bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carcinoma hepatocelular na cirrose criptogênica: experiência de um centro
Authors: Macedo Marcya Moanna Gonçalves Cruz , Costa Paulo Everton Garcia , Feitosa Neto Bartolomeu , Viana Junior Antônio Brazil , Andrade Tacilla Hanny de Souza , Ogawa Maurício Yukio , Garcia José Huygens Parente
Published: December 2019

Objetivos: Avaliar as características clínicas de pacientes transplantados por carcinoma Hepatocelular (CHC) por cirrose Criptogênica e Vírus da Hepatite C. Métodos: Foram analisados, retrospectivamente, 45 pacientes entre 2003 a 2015. Dentre eles, 19 correspondiam a pacientes que transplantaram por etiologia indefinida da cirrose e CHC e 26 com infecção do vírus da Hepatite C (VHC) + CHC. Foram excluídos 4 pacientes, pois descobriu-se outra etiologia para a cirrose após histopatológico do explante, sendo utilizado teste qui-quadrado para análise. Resultados: 10 variáveis foram analisadas entre os grupos, evidenciando que a Bilirrubina (p<0,035), albumina (P<0,03), número de nódulos (P<0,026), CHILD (p<0,003) e INR (p<0,035) tiveram diferença significativa entre os dois grupos, sendo mais anormal naqueles com cirrose criptogênica. Aproximadamente 21% dos pacientes com cirrose criptogênica apresentam evidência para outras patologias. Conclusão: Muito esteato hepatites não alcoólicas e doença gordurosa não alcoólica do fígado são consideradas criptogênicas, sendo o tempo de permanência na fila maior que os pacientes com VHC; Transplantes por CHC por cirrose criptogênica são acompanhados por piores resultados laboratoriais e maior número de nódulos acometidos quando comparados com aqueles por VHC.
Ocorrência de retinopatia da prematuridade em recém-nascidos de muito baixo peso em maternidade de referência terciária no município de Fortaleza – CE
Authors: Xavier Maria do Socorro Landim Rodrigues Alves , Santos Tania Maria Sousa Araújo
Published: December 2019

Objetivo: conhecer as taxas de retinopatia da prematuridade (ROP) em recém-nascidos (RN) ≤ 1500g e/ou ≤ a 32 semanas, no serviço de neonatologia de uma maternidade pública terciária do município de Fortaleza. Métodos: estudo transversal, retrospectivo de dados secundários, onde os dados foram coletados nos prontuários no período de 1 ano, através de questionário simples. Resultados: nasceram 434 RN´s e destes foram excluídos óbitos, transferências, malformações e infecções congênitas. Foram incluídos na pesquisa 119 prontuários. Destes, 31 (26%) pacientes apresentaram ROP, com predominância do estágio II (61,3%), zona II (93,5%), sem plus (64,5%), dos quais 45,2% realizaram tratamento com laser. Houve predomínio em prematuro extremo (61,3%), peso menor que 1000g (71%), sexo feminino (54,8%) e parto vaginal (61,3%). A maioria dos RN´s necessitaram de manobra de reanimação (67,7%). 96,8% apresentaram síndrome do desconforto respiratório (SDR), 77,4% utilizaram surfactante e tiveram tempo de oxigenioterapia maior que 30 dias. A persistência do canal arterial (PCA) foi diagnosticada em 58,1%, sepse clínica em 93,5% e anemia em 96,8%. Conclusão: a maioria dos casos de ROP foram em RN´s prematuros com evolução intimamente relacionada a comorbidades comuns no período neonatal.
Tromboflebite pélvica séptica em puérpera: relato de caso
Authors: Rolim Mayanna Oliveira , Nobre Nadiejda Mendonça Aguiar , Barbosa Marcelo Lopes , Gonçalves Emilcy Rebouças , Martins Danielle Mourão , Nogueira Camila Sampaio
Published: December 2019

Introdução: A trombose de veia ovariana (TVO) é uma condição rara mas potencialmente grave, ocorrendo predominantemente no período pós-parto. A clínica é inespecífica, geralmente manifestando-se como síndrome abdominal dolorosa febril. Relato de caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, 32 anos, gestante (G4P4 vaginais), a termo com quadro clínico de convulsão seguida de parada cardiorrespiratória no hospital de origem. Evoluiu para parto vaginal após drogas sedativas e hemorragia puerperal levando a choque hipovolêmico revertido após drogas vasoativas. Paciente iniciou quadro de febre persistente apesar de culturas negativas e uso de antibióticos de largo espectro. Realizado tomografia computadorizada (TC) de abdome e pelve que evidenciou tromboflebite de veia gonadal direita. Iniciado anticoagulação plena com melhora do quadro febril após 48 horas. Conclusão: A paciente do caso apresentou melhora clínica logo em seguida a anticoagulação e não houve efeitos adversos. Nos últimos 20 anos, a introdução da TC e da ressonância magnética (RNM) revolucionou o diagnóstico de tromboflebite pélvica que permite avaliar o diagnóstico e inclusive a resposta à terapia com heparina. O manejo anticoagulante da TVO persiste controverso até os dias atuais, porém quando associado à antibióticos apresentou-se segura e com boa reposta clínica.
Nefrite intersticial induzida por mesalazina em gêmeos monozigóticos portadores de doença inflamatória intestinal – relato de caso
Authors: Lima Filho José Célio Costa , Ogawa Maurício Yukio , Andrade Tacilla Hanny de Souza , Gadelha Sami de Andrade Cordeiro , Silva Sonia Leite da , Oliveira Claudia Maria Costa de , Queiroz Anaiara Lucena
Published: December 2019

A doença inflamatória intestinal (DII) possui etiologia incerta, mas fatores ambientais, genéticos e imunológicos podem juntos justificar a patogênese, clínica e prognóstico desses pacientes. A manifestação clínica é diversa, sendo o acometimento renal um dos mais prevalentes, quando se exclui o trato gastrointestinal. Ademais, o papel genético na DII já foi mostrado em diversos trabalhos, principalmente em irmãos monozigóticos. A indução e manutenção do tratamento de casos leves/moderados de pacientes em remissão clínica apresenta boa eficácia com o uso de ácido 5-aminosalicílicos (mesalazina). Essa medicação, apesar de raro, também pode levar ao acometimento renal, com a nefrite intersticial sendo uma das principais etiologias. A seguir, descrevemos o caso de irmãos monozigóticos portadores de DII que desenvolveram nefrite intersticial em vigência de tratamento com mesalazina.
Cuidados perioperatórios em transplante de pâncreas
Authors: Papaléo Filho Bruno Barbosa , Maia Flávio Lobo , Rangel Marcelo Lima Mont’Alverne , Garcez Josiane dos Santos , Cezar Lia Cavalcante
Published: December 2019

Diabéticos insulinodependentes são susceptíveis a altas taxas de complicações secundárias. O transplante de pâncreas teve início na Universidade de Minesota em 1966, com altas taxas de insucessos. Porém, recentemente, este procedimento tem obtido melhores resultados, conjuntamente com outros transplantes de órgãos. Neste trabalho serão abordadas etiologia, fisiopatologia, técnica cirúrgica e as condutas referentes ao manejo anestésico pré, intra e pós-operatório no receptor de transplante de pâncreas. Objetivo: Abordar de forma objetiva o transplante de pâncreas, suas indicações e modalidades, tendo como foco o manejo anestésico perioperatório e uniformizar suas condutas. Método: Pesquisa bibliográfica nos sites periódicos Scielo, Pubmed, BVS e Lilacs referente às palavras-chave, assim como na literatura clássica atual. Resultado: Maior uniformização nas condutas anestésicas e fornecimento de uma fonte objetiva de pesquisa e protocolo de condutas direcionado para a prática da anestesia no transplante de pâncreas. Conclusão: A anestesia no transplante de pâncreas necessita experiência, habilidades técnicas e conhecimentos específicos para o seu correto manejo, visando o melhor prognóstico para o paciente.
Theory of g-Tg-Compactness
Authors: Khodabocus Mohammad Irshad , Sookia Noor-Ul-Hacq
Published: December 2019

Several speciﬁc types of generalized compactness of generalized topological spaces have been deﬁned, investigated and related to compactness in ordinary topological spaces from time to time in the literature of topological spaces. Our recent research in the ﬁeld of a new class of generalized compactness in a generalized topological space is reported herein as a starting point for more generalized classes.
Chemical Reaction Networks Possess Intrinsic, Temperature Dependent Functionality
Authors: Adler Stephan O. , Klipp Edda
Published: December 2019

Temperature influences the life of many organisms in various ways. A great number of them live under conditions, where their ability to adapt to changes in temperature can be vital and largely determine their fitness. Understanding the mechanisms and principles underlying this ability to adapt can be of great advantage, for example, to improve growth conditions for crops and increase their yield. In times of imminent, increasing climate change, this becomes even more important, in order to find strategies and help crops cope with these fundamental changes. There is intense research in the field of acclimation, that comprises fluctuations of various environmental conditions, but most acclimation research focuses on regulatory effects and the observation of gene expression changes within the examined organism. As thermodynamic effects are a direct consequence of temperature changes, these should necessarily be considered in this field of research, but are often neglected. Also, compensated effects might be missed, even though they are equally important for the organism, since they do not cause observable changes, but rather counteract them. In this work, using a systems biology approach, we demonstrate that even simple network motifs can exhibit temperature dependent functional features, resulting from the interplay of network structure and the distribution of activation energies over the involved reactions. The demonstrated functional features are (i) the reversal of fluxes within a linear pathway, (ii) a thermo-selective branched pathway with different flux modes and (iii) the increased flux towards carbohydrates in a minimal calvin cycle that was designed to demonstrate temperature compensation within reaction networks. By this, we expand the scope of thermodynamic modelling of biochemical processes by addressing further possibilities and effects, following established mathematical descriptions of biophysical properties.
Graphene-Based Biosensors for Detection of Biomarkers
Authors: Bai Yunlong , Xu Tailin , Zhang Xueji
Published: December 2019

The development of biosensors with high sensitivity and low-detection limits provides a new direction for medical and personal care. Graphene and graphene derivatives have been used to prepare various types of biosensors due to their excellent sensing performance (e.g. high specific surface area, extraordinary electronic properties, electron transport capabilities and ultrahigh flexibility). This perspective review focuses on graphene-based biosensors for quantitative detection of cancer related biomarkers such as DNA, miRNA, small molecules and proteins by integrating with different signal outputting approaches including fluorescent, electrochemistry, surface plasmon resonance, surface enhanced Raman scattering etc. The article also discussed their challenges and potential solutions along with future prospects.
Nonlocal Reaction-Diffusion Model of Viral Evolution: Emergence of Virus Strains
Authors: Bessonov Nikolai , Bocharov Gennady , Meyerhans Andreas , Popov Vladimir , Volpert Vitaly
Published: December 2019

The work is devoted to the investigation of virus quasispecies evolution and diversification due to mutations, competition for host cells, and cross-reactive immune responses. The model consists of a nonlocal reaction-diffusion equation for the virus density depending on the genotype considered as a continuous variable and on time. This equation contains two integral terms corresponding to the nonlocal effects of virus interaction with host cells and with immune cells. In the model, a virus strain is represented by a localized solution concentrated around some given genotype. Emergence of new strains corresponds to a periodic wave propagating in the space of genotypes. The conditions of appearance of such waves and their dynamics are described.
Rotation and Spin and Position Operators in Relativistic Gravity and Quantum Electrodynamics
Authors: O'Connell Robert F
Published: December 2019

First, we examine how spin is treated in special relativity and the necessity of introducing spin supplementary conditions (SSC) and how they are related to the choice of a center-of-mass of a spinning particle. Next, we discuss quantum electrodynamics and the Foldy-Wouthuysen transformation which we note is a position operator identical to the Pryce-Newton-Wigner position operator. The classical version of the operators are shown to be essential for the treatment of classical relativistic particles in general relativity, of special interest being the case of binary systems (black holes/neutron stars) which emit gravitational radiation.
Electronic educational resources as a new component of a traditional educational process
Authors: Makhmudova Dilfuza Melievna
Published: December 2019

Modern educational politics of our country is directed to formation of a new type of intellect, new pedagogical paradigms of teaching and upbringing, and also to the investigating cognitive-creative potential of person. In this, electronic teaching resources, electronic libraries play great meaning (role). Electronic teaching resources help to conduct teaching in a new qualitative level. Electronic informational resources may be used as a component of traditional teaching process.
Study of issues of attitude to the place and role of women of Uzbekistan in society in the XX century
Authors: Djuraeva Nilufar Dalibayevna
Published: December 2019

The article analyzes the place and role of women in society in the twentieth century and their social status. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the views of Turkestan jadids on this issue, the study of women's problems in the Soviet period and the importance of state policy towards women in the years of independence were covered from a scientific point of view.
Penghayatan Hidup Bahagia dan Kesejahteraan Pada Kaum Pemulung
Authors: Hutapea Bonar , Ayun Tasya Qurrata , Cherika Cherika , Natashya Regina , Noviana Ricka , Soedaryo Susanthy
Published: December 2019

The Social Welfare Issuer (PMKS) is a person or family who, because of an obstacle, difficulty or disruption, can not carry out their social functions and therefore can not establish a harmonious and creative relationship with their environment so that they can not fulfill their (physical, spiritual and social) needs adequate and reasonable (Thamrin, Masril & Sembiring, 2016). This research has a point to find out how an illustration the depth to live happily and prosperous people the scavengers. A method is executed by qualitative narrative, by interview depth and observation. Researchers had conducted interviews with two subjects that work as scavengers. Results in getting is the depth to  live happily of both the subject of very simple with the fulfill of needs and there is also social security for them. They could only fulfill their needs by gathering used goods erratic the amounts of each day and it becomes happiness its own for both subject. However in fact what happens is that social services agency and the central administration has not given a guarantee or assistance which could be used by both subject. Researchers advice for governments is to give the assurance that it is set in accordance with law social welfare, so that the scavengers can receive their rights .
Coupling Degree Evaluation of China’s Internet Financial Ecosystem Based on Entropy Method and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Zhou Rongxi , Xiong Yahui , Wang Ning , Wang Xizu
Published: December 2019

This paper attempts to evaluate the coordinated development state of the subsystems within the internet financial ecosystem in China from 2011 to 2016. Focusing on the main business modes, technological innovation, and the external environment, we select 29 indicators to construct an index system and adopt a coupling coordination degree model for evaluation. Furthermore, we use two weight calculation methods, entropy weight and principal component analysis, to ensure the robustness of the results. The empirical results show that China’s internet financial ecosystem experienced five development stages from 2011 to 2016, which are moderate disorder, near disorder, weak coordination, intermediate coordination, and good coordination. Different methods of obtaining weights have little effect on the empirical results. These findings suggest that at the beginning, the coordinated development of China’s internet financial ecosystem was hindered by factors including the scarcity of main business modes and the defect of technological innovation; then, with the rapid development of China’s internet industry, the external environment became another drawback in coordinated development. Finally, based on the findings, we give some policy recommendations from a global perspective to achieve a sustainable internet financial ecosystem.
Technological Innovation, Regional Heterogeneity and Marine Economic Development — Analysis of Empirical Data Based on China’s Coastal Provinces and Cities
Authors: Zhang Dongling , Fan Weili , Chen Jingshuai
Published: December 2019

In order to analyze the impact of technological innovation and regional differences in marine economy on the development of marine economy, the paper uses the regional panel data of China’s total marine production value from 2006 to 2015, and uses the Theil index to measure regional differences in the marine economy based on the logarithm of the Cobb-Douglas production function. Finally, the paper establishes a random effect panel data model for empirical analysis. The research indicates that the regional differences in the marine economy show a narrowing trend, which promotes or inhibits the development of the marine economy; The extent of the impact of regional differences in the marine economy on the development of the marine economy is inconsistent; Scientific and technological innovation in various regions has promoted the development of marine economy.
Strategies for Construction of Majors in Universities with Different Characteristic Based on Social Needs
Authors: Tan Xiuli , Chen Zhongquan , Liu Xinyang , Deeney Peter , Chen Zhisong
Published: December 2019

We used the basic principles of game theory to investigate development strategies for standards of professional competence in universities in the same geographic area, under conditions of non-uniform distribution of social demand preference. The results revealed that, under various conditions in our model, different approaches for differential strategies were selected by university U2 compared with university U1. Specifically, in the competition between U1 and U2, there is a differential strategy compression point of U2 to U1; When U2 universities choose the biggest differentiation strategy, university U1 also have differentiated strategy control points. Arbitrary decision-making of university U1 in relation to university U2 was based on the requirements of professional competence standards, according to the change of the social demand for professional competency standard, universities U2 will adopt the strategy of “no difference”, “maximum differentiation” and “comprehensive intermediate strategy”, respectively. The current results have theoretical implications for the selection of professional development and professional competence development strategies in asymmetric universities operating in the same geographic area.
An Exploratory Pilot Study of Brain Activation and Functional Connectivity Induced by the “Goldberg” Variations 276 years after their Commission
Authors: Karmonik Christof , Hirata Makiko , Elias Saba , Frazier J Todd
Published: December 2019

Around 1741, composer Johann Sebastian Bach published a long and complicated keyboard piece, calling it Aria with diverse variations for a harpsichord with two manuals. It was the capstone of a publication project called German Clavier-Übung (Keyboard Practice) where Bach wanted
to show what was possible at the keyboard in terms of technical development, virtuosic finesse and compositional sophistication. The music is meticulously patterned, beginning with a highly ornamented Aria, the bass line of which fuels the 30 variations that follow. The piece is clearly divided
into two parts with the second half beginning with an overture with a fanfare opening, in variation 16. The piece ends as it begins, with the return of the Aria. Here, we present an investigation into activation and connectivity in the brain of a pianist, who listened to her own recording
of the “Goldberg” variation while undergoing a fMRI examination. Similarity of brain connectivity is quantified and compared with the subjective scores provided by the subject.
Variation in both host defense and prior herbivory can alter plant-vector-virus interactions
Authors: Shi Xiaobin , Preisser Evan L. , Liu Baiming , Pan Huipeng , Xiang Min , Xie Wen , Wang Shaoli , Wu Qingjun , Li Chuanyou , Liu Yong , Zhou Xuguo , Zhang Youjun
Published: December 2019

Background: While virus-vector-host interactions have been a major focus of both basic and applied ecological research, little is known about how different levels of plant defense interact with prior herbivory to affect these relationships. We used genetically-modified strains of tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum ) varying in the jasmonic acid (JA) plant defense pathways to explore how plant defense and prior herbivory affects a plant virus (tomato yellow leaf curl virus , 'TYLCV'), its vector (the whitefly Bemisia tabaci MED), and the host.
Results: Virus-free MED preferred low-JA over high-JA plants and had lower fitness on high-JA plants. Viruliferous MED preferred low-JA plants but their survival was unaffected by JA levels. While virus-free MED did not lower plant JA levels, viruliferous MED decreased both JA levels and the expression of JA-related genes. Infestation by viruliferous MED reduced plant JA levels . In preference tests, neither virus-free nor viruliferous MED discriminated among JA-varying plants previously exposed to virus-free MED. However, both virus-free and viruliferous MED preferred low-JA plant genotypes when choosing between plants that had both been previously exposed to viruliferous MED. The enhanced preference for low-JA genotypes appears linked to the volatile compound neophytadiene, which was found only in whitefly-infested plants and at concentrations inversely related to plant JA levels.
Conclusions: Our findings illustrate how plant defense can interact with prior herbivory to affect both a plant virus and its whitefly vector, and confirm the induction of neophytadiene by MED. The apparent attraction of MED to neophytadiene may prove useful in pest detection and management.
Comparative study of Revogene GBS LB Assay and GeneXpert GBS LB Assay for the detection of Group B Streptococcus in prenatal screening samples.
Authors: Choera Tsokyi , Jung-Hynes Brittney , Chen Derrick J.
Published: December 2019

Background: Group B Streptococcal (GBS) infections in the United States are a leading cause of meningitis and sepsis in newborns. The CDC, therefore recommends GBS screening for all pregnant women at 35–37 weeks of gestation and administration of intrapartum prophylaxis (in those that tested positive) as an effective means of controlling disease transmission. Several FDA approved molecular diagnostic tests are available for rapid and accurate detection of GBS in antepartum women.
Method: In this study, we report a clinical comparison of the Xpert GBS LB assay and a novel FDA-cleared test, Revogene GBS LB assay. A total of 250 vaginal-rectal swabs from women undergoing prenatal screening were submitted to the University of Wisconsin’s clinical microbiology laboratory for GBS testing.
Results: We found 96.8% of samples were concordant between the two tests, while 3.2% were discordant with a positive percent agreement of 98.0% and a negative percent agreement of 96.5% between the Revogene GBS LB assay and the GeneXpert GBS LB assay.
Conclusion: Overall, we report that both assays perform well for the detection of GBS colonization in pregnant women.
Determinants of postpartum IUCD utilization among mothers who gave birth in Gamo zone public health facilities, southern Ethiopia; case-control study
Authors: Mohammed Seid Jemal , Gebretsadik Weynshet , Endeshaw Gisila , Shimbre Mulugeta shigaz , Mosa Kenzudine Asfaw , Metebo Keyredin Nuriye , Yesgat Yibeltal Mesfin
Published: December 2019

The authors have withdrawn this preprint from Research Square
Hiv Screening In Men And Women In Senegal: Coverage And Associated Factors Analysis Of The 2017 Demographic And Health Survey
Authors: LAKHE Ndeye Aissatou , MBAYE Khardiata DIALLO , SYLLA Khadime , NDOUR Cheikh Tidiane
Published: December 2019

Introduction
Despite the adoption of the provider-initiated HIV testing strategy, the rate of HIV testing is still very low in sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the factors associated with HIV testing among sexually active women and men in Senegal. Knowledge of HIV status is the gateway to antiretroviral treatment.
Methods
A secondary analysis of the 2017 Senegal Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) was performed, using data on sexually active women aged 15-49 and men aged 15-59. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the socio-demographic, HIV-knowledge, media exposure, and behavioral factors associated with HIV testing in Senegal.
Results
The study found that 61.1% (95%CI: 59.2-62.9) of women and 26.2% (95%CI: 24.2-28.3) of men were tested for HIV at the last 12 months. In multivariate analysis, among men the factors independently associated with being tested for HIV were: age groups 20-24 to 40-44 and age group 50-54; a higher level of education; being in the richest household wealth quintile; being married; knowing about the efficacy of HAART during pregnancy; having 2 or more lifetime sex partners and owning a mobile phone. Among women factors independently associated with HIV testing were: being in any age groups versus 15-19 ; a higher level of education; being in the richest household wealth quintile; being married; knowing about the efficacy of HAART during pregnancy; having any STI in last 12 months; fearing stigma; owning a mobile phone; and having any number of ANC visits, versus none.
Conclusion
Although HIV remains a public health threat, about 74% of men and 39% women in Senegal were not tested for HIV in the last 12 months. Low prevalence of HIV testing makes it difficult to interrupt the transmission chain within the community and to reach the UNAIDS goal for 2020 of “90-90-90”. Innovative community-based strategies are needed to address barriers and improve access to HIV testing, particularly for men and for the youngest and poorest populations, and to narrow the disparities in awareness of HIV status in Senegal.

Keys words: HIV, screening; associated factors; Senegal
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Italy: a comprehensive evaluation of all the ICD comorbidities and gender-related differences
Authors: Ferretti Fabio , Pozza Andrea , Bossini Letizia , Desantis Serena , Olivola Miriam , Matto Laura Del , Gualtieri Giacomo , Gusinu Roberto , Bezzini Daiana , Fagiolini Andrea , Coluccia Anna
Published: December 2019

Objectives: The association between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and physical comorbidities is controversial since most studies focused on specific comorbidity and victim types. In Italy, data on this issue are scarce. A comprehensive evaluation of all the ICD categories co-occurring in PTSD may orient assessment and treatment during clinical and forensic practice. This is the first study evaluating all the ICD physical comorbidities and gender-related differences in Italian PTSD patients. Eighty-four PTSD patients (36 females, 48 males) were included. The Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and Davidson Trauma Scale were administered.
Results: Most patients had a PTSD consequent to an accident and half of them presented extreme severity. No gender differences emerged on symptom severity/duration and age at the event. Metabolic (39.29%), circulatory (20.24%) and musculoskeletal diseases (17.86%) were the most frequent comorbidities. Metabolic/circulatory diseases were more frequent among males ( p =0.019 and p = 0.027, respectively) while females more frequently showed neoplasms ( p =0.039). Physical comorbidities represent a serious complication in PTSD patients and are more prevalent than in general population. While gender is not associated with symptom presentation, it seems to play a key role in specific comorbidities including metabolic, circulatory and neoplastic diseases.
Prevalence of postpartum depression and associated factors among postnatal care attendees in Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, 2018.
Authors: dargie abate , Dagne Kefyalew
Published: December 2019

Background: Postpartum depression explains various groups of depressive symptoms and syndromes that take place during the first 6 weeks following birth. The postpartum period is a critical time where both mild and severe mood disorders can occur. The familiar forms are baby blues and postpartum depression. Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of postpartum depression is mandatory for early detection and treatment.
Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st May to June 30, 2018. The study participants were eligible women who came to Debre Berhan referral hospital and health centers for postnatal care and vaccination service. The Edinburgh postnatal depression scale was used to assess postpartum depression. Systematic random sampling technique was used to collect the data after determining the skip fraction (k=2). The collected data were coded and entered into Epi-info version 7 and transported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Both bivariate and multivariate binary logistic regression were done to identify associated factors. During bivariate analysis, variables with p-value < 0.05 were included in multivariate analysis. Odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were computed and variables with p-value less than 0.05 were considered significantly associated factors (multivariate analysis).
Results: A total of 308 mothers who attended postpartum care included, wich was 100% response rate. The prevalence of postpartum depression was found to be 15.6 %( 95%CI=11.7, 19.8). Being widowed/widower (AOR=4.17 (95% CI=1.14, 15.20)), had poor social support (AOR=5.11(95% CI= 1.00, 26.18), had a hospitalized child (AOR=3.32(95%CI= 1.39, 7.93), and had died family or close relative (AOR=2.92(95%CI=1.01, 8.50)) were significantly associated factor with postpartum depression.Conclusions: the prevalence of postpartum depression was lower than most studies done in different areas. Major life events and trauma are associated with an increased risk of postpartum depression. Health professionals should aware of the mother’s circumstances during pregnancy, they should initiate support to reduce the risk of depression in the postpartum period. Health care professionals working postpartum care clinics should give special attention to mothers who were widowed/widower, had poor social support, had a hospitalized child, and had died family or close relative.
Training needs for Ugandan primary care health workers in management of respiratory diseases: a cross sectional survey
Authors: Nantanda Rebecca , Kayingo Gerald , Jones Rupert , Gemert Frederik van , Kirenga Bruce
Published: December 2019

Background Respiratory diseases are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Uganda, but there is little attention to chronic respiratory diseases in the health programmes. In general, there is limited capacity and clinical experience for chronic illness. This survey assessed the gaps in knowledge and skills, among healthcare workers in managing respiratory illnesses.Methods A cross sectional study was conducted among primary care health workers, specialist physicians and health care planners to assess gaps in knowledge and skills as well as training needs in managing respiratory illnesses. The perspectives of patients with respiratory diseases were also sought. Data were collected using questionnaires, patient panel discussions and review of pre-service training curricula for clinicians, nurses and midwives. Survey Monkey was used to collect survey data. Descriptive statistical analysis was undertaken for quantitative data, and thematic content analysis for qualitative data.Results A total of 104 respondents participated in the survey and of these, 76.9% (80/104) were primary care health workers, 16.3% (17/104) specialists and 6.7% (7/104) healthcare planners. Over 90% of the respondents indicated that more than half of their patients presented with respiratory symptoms. More than half (52%) of the primary care health workers were not comfortable in diagnosing and managing chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. Only 4% of them were comfortable performing procedures like pulse oximetry, nebulization, and interpreting x-rays. Majority (75%) of the primary care health workers had received in-service training but only 4% of the sessions focused on respiratory diseases. The clinicians indicated that the pre-service training curricula included a wide scope of respiratory diseases, but the actual training had not sufficiently prepared them to manage respiratory diseases. The patients were unsatisfied with the care in primary care facilities and reported that they were often treated for the wrong illnesses.Conclusions Respiratory illnesses contribute significantly to the burden of diseases in primary care facilities in Uganda. Management of patients with respiratory diseases remains a challenge partially because of inadequate knowledge and skills of the primary care health workers. A training programme to improve the competences of health workers in respiratory medicine is highly recommended.
Genome-wide identification and expression profiling of SET DOMAIN GROUP family in Dendrobium catenatum
Authors: Chen Dong-Hong , Qiu Han-Lin , Huang Yong , Zhang Lei , Si Jin-Ping
Published: December 2019

Background: Dendrobium catenatum used as a precious Chinese herbal medicine is a kind of epiphytic orchid plant which grows on the trunks and cliffs and often faces up to diverse environmental stresses. SET DOMAIN GROUP (SDG) proteins act as histone lysine methyltransferases which are involved in pleiotropic developmental events and stress responses through modifying chromatin structure and regulating gene transcription, but their roles in D. catenatum are unknown.
Results: In this study, we identified 44 SDG proteins from D. catenatum genome. Subsequently, comprehensive analyses related to gene structure, protein domain organization, and phylogenetic relationship were performed to evaluate these D. catenatum SDG (DcSDG) proteins, along with the well-investigated homologs from the model plants Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa as well as the newly characterized 42 SDG proteins from a closely related orchid plant Phalaenopsis equestris . We showed DcSDG proteins can be grouped into eight distinct classes (I~VII and M), mostly consistent with the previous description. Based on the catalytic substrates of the reported SDG members mainly in Arabidopsis, Class I (E(z)-Like) is predicted to account for the deposition of H3K27me2/3, Class II (Ash-like) for H3K36me, Class III (Trx/ATX-like) for H3K4me2/3, Class M (ATXR3/7) for H3K4me, Class IV (Su(var)-like) for H3K27me1, Class V (Suv-like) for H3K9me, as well as class VI (S-ET) and class VII (RBCMT) for methylation of both histone and non-histone proteins. RNA-seq derived expression profiling showed that DcSDG proteins usually have wide but distinguished expression in different tissues and organs. Finally, environmental stresses examination showed the expression of DcASHR3, DcSUVR3, DcATXR4, DcATXR5b, and DcSDG49 is closely associated with drought-recovery treatment, the expression of DcSUVH5a , DcATXR5a and DcSUVR14a is significantly influenced by low temperature, and even 61% DcSDG genes are in response to heat shock.
Conclusions: This study systematically identifies and classifies SDG genes in orchid plant D. catenatum , indicates their functional divergence during the evolution, and discovers their broad roles in the developmental programs and stress responses. These results provide constructive clues for further functional investigation and epigenetic mechanism dissection of SET-containing proteins in orchid.
The effect of an educational intervention to improve tuberculosis infection control among nurses in Ibadan, South-West Nigeria: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Akande Patrick Aboh
Published: December 2019

Background: Nurses are particularly vulnerable to acquiring tuberculosis (TB) because they are in the frontline of patient care. There is inadequate implementation of cost-effective TB infection control (TBIC) measures at most health facilities. Training has been shown to be effective in improving the knowledge and work practices of nurses. This study sought to utilize a multi-method educational intervention to improve the TBIC-related knowledge and practices of nurses in two secondary health facilities in Ibadan, South-West Nigeria. Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 200 nurses (100 each in the intervention and comparison groups). Baseline data was collected in May 2014. This was followed by training of the nurses in the intervention group. After 6 months, the second wave of data was collected and the nurses in the comparison group also received the training thereafter. The final wave of data collection took place 12 months after the commencement of the study. Mean scores of the nurses were determined and comparison made between both groups at different time points using independent t-test. Results: The nurses in both groups were statistically comparable in their socio-demographic characteristics and baseline mean knowledge (68.6% and 67.7%) and practice scores (79.1% and 80.6%) respectively. After the intervention group received the training, there were appreciable improvements in the post-intervention scores of the group at 6 months (knowledge-85.9%; practice-98.5%), which were significantly different from those of the comparison group (knowledge-69.5%, practice-78.8%). A large effect size was demonstrated in the improvement in knowledge score in the intervention group at 6 months compared with the other group (Cohen’s d = 1.7). Similarly, there were improvements in the scores of the nurses in the comparison group at 12 months after the group had also received the training (knowledge-88.2%, practice-93.5%). At this point, the mean scores between both groups were no longer significantly different. Conclusions: The improvement in post-intervention scores implies that the educational intervention adopted for this study was effective in improving TBIC among the nurses. It also underscores the importance of continuous training/retraining of nurses and other healthcare workers in improving and sustaining TBIC at health facilities.
Heart rate and heart rate variability comparison between postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome versus healthy participants; a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Swai Joel Dominic , Hu Zixuan , Zhao Xiexiong , Rugambwa Tibera , Ming Gui
Published: December 2019

Background: A number of published literatures have reported that, physiologically, heart rate variability in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia (POTS) to be greatly confounded by age, sex, race, physical fitness and circadian rhythm. The purpose of this study was to compare between postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) patients versus healthy patients , in terms of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) after Head-Up tilt test, by systematic review and meta-analysis of available published literature. Methods: MEDLINE (using PubMed interphase), EMBASE and SCOPUS were systematically searched for observational studies comparing between POTS patients versus healthy patients, in terms of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV). HRV was grouped into Time and frequency domain outcome measurements. Time domain was measured as mean RR- interval and mean square root of mean of squares of successive R-R waves (rMSSD) in milliseconds. Frequency domain was measured as mean values of Low frequency power (LF), High frequency power (HF), LF/HF-ratio, LF-normalized units (LF(n.u)) and HF-normalized units (HF(n.u)). Demographic data, comorbidities, and mean values of HR, RR- interval, rMSSD, LF, HF, LF/HF-ratio, LF-(n.u) and H.F-n.u were extracted from each group and compared, by their mean differences as overall outcome measure. Computer software, RevMan 5.3 was utilized, at 95% significance level. Results: Twenty (20) eligible studies were found to report 717 POTS and 641 healthy participant s. POTS group had higher mean heart rate (p<0.05), lower mean RR-Interval (p<0.05), lower rMSSD (p<0.05) than healthy participants. Furthermore, POTS group had lower mean HF (p>0.05), lower mean LF(p>0.05), and lower mean HF(n.u) (p>0.05), higher LF/HF-Ratio (p>0.05) and higher LF(n.u) (p>0.05) as compared to healthy participants. Conclusion: POTS patients have higher heart rate than healthy patients after HUTT and and lower HRV in terms of time domain measure but not in terms of frequency domain measure. Heart rate and time domain analyses of HRV are more reliable than frequency domain analysis in differentiating POTS patient from healthy participant. We call upon sensitivity and specificity studies.
Predictors of endoscopic prophylaxis for rebleeding in esophageal varices combined type 2 gastroesophageal varices
Authors: Nie Yuan , Jiang Mei-Chun , Zhang Yue , Wan Si-Zhe , Liu Cong , Zhu Xuan
Published: December 2019

Background and Aim Decompensated cirrhosis patients with esophageal varices (EVs) combined type 2 gastroesophageal varices (GOV2) have rebleeding risk after endoscopic prophylaxis. This study was performed to evaluate the preventive efficacy of endoscopic treatment in patients with EVs combined GOV2, and seek out the risk factor of rebleeding.Methods We performed a single-center, observational, retrospective study of patients with EVs combined GOV2 extracted from hospitalization. The biochemical examination, demographics, endoscopic performance and treatment methods of patients undergoing endoscopic treatment were collected. All patients were observed until 1-year, or loss to follow-up. The predictors parameter of rebleeding were analyzed by logistic regression analysisResults A total of 124 patients underwent endoscopic treatment, including 2 (1.6%) patients failed to stop bleeding, 19 (15.3%) patients loss to follow-up. 103 patients were observed until 1-year, including 11 (10.7%) patients had rebleeding. The results had indicated EVs+GOV2 with GOV1, Age, PTA, Bilirubin, Platelet count, Child-Pugh, MELD were associated with rebleeding at 1-year in patients with EVs combined GOV2. Multivariate logistic analysis defined that Age, EVs+GOV2 with GOV1, Bilirubin, PTA were independent risk factor for rebleeding.
Shear wave elastography (SWE) may be more sensitive and more precise than transient elastography (TE) in predicting significant fibrosis in CHB patients：A prospective comparative study
Authors: Yao Tiantian , Pan Jing , Qian Jiandan , Cheng Hao , Wang Yan , Wang Guiqiang
Published: December 2019

Background Noninvasive measurements including transient elastography (TE) and the two-dimensional shear wave elastography (SWE) have been clinical used instead of liver biopsy for the regular assessment of liver fibrosis in patients during following-up. We aimed to investigate independent factors of SWE compared with TE and find the optimal cutoff values of these two non-invasive evaluation assessments based on our cohort of treatment-naive CHB patients. Methods Fifty-four treatment-naive CHB patients were enrolled and studied. All of them were performed SWE, TE, serum tests and liver biopsy. Potential factors of SWE and TE values were analysed by linear regression and orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) discriminant analysis. The agreement, the association, the comparison of the two different methods were implemented based on the results of liver biopsy by using Bland–Altman analysis, spearman’s correlation and areas under the receive operating characteristic curves (AUROCs). Results There were 27 cases (50%) of mild fibrosis (F0-F2) and 27 (50%) cases of significant fibrosis (F3-F6), fibrosis was assessed with the Ishak scoring system. Multivariate linear regression analyses revealed that fibrosis stage was the only factor affecting the values of SWE (P<0.001), whereas total bilirubin levels (P=0.013) and fibrosis stage (P=0.037) were independent factors affecting TE values. OPLS showed the numbers independent factors (VIP>1) were more in TE than SWE. Bland-Altman analysis showed satisfied agreement between LSMs of SWE and TE. Both of SWE and TE could significantly evaluate significant fibrosis (P<0.001). Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed a correlation between liver fibrosis and LSMs of SWE and TE (r=0.65 and 0.50, P<0.001). Areas under receiver operating characteristics curves (AUROCs) of SWE and TE for significant fibrosis (F>2) were 0.786 and 0.714, respectively. The optimal cutoff values of LSMs of SWE and TE were 9.05kPa and 8.15kPa, respectively. Conclusions According to the AUROCs in comparative data, SWE may be more sensitive and more precise than TE in predicting significant fibrosis (>F2) in CHB patients. Compare to TE, the value of SWE is less affected by factors and will be more promising application prospects.
Hyperglycemia primes NETosis, which exacerbates ischemic brain damage
Authors: Deng Jiangshan , Zhao Fei , Zhang Yunlong , Zhou Yajun , Xu Xiaofeng , Zhang Xiaojie , Wang Feng , Zhao Yuwu
Published: December 2019

Background：Hyperglycemia is common and associated with poor outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients. It is not well understood how hyperglycemia exacerbates brain damage in ischemic stroke. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have shown an emerging role in noninfectious diseases. We aimed to determine the role of NETs in acute ischemic stroke with hyperglycemia. Methods: NETs were immunostained using NET markers (citrullinated histone H3 (H3Cit)) and quantified in thrombi retrieved from ischemic stroke patients undergoing endovascular treatment. BKS-db/db and wild-type mice were used to establish the permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) model. Wild-type mice were injected with glucose to simulate acute hyperglycemia after middle cerebral artery occlusion. NETs were detected in the peri-ischemic brain tissue. After inhibition of NET formation, infarction volume, neurological function and inflammatory factors in pMCAO mice were evaluated. Results: H3Cit, a marker of NETs, was observed in almost all thrombi. H3Cit was much more abundant in thrombi from diagnosed diabetic patients and acute hyperglycemic patients compared with those in normglycemic patients. In pMCAO mice, NETs were induced by chronic diabetes and acute hyperglycemia. Inhibition of NET formation with the peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) inhibitor Cl-amidine decreased the infarction volume both in db/db and wild-type mice with hyperglycemia. Neurological function deficits were alleviated by blocking NET formation, as shown in the grip strength and rotarod tests. The levels of TNF-α and IL-1β but not IL-6 coincided with NET formation. Conclusions: Hyperglycemia may exacerbate brain damage in ischemic stroke through NETs. The underlying mechanisms deserve to be further studied.