando Barroso
Published: March 2020

O Mieloma Múltiplo (MM) é uma neoplasia hematológica caracterizada pela infiltração de medula óssea por plasmócitos clonais (malignos) e pela produção de uma proteína monoclonal (PM). A doença permanece incurável, embora, nos últimos anos, com o advento de novos tratamentos, tenha-se observado melhoras progressivas nas taxas e duração da remissão, traduzindo-se por um aumento na sobrevida dos pacientes acometidos. Portanto, esse trabalho tem como objetivo descrever o protocolo de tratamento do serviço de hematologia de um hospital universitário.
The Impacts of Climate-Induced Agricultural Drought on Four Cereal Crops: A Case Study in Bako Tibe District, Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Adunya Terefa , Benti Fedhasa Chalchisa
Published: March 2020

Increasing temperature and altered precipitation patterns lead to the extreme weather events such as drought and flood, which severely affects the agricultural production. This study was aimed to assess the impact of climate change-induced agricultural drought on four cereal crops in Bako Tibe District. Time-series climate and crop yield data, recorded from 1989 to 2018, were acquired from NASA’s data portal and Bako Research Institute. The changes in temperature and precipitation were analyzed using Mann Kendall trend test. The agricultural drought index was analyzed using R-software. The correlation between the selected yield crops and drought indices were evaluated using Pearson correlation coefficient. The results show that trends of seasonal and annual maximum and minimum temperatures were significantly increased (P<0.05). However, seasonal and annual precipitations were insignificantly decreased (P>0.05). Moderate to severe agricultural drought intensities happened four times in the last three decades. These drought spells spatially covered about 36% of the total area of the district. Crop yields and drought indices were significantly correlated at p-values; 0.0034, 0.043, 0.003 and 0.001 for teff, wheat, barley and maize, respectively. The coefficient of determination (R2) values of crop yields were 28.3%, 30.9%, 28.5% and 34.6% for teff, wheat, barley and maize, correspondingly. The study clearly suggests that the increase in temperature and decrease in precipitation enhanced the frequency and intensity of drought events and these impacted the selected crop yields during the past three decades. The map-based results could be used as guides for governmental and non-governmental organizations concerning on drought impact mitigation activities in the district by encouraging farmers to adopt appropriate agricultural technologies, drought tolerant crop varieties and small scale irrigation.
Risk Aversion, Risk Preference and Farmers’ Decision to Participate in Broiler Contract Farming: A Case Study in Jember, Indonesia
Authors: Rondhi Mohammad , Aji Joni Murti Mulyo , Khasan Ahmad Fatikhul , Putri Adinda Tissa Rachmasari , Yanuarti Rizky
Published: March 2020

The demand for broiler is rising rapidly due to its capability as the main animal protein source. In contrast, the production of broiler meat is unstable due to the possibility of farm risk. Contract Farming (CF) is one of the risk management tools for farmers but has not been used effectively. The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors that influence farmers’ decision to participate in CF. The analysis used six independent variables, namely farmer’s age, farm size, household size, education, farmer’s risk preference and risk aversion level. This study used primary data from 70 broiler farmers in Jember, which were divided into two groups, contract farmer and independent farmer. Each group had the same number of respondents. The results show that five among six independent variables significantly affected farmers’ decision to take part in CF. Farmer’s age decreased farmer’s probability to participate in CF, while education, farm size, household size and risk preference had positive effects. Farmer’s risk aversion level did not have any significant effect. The results suggest that the effort to expand CF participation should focus on young and educated farmers with large farm size.
Despite Early Medicaid Expansion, Decreased Durable Virologic Suppression Among Publicly Insured People with HIV in Washington, DC: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Goldstein Deborah , Hardy David , Monroe Anne , Hou Qingjiang , Hart Rachel , Terzian Arpi
Published: March 2020

Background:
Despite widely available access to HIV care in Washington, DC, inequities in HIV outcomes persist. We hypothesized that laboratory monitoring and virologic outcomes would not differ significantly based on insurance type.
Methods:
We compared HIV monitoring with outcomes among people with HIV (PWH) with private (commercial payer) versus public (Medicare, Medicaid) insurance receiving care at community and hospital clinics. The DC Cohort follows over 8,000 PWH from 14 clinics. We included those ≥18 years old enrolled between 2011-2015 with stable insurance. Outcomes included frequency of CD4 count and HIV RNA monitoring ( > 2 lab measures/year, > 30 days apart) and durable viral suppression (VS; HIV RNA <50 copies/mL at last visit and receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥12 months). Multivariable logistic regression models examined impact of demographic and clinical factors.
Results:
Among 3,908 PWH, 67.9% were publicly-insured and 58.9% attended community clinics. Compared with privately insured participants, a higher proportion of publicly insured participants had the following characteristics: female sex, Black race, heterosexual, unemployed, and attending community clinics. Despite less lab monitoring, privately-insured PWH had greater durable VS than publicly-insured PWH (ART-naïve: private 70.0% vs public 53.1%, p=0.03; ART-experienced: private 80.2% vs public 69.4%, p<0.0001). Privately-insured PWH had greater durable VS than publicly-insured PWH at hospital clinics (AOR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.20, 2.12; p=0.001).
Conclusions: Paradoxical differences between HIV monitoring and durable VS exist among publicly and privately-insured PWH in Washington, DC. Programs serving PWH must improve efforts to address barriers creating inequity in HIV outcomes.
Simultaneous quantile regression and determinants of under-five severe chronic malnutrition in Ghana.
Authors: Aheto Justice Moses K.
Published: March 2020

Background Under-five malnutrition is a major public health issue contributing to mortality and morbidity, especially in developing countries like Ghana where the rates remain unacceptably high. Identification of critical risk factors of under-five malnutrition using appropriate and advanced statistical methods can help formulate appropriate health programmes and policies aimed at achieving the United Nations SDG Goal 2 target 2. This study attempts to develop a simultaneous quantile regression, an in-depth statistical model to identify critical risk factors of under-five severe chronic malnutrition (severe stunting). Methods Based on the nationally representative data from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey, height-for-age z-score (HAZ) was estimated. Multivariable simultaneous quantile regression modelling was employed to identify critical risk factors for severe stunting based on HAZ (a measure of chronic malnutrition in populations). Quantiles of HAZ with focus on severe stunting were modelled and the impact of the risk factors determined. Significant test of the difference between slopes at different selected quantiles of severe stunting and other quantiles were performed. A quantile regression plots of slopes were developed to visually examine the impact of the risk factors across these quantiles. Results Data on a total of 2716 children were analysed out of which 144 (5.3%) were severely stunted. The models identified child level factors such as type of birth, sex, age, place of delivery and size at birth as significant risk factors of under-five severe stunting. Maternal and household level factors identified as significant predictors of under-five severe stunting were maternal age and education, maternal national health insurance status, household wealth status, and number of children under-five in households. Highly significant differences exist in the slopes between 0.1 and 0.9 quantiles. The quantile regression plots for the selected quantiles from 0.1 to 0.9 showed substantial differences in the impact of the covariates across the quantiles of HAZ considered. Conclusion Critical risk factors that can aid formulation of child nutrition and health policies and interventions that will improve child nutritional outcomes and survival were identified. Modelling under-five severe stunting using multivariable simultaneous quantile regression models could be beneficial to addressing the under-five severe stunting.
The Utility of Multi-Stack Alignment and 3D Longitudinal Image Registration to Assess Bone Remodeling in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients from Second Generation HR-pQCT Scans
Authors: Brunet Scott C , Kuczynski Michael T , Bhatla Jennifer L , Lemay Sophie , Pauchard Yves , Salat Peter , Barnabe Cheryl , Manske Sarah Lynn
Published: March 2020

Background: Medical imaging plays an important role in determining the progression of joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). High resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) is a sensitive tool capable of evaluating bone microarchitecture and erosions, and 3D rigid image registration can be used to visualize and quantify bone remodeling over time. However, patient motion during image acquisition can cause a “stack shift” artifact resulting in loss of information and reducing the number of erosions that can be analyzed using HR-pQCT. The purpose of this study was to use image registration to improve the number of useable HR-pQCT scans and to apply image-based bone remodeling assessment to the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of RA patients.

Methods: Ten participants with RA completed HR-pQCT scans of the 2 nd and 3 rd MCP joints at enrolment to the study and at a 6-month follow-up interval. At 6-months, an additional repeat scan was acquired to evaluate reliability. HR-pQCT images were acquired in three individual 1 cm acquisitions (stacks) with a 25% overlap. We completed analysis first using standard evaluation methods, and second with multi-stack registration. We assessed whether additional erosions could be evaluated after multi-stack registration. Bone remodeling analysis was completed using registration and transformation of baseline and follow-up images. We calculated the bone formation and resorption volume fractions with 6-month follow-up, and same-day repositioning as a negative control.

Results: 13/57 (23%) of erosions could not be analyzed from raw images due to a stack shift artifact. All erosions could be volumetrically assessed after multi-stack registration. We observed that there was a median bone formation fraction of 2.1% and resorption fraction of 3.8% in RA patients over the course of 6 months. In contrast to the same-day rescan negative control, we observed median bone formation and resorption fractions of 0%.

Conclusions: Multi-stack image registration is a useful tool to improve the number of useable scans when analyzing erosions using HR-pQCT. Further, image registration can be used to longitudinally assess bone remodeling. These methods could be implemented in future studies to provide important pathophysiological information on the progression of bone damage.
Longitudinal assessment of antibiotic resistance gene profiles in gut microbiomes of infants at risk of eczema
Authors: Author) Evelyn Loo(Former Corresponding , Zain Amanda , Yap Gaik Chin , Purbojati Rikky W , Drautz-Moses Daniela I , koh Yan Qing , Chong Yap Seng , Tan Kok Hian , Gluckman Peter D , Yap Fabian , Eriksson Johan Gunnar , Tham Elizabeth , shek lynette , kjelleberg Staffan , Schuster Stephan C , Banerjee Ritu , Author) Bee Wah Lee(New Corresponding
Published: March 2020

Background While there is increasing knowledge about the gut microbiome, the factors influencing and the significance of the gut resistome are still not well understood. Infant gut commensals risk transferring multidrug-resistant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to pathogenic bacteria. The rapid spread of multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria is a worldwide public health concern. Better understanding the naïve infant gut resistome may build the evidence base for antimicrobial stewardship in both humans and in the food industry. Given the high carriage rate of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)- producing Enterobacteriaceae in Asia, we aimed to evaluate community prevalence, dynamics, and longitudinal changes in antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) profiles and prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae in the intestinal microbiome of infants participating in the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) study, a longitudinal cohort study of pregnant women and their infants.
Methods: We analysed ARGs in the first year of life among 75 infants at risk of eczema who had stool samples collected at multiple timepoints using metagenomics.
Results: The mean number of ARGs per infant increased with age. The most common ARGs identified confer resistance to aminoglycoside, beta-lactam, macrolide and tetracycline antibiotics; all infants harboured these antibiotic resistance genes at some point in the first year of life. Few ARGs persisted throughout the first year of life. Beta-lactam resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were detected in 4 (5.3%) and 32 (42.7%) of subjects respectively.
Conclusion: In this longitudinal cohort study of infants living in a region with high endemic antibacterial resistance, we demonstrate that majority of the infants harboured several antibiotic resistance genes in their gut and showed that the infant gut resistome is diverse and dynamic over the first year of life.
A glucotolerant b-glucosidase from the fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae and its conversion into a glycosynthase for glycosylation of phenolic compounds
Authors: Méndez-Líter Juan Antonio , Nieto-Domínguez Manuel , de Toro Beatriz Fernández , Santana Andrés González , Prieto Alicia , Asensio Juan Luis , Cañada Francisco Javier , de Eugenio Laura Isabel , Martinez Maria Jesus
Published: March 2020

Background: The interest for finding novel b-glucosidases that can improve the yields to produce second-generation (2G) biofuels is still very high. One of the most desired features for these enzymes is glucose tolerance, which enables their optimal activity under high-glucose concentrations. Besides, there is an additional focus of attention on finding novel enzymatic alternatives for glycoside synthesis, for which a mutated version of glycosidases, named glycosynthases, has gained much interest in recent years. Results: In this work, a glucotolerant β-glucosidase (BGL-1) from the ascomycete fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae has been heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris , purified, and characterized. The enzyme showed good efficiency on p NPG ( K m =3.36 ± 0.7 mM, k cat =898.31 s -1 ), but its activity on cellooligosaccharides, the natural substrates of these enzymes, was much lower, which could limit its exploitation in lignocellulose degradation applications. Interestingly, when examining the substrate specificity of BGL-1, it showed to be more active on sophorose, the b-1,2 disaccharide of glucose, than on cellobiose. Besides, the transglycosylation profile of BGL-1 was examined, and, for expanding its synthetic capacities, it was converted into a glycosynthase. The mutant enzyme, named BGL-1-E521G, was able to use α-D-glucosyl-fluoride as donor in glycosylation reactions, and synthesized glucosylated derivatives of different p NP-sugars in a regioselective manner, as well as of some phenolic compounds of industrial interest, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Conclusions: In this work, we report the characterization of a novel glucotolerant 1,2-β-glucosidase, which also has a considerable activity on 1,4-β-glucosyl bonds, that has been cloned in P. pastoris , produced, purified and characterized. In addition, the enzyme was converted into an efficient glycosynthase, able to transfer glucose molecules to a diversity of acceptors for obtaining compounds of interest. The remarkable capacities of BGL-1 and its glycosynthase mutant, both in hydrolysis and synthesis, suggest that it could be an interesting tool for biotechnological applications.
Network-based bioinformatics analysis of HOX genes and their related genes in endometriosis
Authors: Chitsazian Fereshteh , Favaedi Raha , Jahromi Masoumeh Golestan , Bazrgar Masood , Aflatoonian Reza , Afsharian Parvaneh , Aflatoonian Abbas , Shahhoseini Maryam
Published: March 2020

Background: Dysregulation of some HOX genes are important for the development of endometriosis. Endometriosis is a complex gynecologic disorder affecting as many as 10-15% of premenopausal women. The pathogenesis of endometriosis, as the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterine cavity, is largely unknown. HOX genes, encoding homeodomain transcription factors, are dynamically expressed in endometrium, in which they are necessary for endometrial growth, differentiation, and implantation. Few investigations have been studied in this vast range of HOX genes with a network-based view. Network theory allows for a holistic understanding of the role of genes in diseases. The purpose of this study is to identify genes that cause this disease by focusing on the HOX family genes and their regulatory genes. Materials & Methods: Fifteen samples of eutopic and ectopic endometrium collected from patients in proliferation phase. PCR array was performed on sample groups for 84 HOX genes and their related genes. The statistical significance was determined by using t-test. PCA and Hierarchical clustering were carried out between different groups. The genes co-expression networks were constructed based on correlation between normalized gene expression data. Gene function was annotated based on Gene Ontology, the intervention in other diseases and expression in other tissues using the DAVID to clarify the function of important genes and the mechanism of endometriosis. Results: Among the analyzed genes, 30, 40 and 35 significantly differentially expressed genes were in eutopic, ectopic compared with normal and ectopic with eutopic samples, respectively. Twenty-eight genes had no significant alteration in none of the sample groups. Conclusion: The most significant genes and the genes in co-expression networks are effective genes in development, metabolic and neural processes. Another important point is that the some non-differently expressed genes in networks have many interactions with the significant genes, indicating that these non-significant genes also are likely contributed in endometriosis. Keywords: endometriosis, HOX, PCR-array, Co-expression network
GM2 ganglioside accumulation causes neuroinflammation and behavioral alterations in a mouse model of early-onset Tay-Sachs disease.
Authors: Demir Secil Akyildiz , Timur Zehra Kevser , Ates Nurselin , Martinez Luis Alarcon , Seyrantepe Volkan
Published: March 2020

Background Tay-Sachs disease (TSD), a type of GM2-gangliosidosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorder; caused by mutations in the a subunit of the lysosomal β-hexosaminidase enzyme. This disease is characterized by excessive accumulation of GM2 ganglioside, predominantly in the central nervous system. Although Tay-Sachs patients appear normal at birth, the progressive accumulation of undegraded GM2 gangliosides in neurons leads to death. Recently, an early-onset Tay-Sachs disease mouse model, with genotype Hexa -/- Neu3 -/-, was generated. Progressive accumulation of GM2 led to premature death of the double KO mice. Importantly, this double-deficient mouse model displays typical features of Tay-Sachs patients, such as cytoplasmic vacuolization of nerve cells, deterioration of Purkinje cells, neuronal death, deceleration in movement, ataxia, and tremors. GM2-gangliosidosis is characterized by acute neurodegeneration preceded by activated microglia expansion, macrophage, and astrocyte activation, along with the production of inflammatory mediators. However, the mechanism of disease progression in Hexa -/- Neu3 -/- mice, relevant to neuroinflammation is poorly understood. Method In this study we investigated the onset and progression of neuroinflammatory changes in the cortex, cerebellum, and retina of Hexa -/- Neu3 -/- mice and control littermates by using a combination of molecular genetics and immunochemical procedures. Results We found elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine transcripts, such as Ccl2, Ccl3, Ccl4, and Cxcl10 and also extensive microglial and astrocyte activation and proliferation, accompanied by peripheral blood mononuclear cell infiltration in neurons and oligodendrocytes. Behavioral tests demonstrated a high level of anxiety, and age-dependent loss in both spatial learning and fear memory in Hexa -/- Neu3 -/- mice compared with that in the controls. Conclusion Altogether, our data suggest that Hexa -/- Neu3 -/- mice display a phenotype similar to Tay-Sachs patients suffering from chronic neuroinflammation triggered by GM2 accumulation. Furthermore, our work contributes to better understanding of the neuropathology in a mouse model of early-onset Tay-Sachs disease.
Evaluation of organic fractions of municipal solid waste as renewable feedstock for succinic acid production
Authors: Stylianou Eleni , Pateraki Chrysanthi , Ladakis Dimitrios , Fernández María Cruz , Latorre-Sánchez Marcos , Coll Caterina , Koutinas Apostolis
Published: March 2020

Background: Despite its high market potential, bio-based succinic acid production experienced recently a declining trend because the initial investments did not meet the expectations for rapid market growth. Thus, reducing the succinic acid production cost is imperative to ensure industrial implementation.
Results: Succinic acid production has been evaluated using hydrolysates from the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) collected from MSW treatment plants. A tailor-made enzymatic cocktail was used for OFMSW hydrolysate production containing up to 107.3 g/L carbon sources and up to 638.7 mg/L free amino nitrogen. The bacterial strains Actinobacillus succinogenes and Basfia succiniciproducens were evaluated for succinic acid production with the latter strain being less efficient due to high lactic acid production. Batch A. succinogenes cultures supplemented with 5 g/L yeast extract and 5 g/L MgCO3 reached 29.4 g/L succinic acid with productivity of 0.89 g/L/h and yield of 0.56 g/g. Continuous cultures at dilution rate of 0.06 h -1 reached 21.2 g/L succinic acid with yield of 0.47 g/g and productivity of 1.27 g/L/h. Downstream separation and purification of succinic acid was achieved by centrifugation, treatment with activated carbon, acidification with cation exchange resins, evaporation and drying, reaching more than 99% purity. Preliminary techno-economic evaluation has been employed to evaluate the profitability potential of bio-based succinic acid production.
Conclusions: The use of OFMSW hydrolysate in continuous cultures could lead to a minimum selling price of 2.5 $/kg at annual production capacity of 40,000 t succinic acid and OFMSW hydrolysate production cost of 25 $/ t sugars.
Acceptability of the “MOVEdiabetes” physical activity intervention in diabetes primary care settings in Oman: findings from participants and practitioners
Authors: Alghafri Thamra S , Harthi Saud Al , Al-Ajmi Fatma , Farsi Yahya Al , Craigie Angela M. , Bannerman Elaine , Anderson Annie S.
Published: March 2020

Background Adequate physical activity (PA) is considered essential in diabetes management. However, evidence on the best method of promoting PA within diabetes care is inconclusive. The current work identifies perceptions on the acceptability of Intervention Group Participants (IGP) and Project Officers (POs) about the “MOVEdiabetes” intervention programme aimed at increasing PA in adults with type 2 diabetes in Oman. Methods The “MOVEdiabetes” programme (PA consultations, pedometers and WhatsApp messages) was delivered by the POs (primary health care practitioners) in four primary care centres within a one-year cluster randomised control trial. Recruitment and retention were measured from trial attendance records. Programme satisfaction, appropriateness, and content suitability were assessed using exit surveys for both the IGP (interview based) and POs (self-administered). Open text questions on perceptions to the study programme were also included. Results Participants were randomised to an intervention group (IG, n= 122) or comparison group (CG, n=110). The overall retention rate at three and 12 months was 92.7% [110(90.2%) IG vs 105(95.5%) CG] and 75% [82(67.2%) IG vs 92(83.6%) CG] respectively. Most (87.5%) POs and more than half (59.8%) IGP perceived the programme as very appropriate and many reported that they were “quite/ very satisfied” with the programme (100% PO’s and 86.6% IGP). Two thirds (66.0%) of IGP were very/quite likely to recommend the programme to others. PA consultations, use of pedometers and Whatsapp messages were well perceived by all. Participants recommended the inclusion of dietary advice and PA promotion for the general public. Exploring PA facilities within the community was suggested by POs. Conclusions The “MOVEdiabetes” programme achieved a high retention rate and was perceived as satisfactory and appropriate. Results from this study suggest that it is worthwhile exploring the use of the “MOVEdiabetes” programme in clinical practice and further community links.
Screening for depression in cArDiovascular patients at a tertiary Centre in TrinidAd and Tobago: The SAD CAT study
Authors: Seecheran Naveen , Jagdeo Cathy-Lee , Seecheran Rajeev , Seecheran Valmiki , Persad Sangeeta , Peram Lakshmipatty , Evans Mathew , Edwards Justine , Thackoorcharan Sheri , Davis Britney , Davis Shari , Dawkins Barbrianna , Dayaram Anisha , De Freitas Michelle , Deonarinesingh Tsarina , Dhanai Jiovanna , Didier Cherelle , Baboolal Nelleen
Published: March 2020

Objectives This was an observational, cross-sectional study aimed to screen cardiovascular patients for depression at a tertiary center in Trinidad and Tobago; and to determine any significant associations amongst patients’ demographics, comorbidities, and cardiovascular medications with depressive symptoms. Methods Patients (n=1203) were randomly selected from the cardiology outpatient clinics at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex. After meeting selection criteria, informed consent was obtained, and patients were administered a case report form, which included the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Results The study had a 96% respondent rate, whereby the average age was 62 years old. 47.5% were male, and 52.5% were female. 90.2% of the sample had cardiovascular disease. 25% of the sample had a PHQ-9 score of ≥ 10, with 19.3% having no depressive symptoms. Females, lower levels of education and income were found to be statistically significant at risk for depression (all p-values <0.001). Comorbidities associated with depression included hypertension, prior cerebrovascular events, chronic kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of OR 1.988 (CI 1.414-2.797), OR 1.847 (CI 1.251-2.728), OR 1.872 (CI 1.207-2.902) and OR 1.703 (CI 1.009-2.876) respectively. Only the cardiovascular medication of ticagrelor was found to be significantly associated with depression (p-value <0.001). Conclusion 1 in 4 screened cardiovascular patients displayed significant depressive symptoms with a PHQ-9 ≥ 10. The information acquired from this study may be useful in developing screening protocols that can positively impact adherence and possibly attenuate future events. This study also highlights the importance of implementing a multidisciplinary approach to managing cardiovascular disease and screening for depression. Further studies are required to validate these findings (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03863262).
Low Endemic Frequency of Adenovirus, Rotavirus and Norovirus in Pediatric Diarrhea Samples from Central Iran
Authors: Abbasi Elnaz , Mondanizadeh Mahdieh , Belkum Alex van , Ghaznavi-Rad Ehsanollah
Published: March 2020

Background: Acute viral gastroenteritis is a disorder that affects children on a worldwide scale but mostly in developing countries. Adenoviruses, rotaviruses, and noroviruses are the major viral cause of childhood gastroenteritis. This study is the first to investigate the prevalence of these viruses in diarrhea samples from pediatric patients living in central Iran.Methods: A total of 173 samples of pediatric diarrhea, from May 2015 to May 2016, was included in this descriptive cross-sectional study. The samples were analyzed using in-house developed PCR and reverse transcription (RT) -PCR methods to investigate the prevalence of adeno-, rota- and noroviruses. Results: Out of 173 samples of pediatric diarrhea, eight were shown to contain enteric viruses (4.6%): four of these were adenovirus (2.3%), three were rotavirus (1.7%), and one represented a genogroup II norovirus (0.6%). Most of the positive samples were obtained from children under the age of seven. The most common additional clinical symptoms in pediatric patients with viral agents were fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Conclusions: Adenovirus and rotavirus were rarely found as agents responsible for gastroenteritis in central Iran. Although we show that the frequency of viral gastroenteritis is low in this area compared to bacterial gastroenteritis, still longer-term monitoring of all enteropathogenic agents should provide a deeper understanding of the real endemicity and the possible occurrence of unexpected outbreaks of viral enteritis.
Genome-Wide Scan For Common Variants Associated With Intramuscular Fat And Moisture Content In Rainbow Trout
Authors: Ali Ali R. , Al-Tobasei Rafet , Lourenco Daniela , Leed Tim , Kenney Brett , Salem Mohamed
Published: March 2020

Genetic improvement of fillet quality attributes is a priority of the aquaculture industry. Muscle composition impacts quality attributes such as flavor, appearance, texture, and juiciness. Fat and moisture make up about 80% of the tissue weight. The genetic architecture underlying the fat and moisture content of the muscle are still to be fully explored in fish. A 50K gene transcribed SNP chip was used for genotyping 789 fish with available phenotypic data for fat and moisture content. Genotyped fish were obtained from two consecutive generations produced in the NCCCWA growth-selective breeding program. Estimates of SNP effects from weighted single-step GBLUP (WssGBLUP) were used to perform genome-wide association (GWA) analysis to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with the studied traits. Using genomic sliding windows of 50 adjacent SNPs, 137 and 178 SNPs were identified as associated with fat and moisture content, respectively. Chromosomes 19 and 29 harbored the highest number of SNPs explaining at least 2% of the genetic variation in fat and moisture content. A total of 61 common SNPs on chromosomes 19 and 29 affected the aforementioned traits; this association suggests common mechanisms underlying intramuscular fat and moisture content. Additionally, based on single-marker GWA analyses, 8 and 24 SNPs were identified in association with fat and moisture content, respectively. SNP-harboring genes were primarily involved in lipid metabolism, cytoskeleton remodeling, and protein turnover. This work provides putative SNP markers that could be prioritized and used for genomic selection in breeding programs.
Multiphoton Microscopic Study of the Renal Cell Carcinoma Pseudocapsule: Implications for Tumour Enucleation
Authors: Tan Yi Quan , Tay Wy Keat , Ooi Li Yin , Paulraj Thamboo Thomas , Tiong Ho Yee
Published: March 2020

Background To utilise Multiphoton Microscopy as a novel imaging technique to characterize and quantify collagen at the Renal Cell Carcinoma Pseudocapsule, to assess for both intra-tumoral and inter-tumoral variation of collagen characteristics. MPM combines Second Harmonic Generation and Two Photon Excitation Fluorescence to image extracellular matrix architecture. Methods 20 partial nephrectomy specimen tissues were retrieved, cut into 5‎-micron sections, mounted on slides and deparaffinized. The pseudocapsules were imaged with 2X and 20X objective at selected Regions of Interest. Corresponding clinical information was retrieved. Pseudocapsule thickness was determined. Collagen parameters measured included quantification by the Collagen Area Ratio, and qualitative measurements by the Collagen Fiber Density and Collagen Reticulation Index. Results The boundaries between tumor, PC and normal renal parenchyma were distinguished by Multiphoton Microscopy without the need for staining. In the thickest areas of the pseudocapsule, collagen content and density were quantitatively higher compared to the thinnest areas. Median Collagen Area Ratio was higher in the thickest compared to the thinnest areas of the PC (p=0.01). Clear Cell RCC specimens had a consistently higher Collagen Fiber Density in both the thickest and thinnest areas compared to non-Clear Cell RCC specimens (p=0.02). Conclusions In this study, we demonstrated the ability of Multiphoton Microscopy to quantify collagen characteristics of pseudocapsules without fluorescent labelling. Tumor enucleation for Renal Cell Carcinoma along its Pseudocapsule remains debatable with regards to oncological safety. Even with a complete and intact pseudocapsule, the pseudocapsule is not a homogenous structure, and varies in its thickness and its collagen characteristics within, and between, tumours.
Frozen-thawed embryos generated from successful fresh IVF cycles have higher potential for favorable outcome than frozen-thawed embryos obtained from unsuccessful fresh cycles: A retrospective cohort
Authors: Karavani Gilad , Herzberg Shmuel , Schachter-Safrai Natali , Chill Henry Hillel , Ben-Meir Assaf , Simon Alex
Published: March 2020

Background: Many variables, including woman`s age, embryo quality and endometrial receptivity, influence the success rate of either fresh embryo transfer (ET) or frozen-thawed ET (FT-ET) cycles. The aim of this study is to examine whether the results of a fresh in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle correlates with its frozen-thawed embryos transfer outcomes. Methods: A retrospective cohort study conducted in a tertiary medical center single IVF unit between 2014 and 2017. The study population was comprised of women who underwent fresh ET with the remaining embryos frozen using vitrification and at least one consecutive FT-ET cycle. Comparison of FT-ET cycle's details and outcomes were assessed in relation to the outcome of the preceding fresh ET cycle . Results: A total of 599 women underwent fresh ET and at least one consecutive FT-ET cycle. Significantly higher rates of successful FT-ET cycle outcomes were observed in the group of patients with a successful fresh cycle compared to the group with an unsuccessful fresh cycle (48.9% vs. 20.8%, p<0.001). Logistic regression demonstrated an adjusted OR of 5.02 for successful FT-ET after a successful fresh cycle. Conclusions: Frozen-thawed embryos generated from successful fresh IVF cycles have higher potential to implant when compared to frozen-thawed embryos obtained in an unsuccessful fresh cycles.
Efficacy of precise open excision surgery in treatment of osteoid osteoma
Authors: Yuan Yuhao , Long Feng , Liu Qing , Wu Ziyi , He Hongbo , Luo Wei
Published: March 2020

Purpose The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of precise open excision surgery to treat osteoid osteoma with C-arm assisted precise localization during the operation.Methods From June 2010 to June 2017, patients with osteoid osteoma of the extremities who had undergone treatment by high speed burr grinding, full scratching with curette, and C-arm assisted lesion localization during the operation were analyzed retrospectively. The preoperative and postoperative pain was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring. The patients were followed up regularly, and the advantages, effects, and complications of the therapeutic technique were analyzed.Results The study consisted of 94 patients (59 males, 35 females; mean age, 17.6 ± 8.5 years) and they were followed up for a mean of 38.9 months (range, 24–72 months). All patients were diagnosed with osteoid osteoma by postoperative pathological examination. Follow-up consisted of imaging reexamination and clinical evaluation. If the patients did not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before the operation, the mean pre-operative VAS score was 6.7, and the mean VAS score of all patients was 0 one month after operation. The mean time for all patients to resume normal daily activities was 14.3 days (range, 10-21 days). There was no recurrence of pain, infection, vascular or nerve injury, and fracture complications during the follow-up. In only one case of distal femur osteoid osteoma (OO), review X-ray found a suspected recurrence 50 months after the primary surgery and subsequently, the patient underwent a second surgery. Till date, the patient has reported no discomfort following the second surgery.Conclusions For treatment of osteoid osteoma, open incision and minimal resection with C-arm assisted tumor localization is still a suitable method, especially for osteoid osteoma located on the surface of the cortical bone.
Compliance with antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines in caesarean delivery: a retrospective, drug utilization study (indication-prescription type) at an Ecuadorian hospital.
Authors: Viamonte Katherine Romero , Tames Adrian Salvent , Correa Rosa Sepùlveda , Manteca María Victoria Rojo , Suárez Ana Martín
Published: March 2020

Background

Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis is essential for preventing surgical site infection (SSI). The aim of this study was to evaluate compliance with international and local recommendations in caesarean deliveries carried out at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Service of the Ambato General Hospital, as well as any related health and economic consequences.

Methods

A retrospective indication-prescription drug utilization study was conducted using data from caesarean deliveries occurred in 2018. A clinical pharmacist assessed guidelines compliance based on the following criteria: administration of antibiotic prophylaxis, antibiotic selection, dose, time of administration and duration. The relationship between the frequency of SSI and other variables, including guideline compliance, was analysed. The cost associated with the antibiotic used was compared with the theoretical cost considering total compliance with recommendations. Descriptive statistics, Odds Ratio and Pearson Chi Square were used for data analysis by IBM SPSS Statistics version 25.

Results

The study included 814 patients with an average age of 30.87 ± 5.50 years old. Among the caesarean sections, 68.67% were emergency interventions; 3.44% lasted longer than four hours and in 0.25% of the deliveries blood loss was greater than 1.5 L. Only 69.90% of patients received preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis; however, 100% received postoperative antibiotic treatment despite disagreement with guideline recommendations (duration: 6.75 ± 1.39 days). The use of antibiotic prophylaxis was more frequent in scheduled than in emergency caesarean sections (OR=2.79, P=0.000). Nevertheless, the timing of administration, antibiotic selection and dose were more closely adhered to guideline recommendations. The incidence of surgical site infection was 1.35%, but tended to increase in patients who had not received preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis (OR=1.33, P=0.649). Also, a significant relationship was found between SSI and patient age (Chisq=8.08, P=0.036). The mean expenditure on antibiotics per patient was 5.7 times greater than that the cost derived from compliance with international recommendations.

Conclusions

Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis compliance was far below guideline recommendations, especially with respect to implementation and duration. This not only poses a risk to patients but leads to unnecessary expenditure on medicines. Therefore, this justifies the need for educational interventions and the implementation of institutional protocols involving pharmacists.
The expression patterns and the prognostic roles of PTPN family members in digestive tract cancers
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhao Xu , Yuan Yuan , Jing Jing-jing
Published: March 2020

Background Non-receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPNs) are a set of enzymes involved in the tyrosyl phosphorylation. The present study intended to clarify the associations between the expression patterns of PTPN family members and the prognosis of digestive tract cancers. Method Expression profiling of PTPN family genes in digestive tract cancers were analyzed through ONCOMINE and UALCAN. Gene ontology enrichment analysis was conducted using the DAVID database. The gene–gene interaction network was performed by GeneMANIA and the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was built using STRING portal couple with Cytoscape. Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were downloaded for validation and to explore the relationship of the PTPN expression with clinicopathological parameters and survival of digestive tract cancers. Results Most PTPN family members were associated with digestive tract cancers according to Oncomine, Ualcan and TCGA data. For esophageal carcinoma (ESCA), expression of PTPN1, PTPN4 and PTPN12 were upregulated; expression of PTPN20 was associated with poor prognosis. For stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), expression of PTPN2, PTPN12 and PTPN22 was upregulated in cancer tissue; pathological grade was significantly correlated with PTPN3, PTPN5, PTPN7, PTPN11, PTPN13, PTPN14, PTPN18 and PTPN23; PTPN20 expression was related with both TNM stage and N stage; PTPN22 was associated with T stage and pathological grade; decreased expression of PTPN5 and PTPN13 was associated with worse overall survival of STAD, while elevated PTPN6 expression indicated better prognosis. For colon adenocarcinoma (COAD), expression of PTPN1, PTPN11, PTPN12 and PTPN13 was upregulated, while expression of PTPN18, PTPN21 and PTPN22 was decreased; expression of PTPN5, PTPN12, and PTPN14 was correlated with TNM stage and N stage; high PTPN5 or PTPN7 expression were associated with increased hazards of death. For rectum adenocarcinoma (READ), expression of PTPN12 was upregulated while PTPN21 and PTPN22 were downregulated. Conclusion Members of PTPN family were differently expressed in digestive tract cancers and matched normal tissues. Correlation were found between PTPN genes and clinicopathological parameters of patients. Expression of PTPN12 was upregulated in all of the ESCA, STAD, COAD and READ. PTPN5 was associated with the clinical features and prognosis of both STAD and COAD.
Analysis of the Natural Electric Field at Different Sea Depths
Authors: Yu Peng , Zhang Jiawei , Cheng Jinfang , Jiang Runxiang
Published: March 2020

The natural electric field at the depth of 0~1500 m in high seas of South China Sea is obtained by using a new type of measuring device. The electric field data in the frequency range of 0.01~0.5 Hz and 0.5~30 Hz are analyzed respectively. The results show that the induced electric field generated by the surface wave (about 0.14 Hz in the experiment) is obvious at the depth of 50 m but can be ignored at the depth greater than 100 m. When the depth increases from 50 m to 1500 m, the peak value of the natural electric field gradually decreases. At the depth of 1000 m, the peak value is 0.04~0.08 uV/m for electric field in 0.01~0.5 Hz, and 0.07~0.1 uV/m for electric field in 0.5~30 Hz. At last, the natural electric field in coastal waters near Sanya City where the water depth is 15 m is measured by means of a sinking device. The results show that, the peak value is about 2~4 uV/m for electric field in 0.01~0.5 Hz and 2 uV/m for electric field in 0.5~30 Hz. By comparing the natural electric field between high seas and coastal waters, we find the latter has a larger peak value than the former at nearly the same water depth. In addition, line spectrum noise often occurs in coastal waters while little line spectrum noise in high seas when the water depth is more than 50 m.