bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three Components of Readiness to Change: Communication of Change and Change-Efficacy as Antecendents
Authors: Haqq Zulkifli Nurul , Natsir Muhammad
Published: July 2019

In order to fulfill the planned change, an organization should seriously take the role of individual perception into consideration, in which the individual plays a pivotal role in the change implementation stage through their act. This study aims to investigate the attitude of readiness to change based on the multidimensional concept, with communication of change and change-efficacy as antecedents. This study involved shariah rural bank, located in East Java, as a research object. Furthermore, a quantitative approach was employed in this study, in which survey as a procedure for collecting data through questionnaires. In addition, PLS-SEM was employed as an analysis of research method. The results exhibit that communication of change contribute to develop of almost all forms attitude of readiness to change and change-efficacy can predict all forms of readiness to change. Finally, this study offers several implications, both theoretically and practically.
Analisis Penerimaan Core Banking System Berbasis Technology Readiness an Acceptance Model pada BPRS Bangun Drajat Warga di DIY
Authors: Rifai Sindu , Asakdiyah Salamatun , Setyawan Rai Rake
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study is to analyze the acceptance of the core banking system based on technology readiness and acceptance model on Bank Pembiayaan Rakyat Syariah Bangun Drajat Warga in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Constructions used are optimism, innovativeness, discomfort, insecurity, easy of use and usefulness. This research method uses quantitative with a survey approach. The results of the study show that constructs of optimism and discomfort have a positive and significant effect on the perception of benefits and convenience in using the Core Banking System. The innovativeness construct has a positive and significant effect on the perception of the benefits of the core banking system, but for users, it has a negative effect and does not significantly influence the perception of ease of use of the Core Banking System. Insecurity, easy of use and usefulness constructs shows that there is no positive and significant influence on the perception of benefits and convenience in using the Core Banking System.
BIVALVES ON THE MOVE: THE INTERPLAY OF EXTRINSIC AND INTRINSIC FACTORS ON THE MORPHOLOGY OF THE TRACE FOSSIL PROTOVIRGULARIA
Authors: CABRERA MARÍA I. LÓPEZ , MÁNGANO M. GABRIELA , BUATOIS LUIS A. , OLIVERO EDUARDO B. , MAPLES CHRISTOPHER G.
Published: July 2019

Tide-influenced deposits of the Pennsylvanian Rock Lake Shale Member, Stanton Formation, Missouri and Kansas (U.S.A.), contain well-preserved evidence of the burrowing activities of protobranch bivalves, including locomotion (Protovirgularia) and locomotion-resting (Protovirgularia-Lockeia) trace fossils. Protovirgularia shows three distinct morphotypes, the morphological variability of which was controlled by external factors such as substrate conditions, toponomy, and undertrack deficiency. Extreme morphological modifications of Protovirgularia and/or Lockeia, represented by irregular bilobate structures, probably result from erosion and subsequent partial passive filling of the original biogenic structures. In addition, very well-preserved trace fossils showing intergradation of a fan-shaped cluster of ridges with Protovirgularia-Lockeia structures are interpreted as a compound biogenic structure that represents locomotion, resting, and feeding activities of burrowing protobranch bivalves.
SEASONAL AND INTRA-SEASONAL VARIABILITY OF SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE IN PARI ISLAND-JAKARTA, INDONESIA
Authors: Corvianawatie Corry
Published: July 2019

Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs) is one of the most important oceanographic parameter that could affect the marine life, especially coastal ecosystem. SSTs data varies in hourly, daily, seasonal, annual, inter-annual, and even in longer time scales. This condition makes any studies using instantaneous measurement could turn into misleading report due to the lack of time series SSTs data. Thus, the aim of this study is to understand the seasonal and intra-seasonal SSTs dynamics in Pari Island using continuous measurement from temperature logger. This study found that the double peaks of SSTs in May and November are correspond to the period of transitional monsoon. Conversely, the two minimum SSTs in February and August were correspond to the peak of northwest monsoon and southeast monsoon respectively. In addition to seasonal pattern, the slightly dominant intra-seasonal variability of SSTs was found in the period of 57 and 86 days. Those predominant signals suggested represent the Madden-Julian Oscillation phenomena.
Language and interaction: the teaching/learning of Portuguese through textual restructuring during the formation of the subject reader/author
Authors: Luzzi Marta
Published: July 2019

This article aims to present an analysis of the results of the research project “First authorship: the discursive process in Portuguese teaching and the formation of the reader/writer in the initial years of elementary school, Amambai-MS”, developed in the stricto sensu postgraduate program in Letras, of the State University of Mato Grosso do Sul. The foundation is based on the socio-interactionist precepts of M. Bakhtin articulated to the thoughts of L.S. Vigotski. The text is seen as a discursive material that includes not only the senses of a polyphonic language, but also the formation of the subject reader and creator of his own text. Thus, the apprentice develops his or her text from the storytelling and, posteriorly, re-signifies it in the collective restructuring, so social values are confronted and transformed. The process takes place in the collective interaction, flowing the ideological position, subjectivity and conflicting truths, and opening itself to the creative and significant act of authorship.
O pré-teste ao EPPLE (Exame de Proficiência para Professores de Línguas Estrangeiras): validade e desafios tecnológicos
Authors: Cunha Jéssica Nunes Caldeira
Published: July 2019

O Exame de Proficiência para Professores de Línguas Estrangeiras (EPPLE) tem sido foco de muitas pesquisas no Brasil. Recentemente, desenvolveu-se o pré-teste ao EPPLE com o intuito de fornecer aos candidatos uma informação preliminar sobre sua proficiência, que pudesse prever os resultados do exame. Neste artigo, discutimos alguns aprimoramentos feitos no pré-teste em relação a uma versão anterior, as vantagens e limitações de sua aplicação através de dispositivos tecnológicos móveis, e indicações de sua validade paralela.
Eventos tonais pré-nucleares de declarativas e interrogativas neutras do português do Libolo em fala semiespontânea
Authors: Santos Vinícius Gonçalves dos , Fernandes Svartman Flaviane Romani
Published: July 2019

Neste estudo, investigamos os eventos tonais do contorno pré-nuclear de declarativas e interrogativas neutras do português angolano do Libolo em dados de fala semiespontânea. A partir de uma análise autossegmental-métrica da entoação (LADD, 2008), conjuntamente a pressupostos da Fonologia Prosódica (NESPOR; VOGEL, 1986), observamos uma frequente associação de acentos tonais às palavras fonológicas pré-nucleares das sentenças. Além disso, a fronteira entre os dois sintagmas prosódicos finais em declarativas e interrogativas parciais pode ser marcada por um aparente acento frasal baixo. Concluímos, assim, que os aspectos tonais pré-nucleares do português libolense são, no geral, similares aos já descritos para outras variedades de português europeu, brasileiro, guineense e santomense, embora haja maior similaridade com as três últimas.
A utilização de corpora em atividades de língua inglesa voltadas para a compreensão escrita de vestibulandos
Authors: Laranja Luana Aparecida Nazzi
Published: July 2019

O presente trabalho objetiva aplicar a abordagem teórico-metodológica da Linguística de Corpus (LC) no contexto de ensino aprendizagem de língua inglesa (McCARTHY, 2001; SARDINHA, 2010; VIANA, 2011) por meio do desenvolvimento de atividades de compreensão escrita voltadas para o vestibular. Para tanto, foi compilado um corpus de textos jornalísticos autênticos advindos dos sites CNN® e BBC® a fim de gerar as palavras-chave encontradas nos mesmos e, a partir de então, extrair os agrupamentos lexicais dessas palavras para posterior criação das atividades de compreensão escrita. Em função disso, buscou-se responder às seguintes perguntas: 01. Como o uso de um corpus criado a partir de textos jornalísticos autênticos pode auxiliar no levantamento de agrupamentos lexicais para o vestibular? 02. Que impacto a utilização de atividades desenvolvidas por meio desse corpus terá em relação ao desenvolvimento da compreensão escrita dos alunos? As atividades desenvolvidas foram aplicadas nas aulas de língua inglesa do terceiro ano do ensino médio em uma escola de ensino regular do interior de São Paulo. Por meio de um questionário entregue aos alunos ao final da atividade, foi possível observar que o efeito das atividades com base em corpora foi positivo, visto que grande parte dos estudantes avaliaram as atividades de compreensão escrita como auxiliares no entendimento dos textos propostos nas atividades, especialmente pelo vocabulário apresentado e pelas técnicas de leitura abordadas.
Aspectos prosódicos das sentenças interrogativas globais do português de São Tomé: uma análise inicial
Authors: Braga Gabriela
Published: July 2019

Em São Tomé e Príncipe, apesar de ser um país multilíngue, o português é a língua falada por mais de 90% da população. Embora a norma lusitana standard (SEP) goze de prestígio em todo o país, ela está muito distante da variedade de fato falada pela população. Neste trabalho, ampliamos a descrição da gramática entoacional do português santomense (PST), analisando entoacionalmente as sentenças interrogativas globais neutras (perguntas sim/não de foco amplo), verificando que estas também (tal qual as sentenças declarativas neutras) apresentam características prosódicas que afastam o PST do SEP, tanto em densidade tonal quanto em configuração de contorno nuclear. Além disso, verifica-se semelhanças entre PST e variedades de português brasileiro, aproximando variedades ultramarinas de português.
A realização variável da segunda pessoa por bilíngues em vêneto e português em uma comunidade rural do Espírito Santo
Authors: Peres Edenize Ponzo , Coelho Maria do Socorro Vieira
Published: July 2019

Este trabalho objetiva analisar as consequências do contato linguístico que ocorreu em uma comunidade do interior do Espírito Santo, colonizada por imigrantes provenientes do Vêneto, Itália, que ali chegaram no final do século XIX. Especificamente, investigamos o uso da 2ª pessoa do português por parte de quatro bilíngues em vêneto e português, netos desses imigrantes, sendo dois homens e duas mulheres, com idade acima de 57 anos e com baixa escolarização. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas sociolinguísticas, sendo analisadas cinco variáveis linguísticas e uma extralinguística. Os resultados apontam o emprego de você(s), de cê(s) e de ocê(s) pelos informantes. Nossos resultados não se alinham aos obtidos em outras comunidades brasileiras, evidenciando que, em situações de contato linguístico, a língua materna exerce influência variável na segunda língua, a depender dos fatores linguísticos e sociais envolvidos.
Dicionário e locuções: uma proposta bilíngue (português-italiano)
Authors: Bertonha Fábio Henrique de Carvalho , Zavaglia Claudia
Published: July 2019

Apoiados em Berruto (1979), Ilari e Geraldi (1985), Tamba-Mecz (2006) e Regueiro Rodríguez (2013), realizamos um tratamento lexicográfico de locuções adverbiais e prepositivas a partir do Dicionário Houaiss: Sinônimos e Antônimos (2011), do qual coletamos 154 itens lexicais etiquetados como “locução” constituídos pelas preposições “a”, “de” e “em”, a fim de analisar sua sinonímia. Delineamos um verbete-modelo que inclui, além dos equivalentes sinonímicos, contextos de uso com o intuito de atestarmos a ocorrência dessas locuções no português brasileiro e no italiano. Nossa proposta lexicográfica parte de um modelo em que o paradigma definicional se constitui de sinônimos que incluem informações de um item sinonímico geral para um específico, seus respectivos equivalentes em italiano e as contextualizações nas duas línguas. Em nossa apresentação, expomos alguns de nossos verbetes preenchidos, além de discuti-los em relação à sua elaboração, da macro à microestrutura.
A forma perifrástica 'ainda mais': uma descrição discursivo-funcional
Authors: Fontes Michel Gustavo
Published: July 2019

Com base no modelo teórico-metodológico da Gramática Discursivo-Funcional (HENGEVELD; MACKENZIE, 2008), este artigo descreve a estrutura composicional e o funcionamento discursivo da forma perifrástica ainda mais. A partir de ocorrências reais de uso do português contemporâneo, extraídas do Córpus do Português (DAVIES; FERREIRA, 2006), o objetivo é mapear propriedades funcionais e formais que subjazem ao uso de ainda mais. Os resultados revelam que ainda mais, enquanto forma fixa do português, constitui uma partícula escalar absoluta (SCHWENTER, 2000); no âmbito da GDF, ainda mais corresponde a um primitivo gramatical do Nível Interpessoal, especificamente função (pragmática) Contraste Seletivo (cf. DIK, 1997a; PEZATTI, 2014), com escopo sobre o Subato ou sobre o Conteúdo Comunicado.
A crença nas palavras: (des)construções lexicais em antropônimos de líderes religiosos
Authors: Gonçalves Carlos Alexandre Victorio
Published: July 2019

Neste artigo, tomamos por base formações expressivas oriundas de prenomes ou sobrenomes de personagens polêmicos na esfera religiosa, a exemplo de “Pedir Mais Cedo” e “Silas Mala Cheia”, desconstruções lexicais advindas de antropônimos de dois conhecidos pastores neopentecostais: Edir Macedo e Silas Malafaia. Nossa principal meta é mapear os processos morfossemânticos envolvidos nessas cunhagens e observar a gama de estratégias de que se vale o falante na expressão de pontos de vista através de (re)análises morfológicas.
Apresentação
Authors: Zavaglia Claudia
Published: July 2019

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Initiation time of weaning and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than 2 years in Aksum town, Tigray, Ethiopia: Across sectional study, July 2018
Authors: Knfu Beriha Welay , Kasa Mekuria , Msgna Haftom Gebrehiwot , Gebrezgi Birhane Hailu , Welu Tesfay Hailu , Abraha Elsa Hagos
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background: Weaning is the period of time when infants introduce food different from breast milk in their diet, together with a gradual reduction of the intake of milk. It is estimated that 6% of under-five child mortality every year can be reduced through age appropriate infant feeding. Ethiopian demographic health survey 2016 declared that 21% of children consuming foods by age 4-5 months. Few Studies done in Ethiopia describe initiation time of weaning.
Objective: To assess initiation time of weaning and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than 2 years in Aksum Town 2017/18.
Methods: Community based cross-sectional study was conducted from December to May 2017/18 among 358 mothers of children. Simple random sampling technique was used to select from the five kebeles. Data was entered to Epi info version 7 and transported to SPSS version 22. Logistic regressions were used to identify the predictors of initiation time of weaning. Variables with P value <0.05 with 95% CI in the multivariable analysis were taken for declaring level of significance. The analyzed data were presented using texts, tables, graphs and charts.
Result: In this study prevalence of early initiation of weaning was 38% (CI=33.0, 43.0). Mothers of children aged less than 2 years having poor knowledge on initiation of weaning Adjusted Odds Ratio ((AOR) =2.08, 95% CI=1.12, 3.90), mothers who were not received formal advice from health professionals on initiation of weaning (AOR =1.93, 95% CI=1.17, 3.16), mothers who return to work during post postpartum period (AOR= 3.32, CI=1.99, 5.54) and had family size of four and above (AOR= 2.53 ,95% CI=1.46, 4.39) were significantly associated factors with early initiation time of weaning.
Conclusion: In this study prevalence of early initiation of weaning was high. Having poor knowledge, not received formal weaning advice, return to work and have family size of four and above were significantly associated factors with early initiation of weaning. Hence, Formal weaning advice should be given to mothers of children at health institutions during their prenatal care service regarding to initiation time of weaning.
Key words: Initiation of weaning, early weaning, timely weaning
Effect of Ultrashort Wave on Joint Dysfunction and Muscle Atrophy in a Rabbit Model of Extending Knee Joint Contracture: Enhanced Expression of MyoD
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhou Yun , Zhang Quan Bing , Liu A Ying , Zhong Hua Zhang , Li Jun , Liu Yi , Xu Yuan Hong
Published: July 2019

Background
As a common clinical disease, the incidence of joint contracture which is characterized by the reduction of range of motion (ROM) in the active or passive state of the joint has increased in recent years. This study was to investigate the effects of ultrashort wave on joint dysfunction and muscle atrophy in a rabbit model of extending knee joint contracture and its mechanism.
Methods
35 rabbits underwent unilateral immobilization of a knee joint at full extension to cause joint contracture, and 5 rabbits were used for the control group. After 8 weeks immobilization, 35 rabbits were randomly divided into the following seven groups: I-8, R-1, R-2, R-4, T-1, T-2, and T-4. In the Group R-1, R-2 and R-4, the rabbits were experienced one, two, and four weeks self-recovery. In the Group T-1, T-2, and T-4, the rabbits were experienced one, two, and four weeks ultrashort wave treatment. The effect of self-recovery and ultrashort wave treatment on joint dysfunction and muscle atrophy was assessed by measuring the degree of total and myogenic contracture, evaluating the cross-sectional area (CSA) of rectus femoris and assessing the protein levels for MyoD.
Results
A tendency toward reduced the degree of total and myogenic contracture was observed after self-recovery and ultrashort wave treatment. A tendency toward increased the CSA of rectus femoris and the protein levels for MyoD was observed after self-recovery and ultrashort wave treatment. The ultrashort wave treatment led a better efficacy than self-recovery against the total and the myogenic contracture, the CSA and the protein levels for MyoD of rectus femoris.
Conclusions
Ultrashort wave ameliorates joint dysfunction and muscle atrophy via upregulating the expression of MyoD protein in a rabbit model of extending knee joint contracture.
A Comparison of Contiguous Two-level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion using a Structural Allograft versus a Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Cage: The Results of a Three-Year Follow-up
Authors: MOO ING HOW , Kam Carmen Jia Wen , Lai Maksim Wen Sheng , Yeo William , Soh Reuben Chee Cheong
Published: July 2019

Background: The effectiveness of graft type in two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with plate fixation remains controversial. The primary aim of this retrospective study is to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of two-level anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) with plate fixation using either a structural allograft or a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage.

Methods: From 2010 to 2015, 88 consecutive patients underwent a two-level ACDF of which 53 used an allograft and 35 patients with a PEEK cage. All clinical outcomes were prospectively collected preoperatively, at six months and at two years after surgery. Clinical efficacy was evaluated using visual analogue scale for neck pain and limb pain, the Neck Pain and Disability Score, Neck Disability Index, Neurogenic Symptom Score, and the Japan Orthopedic Association score. Radiological outcomes were assessed preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and at the final follow-up.

Results: A preoperative comparison revealed no difference between the two patient groups in terms of age, gender, body mass index, smoking status, preoperative symptoms, operated levels, and follow-up (mean= 42.8 months). No difference in improvements in the clinical outcome between the two groups was observed. Both groups showed significant improvement in mean disc height, segmental height, and segmental lordosis postoperatively. The fusion rates for PEEK cage was 100% at both levels while the fusion rates for allograft group was 98.1% at cephalad level and 94.2% at caudad level (p>0.05). Subsidence at the cephalad level occurred in 22.9% (8/35) segments in the PEEK group and 7.7% (4/52) segments in the allograft group (p=0.057). At the caudal level, a higher cage subsidence was noted in the PEEK group compared to the allograft group [37.1% (13/35) versus 15.4% (8/52)] (p=0.02). Overall, subsidence was noted in 30% (21/70) of the PEEK group and in 11% (12/104) of the allograft group (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The use of PEEK cages resulted in a higher rate of subsidence in two-level ACDF as compared to allograft. Two-level ACDF using either allografts or PEEK cages resulted in similar clinical outcomes, radiological improvements in alignment and fusion rates.
Severe lymphopenia as a prognostic factor in rectal cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemoradiotherapy: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Minjun , You Guangxian , Xu Hongen , Song Tao , Zhang Haibo , Yang Jia , Jia Yongshi , Deng Qinghua , Liang Xiaodong
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The relationship between total lymphocyte counts (TLCs) and survival is not well documented in rectal cancer. This study aimed to investigate the association between TLCs and disease-free survival (DFS) and identify factors associated with lymphopenia in locally advanced rectal cancer patients receiving chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

Thirty-six patients with locally advanced rectal cancer were retrospectively analyzed. TLCs were evaluated before surgery (pre-S), before radiotherapy (pre-RT), and during concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). The relationship between TLCs and DFS was analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis. Potential clinical factors associated with lymphopenia were also evaluated.

Results

Median TLC declined significantly during radiotherapy. Severe lymphopenia during CCRT was significantly associated with poorer DFS on Kaplan-Meier analysis (p=0.01), univariate regression analysis (p=0.036), and multivariate regression analysis (p=0.038). Pre-S TLCs (p=0.009) and pre-RT TLCs (p=0.042) were significantly associated with severe lymphopenia on univariate regression analysis; however, only pre-S TLCs (p=0.026) were significantly associated with severe lymphopenia on multivariate regression analysis.

Conclusions

Severe lymphopenia was a predictor of poorer DFS in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer receiving adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Pre-S TLCs were predictors of severe lymphopenia. Further study is warranted to reduce the rate of severe lymphopenia.
Endoscopic ultrasound-based transluminal cholecystolithotomy: the retrievable anchor assisted procedure
Authors: Ge Nan , Hu Jinlong , Yang Fei , Yang Fan , Zhang Kai , Sun Siyu
Published: July 2019

Background
EUS guided gallbladder drainage has gradually emerging as an option among patients with cholecystitis. Stent bridged endoscope intervention in the gallbladder was further introduced. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the ECE-LAMS and this newly designed retrievable puncture anchor applied in the transmural Cholecystolithotomy.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients undergoing EUS-guided transmural cholecystoscopic therapy. The main outcome measures for the EUS-GBD procedure were techniques success and adverse events, which were also compared between guided assisted group and retrievable anchor assisted group. The main outcome measures for the transmural cholecystoscopy after EUS-GBD were the stent indwelling time, clinical success and adverse events.

Results

A total of 24 (15 female) patients with gallstones were received the transluminal Cholecystolithotomy. Mean age is 36.08±13.69 years old. The successful rate of the anchor assisted group was high than the guidewire assisted group (92.9% Vs 70%, P=0.07). On the average of 12.25±2.77 (range 8-17) days after the initial BD drainage procedure, 20 patients received the per-oral cholecystoscopy via the fistula. Fistula broken was found in 2 patients in which the per-oral cholecystoscopy was applied on the ninth day after the EUS-GBD. During the follow-up period (mean 314.2± 213.7 days) no GB stones recurrence or other long term complications reported.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have demonstrated that EUS-assisted per-oral cholecystoscopy technique with ECE-LMAS is an efficient and safe procedure. For the EUS-GBD procedure, retrievable anchor could significantly increase the success rate compared with the guidewire.
“…the availability of contraceptives is everywhere.”: Coordinated Family Planning Service Delivery in Rwanda Facilitates Integration into Other Health Services
Authors: Scanteianu Adriana , Schwandt Hilary M , Boulware Angel , Corey Julia , Herrera Ana , Hudler Ethan , Imbabazi Claudette , King Ilia , Linus Jessica , Manzi Innocent , Merritt Maddie , Mezier Lyn , Miller Abigail , Morris Haley , Musemakweli Dieudonne , Musekura Uwase , Mutuyimana Divine , Ntakarutimana Chimene , Patel Nirali , Shemeza Biganette-Evidente , Stapleton Madi , Sterling-Donaldson Gi’anna , Umutoni Chantal , Uwera Lyse , Zeiler Madeleine , Feinberg Seth
Published: July 2019

Background
High fertility rates pose health risks to both mothers and children and impede economic growth; therefore, family planning use is vital to achieving sustainable population growth and to help build thriving communities. Contraceptive use in Rwanda has tripled since 2005. This study aims to understand the role of coordinated and integrated family planning service delivery in achieving this unparalleled success in Rwanda.
Methods
This qualitative study in 2018 included eight focus group discussions with family planning providers and 32 in-depth interviews with experienced family planning users.
Results
Results indicate a well-coordinated family planning service delivery system with community health workers and nurses filling different and complementary roles in meeting family planning client needs at the local level. In addition, integration of family planning into other maternal and child health services is the norm.
Conclusions
The coordination and integration of family planning across both providers and services may help explain the extraordinary increase in Rwanda’s contraceptive usage, and has potential applications for enhancing family planning service delivery in other settings as well.
RNF213 gene mutation of circulating tumor DNA in early diagnosis of NSCLC using targeted next-generation sequencing
Authors: Jiang Ning , Zhao Shukang , Li Peichao , Liu Yu , Shi Hubo , Zhang Chengke , Wang Yunshan , Zhou Chengjun , Zhang Wenhao , Peng Chuanliang , Zhang Weiquan , Hao Yingtao , Zhao Yunpeng , Sun Qifeng , Zhao Xiaogang
Published: July 2019

Introduction

To distinguish early stage lung cancer from benign disease of the lung nodules, especially the lesions with ground-glass opacity (GGO) or ground-glass nodule (GGN), we assessed gene mutations of the ctDNA in peripheral blood by using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Methods

Single lung nodule patients without mediastinal lymph nodes or symptoms hardly diagnosed by chest CT and biomarker of lung cancer were enrolled. All patients received minimally invasive surgery but refused preoperative biopsy. Gene mutations of pre-operative blood samples were detected by targeted NGS. Mutations with statistical differences were screened in lung cancer and benign disease grouped by postoperative pathology. Gene expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Highly expressed genes were selected as biomarkers to verify the mutations in peripheral blood.

Results

In training set, RNF213, KMT2D, CSMD3 and LRP1B genes mutated more frequently in early stage lung cancer (25cases) than benign nodules (18cases) (P<0.05). High expressions of RNF213 gene in lung cancers and low expressions in benign diseases were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RNF213 gene mutated in 25% lung cancer samples in the validation set of 28 samples and showed high specificity (100%) and low sensibility (25.9%). In GGO and GGN patients, RNF213 mutated more frequently in early stage lung cancer compared to benign diseases (P<0.05).

Conclusions

RNF213 gene mutation was observed more frequently in early stage lung cancer, but rather than benign nodules. Mutation of RNF213 gene in peripheral blood may be a high specificity biomarker and valuable for early diagnosis of lung cancer.
Prevalence of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli isolated from chicken meat in west of Iran
Authors: zarei omid , Shokoohizadeh Leili , Hossainpour Hadi , Alikhani Mohammad Yousef
Published: July 2019

Objective: Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) has known as a crucial zoonotic food borne pathogen. A total of 257 row chicken meat samples were collected from different markets in Hamadan city from January 2016 to May 2017. Samples were cultured on selective and differential culture media, and the virulence genes of E. coli isolates were analyzed by PCR assay. The antibiotic resistance patterns of E. coli isolates were determined by disk diffusion method. The genetic relatedness of STEC isolates were analyzed by ERIC-PCR.

Results: Totally, 93(36%) of isolates were identified as E. coli in this current study. According serological and microbiological tests, 5(5.3%), 31(33.3%) and 7(7.5%) of E. coli isolates, characterized as Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), STEC and attaching and effacing E. coli (AEEC) strains, respectively. High level resistance to tetracycline (89.8), ampicillin (82.8%) and sulfametoxazole-trimotoprime (71%) were detected among E. coli isolates. Analysis of ERIC-PCR results showed five different ERIC types among EHEC isolates. Based on our findings, chicken meat identified as a sources of STEC strains, therefore, the controlling and checkup the chicken meats for the resistance and virulent strains of E. coli should be consider as a crucial issues in public health.
Sildenafil attenuates pulmonary hypertension in acute porcine endotoxaemia
Authors: Kemper Daniella A.G. , Otsuki Denise A. , Maia Débora R.R. , Massoco Cristina O. , Marcasso Rogério A. , Júnior José Otávio Costa Auler , Fantoni Denise T.
Published: July 2019

Background

Pulmonary hypertension is a risk factor for morbidity and mortality in septic shock. Pulmonary hypertension increases the right ventricular afterload, which tends to reduce the right ventricular output, leading to right ventricular dysfunction. Sildenafil has been largely used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, but its effects in sepsis are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that sildenafil is able to attenuate endotoxin-induced pulmonary hypertension in a porcine model. Further, we investigated the effects on hemodynamic and oxygenation functions. We also evaluated lung morphology and the effect on plasma cytokine and troponin response. Methods Twenty pigs in which endotoxeamia was induced through intravenous bacterial lipopolysaccharide endotoxin (LPS) infusion (4µg/kg/h) were randomly assigned to Control group (n=10) – which received saline solution; or to Sildenafil group (n=10) – which received sildenafil orally (100 mg) previous the endotoxeamia. Results LPS induced a significant pulmonary hypertension with an increase in pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance index, end-diastolic volume of the right ventricle and also a decrease in PaO2/FiO2. Pulmonary and systemic arterial pressures were significantly lower in the Sildenafil group and sildenafil prevented the LPS effect on the end-diastolic volume of the right ventricle. Sildenafil maintained oxygenation with superior PaO2/FiO2 and lower oxygen extraction rate, but had no effect on intrapulmonary shunt. All cytokines and troponin increased after LPS infusion in both groups similarly. The LPS induced lung lesions, but there were no intergroup differences in the histological scoring system. Conclusion Sildenafil attenuated endotoxin-induced pulmonary hypertension preserving right heart function and maintained oxygenation without effecting shunt fractioning. However, caution should be taken due to the potential systemic vasodilatory effect. Sildenafil did not attenuate lung lesions and did not presented an anti-inflammatory effect in a porcine model of endotoxaemia.
The potential role of network-oriented interventions for survivors of violence among refugees in Belgium
Authors: Ogbe Emilomo , Jbour Alaa , Rahbari Ladan , Unnithan Maya , Degomme Olivier
Published: July 2019

Introduction
Social support and social network members have been identified as an important factor in mitigating the effects of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and improving the coping process for many survivors. Network oriented strategies have been advocated for among domestic violence survivors, as they help build on improving social support and addressing factors that alleviate repeat victimization. There are opportunities to implement such strategies among refugees, who are survivors of SGBV in asylum centres, however, this has not been fully explored. This study sought to identify key strategies and opportunities for developing peer-led and network-oriented strategies for mitigating the effects of SGBV among refugees at these centres.
Methods: 27 interviews, were conducted with service providers (n=14) and refugees (n=13) at three asylum centres in Belgium. Deductive coding was performed independently by two researchers based on pre-identified research questions, when new findings emerged outside the themes, open coding was done. Data triangulation was used with findings from observations at these centres over a period of a year.
Findings: Many of the refugees presented with PTSD or psychosomatic symptoms, because of SGBV or other trauma experienced during migration. Peer and family support were very influential in mitigating the effects and social costs of violence among the refugees by providing emotional and material support. Social assistants were viewed as an information resource that was essential for most of the refugees. Peer-peer support was identified as a potential tool for mitigating the effects of SGBV
Proteomics variations after short-term heat shock treatment reveal differentially expressed proteins involved in early microspore embryogenesis in cabbage (Brassica oleracea)
Authors: Su Henan , Chen Guo , Liu Xing , Yang Limei , Zhuang Mu , Zhang Yangyong , Wang Yong , Fang Zhiyuan , Lv Honghao
Published: July 2019

Background

Microspore embryogenesis (ME) provides an efficient way to breed crops. In many cases, short-term heat shock treatment can greatly increase the embryogenesis rate of brassicas. However, its molecular mechanism is largely unclear.

Results

To mine for the key genes, pathways and interplay in the underlying networks, we compared the proteomes of isolated microspores with samples pre-treated at 32 °C for 24 h and 25 °C for 24 h using two cabbage accessions (Zhonggan 628 and 87-534) showing extremely different embryogenic rates. The embryo yield was 0 and 19.7 embryos/bud for Zhonggan 628 at 25 °C and 32 °C, respectively, and was 0 for 87-534 at both temperatures. Using a label-free proteomics technology, more differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were found for Zhonggan 628 (363 DEPs, 115 upregulated and 248 downregulated) than for 87-534 (282 DEPs, 162 upregulated and 120 downregulated). 97 DEPs specially identified only in Zhonggan 628 but not in 87-534 after heat-shock treatment were the key proteins that maybe related to heat shock-induced embryogenesis in vitro culture. Those 97 DEPs were mainly enriched in carbon metabolic process and protein synthesis and degradation process. Malate dehydrogenase (mMDH), sgt1 homolog B (SGT1), heat shock 70 kDa protein 5 (HSP70), and cell division control protein 48 homolog A (CDC48) may play an important role in cabbage embryogenesis and were identified based on pathway enrichment and protein−protein interaction analyses. In addition, changes in the abundance of 9 representative DEPs were correlated with their corresponding mRNA levels using qRT-PCR. Carbohydrate metabolism supplies the energy needed for the rapid growth that occurs during embryo development, and the folding of synthesized proteins or the refolding of damaged and unstable proteins occur, which may due to the stress induced by in vitro culture.

Conclusions

A set of putative proteins presumably specific for microspore embryogenesis induced by high temperature treatment were identified. In isolated microspore culture of cabbage, we present the first exposition of non-embryo and the embryo (induced by 32 °C heat shock treatment 24h) changes in the expression of specific proteins.
Prevalence of hypertension and related risk factors in central Iran: Results from Yazd Health Study
Authors: Mirzaei Masoud , Mirzaei Mohsen , Gholami Somayeh , Abolhosseini Hossein
Published: July 2019

Background: Hypertension, the most important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is a public health concern in world. Its prevalence varies between countries, due to differences in lifestyle and other risk factors' profile across the regions. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hypertension and its related risk factors among adults in Yazd Greater Area.
Methods: This cross-sectional study is a community-based study of 20-69 year-old adults living in Yazd. The participants were selected by multi-stage random cluster sampling. A valid questionnaire completed in a home visit. Blood pressure (BP), Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference were measured by standard protocol. Self-reported hypertension was recorded. levels of Physical Activity (PA) were categorized by IPAQ-SF. Chi-square test was used for categorical variables to analyze the differences. Multivariate logistic regression was carried out to determine the association of risk factors to hypertension. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 16 software. A p-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: With 95% responding(n=9975), half of adults have a low PA and two thirds were overweight or obese. Positive history of hypertension was 18.5% (21.9% in females vs. 15.2% in males). The mean systolic and diastolic BP were 126.5 ± 18.4 mmHg and 80.2 ± 12.5 mmHg, respectively. Prevalence of hypertension was 36% (34.7% for women and 37.3% for men). The prevalence of hypertension is reduced with higher education, more PA, lower BMI and no history of diabetes (P value < 0.0001). Higher BP is less common in smokers (P value < 0.0001). By logistic regression analysis, hypertension were higher among men (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.64-2.03), eldest (OR: 5.15, 95% CI: 4.20-6.31), low-educated (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.17-1.67) and diabetics (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.05-1.38).Hypertension was doubled in obese. There was no significant relationship between PA level, place of residence, smoking and hypercholesterolemia with high BP.
Conclusion: Prevalence of hypertension in adults was high. By identifying common modifiable risk factors, health policy makers should prioritize health interventions to control risk factors. It is necessary to inform younger adult groups about ways to select healthy lifestyle and nutritional habits.
Zinc for Infection Prevention in Sickle Cell Anemia (ZIPS): Study Protocol for a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial in Ugandan children with Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Datta Dibyadyuti , Namazzi Ruth , Conroy Andrea L. , Cusick Sarah E. , Hume Heather A. , Tagoola Abner , Ware Russell E. , Opoka Robert O. , John Chandy C.
Published: July 2019

Background

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is the most common inherited hemoglobinopathy worldwide. Infection is a major cause of illness and death in children with SCA, especially in sub Saharan Africa where an estimated 50-90% of affected children die before their fifth birthday. Interventions to reduce the incidence and severity of infections are needed urgently. A high proportion of adults and children with SCA are zinc-deficient, and zinc deficiency leads to impaired immunity and an increased risk of infection. Zinc supplementation has been shown to decrease the risk of infection in adolescents and adults, but there is no data on the effectiveness of zinc for prevention of infection in children <5 years of age with SCA.

Methods/Design

The study will be a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial in which 250 Ugandan children 1.00-4.99 years of age with SCA will receive daily zinc supplementation (10 mg oral dispersible tablet) or identical placebo for 12 months.

Discussion

If this trial shows a reduction in severe or invasive infection incidence, it would be the basis for a multi-site, multi-country clinical trial to assess real-world safety and efficacy of zinc in African children with SCA. Since zinc is safe, inexpensive, and easy to administer, this trial has the potential to improve the health of hundreds of thousands of African children with SCA through reduction of infection-related morbidity and mortality.

Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03528434. Registered on May 17, 2018
Protocol Version: 1.0. Date: Dec 11, 2017
Sponsor: Indiana University. Sponsor’s protocol identifier: 1712339562
Nutrient removal using spent coconut husks
Authors: Halfhide Trina , Lalgee Lorale J. , Singh Karen Seudat , Williams Joshua , Sealy Matthew , Manoo Anton , Mohammed Azad
Published: July 2019

Wastewater management poses major environmental and economic problems in many small island developing states (SIDs), such as Trinidad and Tobago. Conventional wastewater treatment using activated carbon (AC) from charcoal is very costly. However, using spent coconut husks can be a cheap, environmentally friendly alternative source of AC for removing nitrogen and phosphorus in the secondary effluent. This study considered thermal and non-thermal, chemical activation methods to create four different AC treatments. The treatments considered included: virgin AC (thermally activated only) and subsequent acid treatments. Acid treatments were considered as an acidic environment, optimized nitrate and phosphate removal and reduced hydroxyl ion competition. Although all treatments effectively removed nitrates, virgin AC was ineffective in PO43−-P removal when concentrations were less than 10 mg/L. This was probably due to naturally occurring PO43−-P leaching from the coconut husk. The differences in removal efficiencies and adsorption capacities were not significantly different between treatments. Thermal activation was sufficient to remove NO3−-N and PO43−-P greater than 10 mg/L in experiments with batch stock solutions and the secondary effluent. Virgin AC can therefore be used as a potential substitute for conventional AC.
Insights on Nutrients as Analgesics in Chronic Pain
Authors: Bjørklund Geir , Chirumbolo Salvatore , Dadar Maryam , Pen Joeri J. , Doşa Monica Daniela , Pivina Lyudmila , Semenova Yulia , Aaseth Jan
Published: July 2019

Many serious inflammatory disorders and nutrient deficiencies induce chronic pain,
and anti-inflammatory diets have been applied successfully to modify the inflammatory symptoms
causing chronic pain. Numerous scientific data and clinical investigations have demonstrated that
long-term inflammation could lead to an inappropriate or exaggerated sensibility to pain. In addition,
some Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAID), which directly act on the many enzymes
involved in pain and inflammation, including cyclooxygenases, are used to dampen the algesic
signal to the central nervous system, reducing the responses of soft C-fibers to pain stimuli. On
the other hand, there are a few reports from both health authorities and physicians, reporting that
decreased transmission of pain signals can be achieved and improved, depending on the patient’s
dietary habit. Many nutrients, as well as a suitable level of exercise (resistance training), are the best
methods for improving the total mitochondrial capacity in muscle cells, which can lead to a reduction
in sensitivity to pain, particularly by lowering the inflammatory signaling to C-fibers. According
to the current literature, it could be proposed that chronic pain results from the changed ratio of
neuropeptides, hormones, and poor nutritional status, often related to an underlying inflammatory
disorder. The current review also evaluates the effective role of nutrition-related interventions on the
severity of chronic pain. This review pointed out that nutritional interventions can have a positive
effect on pain experience through the indirect inhibitory effect on prostaglandin E2 and attenuation
of mitochondrial dysfunction caused by ischemia/reperfusion in skeletal muscle, improving the intracellular
antioxidant defense system. These data highlight the need for more nutrition studies
where chronic pain is the primary outcome, using accurate interventions. To date, no nutritional
recommendation for chronic pain has been officially proposed. Therefore, the goal of this article is
to explore pain management and pain modulation, searching for a mode of nutrition efficient in reducing
pain.
Research Advances in Chitosan Oligosaccharides: From Multiple Biological Activities to Clinical Applications
Authors: Yi Zhen , Luo Xiao , Zhao Lei
Published: July 2019

Chitosan oligosaccharides (COS), hydrolysed products of chitosan, are low-molecular
weight polymers with a positive charge and good biocompatibility. COS have recently been reported
to possess various biological activities, including hypoglycaemic, hypolipidaemic, antioxidantantioxidant,
immune regulation, anti-inflammatory, antitumour, antibacterial, and tissue
engineering activities, exhibiting extensive application prospects. Currently, the biological processes
and mechanisms of COS are attractive topics of study, ranging from the genetic, molecular and protein
levels. This article reviews the recent discoveries about COS, especially in metabolic regulation,
immune function and tissue repair, providing important insights into their multiple biological activities,
medical benefits, and therapeutic mechanisms.