bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated TG/HDL-C and non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratios predict mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Xia Wenkai , Yao Xiajuan , Chen Yan , Lin Jie , Vielhauer Volker , Hu Hong
Published: August 2020

Background and aims

Dyslipidemia is common in patients with chronic kidney disease and particular prevalent in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis. However, whether markers of atherogenic dyslipidemia correlate with outcomes in dialysis patients as in the general population is uncertain. The aim of this study was to explore the prognostic value of the serum triglyceride/HDL cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratio to predict mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients.

Methods

Two hundred fourteen peritoneal dialysis patients were retrospectively analyzed from January 2011 to December 2015, with a median follow-up of 59 months. We used receiver operating curves (ROC) to determine the optimal threshold for TG/HDL-C and non-HDL/HDL-C ratios at baseline to predict overall survival during follow-up. Prognostic values were accessed by univariate and multivariate COX regression analysis and Kaplan-Meier curve. A predictive nomogram was developed to predict prognosis for overall survival, and the predictive accuracy was evaluated by concordance index (c-index).

Results

The optimal cut-off values for TG/HDL-C ratio and non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratio to predict mortality were 1.94 and 2.86, respectively. A high TG/HDL-C ratio and a high non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratio strongly correlated with worse overall survival in peritoneal dialysis patients. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that elevated TG/HDL-C ratio (HR 3.57, 95% CI 1.99, 6.39, P < 0.000) as well as non-HDL/HDL-C ratio (HR 2.58, 95%CI 1.39–4.81, P = 0.003) were independent markers to predict reduced OS. A nomogram was constructed to predict overall survival, with a c-index for predictive accuracy of 0.795.

Conclusion

TG/HDL-C ratio and non-HDL-C/HDL-C may serve as potential prognostic biomarkers in PD patients.
Risk adapted approach: How to treat splenic marginal zone lymphoma in resource-poor settings? - The real-life experience of a Brazilian cancer treatment center
Authors: de Pádua Covas Lage Luís Alberto , dos Santos Felipe Faganelli Caboclo , Levy Débora , Moreira Frederico Rafael , Couto Samuel Campanelli Freitas , Culler Hebert Fabrício , de Oliveira Costa Renata , Rocha Vanderson , Pereira Juliana
Published: August 2020

Background

Splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) is a rare lymphoid B-cell malignant neoplasm with primary involvement of the spleen. It is a chronic disease, of indolent behavior and prolonged survival. However, 25% of cases have higher biological aggressiveness, propensity for histological transformation to high grade B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and shortened survival. Recognition of these cases of reserved outcome is important for selecting a risk-adapted therapeutic approach in a resource-poor settings.

Methods

We described clinical and epidemiological characteristics, survival analysis and prognostic factors in a retrospective cohort of 39 SMZL patients, treated in Latin America.

Results

We observed a predominance of female (71.8%), median age of 63 years and higher incidence of B symptoms (56.4%) and extra-splenic involvement (87.1%) than in European and North-American series. With a median follow-up of 8.7 years (0.6-20.2 years), estimated 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 76.9% and 63.7%, respectively. Factors with adverse prognostic impact on OS and PFS were Hb < 100 g/L, platelet count < 100 x 109/L, albumin < 3.5 g/dL, LDH > 480 U/L and high-risk Arcaini and SMZL/WG scores. Despite a relative low number of patients, no superiority was observed among the therapeutic regimens used including rituximab monotherapy, splenectomy and cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Therefore, in resource-poor settings, where access to immunotherapy is not universal for all SMZL patients, we suggest that first-line should consist on rituximab therapy for elderly patients or with high surgical risk or with at least 1 risk factor identified in our study. Remainders can be safely managed with splenectomy.
Identification of a protein signature for predicting overall survival of hepatocellular carcinoma: a study based on data mining
Authors: Wu Zeng-hong , Yang Dong-liang
Published: August 2020

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the fifth most common cancer in the world and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths. Over 500,000 new HCC cases are diagnosed each year. Combining advanced genomic analysis with proteomic characterization not only has great potential in the discovery of useful biomarkers but also drives the development of new diagnostic methods.

Methods

This study obtained proteomic data from Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) and validated in The Cancer Proteome Atlas (TCPA) and TCGA dataset to identify HCC biomarkers and the dysfunctional of proteogenomics.

Results

The CPTAC database contained data for 159 patients diagnosed with Hepatitis-B related HCC and 422 differentially expressed proteins (112 upregulated and 310 downregulated proteins). Restricting our analysis to the intersection in survival-related proteins between CPTAC and TCPA database revealed four coverage survival-related proteins including PCNA, MSH6, CDK1, and ASNS.

Conclusion

This study established a novel protein signature for HCC prognosis prediction using data retrieved from online databases. However, the signatures need to be verified using independent cohorts and functional experiments.
The first report of multidrug resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes in goat population in Poland
Authors: Mickiewicz Marcin , Czopowicz Michał , Kawecka-Grochocka Ewelina , Moroz Agata , Szaluś-Jordanow Olga , Várady Marián , Königová Alżbeta , Spinu Marina , Górski Paweł , Bagnicka Emilia , Kaba Jarosław
Published: August 2020

Background

Prophylactic anthelmintic treatment with one of three basic classes of anthelmintics (benzimidazoles, macrocyclic lactones and imidazothiazoles) is still the mainstay of control of gastrointestinal nematode infections in small ruminants worldwide. As a consequence, anthelmintic resistance is a serious threat to small ruminant health and production. While the resistance to one class of anthelmintics has already been reported in most of countries, the newly-emerging problem is the resistance to two or even all of classes referred to as multidrug resistance. This study aimed to evidence the presence of multidrug resistance of gastrointestinal nematodes in goats in Poland.

Results

The combination of one in vivo method (fecal egg count reduction test) and two in vitro methods (egg hatch test and larval development test) performed in two goat herds in the southern Poland showed the presence of gastrointestinal nematodes resistant to fenbendazole and ivermectin in both herds. Moreover, in one herd it revealed the development of resistance to the last effective anthelmintic, levamisole, in response to one-year intensive use.Haemonchus contortuswas the most prevalent gastrointestinal nematode in samples in which resistance to benzimidazoles and ivermectin was found, whereasTrichostrongylus colubriformispredominated when resistance to levamisole was observed.

Conclusion

This study shows for the first time that multidrug resistance of gastrointestinal nematodes to three basic classes of anthelmintics is already present in goat population in Poland. Moreover, it may indicate that different species or genera of gastrointestinal nematodes are responsible for the resistance to specific anthelmintics.
Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A – a new indicator of pulmonary vascular remodeling in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension?
Authors: Kriechbaum Steffen D. , Rudolph Felix , Wiedenroth Christoph B. , Mielzarek Lisa , Haas Moritz , Guth Stefan , Hamm Christian W. , Mayer Eckhard , Liebetrau Christoph , Keller Till
Published: August 2020

Background

In chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) impaired pulmonary hemodynamics lead to right heart failure. Natriuretic peptides reflect hemodynamic disease severity. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) might address another aspect of CTEPH - chronic tissue injury and inflammation. This study assessed dynamics of PAPP-A in CTEPH patients who undergo therapy with pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) or balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA).

Methods

The study included a total of 125 CTEPH patients scheduled for treatment (55 PEA/ 70 BPA) and a control group of 58 patients with pulmonary hypertension other than CTEPH. Biomarker measurement was performed at baseline and follow-up in the CTEPH cohort, prior to each BPA in the BPA cohort and once in the control group.

Results

The median PAPP-A level was slightly higher (p = 0.05) in CTEPH patients [13.8 (11.0–18.6) mU/L], than in the control group [12.6 (8.6–16.5) mU/L], without a difference between the BPA and PEA group (p = 0.437) and without a correlation to mean pulmonary artery pressure (p = 0.188), pulmonary vascular resistance (p = 0.893), cardiac index (p = 0.821) and right atrial pressure (p = 0.596). PEA and BPA therapy decreased the mean pulmonary artery pressure (p < 0.001) and pulmonary vascular resistance (p < 0.001) and improved the WHO-functional-class (baseline: I:0/II:25/III:80/IV:20 vs. follow-up: I:55/II:58/III:10/IV:2). PAPP-A levels decreased after PEA [13.5 (9.5–17.5) vs. 11.3 (9.8–13.6) mU/L; p = 0.003) and BPA treatment [14.3 (11.2–18.9) vs. 11.1 (9.7–13.3) mU/L; p < 0.001). The decrease of PAPP-A levels is delayed in comparison to N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide.

Conclusion

PAPP-A is overexpressed in CTEPH and decrease significantly after surgical or interventional therapy, however without association to hemodynamics. Further investigation is needed to define the underlying mechanism of PAPP-A expression and changes after therapy in CTEPH.
Person-centred, occupation-based intervention program supported with problem-solving therapy for type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bahadır Ağce Zeynep , Ekici Gamze
Published: August 2020

Background

Individuals with diabetes mellitus have difficulty solving problems in meaningful occupations and have similar difficulties with self-care regimens. We examined the effects of an occupation-based intervention supported with problem-solving therapy in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus on participation in and satisfaction with meaningful occupations, diabetes-related psychosocial self-efficacy, preferred coping strategies and individual well-being.

Methods

This study was planned as a single-blind, randomised controlled study with a 3-month follow-up involving 67 adults with type 2 diabetes. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Diabetes Empowerment Scale, Brief COPE and five-item World Health Organisation Well-Being Index were used. This programme included evaluations, diabetes education, and problem-solving therapy. The intervention was conducted for 6 weeks, and each weekly session lasted approximately 60 min. Differences between groups were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Friedman test was used to calculate group-time interaction differences (i.e., baseline, after 6 weeks and after 3 months).

Results

All participants identified the most significant occupational performance problems in self-care as personal care. Significant improvement was reported in the intervention group compared to the control group regarding participation in meaningful occupation, satisfaction with performance, psychosocial self-efficacy, and well-being results (p < 0.001) after the programme and 3 months of follow-up. Participant use of effective coping strategies, active coping and acceptance strategies, and self-efficacy, as revealed by the results, suggested improvement in favour of the intervention group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Occupation-based problem-solving therapy encourages participation in meaningful occupations and improves psychosocial self-efficacy, effective coping styles, and well-being in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Problem-solving therapies that incorporate individuals’ priorities via meaningful occupation can be used to lead to a meaningful and quality life for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03783598. Retrospectively Registered. First Posted-December 21, 2018, Last Update Posted-February 18, 2020.
Higher toenail selenium is associated with increased insulin resistance risk in omnivores, but not in vegetarians
Authors: Gu Qiuyun , Cui Xueying , Du Kun , Wang Bian , Cai Wei , Tang Qingya , Shen Xiuhua
Published: August 2020

Background

The relationship between selenium (Se) and insulin resistance remains unclear. We aim to explore the association between toenail Se levels and insulin resistance through a cross-sectional study comprising Chinese vegetarians and matched omnivores.

Methods

In this study, we enrolled 220 vegetarians and 220 omnivores matched by age and sex from Shanghai. The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method was used to measure toenail Se levels. Dietary Se intakes were assessed by the 24-h dietary recall method. Blood samples were collected to measure fasting blood glucose level and fasting insulin concentrations. Insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) and insulin secretion index (HOMA-B) were calculated to evaluate insulin resistance. Multi-linear regression analysis was performed to determine the association between toenail Se levels and insulin resistance, after adjusting for confounders.

Results

The mean ages of vegetarians (76 vegans, 144 lacto-ovo-vegetarians) and omnivores were 35.96 ± 8.73 years and 35.23 ± 8.93 years, respectively. Of these, 180 (81.8%) were female and 40 (18.2%) were male. No association was found between toenail Se levels and insulin resistance in vegetarians. However, the concentration of Se in toenails was positively correlated with fasting insulin levels (β = 1.030, 95%CI: 0.393 to 1.667) and HOMA-IR (β = 0.245, 95%CI: 0.098 to 0.392) in omnivores, after multivariate adjustment for age, sex, BMI, alcohol consumption, income, and daily dietary intakes (energy, protein, fat, carbohydrate, and fiber). This positive relationship persisted only in omnivores whose dietary Se intake was above 60 μg/d.

Conclusions

Higher toenail Se levels were associated with increased insulin resistance risk in Chinese omnivores whose dietary Se intake was above 60 μg/d, but not in vegetarians. These findings create awareness on the association of dietary Se intake above 60 μg/d with the risk of insulin resistance.
Smoking habit and chemo-radiotherapy and/or surgery affect the sensitivity of EGFR plasma test in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Tran Vinh Thanh , Phan Thang Thanh , Nguyen Son Truong , Tran Bich-Thu , Ho Toan Trong , Pho Suong Phuoc , Nguyen Tran Bao , Pham Tuyen Thi Bich , Le Anh Tuan , Le Vu Thuong , Nguyen Hang Thuy
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study aimed to identify the influential factors for the sensitivity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plasma test in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The mutations were detected in tumor tissue and matched plasma samples from 125 newly diagnosed adenocarcinoma, clinical-stage IIIB-IV patients, and compared the diagnostic values ofEGFRplasma test between groups of clinical characteristics. The influential factors for the sensitivity were identified and assessed by logistic regression.

Results

EGFRmutations were detected in 65 (52.0%) tumor tissue and 50 (40.0%) matched plasma samples (P = 0.028). Compared to the tissue method, the concordance rate, sensitivity, and specificity of theEGFRplasma test were 86.4%, 75.4%, and 98.3%, respectively. Notably, we found that sensitivity of the test is higher in non-smokers (84.1%) compared to smokers (57.1%,P = 0.018), and in treatment naïve subjects (85.7%) compared to whom undergone chemo-radiotherapy with/without surgery before testing (56.5%,P = 0.009). Furthermore, the highest sensitivity was attained in patients without these two factors (90.3%), whilst the lowest value was noted in those with both factors (40.0%,P = 0.004). The multivariable analysis confirmed that smoking habit and treatment history have independently negative impacts on sensitivity (OR = 0.24,P = 0.019, and OR = 0.36,P = 0.047, respectively).
Retraction Note to: Knowledge, practice and associated factors of newborn care among postnatal mothers at health centers, Bahir Dar City, Northwestern Ethiopia, 2016
Authors: Kebede Awoke
Published: August 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Mitigative efficacy of the clinical dosage administration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and romiplostim in mice with severe acute radiation syndrome
Authors: Yamaguchi Masaru , Suzuki Marino , Funaba Moeri , Chiba Akane , Kashiwakura Ikuo
Published: August 2020

Background

It has been reported that the high-dosage administration of domestically approved pharmaceutical drugs, especially granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and romiplostim (RP), is a rapid and appropriate medical treatment for preventing severe acute radiation syndrome (ARS) of victims exposed to lethal total-body irradiation (TBI). However, it remains unclear whether or not the clinical dosage administration of these drugs can ameliorate TBI-induced ARS and related high mortality in order to find various drug treatment options and less toxic optimum protocol depending on the situation surrounding the radiological accidents.

Methods

We assessed the clinical dosage administration in combination with G-CSF and RP as intraperitoneal injection in C57BL/6 J mice exposed to more than 7-Gy lethal dose of X-ray TBI for the survival study evaluated by the log-rank test. Bone marrow and splenic cells were collected on the 21st day, when 1 week has passed from last administration, to detect the level of cell apoptosis, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-related anti-oxidative gene expressions, and enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay using sera was performed for cell senescence and inflammation status analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer or Bonferroni/Dunn multiple comparison tests.

Results

The combined once-daily administration of 10 μg/kg G-CSF for 4 times and 10 μg/kg RP once a week for 3 times improve the 30-day survival rate of lethal TBI mice compared with untreated TBI mice, accompanied by a gradual increase in the body weight and hematopoietic cell numbers. The radio-mitigative effect is probably attributed to the scavenging of ROS and the reduction in cell apoptosis. These changes were associated with the upregulation of Nrf2 and its downstream anti-oxidative targets in TBI mice. Furthermore, this combination modulated TBI-induced cell senescence an d inflammation markers.

Conclusions

This study suggested that the clinical dosage administration in combination with G-CSF and RP may also have radio-mitigative effects on mice exposed to lethal TBI and may be a potent therapeutic agent for mitigating radiation-induced severe ARS.
Simultaneous detection of downy mildew and powdery mildew pathogens on Cucumis sativus and other cucurbits using duplex-qPCR and HRM analysis
Authors: Bandamaravuri Kishore Babu , Nayak Ashish K. , Bandamaravuri Anu Sharma , Samad Abdul
Published: August 2020

Powdery mildew and downy mildew are two devastating diseases on cucumber and other cucurbit crops caused by Podosphaera xanthii and Pseudoperonospora cubensis, respectively. Identification and detection of these pathogens from field and plant material could be significant for the selection of resistant varieties and formulation of disease management strategies. In the present study, a duplex qPCR assay developed for simultaneous detection and quantification of both pathogens from different samples. Two sets of species-specific primers developed for the detection of P. xanthii and P. cubensis pathogens by targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the rDNA gene cluster. The specificity of designed primers was also evaluated against the different microbial, plant, soil, and environmental samples. Initially, the individual assays for P. cubensis and P. xanthii were validated using their corresponding species-specific primers, which amplified the prominent and distinctive products of ~ 705 bp and ~ 290 bp size, respectively. SYBR green-based duplex real-time PCR assay was developed to detect and quantify both mildew pathogens from different field samples. The species-specific oligonucleotide primer sets showed high specificity with melt curve peaks at 85.83 °C and 88.05 °C, for P. xanthii and P. cubensis, respectively. The relative quantification and lowest detection limit of qPCR assays using tenfold diluted plasmid (Csp1 and Csd1) DNA were estimated (0.1 pg/µl) through a standard curve. In this study, the species-specific PCR and qPCR assays in both simplex and duplex formats have been validated successfully. These assays could be useful for efficient detection and quantification of mildew pathogens from the cucumber and other cucurbit crops.
Hopf bifurcation analysis of nonlinear HIV infection model and the effect of delayed immune response with drug therapies
Authors: Geetha V. , Balamuralitharan S.
Published: August 2020

A mathematical model of HIV infection with the combination of drug therapy including cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) and the antibody immune response is examined. The threshold value represented as the basic reproduction ratio $R_{0}$

R
0

is derived. This reveals that $R_{0} < 1$

R
0

<
1
is locally asymptotically stable in the viral free steady state, and the infected steady state condition remains locally asymptotically stable with $R_{0} > 1$

R
0

>
1
in the absence of a delay in the immune response. Moreover, the existence of Hopf bifurcation with CTL response delay is demonstrated. The estimation of delay length is used to maintain stability. Numerical simulations are implemented to explain the mathematical results.
Explicit monotone iterative sequences for positive solutions of a fractional differential system with coupled integral boundary conditions on a half-line
Authors: Zhang Haiyan , Wang Yongqing , Xu Jiafa
Published: August 2020

In this paper we consider a fractional differential system with coupled integral boundary value problems on a half-line, where the nonlinearity terms depend on unknown functions and the lower-order fractional derivative of unknown functions, and the fractional infinite boundary value conditions depend on the coupled infinite integral of unknown functions. By virtue of the monotone iterative technique, we find two explicit monotone iterative sequences which converge to the positive minimal and maximal solutions when the nonlinearities can satisfy certain nonlinear growth conditions.
Seasonal activity levels of a farm-island population of striated caracaras (Phalcoboenus australis) in the Falkland Islands
Authors: Harrington Katie J. , Fahlbusch James A. , Langrock Roland , Therrien Jean-François , Houtz Jennifer L. , McDonald Birgitte I.
Published: August 2020

Background

Animals need adaptive strategies to cope with seasonal changes in prey availability to survive and reproduce, which can include migrating, prey-switching, or reducing metabolic needs. Human settlements can disrupt spatiotemporal patterning in resource availability, which can affect animals’ foraging success, particularly for juveniles who are behaviorally developing and learning efficient foraging skills. Here, we investigate behavioral responses of juvenile striated caracaras, a near-threatened scavenging falconid, to seasonally migratory seabird prey and a farm settlement on Saunders Island, Falklands. We deployed accelerometer–GPS dataloggers (n = 27) to measure seasonal differences in daily and hourly vectorial dynamic body acceleration (VeDBA; an activity index measured in gravitational g) and space use, and investigated seasonal variation in body mass of the tagged subset and an additional 65 caracaras.

Results

Juvenile caracaras were overall similarly active in winter and summer. However, during winter, caracaras made the most of limited daylight by increasing average daytime activity (winter males: 0.16 ± 0.03 g, summer males: 0.09 ± 0.01 g, winter females: 0.12 ± 0.02 g, summer females: 0.08 ± 0.01 g). During winter, both sexes increased the percentage of daylight spent in high activity (winter males: 35 ± 5%, summer males: 21 ± 3%, winter females: 25 ± 6%, summer females: 16 ± 3%,p < 0.001) and ranged nearly 4 times farther (95% kernel density estimate winter: 2.36 ± 0.96 km2, summer: 0.61 ± 0.20 km2;p < 0.001). Furthermore, on a daily scale, males were 21% more active than females year-round (24-h average VeDBA: males 0.07 ± 0.01 g, females 0.06 ± 0.01 g;p < 0.01). We did not observe a significant seasonal difference in mass.

Conclusion

That caracaras’ daily activity and body mass did not vary between seasons suggests that wintering birds on Saunders are meeting resource requirements despite the absence of seasonally migratory prey. We hypothesize that human subsidies may mitigate the effect of seasonal food limitations. Further research should include studies on seasonal energetics to improve our understanding of baseline body condition, and comparative studies on other islands and including adults to understand the importance of human subsidies.
Correction to: Different aspects of Alzheimer’s disease-related amyloid β-peptide pathology and their relationship to amyloid positron emission tomography imaging and dementia
Authors: Thal Dietmar Rudolf , Ronisz Alicja , Tousseyn Thomas , Upadhaya Ajeet Rijal , Balakrishnan Karthikeyan , Vandenberghe Rik , Vandenbulcke Mathieu , von Arnim Christine A. F. , Otto Markus , Beach Thomas G. , Lilja Johan , Heurling Kerstin , Chakrabarty Aruna , Ismail Azzam , Buckley Christopher , Smith Adrian P. L. , Kumar Sathish , Farrar Gill , Walter Jochen
Published: August 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Deep Q-network to produce polarization-independent perfect solar absorbers: a statistical report
Authors: Sajedian Iman , Badloe Trevon , Lee Heon , Rho Junsuk
Published: August 2020

Using reinforcement learning, a deep Q-network was used to design polarization-independent, perfect solar absorbers. The deep Q-network selected the geometrical properties and materials of a symmetric three-layer metamaterial made up of circular rods on top of two films. The combination of all the possible permutations gives around 500 billion possible designs. In around 30,000 steps, the deep Q-network was able to produce 1250 structures that have an integrated absorption of higher than 90% in the visible region, with a maximum of 97.6% and an integrated absorption of less than 10% in the 8–13 µm wavelength region, with a minimum of 1.37%. A statistical analysis of the distribution of materials and geometrical parameters that make up the solar absorbers is presented.
Thrombocytopenic purpura on an organic farm with pen mating: a case report on the re-emergence of an old disease
Authors: Joller Sara , Häfliger Irene M. , Drögemüller Cord , Richard Olivia K. , Grahofer Alexander
Published: August 2020

Background

Thrombocytopenia is an immune-mediated disease, which affects suckling piglets. Piglets are pale and inactive, show multiple hemorrhages and often die within days. Pathological examination reveals severe haemorrhages and oedema in several organs. Severe thrombocytopenia and elongated bleeding time characterize the disease haematologically.

The sow produces antibodies against the thrombocyte antigens of the boar, which are present in the blood of the piglets. These isoimmune antibodies attack the platelets and megakaryocytes of the piglets, causing thrombocytopenia in succeeding matings of the same boar and sow. There is no known therapy against this condition. In the last few decades, the disease has become rare due to the increase of artificial insemination.

Case presentation

On an organic breeding farm in Switzerland with a high percentage of natural pen matings, piglets of three litters showed haemorrhages on the skin, prolonged bleeding time and were generally in a reduced general state. A pathological examination revealed multifocal haemorrhages in the stomach, kidneys, dermis, mesenterium and spinal cord. Haematology showed a massive thrombocytopenia and regenerative anaemia. Due to these findings the diagnosis of thrombocytopenic purpura was established.

To avoid further matings of the same boar and sow and thus more affected piglets, out of three possible boars the responsible sire had to be determined. This was achieved through array genotyping and subsequent computation of identity by descent and calculation of Mendelian errors for parentage verification. Thereby the responsible boar was identified and as a consequence removed from the farm. Further preventive measures, that had been established, included the recording of all matings and regular exchange of boars.

Conclusion

The decreased number of natural matings with the surge of artificial insemination has probably reduced the number of cases of thrombocytopenic purpura and thus the disease awareness of farmers and veterinarians. However, as consumers wish for better animal welfare and higher ecological standards we may see a rise in natural matings and thus a return of the disease. In case of affected litters, genetic testing was proven a valid method for investigation and prevention of more cases and may be used more in the future.
Geographical disparities and determinants of childhood diarrheal illness in Ethiopia: further analysis of 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Atnafu Asmamaw , Sisay Malede Mequanent , Demissie Getu Debalkie , Tessema Zemenu Tadesse
Published: August 2020

Background

Childhood diarrheal illness is the second leading cause of child mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia. Epidemiology of diarrhea has long-term implications with respect to medical, social, and economic consequences. Studies hypothesize that there have been regional differences, and this study aimed to examine the spatial variations and identify the determinants of childhood diarrhea in Ethiopia.

Methods

Data from the 2016 Demographic and Health Survey of Ethiopia (EDHS), which included 10,337 aged under 5 years were analyzed. The survey was conducted using a two-stage stratified sampling design. The study attempted to detect and test the clustering of diarrhea cases using global Moran’s I and LISA. Descriptive statistics followed by mixed-effect logistic regressions were used to identify factors related to the prevalence of diarrhea.

Results

Overall, 11.87% of the children experienced childhood diarrheal illness. The study showed that the risk was high in the southern and central parts and low in the eastern and western regions of the country. Children aged 6–12 (AOR = 2.66, [95% CI 2.01, 3.52]), 12–23 (AOR = 2.45, [95% CI 1.89, 3.17]), and 24–35 (AOR = 1.53, [95% CI 1.17, 2.01]) months were more likely to suffer from childhood diarrhea than those aged less than 6 months. Children in Tigray (AOR = 1.69 [95% CI 1.01, 2.83]), Amhara (AOR = 1.80, [95% CI 1.06, 3.06]), SNNPR (AOR = 2.04, [95% CI 1.22, 3.42]), and Gambella (AOR = 2.05, [95% CI 1.22, 3.42]) were at higher risk than those in Addis Ababa. The odds of getting diarrhea decreased by 24% among households with ≥ 3 under-five children compared to those with only one under-five child (AOR = 0.76 [95% CI 0.61, 0.94]). The odds of getting diarrheal illness for the children of employed mothers increased by 19% compared to those children of non-employed mothers (AOR = 1.19 [95% CI 1.03, 1.38]).

Conclusions

Childhood diarrheal disease is prevalent among under-five children, particularly in the regions of SNNP, Gambella, Oromia, and Benishangul Gumuz, while the regions are generally making progress in reducing childhood illness. Capacity building programs with the best experience sharing and better home environments can be effective in reducing the incidence of childhood diarrhea in Ethiopia.
Surveillance and distribution of the emergent Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus in China
Authors: Wang Duan , Huang Guixiu , Shi Tao , Wang Guofen , Fang Rongxiang , Zhang Xuan , Ye Jian
Published: August 2020

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a major staple food crop for more than a billion people in the world. Cassava mosaic virus (CMV), belonging to the Geminiviridae family, is a primary threat to cassava production. Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) is the only emergent CMV prevalent in South Asia and Southeast Asia since its identification in 2002. We reported the identification of two invasive strains of SLCMV, Col and HN7, in China in 2018. However, the occurrence and distribution of these known SLCMV strains and the presence of unknown geminivirus in China are still elusive. In this study, we firstly reported an improved CMV detection system based on molecular and serological methods, which was further used to determine the distribution of CMV in major cassava plantations in China. Two optimized PCR primer pairs based on the conserved regions of AV1 and AC1 genes were designed to detect different CMV species and distinguish SLCMV simultaneously. For a serological method, a polyclonal antibody against SLCMV AV1-encoded capsid protein was raised and used for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Consistent detection results were achieved by PCR- and ELISA-based methods. Among 62 examined samples collected in 2018, 10 were SLCMV positive, with 4 coinfection cases of two strains (HN7 and Col) in the same cassava plant. Two primer pairs could also be used to detect the presence of CMV in whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) sensitively. All positive samples were from Fujian and Hainan Provinces, indicating a limited distribution of SLCMV in cassava plants in China. Our detection methods could be used for future surveillance system to control and manage cassava mosaic disease in China and other countries.
The association between character of portal blood flow and post-TIPS incidence of hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: El-Shazly Helmy , Abdel-Samiee Mohamed , Tharwa El-Sayed , Zaghla Hassan , Abass Shrief , El-Warraky Mohamed , Ibrahim El-Sayed
Published: August 2020

Background

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the serious complications observed post-TIPS operations in patients with different complications of portal hypertension such as refractory ascites, refractory hydrothorax, bleeding varices, and hepato-renal syndrome. Herein, we aimed to clarify predisposing factors for post-TIPS incidence of HE according to pre-TIPS hemodynamics.

Results

Fifty patients were enrolled in this study with different complications of portal hypertension; most of them have Child A and B scores. Patients were evaluated by ultrasound Doppler for the flow inside the portal vein and clinically recorded into two groups: group 1, 31 patients with hepatopetal flow; and group 2, 19 patients with hepatofugal flow. Then, TIPS was performed and patients were reassessed 1 month later to detect HE. Multiple variables such as age, gender, etiology of liver disease, and indication for TIPS had no significant differences. The incidence of HE post-TIPS was observed more at group 1 more than at group 2 (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Post-TIPS incidence of HE was interestingly related to pre-TIPS flow in the portal vein (hepatopetal group more than hepatofugal group). Patients with hepatofugal flow in the portal vein are perfect candidate for TIPS than patients with hepatopetal flow in the portal vein. Patients with previous history of HE are contraindicated for TIPS except as a bridge for liver transplantation.
Efficacy of platelet-rich plasma injection in mild and moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: randomized control study
Authors: Gado Souzan E. , EL-Banna Hanaa S.
Published: August 2020

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common peripheral entrapment neuropathy. Typical symptoms and signs include numbness, tingling, pain, or burning sensation in the digits supplied by the median nerve and/or nocturnal paresthesia. Treatments of CTS range from conservative measures to surgical decompression of the median nerve.

Results

The PRP group showed a statistically significant reduction in the visual analog scale, Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire, for the severity and the functional capacity scores, and cross-sectional area of the median nerve compared to those of control group 3 months post-treatment (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Platelet-rich plasma injection in CTS relieves pain and symptom severity and improves functional status but not significantly improve the electrophysiological parameters.
President's Page
Authors: Tubman Ken
Published: August 2020

Making connections and staying connected, i.e., networking, has always been important — even more so now with the oil and gas industry shedding so many positions and facing such serious long-term challenges.
Introduction to this special section: Southeast Asia
Authors: Chacko Soman , Fainstein Roberto , Li Chengbo
Published: August 2020

This special section on Southeast Asia features geophysical topics that cover several of the magnificent geotectonic provinces of the region. Southeast Asia is the site of the world's largest archipelago, which features more than 20,000 islands extending east to west more than 3500 miles. The extent of the offshore regions of the archipelago is many times greater than its land area. The Sunda Shelf, with its numerous Tertiary basins in the western part of the archipelago, contains areas of India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, West Indonesia, and their offshore regions that extend from the Andaman Sea to the Makassar Strait. By contrast, eastern Sunda, with its pre-Tertiary basins, embraces the islands along and north of the Banda Arc, from Sulawesi to western Papua in Indonesia and Timor-Leste and surrounding seas ( Figure 1 ). The most distinguishing tectonic features of the archipelago are related to the collision of the Indo-Australian Plate with the Sunda Shelf and the areas east of it. Numerous volcanoes and earthquake epicenters trace an extensive arc of collision-related subduction zones, which makes this one of the most tectonically active regions in the world. Back-arc and other basins within the stable parts of the Sunda Shelf are the sites of significant hydrocarbon accumulation, primarily within the territorial boundaries of Indonesia and Malaysia.
Reducing seismic reflector distortion beneath gas clouds in the Malay Basin using full-wavefield imaging approaches
Authors: Ghazali Ahmad Riza , Zahir Muhammad Hafizal Mad , Rahim Muhammad Faizal Abdul , Xin Kefeng , Dzulkefli Farah Syazana , Li Junxiao
Published: August 2020

A seismic example from the Malay Basin is presented, demonstrating improved seismic imaging beneath gas clouds using full-wavefield imaging approaches. Overall imaging concepts, synthetic examples, and field implementation strategies are discussed, and results that tie with well information are presented. Seismic imaging beneath gas clouds using the full-wavefield redatuming technique improves the image by estimating the waveform transmission operators via equivalent-medium representation of the overburden from the gas cloud reflection response for use in a form of multidimensional deconvolution of the wavefield. The other example shown uses the full-wavefield migration seismic imaging technique, which utilizes primaries and higher-order multiples as signals to improve the reflectivity estimation in imaging. The demonstrated full-wavefield imaging approach uses information carried by the gas cloud reflection response to correct seismic image distortion. Removing the internal multiple using conventional demultiple processing in the gas cloud area will also remove the valuable information of the subsurface that it carries. Such multiples must be preserved for this method to be successful. The information is translated into transmission operators that are estimated by simulating the reflection response through an effective medium of the gas cloud overburden. The effective medium is obtained via nonlinear full-waveform inversion techniques from the reflections of the gas cloud overburden area. Finally, a deconvolutional process removes the transmission operators from the gas cloud reflections and recovers the underlying reflectors. Full-wavefield imaging can reconstruct the amplitudes of the reflection response below a gas cloud overburden zone so that the complex transmission imprint on the area underneath is removed properly. The Malay Basin field case study shows that implementation of this approach can provide a reliable amplitude image of the subsurface affected by gas clouds, calibrated and verified by the well information.
Seismic Soundoff
Authors: Geary Andrew
Published: August 2020

On 5 June 2020, Hendratta Ali released the “Call for a robust antiracism plan for the geosciences” petition. In the petition, Ali and her collaborators outline 15 action steps for societies, organizations, companies, and individuals to take to strive toward antiracism and equity. In this conversation with Andrew Geary, Ali discusses how the petition originated, what it means for a professional society to be antiracist and equitable for all members, her personal experiences of racism in the geosciences, and concrete steps organizations can take to better support Black, Indigenous, Latinx people, and other minoritized groups. Listen to the full episode at https://seg.org/podcast/post/9062 .
Contacts with primary and secondary healthcare prior to suicide: case–control whole-population-based study using person-level linked routine data in Wales, UK, 2000–2017
Authors: John Ann , DelPozo-Banos Marcos , Gunnell David , Dennis Michael , Scourfield Jonathan , Ford David V. , Kapur Nav , Lloyd Keith
Published: August 2020

Background

Longitudinal studies of patterns of healthcare contacts in those who die by suicide to identify those at risk are scarce.

Aims

To examine type and timing of healthcare contacts in those who die by suicide.

Method

A population-based electronic case–control study of all who died by suicide in Wales, 2001–2017, linking individuals’ electronic healthcare records from general practices, emergency departments and hospitals. We used conditional logistic regression to calculate odds ratios, adjusted for deprivation. We performed a retrospective continuous longitudinal analysis comparing cases’ and controls’ contacts with health services.

Results

We matched 5130 cases with 25 650 controls (5 per case). A representative cohort of 1721 cases (8605 controls) were eligible for the fully linked analysis. In the week before their death, 31.4% of cases and 15.6% of controls contacted health services. The last point of contact was most commonly associated with mental health and most often occurred in general practices. In the month before their death, 16.6 and 13.0% of cases had an emergency department contact and a hospital admission respectively, compared with 5.5 and 4.2% of controls. At any week in the year before their death, cases were more likely to contact healthcare services than controls. Self-harm, mental health and substance misuse contacts were strongly linked with suicide risk, more so when they occurred in emergency departments or as emergency admissions.

Conclusions

Help-seeking occurs in those at risk of suicide and escalates in the weeks before their death. There is an opportunity to identify and intervene through these contacts.
The barriers and facilitators to screening in emergency departments: a qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) protocol
Authors: Barry Louise , Galvin Rose , Murphy Tighe Sylvia , O'Connor Margaret , Ryan Damian , Meskell Pauline
Published: August 2020

Background: Early detection of adults at risk of adverse outcomes through systematic screening in the emergency department (ED) can serve to identify high risk groups in need of targeted assessment and early intervention in the hospital or community setting. However, issues such as time pressures, inadequate resources, poor integration of tools into clinical workflow and lack of staff training are cited among the barriers to successfully implementing screening tools in the ED. The aim of this qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) is to synthesize evidence pertaining to the barriers and facilitators to implementing screening tools in the ED.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search will be completed in the following databases Scopus, CINAHL, Medline, Embase, Pubmed and Cochrane library. Grey literature sources will also be searched. Qualitative or mixed methods studies that include qualitative data on the perspectives and experiences of stakeholders on the implementation of screening tools in the ED will be included. “Best fit” framework synthesis will be utilised to produce a context specific conceptual model to describe and explain how these barriers and facilitators may impact on implementation. An a priori framework of themes, formed from the existing evidence base, will inform the ultimate thematic analysis and assist in the organisation and interpretation of search results, ensuring the QES is built upon current findings. CASP will be utilised to quality appraise articles and GRADE CERQual will assess confidence in the QES findings.

Conclusions: This synthesis will offer a new conceptual model for describing the perspectives, perceptions and experiences of barriers and facilitators experienced by patients and key stakeholders involved in the implementation of screening tools in the ED. The results of this review will inform practice and aid the development and implementation of change strategies to support the implementation of screening tools in the ED.

Registration: PROSPERO CRD42020188712 05/07/20