bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GC/MS Profiling and Insecticidal Potential of Essential Oils from Thymus vulgaris (Lamiaceae) and Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae) against tomato borer, Tuta absoluta
Authors: Ngongang Marie Danièle T. , Eke Pierre , Sameza Modeste Lambert , Djiéto Champlain Lordon , Boyom Fabrice Fekam
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to determine the Gas Chrommatography (GC)-Mass Spectrometry (MS) profiles and insecticidal activity of essential oils (EOs) from Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) and Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass) against the invasive and devastating pest, Tuta absoluta (T. absoluta) through contact and fumigation routes. We found out that thyme oil was predominantly constituted of Thymol (22.16%), α-Pinene (15.35%) and p-Cymene (13.54%) whilst Neral (21.41%), Geranial (21.36%) and β-Myrcene (9.74%) were the major constituents of lemongrass oil. Lemongrass oil exhibited higher insecticidal efficiency irrespective of application mode with 50% lethal dose (LD50) values of 35.8 and 72.2 µL.L-1air on contact and fumigation routes, respectively. Lemongrass oil also lengthened pupal duration at all tested doses irrespective of application routes. The overall responses of Lemongrass oil surpassed that of the reference insecticide (Lynx®: Lambda-cyhalothrine; Acetamipride). Thus, the recorded data clearly showed the acute and long-term insecticidal effects of the studied EOs, though a greenhouse and open field trials are required prior to the validation of this approach as remediation measure for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for tomato borer control in Cameroon and elsewhere.
Particle Swam Optimization Based Fault Location and Restoration Approach in Microgrids
Authors: Huang Wei-Tzer , Yao Kai-Chao , Wang Feng-Ying , Ma Chun-Chiang , Chen Hong-Ting , Hsieh Ping-Hsuan
Published: September 2019

This work aims to develop an integrated fault location and restoration approach for microgrids (MGs). This work contains two parts. Part I presents the fault location algorithm, and Part II shows the restoration algorithm. The proposed algorithms are implemented by particle swarm optimization (PSO). The fault location algorithm is based on network connection matrices, which are the modifications of bus-injection to branch-current and branch-current to bus-voltage (BCBV) matrices, to form the new system topology. The backward/forward sweep approach is used for the prefault power flow analysis. After the occurrence of fault, the voltage variation at each bus is calculated by using the Zbus modification algorithm to modify Zbus. Subsequently, the voltage error matrix is computed to search for the fault section by using PSO. After the allocation of the fault section, the multi-objective function is implemented by PSO for optimal restoration with its constraints. Finally, the IEEE 37-bus test system connected to distributed generations is utilized as the sample system for a series simulation and analysis. The outcomes demonstrated that the proposed optimal algorithm can effectively solve the fault location and restoration problem in MGs.
Pengaruh Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Group Investigation Berbasis ICT Terhadap Kemampuan Komunikasi Peserta Didik Pada Materi Larutan Elektrolit dan Non Elektrolit
Authors: Linda Astuti  , Muhab Sukro , Darwis Zulmanelis
Published: September 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh penerapan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Group Investigation berbasis ICT terhadap kemampuan komunikasi peserta didik. Penelitian dilakukan dengan metode kuantitatif. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling. Pembelajaran dilakukan pada satu kelas eksperimen dan satu kelas kontrol dengan menerapkan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe GI berbasis ICT dan non ICT.Instrumen penelitian menggunakan soal uraian yang telah dinyatakan valid dan reliabel. Hasil uji hipotesis independent two samples t-test diperoleh nilai t hitung (2,897) > t tabel (1,667), sehingga dapat disimpulkan terdapat pengaruh positif pada penerapan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Group Investigation berbasis ICT terhadap kemampuan komunikasi peserta didik. Analisis lebih lanjut pada tiap indikator kemampuan komunikasi, dapat diketahui bahwa pada indikator mengidentifikasi masalah, mengumpulkan informasi, dan menarik kesimpulan terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan pada hasil posttest kelas eksperimen dan kelas kontrol. Sedangkan pada indikator menuliskan ringkasan dan menggunakan tata bahasa dan ejaan yang baik tidak terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan antara kelas eksperimen dan kelas kontrol.

Kata kunci

Kemampuan Komunikasi, Cooperative Learning Tipe Group Investigation, Pembelajaran Berbasis ICT
A FEATHER
Authors: Dank Debra
Published: September 2019

Featured fiction.
BUT DO YOU ACTUALLY CARE?
Authors: Scholfield-Peters Tess
Published: September 2019

This article explores the notion of empathy through the contemporary lens of social media performativity relating to ‘dark tourism’. Examining Auschwitz as a case study, the article explores the post-Holocaust idea that often this empathy is precarious and accompanied by performed authenticity.Through analysis, this article focuses on concepts of ‘dark tourism’, vicarious victimhood, conspicuous compassion, and self-representation, all portrayed through Instagram. It argues that ‘pilgrimages’ to dark sites of trauma act not only as memorialisation but as spaces of self-validation and representation.In the contemporary Western world, the distinction between ‘authentic’ empathy and conspicuous, socially informed performance is blurred as a result of digitisation and increased pressure on the individual to form empathic connections and then post about it online.
Females Fall More From Heights But Males Survive Less Among A Geriatric Population: Insights From An American Level 1 Trauma Center
Authors: El-Menyar Ayman , Tilley Elizabeth , Al-Thani Hassan , Latifi Rifat
Published: September 2019

Background

Approximately one third of subjects ≥65 year old and half of subjects ≥80 years old sustain a fall injury each year. We aimed to study the outcomes of fall from a height (FFH) among older adults. We hypothesized that in an elderly population, fall-related injury and mortality are the same in both genders.Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted between January 2012 and December 2016 in patients who sustained fall injury at age of at least 60 years and were admitted into a Level 1 Trauma center. Patients were divided into 3 groups: Gp-I: 60-69, Gp-II: 70-79 and Gp-III: ≥80 years old. Data were analyzed and compared using Chi-square, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and logistic regression analysis tests.Results

Forty-three percent (3665/8528) of adult trauma patients had FFH and 59.5% (2181) were ≥ 60 years old and 52% were women. The risk of fall increased with age with an Odd ratio (OR) 1.52 for age 70-79 and an OR 3.40 for ≥80.
Females fell 1.2 times more (age-adjusted OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.05-1.45) and 47% of ≥80 years old suffered FFH. Two-thirds of FFH occurred at a height ≤1 meter. Injury severity (ISS, NISS and GCS) were worse in Gp-II, lower extremities max Abbreviated Injury score (max AIS) was higher in Gp-III. Overall mortality was 8.7% (Gp-I 3.6% vs. 11.3% in Gp-II and 14% in Gp- III). Males showed higher mortality than females in the entire age groups (Gp-I: 4.6% vs 1%, Gp-II: 12.9% vs 4.2% and Gp-III: 17.3% vs 6.9% respectively). On multivariate analysis, shock index (OR 3.80; 95% CI 1.27-11.33) and male gender (OR 2.70; 95% CI 1.69-4.16) were independent predictors of mortality.Conclusions

Fall from a height is more common in older adult female patients, but male patients have worse outcomes. Preventive measures for falls at home still are needed for the older adults of both genders.
Identification of new QTLs for resistance to Plasmodiophora brassicae in Brassica napus using genome wide association mapping
Authors: Dakouri Abdulsalam , Lamara Mebarek , Karim Md. Masud , Wang Jinghe , Chen Qilin , Strelkov Stephen E. , Hwang Sheau-Fang , Gossen Bruce D. , Peng Gary , Yu Fengqun
Published: September 2019

Background Clubroot of canola ( Brassica napus ), caused by the obligate pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae Woronin, is a major disease worldwide. Genetic resistance remains the best strategy to manage this disease. The objective of the study was to identify and map new sources of resistance to clubroot in B. napus using genome-wide association mapping. The reaction of a collection of 177 accessions to four highly virulent pathotypes of P. brassicae was assessed. These pathotypes were selected because they were most recently identified and showed different virulence patterns on the Canadian clubroot differential (CCD) lines. The collection was then genotyped using genotyping by sequencing (GBS) method. Multi-locus mixed linear model (MMLM) was used to perform the association analysis. Results The majority of accessions were highly susceptible (70 –100 DSI), while few individual accessions showed strong resistance (0–20 DSI) to 5X (2 accessions), 2B (7 accessions), 3A (8 accessions) and 3D (15 accessions). In total, 301,753 SNPs were mapped to 19 chromosomes. Population structure analysis indicated that the 177 accessions belong to two major populations. SNPs were associated with resistance to each pathotype using MLMM. In total, 23 significant SNP loci were identified, with 14 SNPs mapped to the A-genome and 9 to the C-genome. The SNPs were associated with resistance to pathotypes 5X (4 SNPs), 2B (9), 3A (5) and 3D (5). A blast search of 2 Mb upstream and downstream identified 61 disease resistance genes, of which 24 belonged to TIR-NBS-LRR proteins and 20 belonged to CC-NBS-LRR proteins. The distance between a SNP locus and the nearest resistance genes ranged from 0.11–1.66 Mb. This indicated that NBS-LRR gene family might have an important role in clubroot resistance in B. napus . Conclusion The resistant B. napus lines and the SNP markers identified in this study can be used for breeding for resistance to clubroot and contribute to understanding the genetic mechanism of resistance to clubroot.
WITHDRAWN: Molecular pathological signatures of gastric cancer in Koreans revealed by label-free proteomics
Authors: Sul Hee Jung , Seo Jong Bok , Sohn Sung-Hwa , Cho Ji Woong , Kim Kab Choong , Kim A-Young , Han Boram , Kim Hyeong Su , Lim Hyun , Kang Ho Suk , Soh Jae Seung , Seo Jinwon , Koh Young Ho , Zang Dae Young
Published: September 2019

Background

Recent studies in gastric cancer (GC) suggested that it could be a heterogeneous disease caused by various genetic defects in combination with environmental risk factors. In this study, a quantitative label-free proteomic analysis were performed to detect differentially expressed proteins and fusion proteins that are only expressed in GC tissues and to identify the signal transduction pathways involved in the tumorigenesis of GC in Korean patients.

Methods

We identified 72 up- and 29 down-regulated proteins in at least 5 out of 9 GC tissues compared with paired normal tissues.

Results

These proteins were divided into 6 highly interacting clusters and 5 relatively related groups for which no interactions have been reported to date but cellular and molecular functions may be shared. Interestingly, the clusters and groups harbored targets for cancer drugs and prognostic markers for several cancers. In addition to these similarities to other cancers, the expression levels of Actinin α-4 (ACTN4), Arginase 2 (ARG2) and ARG3 were significantly decreased in GC, suggesting differences in signaling in Korean GC compared with other cancers. Furthermore, we identified 2 fusion proteins that were expressed only in GC tissues and not in normal gastric tissues: Tropomyosin 4 (TPM4)-Anaplastic lymphoma receptor tyrosine kinase (ALK) and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2/B1 (hnRNPA2B1)-Family with sequence similarity 96 member A (FAM96A).

Conclusions

Our label-free proteomic and biochemical analysis revealed that Korean GC showed tumorigenesis signaling characteristics shared with other cancers in addition to presenting novel defects, such as fusion proteins and altered expression of ACTN4, ARG2 and ARG3.
Bioinformatics-based analysis of TCGA to identify the prognostic biomarkers in HR-positive/HER2-negative tamoxifen-treated breast cancer
Authors: Zeng Liyun , Ouyang Dengjie , Zou Qiongyan , Chen Qitong , Luo Na , Yi Wenjun
Published: September 2019

Background Patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer, which accounts for approximately 70% of all breast cancers, receive tamoxifen therapy to inhibit recurrence and improve overall survival. However, the cumulative risk of distant recurrence in the past 20 years is still as high as 22 to 52% after 5 years of endotherapy. TNM stage, histological grade and age are important clinical factors related to recurrence. Differential gene analysis based on matching clinical factors will be helpful for understanding the molecular mechanism of recurrence; however, there have been no reports yet.Results In our study, we identified 647 DEGs in a TCGA dataset that included 20 patients, of which 10 patients had relapsed after tamoxifen treatment and 10 did not. Ten genes were found by the CytoHubba APP in Cytoscape. After analysis of the GO terms and KEGG pathways, we found that the genes were mainly enriched in the inflammatory response and cytokine-receptor interaction, and then these results were verified in the GEPIA2 and KM-plot websites. Finally, we identified CXCL1, CXCL2 and CX3CL1 as prognostic factors, and their overexpression in HR-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer predicted a longer disease-free survival.Conclusion In conclusion, the high expression of CXCL1, CXCL2, and CX3CL1 can predict longer disease-free survival in breast cancer after tamoxifen treatment and may be a biomarker for tamoxifen therapy.
VCAN – A novel prognostic marker for gastric cancer
Authors: Binang Helen Barong , Wang Yun-shan , Tewara Marlvin Anemey , Lin Weiqiang , Du Lutao , Wang Chuanxin
Published: September 2019

Background
Versican (VCAN) is a large aggregating extracellular matrix proteoglycan implicated in the pathogenesis of most human cancers but its role in gastric cancer is not yet elucidated. We designed the present study to investigate the expression, prognostic value, relationship between genetic alterations and patient’s outcome, disease associations, as well as genetic and protein interactions of VCAN in gastric cancer.
Methods
Expression of VCAN in tumor and normal tissues was studied with ONCOMINE, UALCAN, and GEPIA databases and the human protein atlas. UALCAN, GEPIA, OncoLnc and Kaplan-Meier plotter were used to assess the prognostic values of VCAN in gastric cancer. Subgroup analysis of the clinical significance of VCAN in gastric cancer was done using Kaplan-Meier plotter. Genetic alterations of VCAN and their associations with patient’s outcome were studied with cBioPortal. Open targets platform was used to study diseases associated with VCAN, GeneMANIA was used to obtain the neighbor genes interaction network of VCAN, and STRING was used to examine VCAN interaction with other proteins.
Results
VCAN was upregulated and associated with clinical cancer stages. High VCAN expression predicted unfavorable outcome for all patients; subgroup analysis showed worse outcomes for patients treated with surgery or other adjuvants (other than 5-FU based adjuvant) but better outcome for patients treated with 5-FU based adjuvant, associating VCAN expression with chemosensitivity to 5-FU based adjuvants, but chemoresistance to other adjuvants. Genetic alteration of VCAN correlated with a favorable outcome in terms of disease-free survival for patients. Also, open targets platform showed that VCAN is associated with gastric cancer and is a potential therapeutic target for the disease. Finally, interaction of VCAN with neighbor genes and proteins revealed that VCAN interacts with genes and proteins that drive tumorigenesis and cancer progression.
Conclusion
The results of this study show that VCAN is an oncogene in gastric cancer whose expression can be applied as a biomarker for prognostic prediction, selection of appropriate chemotherapy drugs/monitoring of treatment response, and is a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer.
A comparative study of the characteristics and clinical significance of extracellular traps of neutrophils in gingival samples of periodontitis and gingivitis patients
Authors: Zhang Fei , Yang Xi-Mei , Jia Shu-Yu
Published: September 2019

Background: We sought to compare the characteristics and clinical significance of extracellular traps of neutrophils in gingival samples of periodontitis and gingivitis. Methods: The clinical indexes of gingival samples from periodontitis and gingivitis were measured; the expression of TNF-alpha and IL-8 were measured by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR; the expression of TLR-8 and MMP-9 were measured by Western blotting assays Chemotaxis, phagocytosis and phagocytic activity of neutrophils were measured.
Results: The periodontal clinical indexes of periodontitis and gingivitis samples were significantly higher than those of healthy people (P<0.05). There were significant differences in BOP, PD and CAL between periodontitis and gingivitis samples (P<0.05), but no differences in gingival index (GI) (P>0.05). Compared with the healthy group, the expressions of TNF-α and IL-8 in the periodontitis group and the gingivitis group increased significantly (P<0.05), and TNF-α in the gingivitis group was significantly lower than that in the healthy group (P<0.05). The expression of IL-8 in the periodontitis group was significantly higher than that in the periodontitis group (P<0.05); the expression of TLR-8 and MMP-9 in the periodontitis group was different from that in the gingivitis group and the healthy people group, and the expression of TLR-8 and MMP-9 in the gingivitis group was significantly different from that in the healthy people group (P<0.05); the neutrophil mobility index in healthy people was (3.02±0.53), and that in the periodontitis group was (2.21±0.13), and (2.31±0.12) in the gingiva. There were significant differences between the periodontitis group and the gingivitis group (P<0.05, P<0.05). The phagocytic ability and activity of neutrophils in healthy people were (392.03±20.04), (89.34±10.12), the periodontitis group was (360.32±18.23), (80.02±10.21), and the gingivitis group was (359.32±20.11), (78.93±17.32), respectively. There were significant differences between the periodontitis group and the gingivitis group and healthy people group (P<0.05, P<0.05).
Conclusion: The chemotaxis of neutrophils in gingival samples of periodontitis and gingivitis patients was decreased, the phagocytosis ability and activity of neutrophils were reduced, and the release of extracellular trap-releasing inducible factors TNF-alpha and IL-8 also declined.
Acceptability of Internet-based interventions for problem gambling: a qualitative study of focus groups with clients and clinicians
Authors: Sanchez Sherald , Jindani Farah , Shi Jing , Maas Mark van der , Hagopian Sylvia , Murray Robert , Turner Nigel
Published: September 2019

Background Although Internet-based interventions (IBIs) have been around for two decades, uptake has been slow. Increasing the acceptability of IBIs among end users may increase uptake. In this study, we explored the factors that shape acceptability of IBIs for problem gambling from the perspective of clients and clinicians. Findings from this qualitative study of focus groups informed the design and implementation of an IBI for problem gambling.Methods Using a semi-structured interview guide, we conducted three focus groups with clients experiencing gambling problems (total n = 13) and two with clinicians providing problem gambling treatment (total n = 21). Focus groups were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a two-part inductive-deductive approach to thematic analysis.Results Although both user groups reported similar experiences, each group also had unique concerns. Clinician perspectives were more homogeneous reflective of healthcare professionals sharing the same practice and values. Clinicians were more concerned about issues relating to the dissemination of IBIs into clinical settings, including the development of policies and protocols and the implications of IBIs on the therapeutic relationship. In comparison, client narratives were more heterogeneous descriptive of diverse experiences and individual preferences, such as the availability of services on a 24-hour basis. There was consensus among clients and clinicians on common factors influencing acceptability: access, usability, high quality technology, privacy and security, and the value of professional guidance.Conclusions Acceptability is an important factor in the overall effectiveness of IBIs. Gaining an understanding of how end users perceive IBIs and why they choose to use IBIs can be instrumental in the successful and meaningful design, implementation, and evaluation of IBIs.
Communication mediums used by patients and health professionals during access and provision of healthcare in low resource settings: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Dongyele Mathias , Ansong Daniel , Adjei Francis Osei , Xamuzu Evans , Mensah Nicholas Karikari , Owusu Alfred Kwame , Dankwa Bright Atta , Newton Sam Kofi , Odoom Samuel Frimpong , Bonney Joseph , Adjei Duncan , Amusu Anne , Akowuah Emmanuel Kofi , Lartey Kelvin
Published: September 2019

Background: The issue of mediums to communicate to make enquiries to a hospital in finding out the type of services available, availability of physicians and beds at the receiving hospitals, and a reminder system remains a challenge for patients and providers of the health service in the Sub-Sharan Africa. This present study sought to review the existing healthcare communication mediums from the perspectives of patients and health professionals at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, KumasiMethod A cross-sectional design was employed with a multilevel sampling method to select a total of 651 participants consisting of 304 patients, 303 health workers and 44 hospital directorate managers for the study. A well-structured survey questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents.Results Most hospital staff (66.4%) used a blend of social media and direct means (face-to-face medium) for communicating among themselves whereas 89.8% only communicates with management through meetings sections. Predominantly, 97.4% of the staff communicated by direct means (face-to-face medium) with patients. Almost all the management of the hospital communicated with the general public using mediums like letters and official memos.Conclusions There is evidence of combination of both traditional mediums (face-to-face) and the technological mediums (social media) for communications by health providers and health consumers. However there is a dissatisfaction with delayed information flow and poor feedback with the use of these available mediums. Therefore, a digital mobile application communication system is recommended to offer efficient communication within and outside the Ghanaian health facilities.
Integrated transcriptome, small RNA and degradome sequencing approaches proffer insights into chlorogenic acid (CGA) biosynthesis in leafy sweet potato
Authors: Zhang Wenying , Liu Yi , Su Wenjin , Wang Lianjun , Lei Jian , Chai Shasha , Jiao Chunhai , Yang Xinsun
Published: September 2019

Background Phenolic compounds play key roles in health protection and leafy sweet potato is an excellent source of total phenolics (TP). The chlorogenic acid (CGA) family, which includes caffeoylquinic acid (CQA), 3,4-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,4-diCQA), 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5-diCQA) and 4,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (4,5-diCQA), constitutes the major components of phenolic compounds in leafy sweet potato. However, the mechanism of CGA biosynthesis in leafy sweet potato is unclear. The objective of present study is to dissect the mechanisms of CGA biosynthesis by using transcriptome, small RNA and degradome sequencing.Results Transcriptome sequencing of twelve samples (three replicates) from one low-CGA content genotype and one high-CGA content genotype at two stages (65 and 85 days after planting) identified a total of 2333 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The enriched DEGs were related to photosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. In this study, functional genes CCR , CCoAOMT and HCT in the CGA biosynthetic pathway were uniformly downregulated, indicating the way to lignin was altered. Small RNA sequencing of the samples resulted in the identification of 171 microRNAs (miRNAs), including 149 known and 22 novel miRNAs. A total of 38 miRNAs were differentially expressed. Using in silico approaches, 1799 targets were predicated for 38 DE miRNAs. The target genes were enriched in lignin and phenylpropanoid catabolic process. Transcription factors (TFs) such as APETALA2/ethylene response factor ( AP2/ERF ) and Squamosa promoter binding protein -like ( SPL ) predicated in silico were validated in degradome sequencing. The association analysis of DE miRNAs and transcriptome datasets identified that MIR156 family targeted DHQ / SDH (3-dehydroquinate dehydratase/shikimate dehydrogenase), the key gene in the phenylpropanoid pathway , the result of which was validated by qRT-PCR. The expression trends of genes and miRNAs of qRT-PCR were consistent with the RNA and small RNA sequencing results.Conclusions This study established comprehensive functional genomic resources for the CGA biosynthesis and provided insights into the molecular mechanisms involving in this process. The results also enabled the first insights into the regulatory roles of mRNAs and miRNAs and offered candidate genes for leafy sweet potato improvement.
Sexual dimorphism and sex-biased gene expression in an egg parasitoid species, Anastatus disparis
Authors: Liu P.C. , Hao DeJun , Hu Hao-Yuan , Wei Jian-Rong
Published: September 2019

Background
Differences in the expression of genes present in both sexes are assumed to contribute to sex differences including behavioural, physiological and morphological dimorphisms. For enriching our knowledge of gender differences in an important egg parasitoid wasp, Anastatus disparis (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae), sex-biased differences in gene expression were investigated using Illumina-based transcriptomic analysis.
Results
A total of 67201 resulting unigenes were annotated, including 4206 genes differentially expressed (i.e., sex-biased genes) between females and males including 243 specific genes; the majority of the sex-biased genes (63.72%) were female-biased. Sexually dimorphic traits related to flyability and longevity were discussed at the level of gene expression, improving our understanding of those biological traits. Besides, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses showed that the functional categories in sex-biased genes were mainly related to reproduction.
Conclusions
Overall, this study provides comprehensive insight into the sexually dimorphic traits of parasitoid wasps, offering a basis for future research to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying such traits and improve the application of these insects to the biological control of pests.
Lights and Siren Transport and the Need for Hospital Intervention in Non-Trauma Patients: A Prospective Study
Authors: Bertholet Olivier , Pasquier Mathieu , Christes Elina , Wirths Damien , Carron Pierre-Nicolas , Hugli Olivier , Dami Fabrice
Published: September 2019

Background: The use of lights and siren transport (LST) has been a matter of debate because of the short time savings and well-established increased risks for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and bystanders. Time-critical hospital intervention (TCHI) denotes urgently needed procedures that cannot be performed properly in an out-of-hospital setting. Since 2013, rapid transportation from the field – fast-track – is currently used for patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction, suspicion of acute stroke and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We aimed to determine whether the use of LST was associated with the realization of TCHI for non-trauma cases within 15 minutes of hospital arrival, to identify the predictors of TCHI and to compare clinical outcomes in patients transported with or without LST. Methods: This is a monocentric prospective observational study of non-trauma patients transported by ambulance. Based on Ross et al.’s work in 2016 on trauma patients, TCHI procedures were developed by the study team. We used descriptive statistics to determine whether the use of LST was associated with the realization of TCHI. Univariate and multivariate analyses determined the predictors of TCHI and compared clinical outcomes. Results: On the 324 patients included, 67 (20.7%) benefitted from LST, with 40 (59.7%) receiving TCHI ( p < 0.001). The most common medical TCHI was the fast-track (65.2% of all TCHI). LST was predictive of the need for TCHI ( p < 0.001), as was the clinical condition of the patient and also when EMS providers expected TCHI. When transported with LST, patients were hospitalized significantly more often in acute care units and less often in general wards or discharged from the Emergency Department ( p < 0.001). Conclusions: The use of LST for non-trauma patients was positively associated with the realization of TCHI. EMS providers demonstrated a high level of precision in discerning which patients deserved LST. A majority of the LST benefitted from TCHI. Nevertheless, when fast-track was excluded the rate dropped by more than 50%. To reduce the rate of over-triage (LST without TCHI), LST should be used only for fast-track and also when TCHI is expected by the EMS providers.
Centrally acting stimulants in patients receiving opioid agonist therapy; a national prospective cohort study in Norway from 2015 to 2017
Authors: Vold Jørn Henrik , Aas Christer , Skurtveit Svetlana , Odsbu Ingvild , Chalabianloo Fatemeh , Halmøy Anne , Johansson Kjell Arne , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: September 2019

Background It is estimated that about a third of patients on opioid agonist therapy (OAT) have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Treatment by centrally acting sympathomimetics (CAS) is one of the essential approaches. This study evaluates the use of CAS in the Norwegian OAT population in the period from 2015 to 2017. Types and doses of CAS, and co-dispensations of other addictive drugs like benzodiazepines, z-hypnotics, gabapentinoids, and non-OAT opioids, as well as direct-acting antivirals (DAA) against hepatitis C infection, are evaluated. Methods Information about all dispensed CAS, OAT opioids, and the defined addictive drugs were recorded from the Norwegian Prescription Database. The number and the doses of dispensed drugs were used to estimate dispensation rates, the types, and the doses of dispensed CAS. Logistic regression analyses were employed to assess the associations between CAS and OAT opioid use, and dispensations of other addictive drugs and DAA against hepatitis C infection. Results A total of 9,235 OAT patients were included. The proportion of patients who used both CAS and OAT opioids increased from 4 % to 5 % during the study period. The three most dispensed CAS were methylphenidate (59 %), lisdexamphetamine (24 %), and dexamphetamine (17 %). Buprenorphine as OAT opioid (adjusted odds ratio: 1.59, CI: 1.24-2.05) was associated with being dispensed CAS. Among patients who received CAS annually throughout the study period, the dispensed doses of methylphenidate increased from 63 mg/day in 2015 to 76 mg/day in 2017 (p = 0.01). About 60 % of these patients were also dispensed other addictive drugs concomitantly in 2017. Conclusion Co-dispensation of CAS was low among patients on OAT in Norway, considering a higher prevalence of ADHD in this patient group. On the other hand, concurrent dispensations of multiple addictive drugs are common in this population. Understanding the underlying causes of such prescribing is essential, and research on how to optimize CAS treatment of people with ADHD receiving OAT is needed.
Staff Exposure to Trauma and the Impact of Trauma-Informed Care
Authors: Schiff Jeannette Waegemakers , Liu Jacky , Wenger Cierra , Knapp Jordan
Published: September 2019

Background: Working with client populations who experience high levels of traumatic stress can result in direct traumatization of staff. This in turn often results in high levels of sick leave, stress leave, employee absenteeism and staff turnover. The extent to which staff stress may be mitigated by the presence of a culture of trauma informed care (TIC) has not previously received attention. This study reports on the extent to which staff report traumatizing experiences as part of their job, related traumatic stress and a causal analysis that suggests the potential impact of a TIC environment on mitigating these difficult emotional experiences.Methods: The study surveyed 321 frontline workers in 27 programs within 19 organizations that provide intervention and support services to persons experiencing homelessness. The survey included the PROQoL, LEC-5 and the PCL-6, and a set or questions on organizational functioning. Statistical analysis included examination of the correlation of traumatic stress, secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and organizational factors of trauma informed care. We conducted a mediation analysis using the framework proposed by Hayes [1] to examine the role of organizational environment on staff traumatic stress. Results: The study affirms the high rates of traumatic experiences and the high rate of stress reported by frontline workers. The mediation analysis establishes model that shows a direct link between trauma-informed organizational practices and reduction in staff reported traumatic stress symptoms.Conclusions: Previous studies have concentrated on secondary traumatic stress. This research highlights that high rates of direct traumatic stress on frontline workers and demonstrates a potential pathway of stress reduction in organizations that have a trauma-informed environment.
Clinical study on the status of transient thyrotoxicosis after surgery for secondary hyperparathyroidism patients with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Zou Baoshan , Liu Jiashuo , Li Hong , Xu Zhou , Li Hao , Li Hongyuan , Wu Kainan , Kong Lingquan
Published: September 2019

Background: Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is a common complication of end-stage renal disease (ESRD)，and part of SHPT patients need receive parathyroidectomy (PTX). However, as an important postoperative complication of SHPT, thyrotoxicosis has received little attention. Therefore, in this article, we aimed to study the status of transient thyrotoxicosis after PTX for SHPT patients with ESRD and normal thyroid function. Methods: A total of 36 SHPT patients with preoperative normal thyroid function, normal thyroglobulin(Tg) and normal thyroid antibodies receiving PTX were enrolled from the Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, from January 2017 to January 2019. Tg, high sensitivity thyrotropin stimulating hormone(sTSH), triiodothyronine(T3), free triiodothyronine(fT3)，thyroxine(T4) and free thyroxine(fT4) were evaluated the day before PTX and on day 1, 3 and 5 after PTX. Besides, all enrolled patients were evaluated whether there are symptoms associated with thyrotoxicosis. Results: Among the 36 SHPT patients, 3 case (8.3%), 14 cases (38.9%) and 24 cases (66.7%) had suffered thyrotoxicosis at the first, third and fifth day after surgery, respectively. Serum FT4 level increased significantly (＞1.5 times higher than the normal maximum) from pre-operation (0.66±0.14 ng/dl, normal range: 0.59-1.25ng/dl) to the third day after operation (2.13±2.16 ng/dl, p＜0.001) and then gradually decline, but still higher than the normal maximum on day 5 after surgery (1.40±0.59 ng/dl, p＜0.001). The frequencies of serum sTSH lower than the normal level gradually increased from the first day（11.1%） to fifth day （66.7%） after surgery. Serum Tg level increased significantly (＞4 times higher than the normal maximum) from pre-operation (8.43±6.26, normal range: 0.00-50.03ng/ml)to the first day after operation 213.07±157.69, p＜0.001) and then gradually decline, but still relatively higher than the normal maximum on day 5 after surgery (67.70±97.43ng/ml, p＜0.001). Conclusion: Transient thyrotoxicosis is a common postoperative complication of parathyroidectomy for SHPT patients with ESRD and normal thyroid function, and it is necessary for clinicians to evaluate the perioperative thyroid function to make early diagnosis and appropriate prevention and treatment of thyrotoxicosis.
Sociodemographic and Health-Related Characteristics of a Safety-Net Patient Population
Authors: Agovi Afiba Manza-Azele , Anikpo Ifedioranma , Cvitanovich Matthew J. , Yan Lu , Chu Tzu-Chun , MacDonald Brooke , Gehr Aaron W. , Craten Kevin , Ojha Rohit P.
Published: September 2019

Background Safety-net health systems are an important source of healthcare for underserved or vulnerable individuals, but definitions of safety-net institutions are largely based on patient characteristics. Some definitions may not accurately identify such institutions. Therefore, we aimed to describe the characteristics of urban safety-net patients in Texas and compare the distribution of morbidities between safety-net and general population patients. Methods We used hospital claims data from the Dallas-Fort Worth Hospital Council Foundation to create a cross-sectional cohort. Eligible patients were aged ≥18 years and Tarrant County residents in 2018. Patients were divided into two groups for comparison. The first group represented patients with hospital claims from JPS Health Network (i.e. safety-net population). The second group represented all patients with hospital claims in Tarrant County (i.e. general population). We estimated frequencies of patient characteristics. In addition, we estimated overall and payor-stratified standardized morbidity ratios (SMRs) adjusted for age, gender, and race/ethnicity to compare the prevalence of common chronic diseases between safety-net patients and patients in the general population.Results Our study population comprised 459,827 patients, of whom 74,323 (16%) were safety-net patients. Patients aged ≥65 years comprised 23% of the general population and 11% of the safety-net population. Non-Hispanic Whites comprised 52% of the general population and 29% of safety-net patients. A larger proportion of safety-net patients were uninsured compared with general population patients (safety-net: 54%; general population: 25%), but Medicaid distribution was less discrepant (safety-net: 9%; general population: 7%). Medicare was the primary payor for 24% of general population patients and 14% of safety-net patients. Safety-net patients had relative excesses of mental health and chronic conditions ranging between 5% and 230% for all selected conditions except dementia/Alzheimer’s. The patterns for payor-stratified SMRs were consistent with the overall results.Conclusions We observed considerable sociodemographic diversity and a high burden of mental health and chronic conditions among safety-net patients, which may support understanding the healthcare needs of safety-net populations. Our findings raise questions about definitions of safety-net institutions based on Medicaid distribution alone and the transportability of findings from studies in which safety-net populations are unrepresented.
Role of information, education, and communication in enrollment of health insurance: A case of Nepal
Authors: Acharya Devaraj , Devkota Bhimsen , Gautam Kamal , Bhattarai Radha
Published: September 2019

Background Most of the studies have indicated that various programmes were failing due to lack of appropriate information, education, and communication [IEC] to the target audiences. But still unanswered that which methods or means of communication could be the most powerful for changing behaviour, decision making,and or desired action. The paper aims to assess the effects of IEC on the enrollment of health insurance in Nepal.Methods A cross-sectional study, with randomly selected 810 [405 enrolled and 405 not-enrolled] households, was conducted at Baglung and Kailali districts of Nepal in 2018 using pretested structured interview tool. Background characteristics of family and respondents, and exposure to the means of communication were independent variables; and enrollment of health insurance was the dependent variable. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were done to interpret the data.Results Data show that socio-demographics and exposure to communication were associated with the enrollment of health insurance. Demographic characteristics of the respondents and households particularly household head, age, wealth status, ability to feed the family, and presence of chronic diseases in the family were significantly associated with the enrollment of health insurance. Similarly, exposure to communication and media such as knowledge on health insurance and contribution amount of health insurance, having health insurance related books or guidelines, participation in training and workshop, discussion with peers and neighbours, exposure to health insurance related messages from radio and television, seen hoarding board, newspaper, and health insurance related pamphlet, brochure, and posters were significantly associated with enrollment in health insurance. Knowledge about health insurance and contribution amount, having health insurance related books and guidelines, and discussion with peers and neighbours appeared to be the positive and significant predictors for enrollment in health insurance scheme.Conclusion Communication and interaction with peers and neighbours about health insurance scheme of the government could lead to higher participation in health insurance programme. It would be better to incorporate this strategy while planning policies and interventions on health insurance.
An analysis of certain fields of interventional drug trials registered with Clinical Trials Registry – India
Authors: Pillamarapu Mounika , Mohan Abhilash , Saberwal Gayatri
Published: September 2019

Background There has been a significant increase in the number of trials registered with Clinical Trials Registry – India (CTRI) recently. We therefore wished to understand the current landscape of interventional, drug trials that have run in India. Methods We downloaded all trial records on 4 April 2018, and queried the data after it was formatted into an SQLite database. We distinguished trials hosted by India (India-only trials) and those co-hosted by India and other countries (India-etc trials). Results We analyzed eight fields of data, with the following key results: (a) Year of registration: The India-etc set suffered a serious dip in 2013. Both sets increased sharply in 2017. (b) Phase: Phase 3 trials were the most common in both sets of data, but were manifold more common in the India-etc set. 30% of the India-only trials had no phase information. (c) Trial sites: Four states each account for 50% or more of the sites in both sets of data. Also, 7–8 cities accounted for 50% or more sites in both sets. (d) Ethics committees: Over 70% of India-only trials had a single ethics committee, but the India-etc trials had a much greater spread. For each set, the maximum exceeded 60 committees per trial. (e) Principal Investigator (PI): 84% and 73% of PIs in the India-only and India-etc sets, respectively, had run a single trial each. One PI had run as many as 44 trials. (f) Primary sponsors: global pharma companies sponsored less than 5% of the India-only set but 92% of the India-etc set. (g) Fraction of subjects from India in India-etc trials: An abnormally large fraction of participants are not recruited from India. (h) Countries co-hosting the India-etc trials: The pattern was similar to that found for international trials co-hosted by Australia. Conclusions It is important to understand the landscape of trials being run in any country, to understand the recent past, in case of any red flags, and to serve as inputs to changes in policy. The data also serves as a baseline for the future, to ascertain the impacts of new policies, locally or globally.
Does antiretroviral therapy packaging matter? Perceptions and preferences of antiretroviral therapy packaging for people living with HIV in Northern Tanzania.
Authors: Muiruri Charles , Jazowski Shelley A. , Semvua Seleman K. , Karia Francis P. , Knettel Brandon A. , Zullig Leah L. , Ramadhani Habib O , Mmbaga Blandina T. , Bartlett John A. , Bosworth Hayden B.
Published: September 2019

Background: Despite improvements in treatment (e.g., reduction in pill intake), antiretroviral therapy (ART) is dispensed in socially inefficient and uneconomical packaging. To make pills less conspicuous and decrease the risk of being stigmatized, people living with HIV (PLWH) often engage in self-repackaging – the practice of transferring ART from original packaging to alternative containers. This behavior has been associated with ART nonadherence and failure to achieve viral load suppression. While much of the literature on ART packaging has centered around medication adherence, patients stated preferences for ART packaging and packaging attributes that influence the observed ART nonadherence are understudied.
Methods: We conducted a qualitative study to elucidate perceptions of ART packaging among PLWH at two large referral hospitals in Northern Tanzania. Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was reached. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and coded.
Results: Of the sixteen participants whose data were used in the final analysis, a majority were between 36 and 55 years of age (Mean 45.5 years SD: 11.14), had primary-level education (n=11, 68.75%), were self-employed (n=9, 56.25%), and were taking ART for more than 6 years (n=11, 68.75%). Participants identified three attributes of ART packaging that increased anticipated HIV stigma and prompted self-repackaging, including visual identification, bulkiness, and the rattling noise produced by ART pill bottles.
Conclusions: Given the drastic reduction in the number of pills required for HIV treatment, there is opportunity to not only assess the cost-effectiveness of innovative ART packaging, but also evaluate the acceptability of such packaging among PLWH in order to address stigma and improve ART adherence.
Is Opium Use Associated with an Increased Risk of Lung Cancer? A Case-Control Study
Authors: Naghibzadeh-Tahami Ahmad , Marzban Maryam , Yazdi-Feyzabadi Vahid , Dabiri Shahryar , Rayeni Reza Abbasi , Fekri Mitra Samareh , Larizadeh Mohammad Hasan , Lashkarizadeh Mahdiyeh , Karimpour Behnaz , Khanjani Narges
Published: September 2019

Background: In recent years, lung cancer (LC) incidence has increased in Iran. The use of opium and its derivatives (O&D) has increased as well. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the use of O&D and LC incidence. Methods: In this case-control study conducted in Kerman, Iran; 140 patients with lung cancer and 284 healthy controls matched by age, sex, and place of residence were included. Data including O&D use, cigarette smoking, alcohol use, and diet were collected using a structured questionnaire. The relation between the use of O&D and LC was evaluated using conditional logistic regression test. Results: The use of opium was associated with an increased risk of LC (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 7.95, 95% CI: 3.78 -16.73). A significant dose-response relation between the use of opium and its derivatives was observed (low use AOR = 7.47, 95% CI: 2.33-23.98 and high use AOR = 11.57, 95% CI: 2.25-59.49). Also, there was a relation between starting to use O&D at lower ages and an increased risk of LC (AOR = 5.78, 95 % CI: 2.36 - 14.14). Conclusion: The results of this study support that opium use could be considered as a strong risk factor for LC. Thus, it is highly suggested that tailored policies to be applied in order to reduce use of opium.