bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malaria and intestinal parasite co-infections and impact on haematological parameters among people living with HIV in Buea, Southwest Cameroon
Authors: Sandie Sorelle Mekachie , Sumbele Irene Ule Ngole , Tasah Martin Mih , Kimbi Helen Kuokuo
Published: April 2020

Background: Both malaria and intestinal parasites are endemic in Cameroon, and their co-infection can be of great impact on haematological parameters among people living with HIV (PLWH). This cross-sectional study determined the prevalence and impact of malaria/intestinal parasite co-infections on haematological parameters in PLWH and HIV negative individuals in Buea, Cameroon from March-August 2019.Methods: The study population (500) comprised of 190 PLWH, 216 HIV consenting negative individuals from the Buea community and 94 HIV negative patients at the Buea Hospital out-patient department (OPD). Participants were examined clinically, and the collected blood sample was used for malaria parasite (MP) detection, HIV diagnosis and full blood count analysis. Stool samples were examined for the detection of intestinal parasites (IPs) using the formol-ether concentration and modified Zheil-Neelsen techniques. Proportions were compared using Pearson’s Chi-square test and association of anaemia with the independent variables was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis Results: Overall, MP, IPs and MP/IPs co-infection prevalences were 17.0% (85), 13.0% (65) and 2.2% (11) respectively. When compared with HIV negative participants from the communities, PLWH had the highest prevalence of MP (16.3%, P = 0.17), IPs (23.7%, P ˂ 0.001) and MP/IPs co-infection (3.7%, P = 0.04). Plasmodium falciparum was the only malaria parasite identified. Detected protozoa (10.2%) were Cryptosporidium species and Entamoeba histolytica while detected helminths (3.8%) were Ascaris lumbricoides, Schistosoma mansoni, hookworm, Dipylidium caninum, Hymenolepis nana and Taenia species. Cryptosporidium species (16.8%, 32) was the most prevalent protozoan IP while hookworm (2.6%, 5) was the most prevalent helminth among PLWH. The significant risk factors associated with anaemia included being aged 21-30 years (P=0.029), a male (P<0.001), MP positive (P<0.001), HIV positive (P<0.001) and feverish (P<0.001). Participants co-infected with HIV, MP and IP had a significantly lower mean haemoglobin value (10.56 ±1.21 g/dl). Conclusion: Malaria and intestinal parasites are still public health concern among PLWH and co-infections have negative influence on haematological parameters especially haemoglobin concentration. Routine screening for malaria and IPs in PLWH is recommended, as well as haemoglobin concentration monitoring.
Burden and determinants of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients in Ethiopia: A systematic Review and Meta-analysis, 2020
Authors: Tolossa Tadesse , Fetensa Getahun , Regassa Bikila , Tigistu Mekdes , Fekadu Ginenus , Besho Merga , Bekele Daniel
Published: April 2020

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) among diabetic patients is becoming a global health burden with a high economic cost to health systems. Its incidence is increased at higher rate in low income countries including Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, there is no national representative evidence on burden and determinants of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients. Therefore, this review aimed to estimates the pooled burden and determinants of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients.

Methods

Published articles from various electronic databases such as Pub Med, Google scholar, CINAHL, Scopes, Cochrane library, the Web of Science and African Journals Online were accessed. Also, unpublished studies from Addis Ababa digital library were identified. All observational studies that were conducted on the burden and determinants of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients were included. Data were extracted on the Microsoft excel spreadsheet and analyzed using STATA 14.1 version. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled estimate with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Forest plots were used to visualize the presence of heterogeneity and estimate the pooled burden and determinants of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients. The presence of publication bias was assessed by funnel plots and Egger’s statistical tests.

Results

Published (163) and unpublished (2) literature were identified from several databases and digital library, of which ten articles were selected for final meta-analysis. Significant heterogeneity was observed across studies (I 2 = 84.6%), which suggests random-effects model to estimate pooled burden. The analysis found that the pooled burden of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients was 17.55% (95%CI: 14.23–20.88). Being hypertensive patient, type II DM and staying with DM for greater than 10 years had positive significant association with chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion

The current review revealed a higher burden of chronic kidney diseases among diabetic patients in Ethiopia. Presence of hypertension, type of diabetes mellitus and staying with diabetes for longer duration were found to be independent determinants of chronic kidney disease among diabetic patients. For better control of chronic kidney disease, integrated management of hypertension and DM should be designed with special focus on chronic diabetic patients.
Therapeutic hypothermia mitigates the sepsis-increased permeability in EA. hy926 cells by preserving Rap1 expression
Authors: Ding Wu , Yuehong Shen
Published: April 2020

Background: To determine the effect and potential mechanisms of therapeutic hypothermia (TH) on the permeability of septic cells.Main methods: Human EA. hy926 cells were transfected with, or without, control or Rap1-specific siRNA and treated with 2 µg/ml of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), followed by cultured in normal temperature (NT) or a temporary therapeutic hypothermia (TH) for 10 h. The cellular permeability of each group of cells was determined by transwell permeability assay and the relative levels of ras-proximate-1 (Rap1), RhoA (a small GTP enzyme of the Rho family), Ve-cadherin expression and myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation were quantified by western blot and immunofluorescent assays.Results: Compared with the control group, LPS stimulation increased cellular permeability, which was enhanced by Rap1 silencing in EA. hy926 cells under a NT condition, but significantly mitigated by TH. Furthermore, LPS up-regulated RhoA expression and MLC phosphorylation, but reduced Rap1 and Ve-cadherin expression, which were also enhanced by Rap1 silencing, but significantly mitigated by TH. Immunofluorescent analyses indicated that LPS significantly increased phosphorylated MLC, but decreased Ve-cadherin expression, which were deteriorated by Rap1 silencing, but significantly mitigated by TH in EA. hy926 cells.Conclusions: TH significantly mitigated the sepsis-increased permeability of EA. hy926 cells by enhancing the Rap1 expression to attenuate the RhoA/MLC signaling.
A Study on the Mechanism of Milkvetch Root in the treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Piao Chunli , Zhang Qi , Jin De , Wang Li , Tang Cheng , Zhang Naiwen , Lian Fengmei , Tong Xiaolin
Published: April 2020

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus. Milkvetch Root has been extensively used to treat DN in clinical practice in China for many years, but the active ingredients, drug targets, and its exact molecular mechanism are not known. The aim of this study was to decrypt the underlying mechanisms of Milkvetch Root in the treatment of DN by using a systems pharmacology approach. Methods: The components and targets of Milkvetch Root were analyzed using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database. Then we found the common target of Milkvetch Root and disease, constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network using String, and screened the key targets from these common targets through topological analysis. Analyses of enrichment of Gene Ontology (GO) pathways and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Subsequently, the major hubs were imported to the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery to perform a pathway enrichment analysis. Results: There were 20 active compounds of Milkvetch Root and 10 diabetic nephropathy -associated targets (AKT1, VEGFA, IL6, PPARG, CCL2, NOS3, SERPINE1, CRP, ICAM1, SLC2A4) that were obtained. Then, the results of GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses suggested that the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and TNF signaling pathway in diabetic complications might serve as the key points and principal pathways for DN treatment. Conclusions: In brief, Milkvetch Root has multiple components, multiple targets and multiple pharmacological effects in the treatment of DN, which provides clues for further research on DN.
Effect of three therapeutic strategies for FIGO stage IB2/IIA2 cervical Cancer
Authors: zhang yong , Tang Xiaobi , Shen Meizhu , Ma Shanshan , Yuan Wenchao , Wang Rensheng , Wu Fang
Published: April 2020

Background: To evaluate the long-term efficacy and toxicities of three therapeutic strategies for patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB2/IIA2 cervical cancer. Methods : 206 patients with stage IB2/IIA2 cervical cancer were selected in this retrospective study. The patients were classed into three groups according to the primary therapy: primary surgical treatment (PST), neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical surgery (NAC+RS), and concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). We observed the inter-group differences in patient characteristics, surgery approaches, postoperative rick factors, supplemental therapies and overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and acute and late toxicities. Results: Less patients in NAC+RS group had deep cervical stromal invasion than those in PST group (p=0.024). No differences in lymph node metastasis, intravascular tumor embolus, vaginal margin and the need of postoperative supplement treatment were observed between PST and NAC+RS ( P =0.734, P =0.704, P =0.487 and P =0.714, respectively). With a median follow-up time of 57 months, the 3-year DFS and OS in PST, NAC+RS and CCRT were 85.6%, 79.2%, 85.7% and 87.5%, 84.9%, 85.7% ( P =0.424 and P =0.856, respectively). The most frequently observed acute toxicities were hematologic side effects. No significant inter-group differences in leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and anemia were observed (all P >0.05). No patient experienced grade 3-4 hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxic. Late toxicity ≥grade 3 mainly consisted of lower extremity lymphedema (4/104, 3.8%), bowel obstruction (3/104, 2.9%) and thrombosis (1/104, 1.0%) in PST, lower extremity lymphedema (5/53, 9.4%) and bowel obstruction (1/53, 1.9%) in NAC+RS and radiation proctitis (4/49, 8.2%) and femoral head necrosis (1/49, 2.0%) in CCRT. No grade 5 toxicities were observed. There was no significant difference in cumulative late adverse effects rate in the three groups ( P =0.777). The patients in NAC+RS had increased hospitalization cost than that in PST ( P =0.000) and CCRT ( P =0.000) and prolonged hospitalization time than that in PST ( P =0.000) and same as that in CCRT ( P =0.07). Conclusion: Preoperative NAC decreased the incidence of deep cervical stromal invasion but had no effect on other high risk factors and the need of postoperative supplement treatment. No inter-group differences were demonstrated in 3-year DFS and OS and cumulative acute and late adverse effects. NAC+RS would need longer hospitalization time and cost more. Nevertheless, we believe it should be further explored in prospective trials.
Impact of Emigration on Health in Low Income Urban Zimbabwe
Authors: Chigariro Tafadzwa Carlington
Published: April 2020

Background: Emigration is a potential determinant of health at the place of origin. This study aimed to explore the impact of emigration on health by comparing access to health and healthcare among emigration exposed and non-exposed households in urban Zimbabwe.Methods: The study design was a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods. A cross sectional survey was employed to collect concurrent and retrospective data from households in Hatcliff District in Harare, Zimbabwe. An Interviewer Administered Questionnaire (IAQ) was used for data collection. Standard questionnaires used in previous studies by IOM and WHO were used as reference points in the development of the study questionnaire.Results: The study respondents were de facto household heads. 268 (96%) household heads were successfully interviewed out of the computed target of 279. The study findings showed that emigration had a positive impact on household income (Pearson Chi-Square test of association [χ2 (4) = 12.3 (P < 0.05)]). Emigration was also associated with better access to health facilities ([χ2 (2) = 1.751 (P<0.05)]) and healthier nutrition. Emigration exposed household members were also more likely to maintain healthy lifestyle. Only 28% of households exposed to emigration reported a negative shift of healthy lifestyle compared to 72% of households not exposed to emigration.Conclusions: The study exposed emigration to be a significant determinant of health in urban places of origin. This effect seemed to be highly positive. Contrary to commonly reported negative consequences of emigration on health at the place of origin, mostly through brain drain, we conclude that there are significant positive effects for consideration when developing and implementing migration policies and programmes.
Effect of B4C addition on mechanical and electrical properties of Ca3Co4O9
Authors: Amaveda Hippolyte , Mora Mario , Dura Oscar J , Torres Miguel A , Madre Maria A , Marinel Sylvain , Sotelo A.
Published: April 2020

B4C added Ca3Co4O9 in different proportions (0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 wt.%) have been fabricated using solid-state method. Powder XRD patterns have shown that only Ca3Co4O9 phase can be identified in all the samples. Microstructural observations have allowed determining that B4C compound has been superficially oxidized, producing liquid B2O3 phase during sintering, which has reacted with the Ca3Co4O9 grains to produce bridges between them. In spite of the increase of porosity, these bridges led to an important raise (more than two times) of mechanical properties. On the other hand, while B4C addition has not significantly influenced S values, it has decreased electrical resistivity, thermal conductivity, and thermal expansion. Consequently, ZT values have been also increased, reaching 0.24 in 0.25 wt.% B4C containing samples, which is very close to the best values reported in the literature for Ca3Co4O9 compounds, and two times higher than the obtained in pure materials in this work.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of health care workers towards Hepatitis B in Kabul, Afghanistan
Authors: Roien Rohullah , Mousavi Sayed Hamid , Delshad Mohammad Hossein , Pourhaji Fatemeh
Published: April 2020

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem worldwide. Health care workers are at high risk of obtaining HBV infection due to direct interaction with HBV-infected blood and body fluids in their workplace.Objective: The purpose of this research was to assess KAP of Health care workers towards Hepatitis B infection in Kabul.Methods: this cross-sectional study was conducted between November, 2018 and January; 2019 among 502 health care workers using simple random sampling method. The tool for data collection was a self-administered structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 16.00.Results: The overall knowledge, attitude and practice score of HCWs were 86.58%, 34.73% and 61.22% respectively. Most of participants correctly identified HBV transmissions. Health care workers with higher education level, showed good knowledge than those with low educational level (p < 0.0001). The majority of the participants had a poor attitude towards HBV prevention (53.98%). only 77.45% of participants had been screened for HBV and 56.37% of participants had been vaccinated against HBV, only 5.17% had completed three doses of vaccine.Conclusion: The finding of our study shows that health care workers in Kabul, are at higher risk of acquiring HBV infection due to low vaccination coverage and poor preventive practice. We recommend that free and compulsory vaccination, awareness and encouraging programs should be provided for all health care workers in order to increase favorable attitude and effective preventive measures for HBV infections.
Binding site analysis of potential protease inhibitors of COVID-19 using AutoDock
Authors: MOTHAY DIPTI , RAMESH K.V.
Published: April 2020

Recent outbreak of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 in December 2019 raised global health concerns. Re-purposing the available protease inhibitor drugs for immediate use in treatment in SARS‐CoV‐2 infections could improve the currently available clinical management. The current study, aims to predict theoretical structure for protease of COVID-19 and to explore further whether this protein can serve as a target for protease inhibitor drugs such as remdesivir, nelfinavir, lopinavir, ritonavir and α –ketoamide. While the 3D structure of protease was predicted using SWISS MODEL server, molecular interaction studies between protein and ligands were performed using AutoDock software. The predicted protease model was reasonably good based on reports generated by different validation servers. The study further revealed that all the protease inhibitor drugs got docked with negative dock energy onto the target protein. Molecular interaction studies showed that protease structure had multiple active site residues for remdesivir, while for remaining ligands the structure had only one active site residue each. From the output of multiple sequence alignment, it is evident that ligand binding sites were conserved. The current in-silico study thus, provides structural insights about the protease of COVID-19 and also its molecular interactions with some of the known protease inhibitors.
Risk Factors for In-hospital Progression of Ordinary COVID-19 in Wuhan, China: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Ying , Fan Xing , Zhao Yan , Zhou Fan , Zhao Linlin , Liu Jing , Liu Haichao , Zhou Chengrui , Tong Ling , Lv Zhenhua , Xiong Ying , Zhang Yong , Tan Yingjun , Yu Airong
Published: April 2020

Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of ordinary COVID-19 when admitted, to describe how these patients were treated and risk factors for in-hospital progression.Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 291 adult patients diagnosed as ordinary COVID-19 on admission who had been discharged or had died between Jan 20, 2020 and Mar 16, 2020 from General Hospital of Central Theatre Command (Wuhan, China).Results: Of the 291 patients diagnosed as ordinary COVID-19 when admitted, 65 (22.34%) had been recorded COVID-19 progressing at least once, and 226 (77.66%) had been recorded COVID-19 improving during hospitalization. The median time from admission to disease progressed was 5.0 days (2.0-7.0). Multivariable regression showed increasing odds of in-hospital progression associated with male (odds ratio 2.333, 95% CI 1.135-4.395; P=0.020), preexisting cardiovascular diseases (2.433, 1.044-5.671; P=0.039), and lymphopenia (3.482, 1.783-6.799; P<0.001), elevated IL-6 (2.669, 1.084-6.574; P=0.033), d-dimer (2.829, 1.420-5.636; P=0.003) and lactate dehydrogenase (2.855, 1.458-5.591; P= 0.002) on admission.Conclusions: The potential risk factors of male, preexisting cardiovascular disease, lymphopenia, elevated IL-6, and lactate dehydrogenase, d-dimer could help clinicians to identify in-hospital progression among ordinary COVID-19 at early stage to optimize medical treatment.
Areas and entropies in BFSS/gravity duality
Authors: Anous Tarek , Karczmarek Joanna , Mintun Eric , Van Raamsdonk Mark , Way Benson
Published: April 2020

The BFSS matrix model provides an example of gauge-theory / gravity duality where the gauge theory is a model of ordinary quantum mechanics with no spatial subsystems. If there exists a general connection between areas and entropies in this model similar to the Ryu-Takayanagi formula, the entropies must be more general than the usual subsystem entanglement entropies. In this note, we first investigate the extremal surfaces in the geometries dual to the BFSS model at zero and finite temperature. We describe a method to associate regulated areas to these surfaces and calculate the areas explicitly for a family of surfaces preserving SO(8) symmetry, both at zero and finite temperature. We then discuss possible entropic quantities in the matrix model that could be dual to these regulated areas.
Food safety practices in catering during the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mayurnikova Larisa , Koksharov Arkadiy , Krapiva Tatyana
Published: April 2020

On January 30, 2020, the Director-General of the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. There is hardly a country in the world that is not currently facing this problem. The number of cases is constantly growing, patients and carriers being the main mode of transmission. The economies of all countries are at stake. However, people need essential goods and food, regardless of the situation. In this respect, agriculture, food industry, food market, and catering have become priority industries. A continuous operation of food service enterprises (FSE) is crucial for the uninterrupted food supply in the period of preventive measures. The paper describes how pathogen makes its way into FSEs, spreads, and infects people. This information makes it possible to assess the probability of coronavirus infection and to reduce its spread, thus ensuring the safe operation of the enterprise. There are three transmission routes the coronavirus can take at a FSE: (1) aerial transmission by droplets and aerosols during the main and secondary technological production processes, (2) person-to-person transmission from clients to staff or from employee to employee via direct or indirect contact, (3) transmission via contaminated surfaces, e.g. packaging, furniture, equipment, etc. FSEs have to follow the recommendations published by the federal and/or local authorities, which may vary depending on the COVID-19 incidence rate in the area. These recommendations are based on the probability of the public health risk associated with person-to-person transmission, rather than on food safety.
Sebastián Vizcaíno y Fray Antonio de la Ascensión, una nueva etapa en el reconocimiento de las Californias Novohispanas: Estudio socio-histórico
Authors: Rodrfguez-Sala Maña Luisa
Published: April 2020

Durante la segunda mitad del siglo XVI y el XVII, los viajes auspiciados por la corona española le brindaron el dominio sobre la ruta a oriente. En este documento se realiza un esfuerzo por rescatar la información biográfica del navegante y explorador español Sebastián Vizcaíno, quien realizara dos travesías hacia la Alta y la Baja Californias. Para tal fin se acudió a fuentes primarias como el Archivo General de la Indias (AGI) y el Archivo General de la Nación (AGN), así como a diversas fuentes secundarias. Además, haciendo uso de un enfoque interdisciplinario socio-histórico, se reseñan los pormenores de las travesías realizadas por Vizcaíno, en especial se hace énfasis en los descubrimientos geográficos y expansión de conocimiento científico derivados del segundo viaje realizado por Vizcaíno y fray Antonio de la Ascensión hacia estas tierras californianas.
Algunas reflexiones y precisiones en torno a la temprana historiografía de la pintura rupestre en las Californias
Authors: Echenique March Felipe I.
Published: April 2020

En  los  últimos  años investigadores   nacionales   y extranjeros  han  enfocado  su atenci6n  bacía la llamada pintura  rupestre.  Con los resultados de sus trabajos han logrado despejar diversas inc6gnitas y mitos en torno a esta forma de expresión  de los antiguos califomios.En este documento, sin pretender invadir el campo  de la arqueología, se aportan algunas  precisiones y reflexiones sobre  las representaciones culturales pictóricas, pictográficas y petrográficas,  desde  un enfoque  histórico. Para ello  se recurre al análisis  y critica  de  las fuentes escritas,  en particular aquellas  referentes a la temprana histografía de la pintura rupestre de los grupos indígenas californianos.
An archaeological study of the Russian colony of the Guadalupe Valley
Authors: Muranaka Thcrese
Published: April 2020

This fresh and unusual archeological study sets out to verify the accuracy with which ethnological date and facts regarding life-style may be determined by the examination of artifacts and "trash" found at the site, using the application of archaeological techniques in an area where the findings may still be corroborated or Guadalupe Valley of the State of Baja California, Mexico.
The question of prehistoric agriculture among the western Yumans
Authors: Laylander Don
Published: April 2020

Agriculture fanned an important part of the subsistence system of the prehistoric: Yuman-speaking peoples who lived along or near the lower Colorado River.  Some recent scholars have argued that the Yumans of nnorthwestern Baja California and southwestern California also practiced agriculture prehistorically. A critical review of the evidence fills to fails any substantial support for that conclusion.
Los Ñakipá: Grupo indígena extinto de Baja California
Authors: Magaña Mancillas Mario Alberto Gerardo
Published: April 2020

Buscando ampliar el conocimiento sobre la historia de los grupos indígenas de Baja California,  se presenta aquí un acercamiento a uno de ellos que ya no cuenta  con representantes o sobrevivientes. En los lejanos años veinte de este siglo, las ultimas personas de los Ñakipá fueron reconocidas, y después el silencio llen6 su recuerdo. Los "que  vivían donde se pone el sol" , son parte de la historia de este estado,  y su rescat e es una forma  de comprender  mejor  nuestro  pasado. Con  el  propósito  de reconstruir  su recuerdo, en este breve ensayo se reúne la información básica sobre ellos y se esbozan algunas de sus características.
Niños trabajadores agrícolas en Baja California
Authors: Moreno Mena José A.
Published: April 2020

Este trabajo tiene por objetivo bacer una descripci6n, a manera comparativa,de las caracteristicas generales de los niñios jomaleros agricolas que trabajan en los valles de  Mexicali y San Quintin, Baja California. Para ello se toman como base los resultados de dos encuestas aplicadas en el periodo 1993-1994;  La primera efectuada en el valle de Mexicali por ellnstituto de Investigaciones Sociales de Ia Universidad Autónoma de Baja California y el Programa Nacional de Solidaridad con Jornaleros Agricolas, y la segunda del mismo programa pero desarrollada en el valle de San Quintin. Se presentan algunos antecedentes sobre el trabajo infantil, su conceptuali­zaci6n, Ia magnitud y las explicaciones causales mas frecuentes.
Notas sobre la historia económica de la consolidada, S. A. (1936-1991)
Authors: Corrales C. Salvador
Published: April 2020

La Consolidada, S .A. fue una empresa pionera del ramo de la industria siderurgica nacional, constituida a principios de siglo en la ciudad de México por iniciativa privada americana, que vio en nuestro país un mercado para la producción y comercialización de productos de acero. Una vez que concluyen los movimientos armados de la revolución, se recupera el daño de la crisis de 1929 y se define el futuro del México posrevolucionario, esta empresa contruye una planta de fundición en la ciudad de Piedras Negras, Coahuila para responder a sus necesidades de expansión y atender las demandas del mercado. Desde 1936 se hacen los primeros trabajos para la construcción de dicha planta, y su primera colada la obtiene en mayo de 1938. A pesar de su tamaño, la principal forma de integración a la economía de la ciudad fue a través de los salarios pagados a sus trabajadores. Aun cuando no se ha investigado toda su historia económica, objeto del presente ensayo, la información disponible hasta hoy demuestra que no hay una gran empresa en esta ciudad, mucho menos un grupo de empresarios prósperos, cuya fortuna pueda atribuirse a la empresa acerera cerrada en 1991 como resultado del proceso de reestructuración industrial.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Siracusano Martina , Riccioni Assia , Abate Roberta , Benvenuto Arianna , Curatolo Paolo , Mazzone Luigi
Published: April 2020

:

Vitamin D is a neurosteroid hormone crucially involved in neurodevelopment. Neural cell proliferation, neurotransmission, oxidative stress and immune function represent the main mechanisms mediated by vitamin D in the Central Nervous System. Therefore, its deficiency during pregnancy and early childhood may significantly impact on a developing brain, leading to possible adverse neuropsychological outcomes including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Significant vitamin D deficiency is described within children affected by ASD and in pregnant mothers whose offspring will later develop ASD, suggesting a possible role of the hormone as a contributing risk factor in the etiopathogenesis of ASD. We reviewed the actual literature on the potential contributing role of prenatal and early postnatal vitamin D deficiency in ASD etiopathogenesis, at both genetic and environmental levels, and the possible effect of vitamin D supplementation in autistic children. Conflicting but promising results emerged on the topic.

:

Further Randomized Controlled Trials studies carried out during pregnancy and early infancy are necessary for better understanding the possible contribution of vitamin D deficiency in the etiopathogenesis of autism and the potential efficacy of the hormone supplementation in the improvement of ASD core symptoms.
Cell-Penetrating Peptides: As a Promising Theranostics Strategy to Circumvent the Blood-Brain Barrier for CNS Diseases
Authors: Varnamkhasti Behrang Shiri , Jafari Samira , Taghavi Fereshteh , Alaei Loghman , Izadi Zhila , Lotfabadi Alireza , Dehghanian Mojtaba , Jaymand Mehdi , Derakhshankhah Hossein , Saboury Ali Akbar
Published: April 2020

The passage of therapeutic molecules across the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) is a profound challenge for the management of the Central Nervous System (CNS)-related diseases. The ineffectual nature of traditional treatments for CNS disorders led to the abundant endeavor of researchers for the design the effective approaches in order to bypass BBB during recent decades. Cell-Penetrating Peptides (CPPs) were found to be one of the promising strategies to manage CNS disorders. CPPs are short peptide sequences with translocation capacity across the biomembrane. With special regard to their two key advantages like superior permeability as well as low cytotoxicity, these peptide sequences represent an appropriate solution to promote therapeutic/theranostic delivery into the CNS. This scenario highlights CPPs with specific emphasis on their applicability as a novel theranostic delivery system into the brain.
Impact of Liver Cancer Somatic Mutations on Protein Structures and Functions
Authors: Sethi Amna Amin , Shar Nisar Ahmed
Published: April 2020

Background:

Cancers result due to dysregulation of gene expression. They can be identified on the basis of driver mutations and genetic signatures. Proteins are macromolecules that regulate the structure, and function of body organs. Missense somatic mutations play a critical role in the development of cancer by altering the underlying properties of corresponding proteins. The extent to which the chemical properties and composition of amino acid are changed in cancer is still under investigation.

Objective:

The main objective of this study is to identify amino acid changes that might be responsible for causing liver cancer. It also aims to identify frequently mutated genes associated with liver cancer.

Methods:

The mutation data of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in coding variants was retrieved from COSMIC (Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer) databases. Different bioinformatics tools were used to study genetic alterations at the protein level. The identified amino acid replacements were compared with Grantham’s distance to determine similarity/ dissimilarity between substituted amino acids.

Results:

The results show that TP53, CTNNB1, MUC16, PCLO, and TTN genes were frequently
mutated in liver cancer. This study also reveals that the non-synonymous mutations, in analyzed dataset,
cause loss of Alanine.

Conclusion:

The amino acid replacements identified in this study may act as signatures for early diagnosis of liver cancer. They may also be helpful in understanding the development of liver cancer.
Simultaneous Analysis of Sexual Stimulants and Anabolic Steroids as Adulterants in Dietary Supplements by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detection
Authors: Viana Carine , Marcon Gabriela Zanella , Dal Molin Thais Ramos , Bohrer Denise , do Nascimento Paulo Cícero , de Carvalho Leandro M.
Published: April 2020

Background:

The illegal virtual market for food supplements facilitates fraud and adulteration. Worldwide concern for consumer safety is growing on the part regulatory agencies, healthcare professionals and consumers.

Objective:

This work aimed to evaluate the presence of sexual stimulants and anabolic steroids commonly used in the adulteration of dietary supplements through the development of a high performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection (HPLC-DAD) method for the identification and quantification of these compounds.

Method:

The mobile phase composed of an ammonium acetate solution, acetonitrile and methanol leaded to the efficient separation of vardenafil, testosterone base, testosterone propionate, tadalafil, sildenafil and yohimbine.

Results:

The assay was linear (r2> 0.999), precise (RSD% <0.5), accurate (99.1 to 105.2%), and the limits of detection and quantification were less than 0.05 and 0.15 μg/mL, respectively. Four samples of dietary supplements contained testosterone (n=1), tadalafil (n=2) and yohimbine (n=1) as adulterants. The adulterants found were in subtherapeutic doses, probably to reduce possible adverse effects and the action expected to appear natural. Since about 80% of adverse drug reactions are dose dependent, unpredictable adverse drug reactions are dose independent and based on idiosyncratic or allergic mechanisms or intolerance.

Conclusion:

The developed method is convenient and easily applicable for adulteration detection of the analyzed drugs in the multicomponent supplements.
HIV-Related Lymphoproliferative Diseases in the Era of Combination Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Castelli Roberto , Schiavon Riccardo , Preti Carlo , Ferraris Laurenzia
Published: April 2020

HIV-positive patients have a 60- to 200-fold increased incidence of Non-Hodgkin
Lymphomas (NHL) because of their impaired cellular immunity. Some NHL are considered
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) defining conditions. Diffuse large B-cell Lymphoma
(DLBC) and Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) are the most commonly observed, whereas Primary Effusion
Lymphoma (PEL), Central Nervous System Lymphomas (PCNSL), Plasmablastic Lymphoma (PBL)
and classic Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) are far less frequent. Multicentric Castleman disease (MCD)
is an aggressive lymphoproliferative disorder highly prevalent in HIV-positive patients and strongly
associated with HHV-8 virus infection. In the pre-Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (CART) era,
patients with HIV-associated lymphoma had poor outcomes with median survival of 5 to 6 months.
By improving the immunological status, CART extended the therapeutic options for HIV positive
patients with lymphomas, allowing them to tolerate standard chemotherapies regimen with similar
outcomes to those of the general population. The combination of CART and chemotherapy/
immuno-chemotherapy treatment has resulted in a remarkable prolongation of survival among HIVinfected
patients with lymphomas. In this short communication, we briefly review the problems
linked with the treatment of lymphoproliferative diseases in HIV patients. Combination
Antiretroviral Therapy (CART) not only reduces HIV replication and restores the immunological
status improving immune function of the HIV-related lymphomas patients but allows patients to
deal with standard doses of chemotherapies. The association of CART and chemotherapy allowed
to obtain better results in terms of overall survival and complete responses. In the setting of HIVassociated
lymphomas, many issues remain open and their treatment is complicated by the patient’s
immunocompromised status and the need to treat HIV concurrently.
THE AMELIORATION OF THERMAL COMFORT INSIDE TRADITIONAL HOUSING IN MENAA CITY-ALGERIA
Authors: Djafri Riadh , Mohamed Osman Mariana , Rabe Noor Suzilawati
Published: April 2020

The traditional housing in Algeria are designed to adapt to the surrounding condition and desert climate. The internal housing layout and thermal comfort plays a significant role in the Algerian traditional housing design and standards. The historical, cultural, religion and climate of Algeria have significant influence on the design of its houses. This study of houses in the City of Menaa in Batna, Algeria, explained the traditional design of houses of the people of Amazigh, particularly Chaoui in the building of homes and shelters. Today, the condition of traditional houses in Menaa Batna, is far from satisfactory because the city has suffered lack of economic investment by the central government which resulted in significant deterioration of its traditional housing condition that lead to discomfort in term of thermal especially during winter. This research aims to analysis the current condition of these traditional houses and to propose improvement in term of thermal comfort to the occupier of these houses. The study used mixed methods namely literature review where the researcher used comparative approach from international case study; and descriptive analyses based on the questionnaire and observations. The results of the analyses enabled the researcher to recommend improvement to the condition of the houses using integrated solutions and techniques. These recommendations were designed to achieve a modern and environmentally acceptable thermal comfort in winter season for the houses, without losing the traditional architectural features of these old houses.
LATE PAYMENT ISSUES OF SUBCONTRACTORS IN MALAYSIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Che Haron Roziha , Arazmi Ahmad Lutfil
Published: April 2020

The practice of efficient and timely payment in construction projects is a major factor that can contribute to the success of a project. Delays in payment to subcontractor(s) by main contractor and client on construction projects in the Malaysian construction industry is considered to be a significant factor of concern. It causes severe cash flow problems to subcontractor(s) and this condition may lead to a devastating impact to the contractual payment chain. Withholding or delaying payment creates financial hardship for the construction companies and its impacts are sometimes so harsh that some companies have to close down their services. The research methodology adopted was the questionnaire survey analysis based on thirty (37) respondents from selected main contractors and sub-contractors in Gombak, Selangor. The data and information were also gathered from interviews analysis. From the research findings, among the factor of late payment from the client is payment withhold by the client. Meanwhile, the factor of late payment from the main contractor is when the term of “pay when paid” is applied. To improve the payment situation, the findings of this study suggest that there must be dedicated enforcing provisions for payment delay in contracts. This is proposed by introducing the standard form of contract clause regarding payment between the main contractor and domestic subcontractor which include levying charges on overdue payments.
Mobile App Use for Insomnia Self-Management in Urban Community-Dwelling Older Korean Adults: Retrospective Intervention Study
Authors: Chung Kyungmi , Kim Seoyoung , Lee Eun , Park Jin Young
Published: April 2020

Background

As an evidence-based psychotherapy for treating insomnia, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which helps people with sleep problems to change their unhelpful sleep-related beliefs and habits, has been well-established in older adults. Recently, the utilization of mobile CBT-I apps has been getting attention from mental health professionals and researchers; however, whether mobile CBT-I apps are usable among older users has yet to be determined.

Objective

The aims of this study were to explore the relationships between subjective sleep quality and subjective memory complaints and depressive symptoms; to explore the relationship between perceived difficulty in mobile app use and usability of the mobile phone–based self-help CBT-I app, named MIND MORE, in urban community-dwelling Korean older adults; to compare changes in subjective sleep quality from pre-intervention to post-intervention, during which they used the mobile app over a 1-week intervention period; and evaluate adherence to the app.

Methods

During the 2-hour training program delivered on 1 day titled “Overcoming insomnia without medication: How to use the ‘MIND MORE’ mobile app for systematic self-management of insomnia” (pre-intervention), 41 attendants were asked to gain hands-on experience with the app facilitated by therapists and volunteer workers. They were then asked to complete questionnaires on sociodemographic characteristics, subjective evaluation of mental health status (ie, depression, memory loss and impairment, and sleep problems), and app usability. For the 1-week home-based self-help CBT-I using the app (post-intervention), 9 of the 41 program attendants, who had already signed up for the pre-intervention, were guided to complete the given questionnaires on subjective evaluation of sleep quality after the 1-week intervention, specifically 8 days after the training program ended.

Results

Due to missing data, 40 of 41 attendants were included in the data analysis. The main findings of this study were as follows. First, poor subjective sleep quality was associated with higher ratings of depressive symptoms (40/40; ρ=.60, P<.001) and memory complaints (40/40; ρ=.46, P=.003) at baseline. Second, significant improvements in subjective sleep quality from pre-intervention to post-intervention were observed in the older adults who used the MIND MORE app only for the 1-week intervention period (9/9; t8=3.74, P=.006). Third, apart from the program attendants who did not have a smartphone (2/40) or withdrew from their MIND MORE membership (3/40), those who attended the 1-day sleep education program adhered to the app from at least 2 weeks (13/35, 37%) to 8 weeks (2/35, 6%) without any further contact.

Conclusions

This study provides empirical evidence that the newly developed MIND MORE app not only is usable among older users but also could improve subjective sleep quality after a 1-week self-help intervention period.
Interpreting COVID-19 and Virtual Care Trends: Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Khairat Saif , Meng Chenlu , Xu Yuxuan , Edson Barbara , Gianforcaro Robert
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is rapidly spreading across the world. As of March 26, 2020, there are more than 500,000 cases and more than 25,000 deaths related to COVID-19, and the numbers are increasing by the hour.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the trends in confirmed COVID-19 cases in North Carolina, and to understand patterns in virtual visits related to symptoms of COVID-19.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study of confirmed COVID-19 cases and patients using an on-demand, statewide virtual urgent care center. We collected data from February 1, 2020, to March 15, 2020. Institutional Review Board exemption was obtained prior to the study.

RESULTS

As of March, 18 2020, there were 92 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 733 total virtual visits. Of the total visits, 257 (35.1%) were related to COVID-19-like symptoms. Of the COVID-19-like visits, the number of females was 178 (69.2%). People in the age groups of 30-39 years (n=67, 26.1%) and 40-49 years (n=64, 24.9%) were half of the total patients. Additionally, approximately 96.9% (n=249) of the COVID-like encounters came from within the state of North Carolina. Our study shows that virtual care can provide efficient triaging in the counties with the highest number of COVID-19 cases. We also confirmed that the largest spread of the disease occurs in areas with a high population density as well as in areas with major airports.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of virtual care presents promising potential in the fight against COVID-19. Virtual care is capable of reducing emergency room visits, conserving health care resources, and avoiding the spread of COVID-19 by treating patients remotely. We call for further adoption of virtual care by health systems across the United States and the world during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evaluation of the Sexual Health Behaviors of Black Male Adolescents and Young Adults Through Social Media Platforms: Web-Based Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Burns Jade , Johnstone Keith , Chavanduka Tanaka , Jamison Cornelius , Pena Valery , Stephenson Rob , Darbes Lynae
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, which have millions of users who interact and communicate every day, have been effective in promoting sexual health interventions and in disseminating reproductive health education. They have also been shown to be useful in health promotion and have been used to track several key metrics (eg, comments, posts) among users of all demographics. However, there is a lack of research on the impact and reach of these social media platforms as a community-based tool for disseminating sexual health information and for increasing engagement among Black adolescents and young adults, which is a targeted high-risk population.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the social media platforms and banner advertisements that affected engagement among Black male adolescents and young adults in participating in web-based health surveys.

METHODS

A web-based survey was conducted from March 2019 to July 2019 to assess sexual health and health behaviors in a convenience sample of Black male adolescents and young adults in the age range of 18-24 years (N=170). Social media metrics from Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter were monitored. This cross-sectional survey comprised several categories, including basic personal information, drug-related risk behaviors, health care, sexual reproductive health questions, attitudes, norms, and perceived control, mental health, violence-related risk behaviors, and social media preferences.

RESULTS

Social media advertisements on the Black Male Opinion survey reached approximately 146,412 individuals. Our primary finding of the web-based survey engagement was that referral (eg, group chat, indirect social media sharing) led to as the greatest proportion of recruitment, with Twitter and YouTube as the preferred sites to receive sexual health information.

CONCLUSIONS

Recognizing the variety of technologies being used among Black male young adults and adolescents can help the community, researchers, and health care providers understand the web-based engagement of this high-risk population. This information may also promote culturally sensitive, customized marketing on sexual health information for this population.