bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metformin Use and the Risk of Cancer in Patients with Diabetes: A Nationwide Sample Cohort Study
Authors: Oh Tak Kyu , Song In-Ae
Published: November 2019

Metformin is known to have an antitumor effect; however, its effects in the prevention of cancer remain controversial. This study aimed to investigate the association of metformin therapy with the development of cancer. A population-based cohort study was conducted among adult patients with diabetes in 2010 using sample cohort data from the National Health Insurance Service. Metformin users were defined as those who had been prescribed repeated oral metformin administration over a period of ≥90 days. The primary endpoint of this study was the new development of cancer from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2015. A total of 66,627 adult patients with diabetes were included in the final analysis; 29,974 were metformin users and 36,653 were controls. In the time-dependent Cox regression model, after multivariable adjustment, the risk for the development of cancer among metformin users was not significantly different from that among controls (HR = 0.96; 95% confidence interval, 0.89–1.03; P = 0.250). In the sensitivity analysis, neither low daily dosage (≤1 g/day, P = 0.301) nor high daily dosage (>1 g/day, P = 0.497) of metformin was significantly associated with the development of cancer between 2011 and 2015. We found no association between metformin therapy and the risk of cancer among patients with diabetes, even in the high daily dosage groups of metformin (>1 g/day). However, there might be residual confounders or bias; thus, further prospective, large population-based cohort studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Impact:

This population-based cohort study suggested a lack of association between metformin therapy and the risk of cancer among patients with diabetes. Therefore, the relationship between metformin therapy and the risk of cancer is still controversial.
Prognostic Value of Ultrasound Stratigraphy in Long-Term Weight Loss: Results from a Nutritional Counseling Program
Authors: De Toni Luca , Petre Gabriel Cosmin , Garolla Andrea , De Santis Ilaria , Valente Umberto , Foresta Carlo , De Rocco Ponce Maurizio
Published: November 2019

Background: Weight control through lifestyle interventions represents a suitable strategy to avoid the metabolic, endocrine, and reproductive comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity. Reduced testosterone (T) levels are a worsening factor in overweight males. However, prognostic parameters of long-term weight loss are not readily available. Here, we tested the prognostic value of early variations of anthropometric and hormonal parameters, with a focus on ultrasound stratigraphy (US) and the reduction in body mass index (BMI) associated with nutritional counseling/lifestyle interventions at 6-month follow-up. Methods: Ninety-five male subjects (BMI 25–34.9 kg/m2) who had undergone nutritional/lifestyle interventions, were retrospectively analyzed for: body weight and composition; US evaluation at the triceps (TRC), abdominal (ABD), and thigh (THI) areas; and circulating levels of T, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. Sixty patients (63.2%) completed the 6-month follow-up program. Results: At 6 months, a significant reduction in BMI (26.38 ± 1.55 vs. 31.5 ± 5.0 basal, p < 0.001) and increase in T levels (18 ± 5.4 vs. 9.5 ± 2.3 nmol/L basal, p = 0.04) were observed. Subjects in the highest quartile of the BMI reduction at 6 months (ΔBMI 6 mo), compared to the lowest, showed a significant difference at the 2-month follow-up variation of BMI (p = 0.025), and fat and muscle thickness at the TRC (both p < 0.001) and ABD (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively) areas. Variation of TRC muscle thickness at 2 months was the only independent predictor of ΔBMI 6 mo in the multiple stepwise regression analysis. Conclusions: BMI evaluation and US represent useful monitoring tools in the follow-up of nutritional/lifestyle interventions for overweight-to-mildly obese patients. The important effects on motivation and adherence to the intervention program are to be considered.
Wide-Range Effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 on Group 4A Phospholipases Is Related to Nuclear Factor κ-B and Phospholipase-A2 Activating Protein Activity in Mast Cells
Authors: Szymczak-Pajor Izabela , Kleniewska Paulina , Wieczfinska Joanna , Pawliczak Rafal
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Phospholipases are enzymes that occur in many types of human cells, including mast cells, and play an important role in the molecular background of asthma pathogenesis, and the development of inflammation NF-κB activities that affect numerous biological processes has been reported in many inflammatory diseases including asthma. Vitamin D is a widely studied factor that affects many diseases, including asthma. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on regulation of chosen phospholipase-A2 (PLA2) expression-selected inflammation mediators. Methods: LUVA mast cells were stimulated with 1,25(OH)2D3, and inhibitors of NF-κB p65 and ubiquitination. Expression analysis of phospholipases (PLA2G5, PLA2G10, PLA2G12, PLA2G15, PLA2G4A, PLA2G4B, PLA2G4C, PLAA, NF-κB p65, and UBC) was done utilizing real-time PCR and Western blot. Eicosanoid (LTC4, LXA4, 15[S]-HETE, and PGE2) levels and sPLA2 were also measured. Results: We found that 1,25(OH)2D3 decreased the expression of PLA2G5, PLA2G15, PLA2G5,UBC, and NF-κB p65 but increased expression of PLAA and PLA2G4C (p < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of PLA2G5 and PLA2G15 decreased after inhibition of NF-κB p65 and UBC. Increased levels of released LXA4 and 15(S)-HETE, decreased levels of LTC4, and sPLA2s enzymatic activity in response to 1,25(OH)2D3 were also observed. Additionally, NF-κB p65 inhibition led to an increase in the LXA4 concentration.Conclusion: Future investigations will be needed to further clarify the role of 1,25(OH)2D3 in the context of asthma and the inflammatory process; however, these results confirm a variety of effects which can be caused by this vitamin. 1,25(OH)2D3-mediated action may result in the development of new therapeutic strategies for asthma treatment.
Tobramycin Collagen Fast Dissolving Ocular Films for Corneal Tissue Engineering of Keratoconus
Authors: Qin Jing , Yin Ni
Published: November 2019

Fast dissolving films are a one of novel dosage form in pharmaceutical research. They have convenience and ease of use over other dosage forms such as orally disintegrating tablets and immediate release tablets. In the present research, rapidly dissolving films of Tobramycin were developed
using Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) and polyvinyl pyrollidone (PVP) as film forming polymers by solvent casting method. The prepared films were evaluated for drug content, weight variation, thickness and in vitro in vivo disintegration time. The in vitroand in vivodissolving
time of the optimized formulation was found to be below 15–40 seconds respectively. The prepared films exhibited good integrity and thickness. In vitro dissolution studies were performed as per the FDA dissolution guidelines for about 3 minutes, the optimum formulation released
complete drug within 3 minutes. Statistical analysis showed no drug polymer interaction.
Effects of Curcumin Chitosan Microspheres on the Expression of NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-4 and IL-6 in Rats with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Yu Shujiao , Huang Yuanhua , Huang Guodong , Xiong Jun , Wu Yan , Lei Xiong
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study was to observe the therapeutic effect of curcumin chitosan microspheres (CCM) on ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats. Rat UC model was prepared by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) method. All animals were divided into blank control group (BCG), model control
group (MCG), mesalazine enteric-coated tablets group (MECT), curcumin chitosan microsphere low (CCML), medium (CCMM) and high dose groups (CCMH). Starting from the third day after model establishment, the rats were intra-gastrically administered for 10 days. On the 14th day of the experiment,
the rats were sacrificed. The colon tissues and serum samples were collected and the expression of NF-κB P65 protein was detected by immune histochemical streptavidin-perosidase (SP) method. The levels of IL-1β, IL-4 and IL-6 in serum were determined by Enzyme Linked
Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The colonic mucosal injury score of MCG was increased; The serum IL-1β and IL-6 levels were increased, while the IL-4 content was decreased; The expression of NF-κB in the colonic mucosa was reduced after TNBS challenge. The histological
injury scores of colonic mucosa, the serum levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in CCM-treated rats were significantly decreased (P < 0.01) as compared with MECT group. While, the content of IL-4 was significantly higher than that of MCG and MECT groups (P < 0.01). Curcumin
chitosan microspheres provide a potential therapeutic strategy for treating UC in clinic.
Relational Social Class, Self-Rated Health, and Mortality in the United States
Authors: Eisenberg-Guyot Jerzy , Prins Seth J.
Published: November 2019

Applying a relational class theory based on property ownership, authority, and credentials/skill, we analyzed the relationship between class, self-rated health (SRH), and mortality using the 1972–2016 General Social Survey. In a simple measure of class, we assigned respondents to worker, manager, petty bourgeois, or capitalist classes. In a complex measure, we subdivided workers (less-skilled/more-skilled), managers (low/high), and capitalists (small/large). Next, we estimated trends in class structure. Finally, after gender-stratification, we estimated the relationships between class, SRH, and mortality and, in sensitivity analyses, tested for class-by-race interaction. Class structure changed little over time, with workers constituting over half the population each decade. Concerning SRH, for the simple measure, managers, petty bourgeoisie, and capitalists reported better health than workers. For the complex measure, patterns were similar, although skilled workers reported better health than less-skilled workers, low managers, and petty bourgeoisie. Concerning mortality, for the simple measure, inequities were small among women; among men, only capitalists’ hazard was lower than workers’ hazard. For the complex measure, across genders, the hazards of less-skilled workers and petty bourgeoisie were highest, while skilled workers’ hazard resembled that of managers and capitalists. Finally, we found some evidence that the relationship between class and mortality varied by race, although the estimates were imprecise.
Optimal sequential preventive maintenance policy for a repairable system with maintenance windows
Authors: Gao Wenke
Published: November 2019

Optimization of sequential preventive maintenance has been widely studied. However, some issues need further discussion when considering certain real factors. Hence, an sequential preventive maintenance policy for a mono-unit repairable system with maintenance windows is proposed. The load strength and catastrophic failures of a system are considered in the reliability model, and an optimization of the SPM policy is rigorously proven by an analytical method. The existence and uniqueness of the optimal solution with a monotone increasing failure intensity function are presented in detail. The proof of theory indicates that the length of the maintenance window has an upper bound. Finally, a numerical example and some sensitivity analyses are given to illustrate the proposed sequential preventive maintenance policy. Results show that waste may occur when performing the general sequential preventive maintenance policy and may increase along with the length of the maintenance windows.
The Millennial generation in the context of political power: A leadership gap?
Authors: Zachara Małgorzata
Published: November 2019

This article focuses on the leadership roles of Millennials in politics and the public sphere. This group is a potentially influential political force, yet its members do not pursue traditional forms of civic engagement – they are reluctant voters and are widely considered to be neither ideologically aligned nor politically knowledgeable. The empowerment of the new generation provides a platform for analysing several dimensions of leadership, especially with a focus on the nature of the challenges embedded in political leadership in liberal democracies and the intergenerational leadership transfer in politics. In the initial part of the text a brief review of the literature on the Millennial generation and its political orientations is presented. It reveals the analytical potential of the theme for providing new findings on the nature of leadership. Next, the categories of sacredness in leadership are used to understand how political leadership in Western societies evolved. Finally, theoretical and empirical findings connecting generational identity and changing notions of political leadership are combined in order to identify their implications for the further development of political leadership in Western democracies.
Ten years of the Eastern Partnership: What role for the EU as a promoter of democracy?
Authors: Bosse Giselle
Published: November 2019

Since the launch of the Eastern Partnership (EaP) in 2009, the scope and content of democratic reforms has varied significantly across the six partner countries despite the EU’s increased interest in and commitment to differentiated bilateral relations. The quality of democracy in Ukraine continuously declined between 2010 and 2014, but has significantly improved since then. Armenia has long been considered a semi-autocratic state, but since its Velvet Revolution in 2018 the new government has embarked on promising democratic reforms. Moldova, a country once considered the front-runner of the EaP, has experienced democratic backsliding since 2014, while democratic reform progress in Georgia has slowed considerably. The autocratic regimes in Azerbaijan and Belarus have further consolidated their power, without showing signs of democratic change. The article outlines some of the key issues and developments pertaining to democratic reforms in each country and assesses the factors that explain the uneven progress in this area across the six EaP countries.
Serum miR-502: A potential biomarker in the diagnosis of concussion in a pilot study of patients with normal structural brain imaging
Authors: Davies David , Yakoub Kamal M , Scarpa Ugo , Bentley Connor , Grey Michael , Hammond Douglas , Sawlani Vijay , Belli Antonio , Di Pietro Valentina
Published: November 2019

Establishing a diagnosis of concussion within the context of competitive sport is frequently difficult due to the heterogeneity of presentation. Over the years, many endogenous proteins, including the recent Food and Drug Administration approved for mild-to-moderate traumatic brain injury, glial fibrillary acid protein and ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase, have been studied as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of mild traumatic brain injury. Recently, a new class of potential biomarkers, the microRNAs, has shown promise as indicators of traumatic brain injury. In this pilot study, we have analysed the ability of pre-validated serum microRNAs (mi-425-5p and miR-502) to diagnose concussion, in cases without structural pathology. Their performance has been assessed alongside a set of identified protein biomarkers for traumatic brain injury in cohort of 41 concussed athletes. Athletes with a confirmed concussion underwent blood sampling after 48 h from concussion along with magnetic resonance imaging. Serum mi-425-5p and miR-502 were analysed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and digital immunoassay was used to determine serum concentrations of ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase, glial fibrillary acid protein, neurofilament light and Tau. Results were matched with 15 healthy volunteers. No structural/haemorrhagic pathology was identified. Protein biomarkers demonstrated variability among groups reflecting previous performance in the literature. Neurofilament light was the only marker to positively correlate with symptoms reported and SCAT5 scores. Despite the sub optimal timing of sampling beyond the optimal window for many of the protein biomarkers measured, miR-502 was significantly downregulated at all time points within a week form concussion ictus, showing a diagnostic sensitivity in cases beyond 48 h and without structural pathology.
Detecting Critical Congenital Heart Disease in Nevada
Authors: Evans William N. , Acherman Ruben J. , Ciccolo Michael L. , Lehoux Juan , Rothman Abraham , Galindo Alvarao
Published: November 2019

Background:

We reviewed data on patients born with critical congenital heart disease in the state of Nevada and analyzed detection via prenatal diagnosis versus newborn pulse oximetry screening, location of birth, and gestational age at birth.

Methods:

We inquired our databases and electronic health records for all patients with critical congenital heart disease born in Nevada between January 2016 and May 2019.

Results:

We identified 218 live born patients. Of the 218, average gestational age was 38 weeks (±2.2 weeks). Of the 218, 171 (78%) were prenatally diagnosed, 37 (17%) were diagnosed by immediate postnatal signs and symptoms, 8 (4%) had false-negative pulse oximetry screens that resulted in post-hospital discharge presentations, and 2 (1%) had positive pulse oximetry screens. The eight post-hospital discharge presentations included four in extremis, two with extreme cyanosis, and two dying at home. Of the 171 prenatally diagnosed patients, 157 (92%) were born at the Nevada hospital with the congenital cardiac unit.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, our results represent the highest statewide, general population prenatal detection of critical congenital heart disease in the United States. Our high prenatal detection rate led to the majority of patients being born at the Nevada facility with the congenital heart unit, limiting intrastate neonatal transports. On average, patients were born at term. Further, in Nevada, state-mandated, universal pulse oximetry screening resulted in more false-negative results than positive results
Circulating monocyte subsets in multiple myeloma patients receiving autologous stem cell transplantation – a study of the preconditioning status and the course until posttransplant reconstitution for a consecutive group of patients
Authors: Rundgren Ida Marie , Ersvær Elisabeth , Ahmed Aymen Bushra , Ryningen Anita , Bruserud Øystein
Published: November 2019

Background

Induction therapy of multiple myeloma patients prior to autologous stem cell transplantation has changed from conventional chemotherapy to treatment based on proteasome inhibitors or immunomodulatory drugs. We used flow cytometry to analyze total monocyte and monocyte subset (classical, intermediate and non-classical monocytes) peripheral blood levels before and following auto-transplantation for a consecutive group of myeloma patients who had received the presently used induction therapy.

Results

The patients showed normal total monocyte concentrations after induction/stem cell mobilization, but the concentrations of classical monocytes were increased compared with healthy controls. Melphalan conditioning reduced the levels of total CD14+ as well as classical and non-classical monocytes, whereas intermediate monocytes were not affected. Thus, melphalan has a non-random effect on monocyte subsets. Melphalan had a stronger effect on total and classical monocyte concentrations for those patients who had received induction therapy including immunomodulatory drugs. Total monocytes and monocyte subset concentrations decreased during the period of pancytopenia, but monocyte reconstitution occurred before hematopoietic reconstitution. However, the fractions of various monocyte subsets varied considerably between patients.

Conclusions

The total level of circulating monocytes is normalized early after auto-transplantation for multiple myeloma, but pre- and post-transplant levels of various monocyte subsets show considerable variation between patients.
Correction to: A comprehensive fungi-specific 18S rRNA gene sequence primer toolkit suited for diverse research issues and sequencing platforms
Authors: Banos Stefanos , Lentendu Guillaume , Kopf Anna , Wubet Tesfaye , Glöckner Frank Oliver , Reich Marlis
Published: November 2019

Following publication of the original article [1], we have been notified that three of the primer names identified as most promising candidates for fungal community surveys were incorrectly renamed following the primer nomenclature system proposed by Gargas & DePriest [2].
Glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and some hematological parameters of HIV-seropositive subjects attending clinic in University of Calabar teaching hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Coco-Bassey Stephen Bassey , Asemota Enosakhare A. , Okoroiwu Henshaw Uchechi , Etura Joyce E. , Efiong Esienanwan Esien , Inyang Imeobong J. , Uko Emmanuel K.
Published: November 2019

Background

Despite the numerous intervention programmes, HIV still remains a public health concern with a high impact in Sub-Saharan Africa region. Oxidative stress has been documented in HIV subjects as viral infection promotes prolonged activation of immune system, hence, production of increased reactive oxygen species.

Methods

We studied 180 subjects. Of these, 60 were HIV-infected on antiretroviral therapy (ART), 40 were ART naïve HIV-infected and 80 were apparent healthy non HIV-infected subjects. The complete blood count was performed by automated hemoanalyzer, the CD4+ T-cell count was performed by cyflow cytometer, while the antioxidant assay was performed using ELISA technique.

Result

All evaluated parameters; glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), CD4+ T-cell count, haemoglobin (Hb), total white blood cell count (WBC) and platelet count were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in the HIV-infected subjects. All assessed parameters were found to be significantly (P < 0.5) reduced in the HIV-infected subjects that are ART naive when compared with those on ART. HIV-infected subjects with CD4+ T-cell count < 200 cells/mm3 had significantly (P < 0.05) reduced values in all assessed parameters when compared to those with CD4+ T-cell count ≥200 cells/mm3. GSH and WBC were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) increased in the female HIV-infected subjects when compared with the male counterpart. Anemia prevalence of 74 and 33% were recorded for the HIV-infected and control subjects, respectively. Gender and ART treatment were found to be associated with anemia in HIV. Male HIV-infected subjects on ART were found to be more likely to have anemia.

Conclusion

Antioxidants; GSH and GPX were found to be significantly reduced in HIV infection. Further probe showed that the antioxidant status was improved in the HIV-infected group on ART.
Current state of esophageal cancer surgery in China: a national database analysis
Authors: Qiu Ming-Lian , Lin Jian-Bo , Li Xu , Luo Rong-Gang , Liu Bo , Lin Jing-Wei
Published: November 2019

Background

The present standard of surgical treatment for esophageal cancer is country dependent. The aim of the present study was to investigate the basic aspects of surgical procedures performed for esophageal cancer, and provide information about the present state of esophageal cancer surgery in China.

Methods

Data were obtained from a database administered by the Chinese Ministry for Health. A total of 542 participating hospitals were divided into seven geographic areas, and 10% of hospitals in each area were randomly chosen for inclusion. All patients with esophageal cancer, who underwent esophagectomy in these participating hospitals from January 1 to December 31, 2015, were included in the present study. The clinical characteristics, stage of tumor at diagnosis, operation summary and outcomes, and histological findings of patients were extracted and analyzed.

Results

The present study included 11,791 patients, and the average number of patients per hospital was 218. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common pathological type, while the mid-esophagus was the most common location. Open procedures were performed in 63.8% of patients, while minimally invasive esophagectomy was performed in 36.2% of patients. Multiple approaches to transthoracic esophagectomy were utilized. Two-field lymphadenectomy was the most frequently performed (64.8%), followed by three-field lymphadenectomy (21.8%). Gastric tubes, thoracic duct ligation and postoperative enteral nutrition were implemented to minimize complications.

Conclusion

The standard operative procedure and detailed technique for esophageal carcinoma surgery is presently being debated in China. This survey provides some basic information about the present state of esophageal cancer surgery countrywide.
Spatial-temporal heterogeneity of hand, foot and mouth disease and impact of meteorological factors in arid/ semi-arid regions: a case study in Ningxia, China
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Xiangxue , Wang Li , Xu Chengdong , Xiao Gexin , Wang Ran , Zheng Fang , Wang Fang
Published: November 2019

Background

The incidence of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) varies over space and time and this variability is related to climate and social-economic factors. Majority of studies on HFMD were carried out in humid regions while few have focused on the disease in arid/semi-arid regions, more research in such climates would potentially make the mechanism of HFMD transmission clearer under different climate conditions.

Methods

In this paper, we explore spatial-temporal distribution of HFMD in Ningxia province, which has an arid/semi-arid climate in northwest China. We first employed a Bayesian space-time hierarchy model (BSTHM) to assess the spatial-temporal heterogeneity of the HFMD cases and its relationship with meteorological factors in Ningxia from 2009 to 2013, then used a novel spatial statistical software package GeoDetector to test the spatial-temporal heterogeneity of HFMD risk.

Results

The results showed that the spatial relative risks in northern part of Ningxia were higher than those in the south. The highest temporal risk of HFMD incidence was in fall season, with a secondary peak in spring. Meteorological factors, such as average temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed played significant roles in the spatial-temporal distribution of HFMD risk.

Conclusions

The study provide valuable information on HFMD distribution in arid/semi-arid areas in northwest China and facilitate understanding of the concentration of HFMD.
Placental mitochondrial DNA content is associated with childhood intelligence
Authors: Bijnens Esmée M. , Derom Catherine , Weyers Steven , Janssen Bram G. , Thiery Evert , Nawrot Tim S.
Published: November 2019

Background

Developmental processes in the placenta and the fetal brain are shaped by the similar biological signals. Evidence accumulates that adaptive responses of the placenta may influence central nervous system development. We hypothesize that placental mtDNA content at birth is associated with intelligence in childhood. In addition, we investigate if intra-pair differences in mtDNA content are associated with intra-pair differences in intelligence.

Methods

Relative mtDNA content was measured using qPCR in placental tissue of 375 children of the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey. Intelligence was assessed with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) between 8 and 15 years old. We accounted for sex, gestational age, birth weight, birth year, zygosity and chorionicity, cord insertion, age at measurement, indicators of socioeconomic status, smoking during pregnancy, and urban environment.

Results

In multivariable adjusted mixed modelling analysis, each doubling in placental mtDNA content was associated with 2.0 points (95% CI 0.02 to 3.9; p = 0.05) higher total and 2.3 points (95% CI 0.2 to 4.3; p = 0.03) higher performance IQ in childhood. We observed no association between mtDNA content and verbal intelligence. Intra-pair differences in mtDNA content and IQ were significantly (p = 0.01) correlated in monozygotic-monochorionic twin pairs, showing that the twin with the highest mtDNA content was 1.9 times more likely (p = 0.05) to have the highest IQ. This was not observed in dichorionic twin pairs.

Conclusions

We provide the first evidence that placental mtDNA content is associated with childhood intelligence. This emphasizes the importance of placental mitochondrial function during in utero life on fetal brain development with long-lasting consequences.
Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among the University of Gondar students, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kassie Belayneh Ayanaw , Yenus Hedja , Berhe Resom , Kassahun Eskeziaw Abebe
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Globally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health problem. University students tend to practices sex which predisposes them to sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, and unsafe abortions due to their freedom from families. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among the University of Gondar students, northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted on 845 the University of Gondar students selected using the multistage sampling technique from March 7–10, 2016. The data were collected using a structured, pre-tested self-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed through SPSS version 20 to identify factors associated with sexually transmitted infections. Odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of association. In the multivariable analysis, variables withp-value less than 5% were considered as statistically significant association between covariates and sexually transmitted infections.

Result

Sexually transmitted infections among university students were found to be 18.20% (95%CI,15.40,20.80). Previous history of sexually transmitted infections (AOR = 2.1; 95%CI: 1.04, 4.38), multiple sexual partners in life (AOR = 2.7; 95%CI:1.70, 4.40), not use of condoms during sexual intercourses (AOR = 2.4; 95%CI:1.50,3.75) and poor knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (AOR = 3.3; 95%CI:1.09,5.32) were significantly associated with sexually transmitted infections.

Conclusion

The prevalence of STIs was high among university students. The previous history of sexually transmitted infections, multiple sexual partners, not using condoms during sexual intercourse and poor knowledge of sexually transmitted infections were found to be associated with the infections. Opening and strengthen reproductive health centers on the campuses, popularizing sexual, and reproductive health information and education, particularly on STI modes of transmission, prevention, and health-seeking behaviors, and providing information on accessing of condoms is recommended to reduce sexually transmitted infections.
Measuring drinking motives in undergraduates: an exploration of the Drinking Motives Questionnaire-Revised in Swedish students
Authors: Nehlin Christina , Öster Caisa
Published: November 2019

Background

Alcohol consumption is generally high among undergraduate students and may lead to adverse consequences. Drinking motives play a vital role in the development of alcohol-related problems. The Drinking Motives Questionnaire-Revised (DMQ-R) and the short form of DMQ-R, DMQ-R SF, are widely used tools to identify drinking motives. Still, there is a need for further exploration of the instruments in different cultures and settings. The aims of this study were 1) to explore the four-factor structure of the DMQ-R and DMQ-R SF in Swedish undergraduate students 2) to investigate if extracting the SF responses from the DMQ-R is equivalent to the factor structure of the DMQ-R SF 3) to study the association between drinking motives and hazardous drinking.

Methods

Data were collected among 536 Swedish undergraduate students and were analyzed by confirmatory factor analyses, Mann-Whitney, chi-square tests and logistic regressions.

Results

We could confirm the four-dimensional structure of both versions of the DMQ. There was a similar (or in fact even slightly better) model fit of the short form and when drawing the SF items. Emotionally oriented motives (enhancement and coping), together with social motives, were strongly associated with hazardous or harmful drinking levels, whereas conformity motives were not. The enhancement motive showed the highest group mean value and was also the most common main motive. Students with hazardous drinking endorsed their motives more strongly than those without hazardous drinking, which is a finding worthy of further investigation.

Conclusions

The DMQ-R SF is suitable and preferable for Swedish student populations and extracting the SF responses from the DMQ-R is equivalent to the factor structure of the DMQ-R SF. In future research, effects of including the DMQ-R SF in preventive strategies and in interventions with risk drinking students would be of particular interest.
Quality evaluation of Lycium barbarum (wolfberry) from different regions in China based on polysaccharide structure, yield and bioactivities
Authors: Wang Ying , Jin Hongyu , Dong Xiaoxv , Yang Shuang , Ma Shuangcheng , Ni Jian
Published: November 2019

Background

Lycium barbarum (wolfberry) has been widely cultivated in China, particularly in northwest regions. However, the fruit size and taste of L. barbarum from different habitats are quite different. Traditionally, only the fruit of L. barbarum produced in Ningxia province is recorded as an authentic herb, although the detailed mechanism responsible for this remains obscure. Polysaccharides are considered major active ingredients in L. barbarum which is crucial for its quality evaluation.

Methods

In this study, we assessed the yield, monosaccharide composition, molecular weight, and conformation of L. barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) collected from different regions of China. The antioxidant and immune activities of LBPs were also determined as its quality indicator.

Results

Our results showed that the similarity values of monosaccharide composition were larger than 0.926, and the Mw of the two fractions (peaks 1–2) in LBPs were ranging from 1.36 × 106 to 2.01 × 106 (peak 1), and 6.85 × 104 to 10.30 × 104 (peak 2) which indicated that the structure of LBPs were similar. In addition, results showed that there was no significant difference in antioxidant and immune activities of nine LBPs from different regions. However, the yield of LBPs from Qinghai Province (low atmospheric temperature, high altitude) was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those collected from Xinjiang and Ningxia province.

Conclusions

These data suggested that the L. barbarum produced in Ningxia and Xinjiang maybe more suitable as materials for medicines and functional foods. This study also provides a reference for improving the quality control standard of LBPs.
Post-traumatic stress disorder and depression among Syrian refugees residing in the Kurdistan region of Iraq
Authors: Mahmood Harem Nareeman , Ibrahim Hawkar , Goessmann Katharina , Ismail Azad Ali , Neuner Frank
Published: November 2019

Background

Since the Syrian civil war began in March 2011, more than half of the Syrian population was forced to escape from their homes, and more than 5 million of them fled their country. The aim of the present study is to estimate the psychological consequences of this conflict among the refugee population who fled to Iraq.

Method

In 2017, a team of locally trained psychologists and social workers interviewed 494 married couples (988 individuals) who were Syrian Kurdish refugees in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Validated Kurdish Kurmanji and Arabic versions of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Checklist for DSM-5 and depression section of Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 were used for assessing PTSD and depression symptoms.

Results

Almost all of the participants (98.5%) had experienced at least one traumatic event and 86.3% of them experienced three or more traumatic event types. The prevalence of probable PTSD was about 60%. Gender, length of time in the camp, area in which participants were grown up, and the number of traumatic event types were significant predictors for the presence of PTSD symptoms. Approximately the same rate of participants (59.4%) experienced probable depression, which was associated with gender, age, time spent in the camp, and the number of traumatic event types.

Conclusion

PTSD and depression are prevalent among refugees exposed to traumatic events, and various variables play important roles. The pattern of risk factors in this population is consistent with findings from war-affected populations in other regions and should be considered for intervention within this population and more broadly.
Mechanistic formation of hazardous molecular heterocyclic amines from high temperature pyrolysis of model biomass materials: cellulose and tyrosine
Authors: Kirkok Samuel K. , Kibet Joshua K. , Okanga Francis , Kinyanjui Thomas , Nyamori Vincent
Published: November 2019

Background

Research inventories on the co-pyrolysis of major biomass components such as cellulose with amino acid materials is scarce in literature despite the fact that such studies are critical in understanding toxic product relations from high temperature cooking, combustion of bio-fuels, cigarette smoking and forest fires. This paper explores, quantitatively, the yields of heterocyclic nitrogenated molecular reaction products of grave mutagenetic concern from the co-pyrolysis of model biomass materials; tyrosine and cellulose. Research has established that heterocyclic amines such as isocyanates are mutagens as well precursors for asthma, and other respiratory disorders.

Methods

An equimassic mixture of tyrosine and cellulose (50 ± 2 mg) by weight were pyrolyzed in a tubular quartz reactor in flowing nitrogen at 1 atm. Besides, varying combinations of tyrosine and cellulose in the ratios 3:1 and 1:3 were also explored for comparison. The reaction time was set at 2 s so as to simulate combustions events in nature. The pyrolysate was collected over 5 mL dichloromethane and characterized using a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer detector.

Results

Evidently, it was noted that 1-methylindazole was released in high yields at 300 °C, constituting ~ 300 µg in the entire pyrolysis temperature range (200–700 °C). Nonetheless, isoindazole gave the highest yield ~ 730 µg while 1-naphthyl isocyanate gave a total yield of ~ 336 µg in the same temperature range. Remarkably, the change in char yield between 300 and 450 °C for the pyrolysis of 25% tyrosine in 75% cellulose was found to be ~ 48% whereas the change in char yield for the pyrolysis of 75% tyrosine in 25% cellulose was 49%.

Conclusion

The char and tar yields considered important residues of biomass burning have been reported in this study and found to be consistent with other research output in literature. The striking similarities of % yield of char across all temperatures for various combinations was the most significant observation in this investigation—char yield was independent of the mixing ratio during pyrolysis. From a mechanistic standpoint, it was noted that tyrosine inhibited cellulose based nitrogenated products. Thus N-products dominated the O-products.
Methyl lucidone exhibits neuroprotective effects on glutamate-induced oxidative stress in HT-22 cells via Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling
Authors: Park Jee-Yun , Amarsanaa Khulan , Cui Yanji , Lee Ji-Hyung , Wu Jinji , Yang Yoon-Sil , Eun Su-Yong , Jung Sung-Cherl
Published: November 2019

Oxidative stress causes neuronal cell death in various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, ischemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been evaluated as an effective treatment strategy for neurodegenerative disorders. Methyl lucidone (MLC) extracted fromLindera erythrocarpaMakino (Lauraceae) has been previously reported to exhibit microglial-mediated neuroprotective effects via inhibiting neuroinflammation. However, the antioxidant effects of MLC are still unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the neuroprotective mechanism of MLC in HT-22 neurons against oxidative stress induced by glutamate. In results, the pretreatment of MLC significantly enhanced the viability of HT-22 cells under glutamate-induced oxidative conditions, suggesting that MLC has a neuronal mechanism to protect neurons without microglial regulation. Also, the glutamate effect to increase ROS production was effectively blocked by MLC without any free radical scavenging activity. To induce this antioxidant effect, MLC upregulated the expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), known as an intracellular antioxidant enzyme, and its transcription factor. Additionally, Akt phosphorylation regulating Nrf-2 was confirmed to be involved in the neuroprotective signaling activated by MLC. These results indicate that MLC may play a role as an antioxidant agent to inhibit neurodegenerative processes via activating antioxidant signaling pathways that include Nrf-2 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K).
Otology/Neurotology recommendations – Choosing Wisely campaign
Authors: Ma Andrew K. , Nedzelski Julian , Chen Joseph , Le Trung , Mick Paul , Lea Jane , Morris David , Aron Margaret , Agrawal Sumit , Parnes Lorne , Mijovic Tamara , Lin Vincent ,   Otology/Neurotology subspecialty group of the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery
Published: November 2019

The Choosing Wisely Canada Campaign aims to raise awareness amongst physicians and patients regarding unnecessary tests and treatment. The otology/neurotology subspecialty group within the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Society developed a list of five common otologic presentations to help physicians deliver high quality effective care: (1) Don't order specialized audiometric and vestibular testing to screen for peripheral vestibular disease, (2) Don't perform computed tomography or blood work in the evaluation of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, (3) Don't perform auditory brain responses (ABR) in patients with asymmetrical hearing loss, (4) Don't prescribe oral antibiotics as first line treatment for patients with painless otorrhea associated with tympanic membrane perforation or tympanostomy tube, and (5) Don't perform particle repositioning maneuvers without a clinical diagnosis of posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
Resilience by industrial symbiosis? A discussion on risk, opportunities and challenges for food production in the perspective of the food-energy-water nexus
Authors: Parker Thomas , Svantemark Maria
Published: November 2019

Background

Growing population and affluence coupled with climate change puts pressure on the supply of food, water and energy. The three are interconnected, conceptualised in the food-energy-water nexus. In this article, two innovative proposals for food production based on recirculating, multiloop systems are analysed in terms of risk and resilience to illuminate how such industrial symbiotic systems might contribute to food supply resilience, within nexus constraints.

Method

The proposals encompass greenhouses using waste heat and carbon dioxide combined with recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) with water, nutrient and energy loops between the two. The two cases are discussed in comparison with the existing major alternatives for production of the respective foodstuffs, using an inventory of global risks as a structure for the discussion. The analysis is relevant to understanding current and emerging risks posed by the unsustainable and interlinked supply of food, energy and water, particularly in the perspective of continued climate change.

Results

Based on the cases, the concept of distributed, symbiotic food production is discussed in comparison with centralization, i.e. the economies of symbiosis vs economies of scale, focusing especially on how these different economies affect risk and resilience. The discussion centres on a comparative risk analysis between food production in industrial symbiosis and conventional forms.

Conclusions

The results indicate that distributed symbiotic food production can contribute to resilience to the most threatening of the relevant risks identified and that, therefore, more in depth investigations of how symbiotic systems can contribute to resilience are merited. These, in turn, would warrant an informed discussion on food-production policy.
Neonatal cholestasis: recent insights
Authors: Ghazy Ramy Mohamed , Khedr Mohamed Ahmed
Published: November 2019

Background

Neonatal physiological jaundice is a common benign condition that rarely extends behind the second week of life; however, it may interfere with the diagnosis of a pathological condition termed neonatal cholestasis (NC). The latter is a critical, uncommon problem characterized by conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia. This review aims to highlight the differences between physiological and pathological jaundice, identify different causes of NC, and provide a recent approach to diagnosis and management of this serious condition.

Main text

NC affects 1/2500 live births, resulting in life-threatening complications due to associated hepatobiliary or metabolic abnormalities. NC is rarely benign and indicates the presence of severe underlying disease. If jaundice extends more than 14 days in full-term infants or 21 days in preterm infants, the serum bilirubin level fractionated into conjugated (direct) and unconjugated (indirect) bilirubin should be measured. A stepwise diagnostic approach starts with obtaining a complete history, and a physical examination which are valuable for the rapid diagnosis of the underlying disease. The most frequently diagnosed causes of NC are biliary atresia (BA) and idiopathic neonatal hepatitis (INH). The early diagnosis of NC ensures more accurate management and better prognosis. Despite the unavailability of any specific treatments for some causes of NC, the patient can benefit from nutritional management and early medical intervention. Future research should attempt to shed light on methods of screening for NC, especially for causes that can be effectively treated either through proper nutritional support, appropriate chemotherapeutic management, or timely surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Further attention should be paid for diagnosis and treatment of NC as it may be misdiagnosed as physiological jaundice; this may delay the proper management of the underlying diseases and aggravates its complications.