bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae among children with urinary tract infection: A cross sectional study.
Authors: agegnehu asnakech , Worku Mesfin , Nigussie Demiss , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun , Lulu Birhanu
Published: January 2020

Background: Resistance of Gram-negative bacteria to antibiotics had increased at an alarming pace over the last two decades. Empirical antibiotic treatment of UTI practice created opportunity for frequent use of antibiotics that resulted in emergence of resistant strains. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae are emerging worldwide and are usually multi-drug resistant; thus, limiting treatment options for these organisms. Hence, it is mandatory to scrutinize the extent of the problem in the study area. Objective: We investigated the prevalence and correlates of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae and their antibacterial resistance profile among children with urinary tract infection (UTI) at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Method: A hospital-based cross sectional study was conducted from February 1-July 30/ 2018. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 284 children suspected of UTI. Bacterial species were isolated using standard bacteriological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method and ESBL production was detected by double disc synergy test. Data entry, cleaning and statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Results: Overall, Enterobacteriaceae accounted for 75% (72/96) of UTI infections. The most frequent Enterobacteriaceae were E. coli , 44.4% (32/72) and K. pneumoniae , 27.8% (20/72). Overall, ESBL-producers within Enterobacteriaceae accounted for 41.7% (30/72) and magnitude of multi-drug resistance level was 86.1% (62/72). ESBL producing K. pneumoniae and E. coli accounted for 70% (14/20) and 37.5% (12/32), respectively of all the respective isolates. Previous UTI within the past 12 month (AOR= 0.08, 95% CI (0.01-0.57) and medium family wealth index (AOR = 0.03, 95% CI (0.00-0.27) were associated with infection of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae . Conclusion: ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae were prevalent among UTI cases; where E. coli and K. pneumoniae were the major isolated resistant strains that contributed mainly to the problem. Majority of Enterobacteriaceae isolated were resistant to commonly prescribed drugs. Key words : ESBL, Antimicrobial Resistance, UTI, Children.
Social determinants associated with suicidality, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress in adolescents after the earthquake 2016 in Ecuador
Authors: Gerstner Rebekka M F , Lara-Lara Fernando , Vasconez Eduardo , Viscor Ginés , Jarrin Juan D. , Ortiz-Prado Esteban
Published: January 2020

Background The Ecuadorian earthquake in April 16th was the second strongest and deadliest in 2016 worldwide, with approximately one million people affected. In this paper, we analyze the psychological impact and the relationship between mental health events and various social determinants related to the earthquake, nine months after the event.Methods We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study, applying anonymous surveys to 319 adolescents 13-19 years old. Suicidal tendency, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress (PTSD) were evaluated via the Child PTSD Symptom Scale (CPSS), Spence Children's Anxiety Scale , Okasha Suicidality Scale, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) in addition to an adapted seven-questions survey aimed for measuring social determinants related to the earthquake.Results We found a high prevalence of suicidal ideations and behavior, posttraumatic stress, depression and anxiety compared to international studies. Even though adolescents currently living in shelters had higher levels of anxiety, their suicidal tendency was significantly lower than those living in their own home or in the home of relatives. Finally, social determinants are not associated with suicidality and mental health events, with the exception of economic damage suffered by the family.Conclusions High levels of depression, post-traumatic stress and anxiety in high school students, especially in those who have suffered serious economic damage, may possibly be due to factors inherent to the political and social conditions in this area.
HDL functions and their interaction in patients of Acute Coronary Syndrome: a case control study
Authors: Thakkar Himani , Vincent Vinnyfred , Roy Ambuj , Singh Sandeep , Ramakrishnan Lakshmy , Kalaivani Mani , Singh Archna
Published: January 2020

Aim: Recent studies emphasize the importance of HDL function over HDL cholesterol measurement, as an important risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). We compared the HDL function of patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) and healthy controls. Methods: We measured cholesterol efflux capacity of HDL using THP-1 macrophages labelled with fluorescently tagged (BODIPY) cholesterol. Paraoxonase and arylesterase activity of PON1 enzyme were assessed by spectrophotometric methods. Results: We recruited 151 ACS patients and 110 controls. The HDL function of all patients during acute phase and at six month follow-up was measured. The mean age of the patients and controls was 51.7 and 43.6 years respectively. The mean HDL cholesterol/apolipoprotein A-I levels of patients during acute phase, follow-up and of controls were 40.2 mg/dl/ 112.5 mg/dl, 38.3 mg/dl/ 127.2 and 45.4 mg/dl/ 142.1 mg/dl respectively. The cholesterol efflux capacity of HDL was positively correlated with apolipoprotein A-I levels during acute phase (r = 0.19, p = 0.019), follow-up (r = 0.26, p = 0.007) and of controls (r = 0.3, p = 0.0012) but not with HDL-C levels. Higher levels of CEC, PON 1 activity and apolipoprotein A-I were associated with lower odds of development of ACS. We also observed that combined analysis of two HDL functions could improve the predicted probability of ACS development. Conclusion: ACS is associated with reduced HDL functions which improves at follow-up. The predicted probability of ACS depends upon individual HDL functions and the interactions between them.
Appraising Efficiency of OpSite as Coolant in Drilling of Bone
Authors: Effatparvar Mohammad Reza , Jamshidi Nima , Mosavar Alireza
Published: January 2020

Background: During drilling of bone, which is common in clinical surgeries, heat generation increases local temperature in the drilling site. Transmission of excessive heat to the surrounding bone tissue can cause thermal osteonecrosis. Consequently, it may lead to failure of implants and fixation screws or delay in healing process. Using cooling is a method for limiting temperature elevation. Materials and Methods: In this study, through comparing 3 conditions of drilling without cooling, external cooling with normal saline, and external cooling with OpSite spray, the efficiency of OpSite as coolant is studied. In this regard, 2 drill bit diameters, 3 drilling speeds, and 3 drilling feed-rates are considered as drilling variables in the experiments. Results: For the whole experiments, while cooling with normal saline resulted in lower maximum temperatures than without cooling condition, OpSite had even better results and limited the temperature elevation during drilling of bone efficiently. Conclusion: OpSite spray, which has lower infection risks than normal saline on one hand and lower maximum temperature rise with all combinations of drilling parameters on the other hand, can be considered in clinical surgeries for cooling applications.
Comprehensive analyses of immunoglobulin proteome and clinical variables identify biomarkers to predict mortality in patients with influenza-associated lower respiratory tract infection
Authors: Teng Fei , Wang Dan , Zhang Xiao-Mei , Liu Jian-Hua , Dai Jia-Yu , Mei Xue , Yin Yu-Dong , Gu Li , Chang Yu-Fei , Ma Shan-Fang , Li Xian-Ting , Yin Wen-Peng , Yang Xiao-Jun , Guo Shu-Bin , Yu Xiao-Bo
Published: January 2020

Background: Influenza-associated lower respiratory tract infection (I-LRTI) brings a heavy clinical burden, and clinicians lack an effective prognostic evaluation system to control disease progression. Methods: This was a prospective, observational study, and the endpoint was 28-day mortality. Plasma microarrays were used for quantitative analysis of immunoglobulin (Ig) and its subclasses. Prognostic factors from Ig and clinical variables in the patients with I-LRTI were identified to create a prediction model. Results: To address this issue, we prospectively and observationally studied the difference of immunoglobulin proteome and clinical variables between survivors and non-survivals in 107 patients with influenza-associated lower respiratory tract infection (I-LRTI) selected from four hospitals affiliated to Capital Medical University. The results identified 17 variables with significant or marginally statistical differences by univariate analysis, including lymphocyte count (LY), monocytes count (MO), CD3 + CD4 + T-cell count, CD3 + CD8 + T-cell count, IgA, IgA1, IgG2, IgG4, CRP, PCT, D-dimer, oxygenation index, glycosylated hemoglobin, lactic acid (LAC), base excess of blood, lactic dehydrogenase, and α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase. Furthermore, we analyzed the correlations of all the variables by hierarchical clustering analysis in which different functional modules were formed between survival and non-survival groups that are associated with the immunity and severe infection. At last, we built a prediction model with nine variables (D-dimer, days from onset to ED, IgA, IgG2, LAC, LY, MO, Staphylococcus aureus co-infection and age), with which the AUC value of 0.810 (95% CI 0.755-0.839) was achieved with the evaluation of LOO cross validation. The predictive model was further validated by disease severity evaluation. Conclusion: Lethal bacterial (especially S. aureus ) co-infection was associated with cellular immunity, oxygenation index, HbA1C and age. The combined prediction model with D-dimer, Days from onset to ED, IgA, IgG2, LAC, LY, MO, S.aureus co-infection and age demonstrate the predictive mortality powerfully in patients with I-LRTI.
A survey on the clinical spectrum of Aspergillus infections in Isfahan, Iran, during 2010-2018
Authors: Chadeganipour Mostafa , Mohammadi Rasoul
Published: January 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Socializing One Health: An Innovative Strategy to Investigate Social and Behavioral Risks of Emerging Viral Threats
Authors: Saylors Karen , Wolking David J. , Hagan Emily , Martinez Stephanie , Francisco Leilani , Euren Jason , Olson Sarah H. , Miller Maureen , Daszak Peter , Kreuder-Johnson Christine , Mazet Jonna A.K.
Published: January 2020

In an effort to strengthen global capacity to prevent, detect, and control infectious diseases in animals and people, the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Emerging Pandemic Threats (EPT) PREDICT program funded development of regional, national, and local One Health capacities for early disease detection, rapid response, disease control, and risk reduction. From the outset, the EPT approach was inclusive of social science research methods designed to understand the contexts and behaviors of communities living and working at human-animal-environment interfaces considered high-risk for virus emergence. Using qualitative and quantitative approaches, PREDICT behavioral research aimed to identify and assess a range of known and unknown socio-cultural behaviors that could be influential in zoonotic disease emergence, amplification, and transmission. This broad approach to behavioral risk characterization enabled us to identify and characterize human activities that could be linked to the transmission dynamics of new and emerging viruses. This paper provides a discussion of implementation of a social science approach within a zoonotic surveillance framework. We conducted in-depth ethnographic interviews and focus groups to better understand the individual- and community-level knowledge, attitudes, and practices that potentially put participants at risk for zoonotic disease transmission from the animals they live and work with. When we asked highly-exposed individuals (ie. bushmeat hunters, wildlife or guano farmers) about the risk they perceived in their occupational activities, most did not perceive it to be risky, whether because it was normalized by years (or generations) of doing such an activity, or due to lack of information about potential risks. Integrating the social sciences allows investigations of the specific human activities that are hypothesized to drive disease emergence, amplification, and transmission, in order to better substantiate behavioral disease drivers, along with the social dimensions of infection and transmission dynamics. Understanding these dynamics is critical to achieving health security--the protection from threats to health-- which requires investments in both collective and individual health security. Involving behavioral sciences into zoonotic disease surveillance allowed us to push toward fuller community integration and engagement and toward dialogue and implementation of recommendations for disease prevention and improved health security.
Effect of pericardial incision on left ventricular morphology and systolic function in patients during coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Liu Lu , Meng Ping-Ping , Wang Yong-Huai , Li Meng , Yang Jun , Gu Tian-Xiang , Ma Chun-Yan
Published: January 2020

Background: Accurate assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic function is important after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). LV ejection fraction (LVEF) is conventionally used to evaluate LV systolic function; deformation parameters can be used to detect subtle LV systolic dysfunction. It is unclear whether an incised pericardium without sutures during CABG could affect LV morphology and function. We investigated the effect of pericardial incision on LV morphology and systolic function during CABG. Methods: Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography was performed in 27 patients during elective CABG 5 minutes before and after pericardial incision. LV longitudinal and mid-cavity transversal diameters, sphericity index, volumes, and LVEF were measured. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global radial strain (GRS), and twist obtained by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography were measured simultaneously. Results: LV mid-cavity transversal diameter increased, while the LV sphericity index decreased (P<0.001) immediately after pericardial incision. The GLS, GCS, and twist significantly decreased, while the GRS notably increased (P<0.001). The LV volumes and LVEF remained unchanged. The SYNTAX score was an independent predictor of reduction of GLS by >15% immediately after pericardial incision (P<0.001). Conclusions: Pericardial incision immediately transformed LV morphology from an ellipsoid to sphere, with decreased longitudinal and circumferential strain and twist, and increased radial strain, while LVEF remained unchanged. This should be considered when evaluating LV systolic function in patients after CABG, especially in those with a lower SYNTAX score.
Nano-copper Enhanced Flexible Device for Simultaneous Measurement of Human Cardio-pulmonary Activities
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Feng , Lu Kechao , Abdulaziz Mohammed , Li Chao , Zhang Chongyu , Chen Jun , Li Yunlun
Published: January 2020

Background: Cardiopulmonary activities reflect the ability of the human heart to pump blood and the lungs to inhale oxygen. Thus, a device could simultaneously measure electro-cardiac signal and respiratory pressure could provide vital signs for predicting early warning of cardio-pulmonary function-related chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, and respiratory system disease. Results: In this study, a flexible device integrated with piezo-resistive sensing element and voltage-sensing element was developed to simultaneously measure human respiration and electro-cardiac signal (including respiratory pressure, respiration frequency, and respiration rhythm; electro-cardio frequency, electro-cardio amplitude, and electro-cardio rhythm). When applied to the measurement of respiratory pressure, the piezo-resistive performance of the device was enhanced by nano-copper modification, which detection limitation of pressure can reduce to 100 Pa and the sensitivity of pressure can achieve to 0.053 ± 0.00079 kPa-1. In addition, the signal-to-noise ratio during bio-electrical measurement was increased to 10.7 ± 1.4, five times better than that of the non-modified device. Conclusion: This paper presents a flexible device for the simultaneous detection of human respiration and cardiac electrical activity. To avoid interference between the two signals, the layout of the electrode and the strain sensor was optimized by FEA simulation analysis. To improve the piezo-resistive sensitivity and bio-electric capturing capability of the device, a feather-shaped nano-copper was modified onto the surface of carbon fiber. The operation simplicity, compact size, and portability of the device open up new possibilities for multi-parameter monitoring.
An Assimilation of TRIZ in Dissecting the Statistical Outcomes of Tactile Sensitivity, Pinch Force and Endurance among Elderly People
Authors: Tan Dominic Wen How , Ng Poh Kiat , Noor Ervina Efzan Mhd
Published: January 2020

Background: Numerous investigations have analysed the handgrip force and endurance of elderly people. However, few studies examine reduced and increased tactile sensibility effects on the pinch force and endurance of elderly people. Even fewer studies include the problem-solving process extending from statistical outcomes of such studies. This study examines tactile sensibility effects on the pinch force and endurance of elderly people, and potentially resolves issues dissected from these inferences using TRIZ. Methods: Data on pinch force and endurance time was collected among 32 subjects aged 55-65 years old. Subjects were required to pinch an experimental apparatus at their maximum limit, and sustain their pinching activity for as long as possible. Cotton gloves were for reduced tactile sensibility while rubber gloves were for increased tactile sensibility. The two-sample T-test results were further analysed using TRIZ.Results: The results suggested that a significant difference existed between the pinch force from reduced and increased tactile sensibility (p < 0.05), with similar outcomes for endurance time. Resolving TRIZ contradictions identified from the results presented this study with a principle known as “partial action”, which suggested that elderly people should pinch using less of the originally desired force when the exact intended force is difficult to achieve, rather than exerting a high pinch force in a single attempt. The “segmentation” and “other way around” principles were also recommended. Through Su-Field analysis, it was found that harmful effects from pinching can be neutralised using intermediary materials between the fingers and object, such as rubber. The analysis also proposed using optical or acoustic fields, whereby light sensors or buzzers could act as mechanisms to provide signals once a sufficient pinch force is detected. Conclusion: This study confirmed that elderlies with poor tactile sensibility commonly pinch objects with excessive force and extended durations. The inventive solutions that extend from this finding through TRIZ provide new insights to researchers in product design with the aim of resolving poor pinch performance caused by degrading tactile sensibility.
Bioinformatics for differential proteomics data between triple-negative breast cancer and luminal A subtype breast cancer
Authors: wu guogang , Zhang Lei , Liang Chunyan , Cheng Yao , Lv Chenguang , Chen Bo
Published: January 2020

Background The heterogeneity between different subtypes of breast cancer has been established. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the type of breast cancer with the highest recurrence rate, metastasis rate, and worst prognosis, while luminal A breast cancer is the subtype with the best prognosis. To study the heterogeneity of the two subtypes of breast cancer is important. Methods We adopted a quantitative proteomics detection method based on data-independent acquisition and screened all differentially proteins between TNBC and luminal A breast cancer. Ingenuity Pathways Analysis was used for analysis. Results We found that 207 proteins were up-regulated and 326 proteins were down-regulated. Classical pathway analysis showed that Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (EIF2) signaling was significantly activated, in which EIF2α and other molecules were significantly up-regulated. The upstream regulatory analysis predicted 18 strong activators and 63 strong inhibitors, among which v-myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene neuroblastoma derived homolog (MYCN) was the strongest activator and tretinoin was the strongest inhibitor. Based on disease and function analysis, it was found that differentially proteins were enriched in 41 biological processes, with RNA damage and repair and protein synthesis the most significant biological processes. There were 14 diseases or functions that were significantly activated and 35 that were significantly suppressed. Among the diseases or functions, the differentially proteins had the most significant inhibitory effect on osteosarcoma cell death. According to an analysis of the interaction network, 25 molecular interaction networks were found and the network with the highest score mainly affected the diseases and functions of cancer, protein synthesis, and RNA damage and repair. Conclusion We identified many key proteins with TNBC heterogeneous characteristics and differentially expression, which will provide an abundance of new information for screening TNBC therapeutic specific targets and biomarkers.
Effectiveness and Safety of Surgical Interventions for Treating Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: a Bayesian Meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Long , Sun Zeyu , He Jingming , Xu Yunwen , Li Zhuhai , Zou Qian , Li Bo
Published: January 2020

Background Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common form of spinal deformity in children and adolescents which presents as complex three-dimensional (3D) deformity of the spine and rib cage. This study aimed to estimate the effectiveness and safety of surgical interventions for AIS using Bayesian meta-analysis.Methods The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials were searched through Oct 1, 2019, without language restrictions. Relevant studies evaluating combined effectiveness and safety of surgical interventions for AIS were included according to eligibility criteria. The primary outcome measures included pulmonary function (change of absolute forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one second from pre-operation to post-operation) and incidence of complications. The secondary outcome measure was change of Cobb angle from pre-operation to post-operation. Data was pooled using a random effects model in pairwise meta-analysis. Bayesian meta-analysis combined direct and indirect evidence using a Bayesian framework.Results 28 case-controlled studies with totally 1970 participants were included. This Bayesian meta-analysis combining direct and indirect evidences indicated that posterior fusion with instrumentation without thoracoplasty (PSF) had the highest probability to achieve better pulmonary function and lower complication rate; video assisted anterior fusion with instrumentation without thoracoplasty (VAT) had the highest probability to obtain better Cobb angle correction based on analysis of rank probability.Conclusion This Bayesian meta-analysis gives a practical recommendation of PSF as a primary surgical treatment for AIS. The results also support statistics that current surgeries adopted more PSF but less open anterior approach surgery and thoracoplasty. More research work is required to address the effectiveness and safety of VAT for treating AIS more convincingly.
Audiovisual integrative training for augmenting cognitive- motor functions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Lee Leung- Pong , Har Afifah Wing- Yiu , Ngai Chun- Hei , Lai Daniel W.L. , Lam Bess Yin Hung , Chan Chetwyn Che-Hin
Published: January 2020

Background: Previous studies indicated that the behavioral performances of older adults could be enhanced by multisensory integration. This pilot study tested the benefits of an audiovisual integrative (AV) training for improving the cognitive and upper limb motor functions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).Methods: Twenty participants, according to their MoCA scores, with ten in each of a MCI (mean age= 63.3 years) and healthy older adult group (mean age= 64.7 years), engaged in AV integrative training. They were recruited from the Institute of Active Ageing at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The screening was conducted from February to March 2018 and the training program which consisted of three sessions (2 hours each) was conducted from 14-28th May 2018. Their executive function, attention and upper limb functions were measured by the Stroop Test and Purdue Pegboard Test respectively.Results: The mixed linear model analysis results showed significant Time x Group interaction effects in the time used in the Stroop Test (dots) (p = 0.042) and the Purdue Pegboard scores (non-dominant hand use) (p = 0.025). The MCI group exhibited significantly more improvements in attentional control and non-dominant hand motor functions after the training.Conclusions: The findings suggest that the AV integrative training has the potential for enhancing the cognitive and motor functions of older adults with MCI. Furthermore, AV integrative training can serve as an alternative non-pharmacological intervention for combating neurodegeneration in older adults.
Effect of Resilience on Infertile Couples’ Quality of Life: An Actor–Partner Interdependence Model Approach
Authors: Ha Ju-Young , Ban Seonhwa
Published: January 2020

Background This study aims to analyze the influence of resilience, a positive factor that infertile couples may have, on their quality of life (QoL). Methods Using the method of couples’ data analysis, we analyzed the effect of resilience on the QoL of infertile couples as actors and partners. The subjects of this descriptive causal study were 150 infertile couples. Fertility Quality of Life and Resilience Scale were used to measure couples’ QoL and resilience. The Actor–Partner Interdependence Model was applied to analyze QoL. Results In terms of actor effects, the resilience of both wives (β = .201, p < .001) and husbands (β = .713, p < .001) had a significant effect on individual QoL. With regard to partner effects, husbands’ resilience (β = .351, p < .001) had a significant impact on wives’ QoL, and the wives’ resilience (β = .219, p = .009) had a significant impact on husbands’ QoL. Conclusions The resilience of an infertile actor was found to affect both his or her own QoL as well as that of his or her partner. In the future, if a program is to be developed to improve couples’ QoL, both spouses should work together to improve their resilience, thereby improving their QoL.
Comparative metagenomic analysis of small ruminants' fecal microbiota
Authors: Shabana Iman , Bouqellah N A , Albakri N N
Published: January 2020

Background Ruminant's gastrointestinal tract inhabits complex microbial communities that influence several aspects of their development and health. Due to the limited knowledge of the fecal microbial population of sheep and goats, the current study aimed to determine the core fecal microbiota of sheep and goats at different ages. Metagenomic analysis was performed by Illumina MiSeq targeting the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA genes. Fecal samples were collected from sheep and goats aged 6 months and 12 months, obtained from a single farm. The fecal bacterial composition of both species was investigated at the phylum, class, order, family, and genus levels. Observed Species, Chao1, and Shannon indices were calculated to measure the microbial diversity.Results The core phyla of sheep and goats were Firmicutes (>93.01% in sheep, >95.37% in goat), followed by Proteobacteria (>26.83%in sheep, >62.03% in goat). At the genus level, a total of 36 genera were identified. Of these, 10 genera were identified in both sheep and goats including Escherichia (>40.12%), Clostridium (19.38%), Enterococcus (>5.03%), Lysinibacillus (>76.95%) Streptococcus (>2.83%), Anaerocolumna (>1.63%), Anaerotignum (>35.95%), Muricomes (>0.99%), Tissierella (>0.91%) and Bifidobacterium (>0.51%). Alpha diversity indices indicated that the highest level for the complexity of species diversity was detected in sheep fecal samples at 12 months of age.Conclusion Fecal bacterial metagenomic analysis of sheep and goats showed no significant differences in the microbiota composition on the phyla level. There was an increase in microbiota diversity with age at the genus level. Although analyzing the bacterial composition and diversity is important, further studies on their poten­tial functionality are required.
A novel long non-coding RNA LSAMP-1 is down-regulated in non-small cell lung cancer and predicts a poor prognosis
Authors: gong wei , Qiu Fuman , Li Yinyan , Yang Lei , Wang Yuanyuan , Xian Jianfeng , Zhang Xin , Zhou Yifeng , Wang Xinhua , Qiao Guibin , Chen Cuiyi , Gao Xincheng , Lu Jiachun
Published: January 2020

Background There is very little known about how long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are associated with membrane proteins in lung cancer. The limbic system-associated membrane protein ( LSAMP ) has been reported to play a tumor suppressor role in a variety of cancers.Methods We aimed to explore the lncRNA associated with LSAMP and explore its effects on lung cancer.Results We found that Lnc-LSAMP-1 was significantly down-regulated in 170 cases of lung tumor tissues when compared to the adjacent non-cancerous tissues (p<0.001). Our results indicated that low expression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 was significantly correlated with stage (TNM)(p=0.006), N status (p=0.009) and poor prognosis (p=0.004). Further investigation showed that overexpression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 significantly inhibited lung cancer cell proliferation, viability, invasion and migration ability, arrested cell cycle and facilitated apoptosis. Meanwhile, the expression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 is highly correlated with the expression of nearby tumor suppressor gene LSAMP in our samples (r=0.7074, p<0.001) and TCGA database (r=0.78, p<0.001). It was found that overexpression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 can slow down the degradation rate of LSAMP gene by mRNA protection experiments. By knocking down of LSAMP gene, it was found that overexpressed Lnc-LSAMP-1 cells showed a high proliferation rate. Chemotherapy sensitization experiments showed that overexpression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 enhanced TKI inhibition of lung cancer cell proliferation, which is probably related to affecting the prognosis of patients.Conclusions Consequently, the above data suggested that Lnc-LSAMP-1 functions as a tumor suppressor and provides a new potentially therapeutic and prognostic target for non-small cell lung cancer.
Alteration of circulating natural antibodies against VEGFR1-derived peptide antigens in atherosclerosis
Authors: Wang Peng , Liu Siqi , Wang Zhenqi , Zhao Huan , Zhang Xuan
Published: January 2020

Background Several lines of evidence suggest the protective role of natural antibody in common chronic disease like atherosclerosis and cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1 (VEGFR1) and 2 (VEGFR2) are important regulators of angiogenesis and their involvement in developing atherosclerosis cannot be ruled out. Purpose The present study was designed to develop an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to test if natural IgG for VEGFR1 and regulatory T cell markers CD25 and FOXP3 could be associated with atherosclerosis. Methods A total of 218 patients with atherosclerosis and 200 healthy controls were recruited; all patients had atherosclerotic carotid plaque and carotid intima–media thickness was analyzed using a diagnostic ultrasound system. Results Mann-Whitney U test demonstrated that plasma anti-VEGFR1 IgG levels were significantly lower in atherosclerosis patients than control subjects (Z=-2.46, P =0.014) although neither anti-CD25 IgG levels nor anti-FOXP3 IgG levels showed significant changes. Male patients mainly contributed to the decreased antiVEGFR1 IgG levels (Z=-2.45, P =0.014). Spearman correlation analysis failed to show any significant correlation between natural IgG levels and carotid intima–media thickness. Conclusion Decreased levels of anti-VEGFR1 IgG may be involved in developing atherosclerosis-related conditions.
Application of ox muzzle drainage in knee arthroscopy
Authors: Lu daifeng , Li Jingbo , Zhang Zhitao , Xiao Mochao
Published: January 2020

Background: Ox muzzle drainage is a type of drainage system surrounding the anterior internal and lateral incision of knee arthroscopy. This study investigated the role of ox muzzle drainage in keeping the surgical field clear and decreasing the operative time in knee arthroscopy.Methods: A total of 63 patients with meniscal associated injury who underwent knee arthroscopic meniscus partial resection between May 2011 and June 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Ox muzzle drainage was applied in 31 patients, while the other 32 patients were served as conventional drainage group. The volume of irrigation fluid drained from the knee articular cavity, duration of operation, operative view clarity and complications were compared. Visual clarity was rated by a Numeric Rating Scale.Results: The irrigation fluid volume was significantly greater, while duration of operation was markedly shorter in the ox muzzle drainage group than the control (P<0.05). The operative view clarity in the ox muzzle drainage group was obviously better than the control (P<0.05). One patient in the ox muzzle drainage group developed articular effusion of the knee joint after the operation, which improved markedly after paracentesis and betamethasone articular injection at 3 months after operation. Two patients in the control group experienced reddening at the incision, leading to delayed wound healing. No statistical difference was observed in the number of complications after operation between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: Ox muzzle drainage is feasible for intra-operative irrigation and stretching of the fat pad in knee arthroscopy, offering the advantage of a shorter operation time and, thus, potentially improved safety.
Recurrent Retinal Detachment after Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
Authors: Fu Yan , Zhang Yue-ling , Gu Zhaohui , Geng Ren-Fei , Yuan Xin-Yu
Published: January 2020

Background The recurrence of retinal detachment (RD) following rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a relatively common complication that threatens vision and needs further surgery. The purpose of this study is to investigate the risk factors and visual outcomes of recurrent RD following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for primary RRD.Methods This was a retrospective follow-up of 343 eyes that underwent initial PPV surgery for primary RRD. Patients were divided into a recurrence group and a reattachment group. The main outcome measures included the causative factors, visual outcomes of RD recurrence, and the perioperative factors most affecting the recurrence of RD.Results After retinal reattachment, we observed recurrence of RD after PPV for primary RRD in 42 out of 343 eyes (12.2%) during the follow-up period. Most recurrence (69%) occurred within 6 months after surgery. Univariate analysis showed that the primary risk factor significantly associated with recurrent RD was the presence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) ≥ Grade C ( P = 0.003). Logistic regression analysis showed that a PVR ≥ Grade C (odds ration [OR]: 9.421, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.432 - 56.39; P =0.020) was a significant predictor for the development of recurrent RD. The recurrence of RD resulted in a significant decline in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at the last follow-up visit compared with the reattachment group ( P =0.000). Eyes with PVR prior to primary surgery or at the diagnosis of re-detachment showed a worse final BCVA.Conclusions The presence of PVR ≥ Grade C was the predominant risk factor for the recurrence of RD. PVR prior to primary surgery, or at the diagnosis of re-detachment, limited the recovery of final visual acuity.
Tuberculosis cases in cross-regional floating population from 2009 to 2017 in Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Men Ke , Zhang Hairui , Liu Weiping , Han Henry
Published: January 2020

Background : The cross-regional population of tuberculosis (TB) has become an important part of the prevention and control of TB cases in China with the gradually increasing of floating population. The aim of our study was to explore the main epidemiological characteristics and provide reference for the treatment and management of TB cases in cross-regional floating population in Shaanxi Province. Methods: The data of TB cases in cross-regional floating population from 2009 to 2017 were derived from the National Tuberculosis Management Information Registration System. Descriptive analysis was applied for the baseline demographical, continuous data are expressed as means ± standard deviation and categorical in percentage. The χ2 test, which was implemented as Fisher’s exact test in this study, was applied to categorical variable comparisons. Results: A total of 613 floating TB cases consisting of 413 males (67.4%) and 200 females (32.6%) were registered in Shaanxi province from 2009 to 2017. The difference of gender distribution was statistically significant ( P =0.039). Of the total, 190 cases (31.0%) were smear-positive and 175 cases (28.5%) were negative. From 2009 to 2017, the difference of the gender distribution was not statistically significant ( P =0.732), but the difference in the rate of transferred into original was found statistically significant ( P =0.000). Conclusion: The number of TB cases in cross-regional floating population in Shaanxi Province showed a relatively stable trend from 2009 to 2017. Young males should be given more attentions in TB control because they counted most of the TB cases.
The rs1892818 polymorphism of ADRB3 is associated with coronary artery disease in a Han population
Authors: Zhang Jin-Yu , Zhao Qian , Li Xiao-Mei , Liu Fen , Zhao Qiang , Men Li , Chen Qing-Jie , Zhai Hui , Luo Jun-Yi , Yang Yining
Published: January 2020

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and causes high morbidity worldwide. The β3-adrenergic receptor gene (ADRB3) is potentially linked to obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and hypertension based on its role in energy homeostasis and lipolysis in human adipose tissue. However, the relationship between ADRB3 gene polymorphisms and CAD remains unclear. we sought to assess this association in the Han and Uygur populations of China. Methods: We used the following two case-control studies: a Han population (308 CAD patients and 294 control subjects) and an Uygur population (259 CAD patients and 161 control subjects). All 1022 participants were genotyped for the two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs1892818, rs9693898) of ADRB3 using real-time polymerase chain reaction (TaqMan). Results: We found that the rs1892818 CT genotype (8.5% compared with 3.9%, P = 0.019) and T allele (4.3% compared with 1.9%, P = 0.021) were more frequent in control subjects than in CAD patients of the Han, but not Uygur population. No significant differences in rs9693898 of ADRB3 were found between CAD patients and control subjects for both populations. After adjusting for other confounders, logistic regression analysis suggested that the difference remained significant between the two groups in the Han population (CT compared with CC, P = 0.036, OR = 0.410, 95% CI: 0.178–0.944). Conclusion: Our results suggest that ADRB3 rs1892818 is associated with CAD in a Han population and that the CT genotype of ADRB3 rs1892818 might be a protective factor for CAD in Han individuals.
Incidence of HIV and HCV in Injecting Drug Users: Systematic and Meta-analysis Review protocol
Authors: Sharhani Asaad , Rahmani Azam , Armoon Bahram , Shushtari Zahra Jorjoran , Noroozi Mehdi , Ahounbar Elahe , karimi salah eddin
Published: January 2020

introduction: HIV and HCV is a health concern in the word. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis protocol study is aimed to estimate the incidence of HIV and HCV among People who inject drugs (PWID) by applying mathematical modeling. The primary purpose of this systematic review is to identify and review existing studies of HIV and HCV incidence in people who inject drugs, that use mathematical modeling.
Methods and analysis: Studies including cohort, cross-sectional, case–control studies which were conducted to estimate incidence of HIV and HCV based on mathematical or evaluated effectiveness of mathematical models will be considered to enroll the review; a comprehensive search with Cochrane approach would be applied to identify relevant studies in electronic databases in the period of 2000 to 2019. This protocol was prepared according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) and we will search PubMed, EMBASE, Opengrey, WOS, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library with no restriction of language. Study selection and data extraction will be performed by two independent reviewers. Assessment of risk of bias will be implemented using three quality test tools including Newcastle Ottawa Scale and ROBIS scale for cross-sectional studies and quantitative studies quality test tool for observational and interventional studies for other study Publication bias will be assessed by funnel plots, Begg’s and Egger’s tests. Heterogeneity will be evaluated using the I2 statistic and the χ2 test. In addition, subgroup analyses will be conducted for population and the secondary outcomes.
De novo transcriptome assembly of Premnotrypes vorax (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: C. Luisa-Fernanda Velásquez , Canton Pablo Emiliano , Sánchez-Flores Alejandro , Bravo Alejandra , Cerón Jairo
Published: January 2020

Objective: Premnotrypes vorax (P. vorax) is an insect pest that causes significant losses to potato crops in Colombia. Currently, the insect control is mainly done by using highly toxic chemical insecticides and there are no reports of any commercial biological control strategy against this pest. Hence, the objective of this study was to characterize the insect genetic expression to search for genes that could codify for Bacillus thuringiensis Cry toxin receptors. Using an RNA-seq approach, we sequenced the mRNA from the insect tissue, performed a de novo assembly and analyzed the reconstructed transcriptome of P. vorax. To our knowledge, this is the first genetic report of this endemic insect which will set the basis of a possible biological control strategy.Results: The transcriptome data was obtained from dissected midgut tissue samples of P. vorax larvae. The isolated RNA was isolated and sequenced using the Illumina HiSeq platform with a configuration of 2x150pb reads. A total of 383,552,246 reads were obtained and subsequently a quality and cleaning process was performed through FastQC and Trimmomatic software, respectively. A novo assembly was done using the Trinity software, obtaining a transcriptome assembly with 25,631 genes that showed at least one annotation record, resulting in 74,984 transcript isoforms.
Mediating Role of Consumer Involvement between Celebrity Endorsement and Consumer Evaluation: Comparative Study of High and Low Involvement Product
Authors: Arora Nilesh , Prashar Sanjeev , Parsad Chandan , Vijay T. Sai
Published: January 2020

Celebrity endorsement has been an important area of study from the perspectives of marketers as well as consumers. This research aims at developing and testing a model of celebrity endorsement with celebrity-product congruence and attractiveness as predictor variables, with consumer involvement affecting a consumer assessment of the brand and purchase intention. The research has been guided by current attention being given to the significance of celebrities for endorsing products. However, the same has not been duly explored in the context of celebrity endorsement, with consumer involvement as a mediating variable, and further its impact on consumers’ evaluation. The present research discusses the relationship effect of celebrity endorsement on consumers’ evaluation of the communication done through the celebrity endorsing the brand. The study highlights mediating role of consumer involvement for both high and low involvement products in formation of attitude towards advertisement and buying intention. Using mall intercept method, the data was collected from 246 respondents. Structural equation modelling was used for analysing the data using AMOS 22.0. The results indicate that consumer responses are maximised when endorser attractiveness and consumer involvement interact with each other. Also, it is observed that consumer involvement has maximum impact on attitude toward advertisement. The paper closes with theoretical and managerial implication.
Avaliação da Floresta Nacional de Brasília para o atendimento de pessoas com deficiência e/ou mobilidade reduzida
Authors: Nascimento Jakson Lima do , Paz Ronilson José da
Published: January 2020

Trata o presente artigo sobre a avaliação da Floresta Nacional de Brasília para o atendimento de pessoas com deficiência e/ou mobilidade reduzida, visando a sua inclusão social, permitindo o usufruto do contato com a Natureza. De um modo geral, observou-se que a Floresta Nacional de Brasília não possui estruturas adequadas que possam acolher essas pessoas. Diante disso foi sugerida a realização de algumas adequações de modo a possibilitar o atendimento à legislação, como: implantação de estruturas para a segurança dos visitantes e também estruturas que a tornem mais atrativa para os visitantes, como a implantação de sala de visitantes com exposição de fotos, disponibilização dos animais taxidermizados para as pessoas com deficiência visual, jardim sensorial, passeio ciclístico em bicicletas duplas com as pessoas com deficiência visual, jeep tour para cadeirantes, vôlei adaptado para pessoas com deficiência física, arvorismo para pessoas com deficiência auditiva e mental e trilha interpretativa adaptada para todas as pessoas com deficiência e mobilidade reduzida.
Diagnóstico espaço-temporal das áreas impactadas pela MPL - Mineração Pedra Lavrada (Santa Luzia-PB), na extração de vermiculita
Authors: Alencar Amanda Carolina Almeida Bezerra , Costa Thâmara Pessoa Goes da , Alves Clayriston Sousa , Linhares Franklin Mendonça
Published: January 2020

A mineração é um dos setores básicos da economia, contribuindo de forma decisiva para o desenvolvimento do país, desde que seja operada com responsabilidade social e ambiental. O presente estudo tem como objetivo diagnosticar o espaço-temporal da área degradada pela extração de Vermiculita, e propor adequar a atividade no PRAD apresentado pela empresa. O trabalho foi desenvolvido com o apoio da Empresa MPL - Mineração Pedra Lavrada Ltda, localizada no Município de Santa Luzia-PB, na Região do Seridó Ocidental Paraibano, e com os resultados sido coletados em outubro de 2014. Para a realização do estudo avaliou-se a área nos seguintes aspectos: a época em que a área foi impactada e o tipo de impacto causado. Após estes estudos, foi feita a quantificação da área alterada pela atividade minerária, para posteriormente propor a recomposição do passivo gerado, utilizando as técnicas de geoprocessamento e sensoriamento remoto para chegar aos resultados finais.