bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Mechanism Underlying the Differential Intestinal Functionality of Laying Hens in the Late Phase and Peak Phase of Production
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Wang Jing , Zhang Haijun , Wu Shugeng , Qi Guanghai
Published: October 2019

Background The compromised performance of laying hens in the late phase of production relative to the peak production was thought to be associated with the impairment of intestinal functionality, which plays essential roles in contributing to their overall health and production performance. In the present study, RNA sequencing was used to investigate differences in the expression profile of intestinal functionality-related genes and associated pathways between layers in the late phase and peak phase of production. Results A total of 104 upregulated genes with 190 downregulated genes were identified in the ileum of layers in the late phase of production compared to those at peak production. These upregulated genes were found to be enriched in little KEGG pathway, however, the downregulated genes were enriched in the pathways of PPAR signaling pathway, oxidative phosphorylation and glutathione metabolism. Besides, these downregulated genes were mapped to several GO clusters in relation to lipid metabolism, electron transport of respiratory chain, and oxidation resistance. Similarly, there were lower activities of total superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase and Na+/K+-ATPase, and reductions of total antioxidant capacity and ATP level, along with an elevation in malondialdehyde content in the ileum of layers in the late phase of production as compared with those at peak production. Conclusions The intestine of layers in the late phase of production were predominantly characterized by a disorder of lipid metabolism, concurrent with impairments of energy production and antioxidant property. This study uncovers the mechanism underlying differences between the intestinal functionality of layers in the late phase and peak phase of production, thereby providing potential targets for the genetic control or dietary modulation of intestinal hypofunction of layers in the late phase of production.
A training manual for event history analysis using longitudinal data
Authors: Bocquier Philippe , Ginsburg Carren , Collinson Mark A.
Published: October 2019

Objective: This research note reports on the activities of the Multi-centre Analysis of the Dynamics of Internal Migration And Health (MADIMAH) project aimed at collating and testing of a set of tools to conduct longitudinal event history analyses applied to standardised Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) datasets. The methods are illustrated using an example of longitudinal micro-data from the Agincourt HDSS, one of a number of open access datasets available through the INDEPTH iShare2 data repository. The research note documents the experience of the MADIMAH group in analysing HDSS data and demonstrates how complex analyses can be streamlined and conducted in an accessible way. These tools are aimed at aiding analysts and researchers wishing to conduct longitudinal data analysis of demographic events. Results: The methods demonstrated in this research note may successfully be applied by practitioners to longitudinal micro-data from HDSS, as well as retrospective surveys or register data. The illustrations provided are accompanied by detailed, tested computer programs, which demonstrate the full potential of longitudinal data to generate both cross-sectional and longitudinal standard descriptive estimates as well as more complex regression estimates.
eNACT: A protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial investigating the efficacy and mechanisms of action of adjunctive N-acetylcysteine for first episode psychosis
Authors: Cotton Sue , Berk Michael , Watson Amity , Wood Stephen , Allott Kelly , Bartholomeusz Cali , Bortolasci Chiara , Walder Ken , O'Donoghue Brian , Dean Olivia , Chanen Andrew , Amminger Paul , McGorry Patrick , Ratheesh Aswin , Dodd Seetal
Published: October 2019

Background First episode psychosis (FEP) may lead to a progressive, potentially disabling and lifelong chronic illness; however, evidence suggests that the illness course can be improved if appropriate treatments are given at the early stages. Nonetheless, the efficacy of antipsychotic medications is suboptimal, particularly for negative and cognitive symptoms, and more efficacious and benign treatments are needed. Previous studies have shown the antioxidant amino acid N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) reduces negative symptoms and improves functioning in chronic schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Research is scarce as to whether NAC is beneficial earlier in the course of illness. The primary aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of treatment with adjunctive NAC (2g/day for 26 weeks) compared with placebo to improve psychiatric symptoms in young people experiencing FEP. Secondary aims are to explore the neurobiological mechanisms underpinning NAC and how they relate to various clinical and functional outcomes at 26- and 52-week follow-up. Methods ENACT is a 26-week randomised controlled trial of adjunctive NAC versus placebo, with a 26-week non-treatment follow-up period, for FEP. We will be recruiting 162 young people aged 15-25 years who have recently presented to, and are being treated at, the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre, Melbourne, Australia. The primary outcome is the Total Score on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale which will be administered at baseline, and weeks 4, 8, 12, 26 (primary endpoint), and 52 (end of study). Secondary outcomes include: symptomatology, functioning, quality of life, neurocognition, blood-derived measures of; inflammation, oxidative and nitrosative stress, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy measures of glutathione concentration. Discussion Targeted drug development for FEP to date has generally not involved the exploration of neuroprotective agents. This study has the potential to offer a new, safe, and efficacious treatment for people with FEP, leading to better treatment outcomes. Additionally, the neuroprotective dimension of this study may lead to a better long-term prognosis for people with FEP. It has the potential to uncover a novel treatment that targets the neurobiological mechanisms of FEP and, if successful, will be a major advance for psychiatry.
Whole-transcriptome RNA sequencing reveals the global molecular responses and ceRNA regulatory network of mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs and circRNAs in response to Cu toxicity in Ziyang xiangcheng (Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka)
Authors: fu xing-zheng , Zhang Xiao-Yong , Qiu Jie-Ya , Zhou Xue , Yuan Meng , He Yi-Zhong , Chun Chang-Pin , Cao Li , Ling Li-Li , Peng Liang-Zhi
Published: October 2019

Background

Copper (Cu) toxicity has become a potential threat for citrus production, but little is known about related mechanisms. This study aims to uncover the global landscape of mRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) in response to Cu toxicity so as to construct a regulatory network of competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) and to provide valuable knowledge pertinent to Cu response in citrus.

Results

Tolerance of four commonly used rootstocks to Cu toxicity was evaluated, and ‘Ziyang Xiangcheng’ (Citrus junos ) was found to be the most tolerant genotype. Then the roots and leaves sampled from ‘Ziyang Xiangcheng’ with or without Cu treatment were used for whole-transcriptome sequencing. In total, 5734 and 222 mRNAs, 164 and 5 lncRNAs, 45 and 17 circRNAs, and 147 and 130 miRNAs were identified to be differentially expressed (DE) in Cu-treated roots and leaves, respectively, in comparison with the control. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that most of the DEmRNAs and targets of DElncRNAs and DEmiRNAs were annotated to the categories of ‘oxidation-reduction’, ‘phosphorylation’, ‘membrane’, and ‘ion binding’. The ceRNA network was then constructed with the predicted pairs of DEmRNAs-DEmiRNAs and DElncRNAs-DEmiRNAs, which further revealed regulatory roles of these DERNAs in Cu toxicity.
Conclusions

A large number of mRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs, and miRNAs in ‘Ziyang Xiangcheng’ were altered in response to Cu toxicity, which may play crucial roles in mitigation of Cu toxicity through the ceRNA regulatory network in this Cu-tolerant rootstock.
Impact of Early Chimerism Status on Clinical Outcome in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia after Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Lejman Monika , Zaucha-Prażmo Agnieszka , Zawitkowska Joanna , Mroczkowska Aleksandra , Grabowski Dominik , Kowalczyk Jerzy Roman , Drabko Katarzyna
Published: October 2019

Background: The significance of very early chimerism assessment before day +28, which is considered the moment of engraftment, is still unclear. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the clinical impact of very early chimerism on the clinical outcome after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).
Methods: The study group included 38 boys and 18 girls. Very early chimerism was evaluated on days +7, +14, +21 and +28 after the transplant. Short tandem repeat polymerase chain reaction (STR PCR) was used to analyse chimerism.
Results: Overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) were 84% and 80%, respectively. OS in the group of 24 patients with complete donor chimerism on day +14 was 83%, and it did not differ statistically compared to the 32 patients with mixed chimerism on day +14 (OS was 84%). The donor type (matched unrelated) and sex (male), number of transplanted cells (above 4.47 x 10 6 kg; on day +14) and serotherapy (without anti-thymocyte globulin)ATG were statistically related to a higher level of donor chimerism. Acute graft versus host disease grades II-IV was diagnosed in 23 patients who presented with donor chimerism levels above 60% on day 7.
Conclusion: The data presented in this study provide valuable insight into the analysis of very early chimerism in children with ALL treated with HSCT.
Quantitative Bone SPECT/CT: High Specificity for Identification of Prostate Cancer Bone Metastases
Authors: Tabotta Flavian , Jre Mario , Schaefer Niklaus , Geldhof Christine , Becce Fabio , Prior John O. , Nicod-Lalonde Marie
Published: October 2019

Purpose: Bone scintigraphy with 99mTc-labeled diphosphonates can identify prostate cancer bone metastases with high sensitivity, but relatively low specificity, because benign conditions such as osteoarthritis can also trigger osteoblastic reactions. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic performance of 99mTc-2,3-dicarboxy propane-1,1-diphosphonate (99mTc-DPD) uptake quantification by single-photon emission computed tomography coupled with computed tomography (SPECT/CT) for distinguishing prostate cancer bone metastases from spinal and pelvic osteoarthritic lesions.
Methods: We retrospectively assessed 26 bone scans from 26 patients with known prostate cancer bone metastases and 13 control patients with benign spinal and pelvic osteoarthritic changes without known neoplastic disease. Quantitative SPECT/CT (xSPECT, Siemens Symbia Intevo, Erlangen, Germany) was performed and standardized uptake values (SUVs) were quantified with measurements of SUVmax and SUVmean (g/mL) in all bone metastases for the prostate cancer group and in lumbar and pelvic osteoarthritic changes for the control group. We used receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves to determine the optimum SUVmax cutoff value to distinguish between bone metastases and benign spinal and pelvic lesions.
Results: In total, 264 prostate cancer bone metastases were analyzed, showing a mean SUVmax and SUVmean of 34.6±24.6 and 20.8±14.7 g/mL, respectively. In 24 spinal and pelvic osteoarthritic lesions, mean SUVmax and SUVmean were 14.2±3.8 and 8.9±2.2 g/mL, respectively. SUVmax and SUVmean were both significantly different between the bone metastases and osteoarthritic groups (p≤0.0001). Using a SUVmax cutoff of 19.5 g/mL for prostate cancer bone metastases in the spine and pelvis, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 87%, 92%, 99% and 49%, respectively.
Conclusion: This study showed significant differences in quantitative 99mTc-DPD uptake on bone SPECT/CT between prostate cancer bone metastases and spinal and pelvic osteoarthritic changes, with higher SUVmax and SUVmean in metastases. Using a SUVmax cutoff of 19.5 g/mL, high specificity and positive predictive value for metastases identification in the spine and pelvis were found, thus increasing accuracy of bone scintigraphy.
Factors influencing contracted services of Chinese family doctors from the perspective of medical staff and consumers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Huanyan , Shi Lei , Han Xuanye , Zhang Jinchan , Fan Lihua
Published: October 2019

Background: The family doctor system has gained rapid ground worldwide. In recent years, China has been actively exploring family doctor-type contracted services. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing Contracted Family Doctors Services (CFDS) from the perspectives of medical staff and consumers, and to provide a stronger basis for the development and promotion of CFDS.
Methods: This study used a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. A self-reported questionnaire was designed through a literature analysis, group discussions, expert consultations and a pre-survey. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among community health service providers and administrators in 12 community health service centres across four provinces of China. A total of 389 people participated, and 320 valid questionnaires were obtained, with an effective response rate of 82.3%. A total of 36 consumers participated in in-depth interviews, and the total effective rate was 100.0%. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, inductive methods, and expert consultations were used to analyse the factors influencing CFDS.
Results: The factors influencing CFDS from the perspectives of medical staff were divided into four dimensions, with the following weighting coefficients: national government (31.87%), community health service agency factors (24.73%), consumer-related factors (22.58%), and contracted doctor-related factors (20.82%). The factors influencing CFDS from the perspectives of patients/consumers were national policy factors, contracted team factors, and consumer-related factors.
Conclusions: National governments, community health agencies, community health workers, and consumers play important roles in the advancement of CFDS. Therefore, the development of CFDS is based on the rights and interests of all stakeholders involved.
The Prevalence, Awareness, Management and Control of Hypertension in Men and Women in Benin, West Africa: the TAHES study.
Authors: DESORMAIS ILEANA , Amidou Salimanou Ariyoh , Houehanou Yessito Corine , Houinato Stephan Dismand , Gbagouidi Gwladys Nadia , Preux Pierre Marie , Aboyans Victor , Lacroix Philippe
Published: October 2019

Background Sub-Saharan Africa is facing a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), due to epidemiological transitions. Among their risk factors, hypertension is a major determinant of CVDs, but the prevalence and level of awareness and management of this condition are poorly studied in African populations. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated risk factors as well as the awareness and management of this condition in a community-dwelling cohort in Benin. Methods A cross-sectional door-to-door study was conducted in the population over the age of 25 years in Tanve, a rural setting in Benin. The questionnaire and anthropometric measurements of the World Health Organization STEPWISE survey were used. Blood pressure was measured using standard procedures. Results The sample included 1777 subjects (60.9% females, mean age was 42.5±16.5 years). The prevalence of hypertension was 32.9%, similar in men (32.8%) and women (33.0%, p=0.9342). Age and obesity were significantly associated with hypertension. Less than half (42%) of hypertensive people were aware about their condition and only 46.3% of them were treated. Awareness ratios differed between men and women (respectively 32.9% vs. 47.5%; p= 0.0039) and was not influenced by age, education, occupation, marital status or income. Female sex was the only factor associated with better controlled HTN, independent of socio-economic parameters. Conclusion This large population-based study confirms the high prevalence, low awareness, and low control of hypertension in men and women in sub-Saharan Africa. Only half of the populations with hypertension are aware of their hypertension, indicating a high burden of undiagnosed and un-controlled high blood pressure in these populations.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards rabies and associated factors among household heads in Mekelle city, Ethiopia
Authors: Hagos Weldegerima Gebremedhin , Muchie Kindie Fentahun , Gebru Goyitom Gebremedhn , Mezgebe Gebreamlak Gebremariam , Reda Kebede Ambaye , Dachew Berihun Assefa
Published: October 2019

Background: Rabies has a worldwide distribution in continental regions of Africa, Asia and the Latin America. Globally, the case fatality rate is 100% once a clinical sign is developed. Poor public awareness towards rabies is one of the major obstacles in any prevention and control scheme of the diseases. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) about rabies and associated factors among household heads in Mekelle city, Northern Ethiopia, 2016.
Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted from October to November 2016 with a total of 633 study participants. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire in Enderta district, Tigray regional state, Ethiopia. Data was entered to EPI-Info 3.5.4 and coded, cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. Bivariable and multivariable analysis was done to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitude and practice about rabies. Variables having p< 0.05 was considered as statistically significant at 95%CI.
Results: Of 633 study participants, 357 (56.4%) were females and 239 (37.8%) were 18-35 years old. Among the study participants, 56.1% (95%CI=52.2, 59.9), 56.2% (95%CI=52.4, 60.1) and 61.3% (95%CI=57.5, 65.1) had good level of knowledge, attitude and practice on the prevention and control of rabies respectively. Being female (AOR=1.50, 95%CI=1.05, 2.13), dog owner (AOR=1.68, 95%CI=1.17, 2.41) and participants who had training on rabies (AOR=2.22, 95%CI=1.53, 3.21) were found to have good knowledge. Married participants (AOR=2.19, 95%CI=1.16, 4.16), participants who owned dog (AOR=2.64, 95%CI=1.80, 3.86) and those encountered dog bite (AOR=2.24, 95%CI=1.23, 4.10) were found to have positive attitude towards rabies. Similarly dog ownership (AOR=11.85, 95%CI=7.16, 19.6) was found to be associated with good practice.
Conclusion: This study showed that more than half of the respondents had good knowledge, attitude and practice about the prevention and control of rabies.
Key words: Attitude, Knowledge, Practice, House hold, Rabies
A pilot study: a possible implication of Candida as an etiologically endogenous pathogen for oral lichen planus
Authors: He Hong , Zhang Mengyun , Xia Xinyu , Yang Haiping , Peng Qiao
Published: October 2019

Objectives：This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and genotypic profiles of Candida albicans from patients with oral lichen planus (OLP). Materials andMethods：Genotypic profiles of Candida albicans strains from OLP patients and healthy controls were analyzed. Random amplified polymorphic DNA and internal transcribed spacer of ribosome DNA polymerase chain reaction were used to sequence the DNA of these strains, and then their genetic similarity was measured using BLAST, UIV Band, and Vector NTI Suite Sequence Analyses Software. Results：The prevalence of C. albicans strains detected from erosive-OLP, non-erosive OLP, and normal individuals was 18.87%, 18.75%, and 7.92%, respectively. Four different genotypes were revealed by the two methods. To be specific, type I was found only in the healthy subjects; type II a and II b were found in non-erosive OLP, and type III was identified in erosive OLP. Intragroup similarity coefficients S AB were 100%, and inter-groups similarity coefficients S AB were less than 30%. Conclusions：The genotypic evidence of C. albicans in OLP might inferred an endogenous infection and some etiologic sense contributing to professional recognition on the development and progression of OLP for more suitable diagnose and treatment.
Recurrence of HEr2+ pAtients: evaluation of Long term outcome In patients receiving trastuzumab TherapY
Authors: Saghatchian Mahasti , Curtit Elsa , Coeffic David , Flinois Alain , Levy Christelle
Published: October 2019

Background

Despite improved prognosis of HER2+ eBC since the introduction of trastuzumab in the adjuvant setting in 2006, disease recurrences still occur in some patients after a few years. We aimed to describe in real life the long-term follow-up to assess disease-free and metastasis-free survival of patients with HER2+ eBC treated with adjuvant trastuzumab.

Methods

This was a multicenter, retrospective, cohort study assessing HER2+ eBC patients diagnosed between 2009 and 2010 and treated with adjuvant trastuzumab. Data were collected from patient’s medical charts. Disease-free survival (DFS), and metastatic-free survival (MFS) were evaluated in the overall population and within subgroups according to hormonal and nodal status.

Results

In the overall population (n=2,311) at 7 years, the DFS rate was 76.3% [95%CI 74.5%-78.2%], and the MFS rate was 84.2% [82.6%-85.8%]. According to hormonal status, the 7-year DFS rate was significantly higher in hormone-receptor positive (HR+) than hormone-negative (HR-) patients [80.5% vs . 69.2%; p <0.001 ], and the 7-year MFS rate [88.0% for HR+ vs . 77.7% HR-]. According to nodal status, the 7-year DFS rate was significantly higher for N- than for N+ patients [87.2% vs . 66.8%; p <0.001], and the 7-year MFS rate [94.7% for N- vs . 74.9% for N+; p <0.001].

Conclusions

Despite introduction of adjuvant trastuzumab, prognosis of HER2+ eBC is still a matter above all in subgroups associated with a higher risk of disease recurrence. Our real-world study pointed out a particularly aggressive profile of N+ and HR- subgroups and the need for more efficient approaches for these particular group of patients.
Development and validation of an instrument to measure physician awareness of bioethics and medical law in Oman
Authors: Al-Busaidi Ahmed S. , Ganesh Anuradha , Al-Adawi Samir , Al-Farsi Yahya M. , Al-Rawahi Maryam K. , Al-Mawali Nusaiba A. , Al-Kharousi Nadiya S. , Al-Alawi Mohammed , Al-Mujaini Abdullah S.
Published: October 2019

Background A different ethos with respect to perception of medical ethics prevails in societies in transition such as those in the Arabian Peninsula, which make it difficult to apply international principles of bioethics in medical practice. This study aimed to develop and psychometrically test an instrument that measures physicians’ awareness of bioethics and medical law and their attitudes towards the practice of medical ethics. Additionally, it examined physician correlates influencing awareness of bioethics.Methods Following a rigorous review of relevant literature by a panel of experts, a 13-items instrument, the Omani physicians’ bioethics and medical law awareness (OBMLA) questionnaire, was developed with the aim of assessing physicians’ awareness of bioethics and medical law. The study tool’s construct validity and internal consistency reliability were examined by exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Cronbach's alpha. In a cross-sectional study, the questionnaire was distributed among a random sample of 200 physicians at a tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman. Participant characteristics that may influence awareness of bioethics and medical law were explored.Results EFA of the OBMLA questionnaire resulted in three well-loading factors: (i) Physicians’ bioethics practice subscale (ii) incentive related bioethics subscale and (iii) medical law awareness subscale. Internal consistency reliability ranged between Cronbach’s α: 0.73-0.8. Of total 200 participants, 52% reported that teaching medical ethics during medical school was inadequate. The overall mean (standard deviation, SD) of bioethics awareness score and Omani medical law awareness were 27.6 (3.5) and 10.1 (2.1) respectively. Majority of physicians (73%) reported that they frequently encountered ethical dilemmas in their practice and 24.5% endorsed the view that unethical decisions tended to occur in their practice.Conclusion The study provides insight into practice of bioethics, and awareness of bioethics and medical law among physicians in a teaching hospital in Oman. The OBMLA questionnaire appears to be a valid and reliable tool to assess physician awareness of bioethics and medical law. In this preliminary study, it appears that participants have suboptimal scores of indices measuring practice and awareness of bioethics and medical law.
In vitro characterization of Lactobacillus crispatus IP174178 and its live biotherapeutic product for prevention of vaginal infections
Authors: Dausset Caroline , Daniel Christelle , Brami Gilles , Nivoliez Adrien
Published: October 2019

Background : Probiotics enhance human well-being. They can be used either as a preventive approach to maintain the microbiota or as an add-on treatment for some diseases. The lactobacilli constitute the predominant vaginal microorganism and have been associated with a beneficial effect in vaginal health by protecting and controlling the vaginal microbiota against bacterial vaginosis, vaginal candidiasis, and urinary tract infection. Results: We investigated the probiotic properties of the new vaginal Lactobacillus crispatus IP174178 strain isolated from healthy women. Lactobacillus crispatus IP174178 strain was identified by 16S rRNA sequencing and by biochemical characterization. L. crispatus IP174178 is Gram positive, Catalase negative, ADH negative, and an H 2 0 2 (5 mM) and lactic acid (D-lactate 6 g/l, L-lactate 3 g/l) producer, with a strong adherence capacity. Its sensitivity to antibiotics was evaluated. Conclusions: The native strain L. crispatus IP174178 showed natural antagonistic properties against vaginal pathogens ( Gardenerella vaginalis , Candida spp.) which is potentiated in its commercial live biotherapeutic product Physioflor ® . The L. crispatus IP174178 strain and its live biotherapeutic product Physioflor ® can thus be considered a good probiotic candidate for the prevention of vaginal infections.
Ringworm in calves: Risk factors, improved molecular diagnosis, and efficacy of Aloe vera gel extract for treatment
Authors: Tartor Yasmine Hasanine , El-Neshwy Wafaa M. I. , Merwad Abdallah M. A. , El-Maati Mohamed F. Abo , Mohamed Rehab E. , Dahshan Hesham M. , Mahmoud Hala I.
Published: October 2019

Background: Calves dermatophytosis is a major public and veterinary health problem worldwide due to its zoonotic potential and economic losses in cattle farms. However, it has lacked adequate attention; thereby for effective control measures it is worth determining ringworm prevalence, risk factors and direct sample nested-PCR diagnostic indices as compared to conventional methods for dermatophytes identification. Moreover, Aloe vera gel extract (AGE) phenolic composition and its in-vitro and in-vivo anti-dermatophytic activity in comparison to antifungal drugs were evaluated. Results: Of 760 examined calves, 55.79 % showed ringworm lesions. 84.91% were positive for fungal elements in direct microscopy, and 79.72% were culture positive. Trichophyton verrucosum was the most frequently identified dermatophytes (90.24%). Risk of dermatophytosis is high in 4-6 month than 1-month aged calves (60% versus 41%), in summer and winter compared to spring and autumn seasons (66% and 54% versus 48%). Poor hygienic conditions, intensive breeding system, animals raised for meat production, parasitic infestation, crossbreed, and newly purchased animals were statistically significant risk factors correlated with dermatophytosis. One-step PCR targeting conserved regions in the 18S and 28S genes achieved unequivocal identification of T. verrucosum and T. mentagrophytes in hair samples. Nested-PCR achieved an excellent performance in all tested diagnostic indices and increased the species-specific detection of dermatophytes by 20 % as compared to culture. Terbinafine and miconazole were the most active antifungal agents for dermatophytes. Gallic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, cinnamic acid, aloe-Emodin, quercetin, and rutin are the major phenolic compounds of AGE identified by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). These compounds increased and synergized the anti-dermatophytic activity of AGE. The treated groups showed significantly lower clinical scores than the control group ( P < 0.05). The calves were successfully treated with topical AGE (500 ppm) resulting in clinical and mycological cure within 14-28 day of the experiment. Conclusions: Implementation of nested-PCR assay providing a rapid diagnostic tool for dermatophytosis augments and complement the conventional methods for initiating targeted treatments of calves ringworm. The recognized anti-dermatophytic potential of AGE is advantageous countenance to commercial drugs to go used in therapeutics.
Urban and Rural Disparities in Healthcare Utilization and Expenditures Among Rural Hukou Beneficiaries of New Cooperative Medical Scheme in China
Authors: Luo Dian , Ma Yingjie , Deng Jing
Published: October 2019

Background The New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS) is a social health insurance available to rural Chinese residents. Over time, several concerns to this system have been raised, including disparities among healthcare utilization and expenditures. Most studies only discuss disparities in general in NCMS, with few studies concentrating on comparing disparities between urban and rural regions. Moreover, this issue has an increasing importance due to the rapid population growth of rural migrants. Therefore, we conducted our study to explore urban and rural disparities among NCMS beneficiaries.Methods Our study is based on Chinese Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) for 2015. Our targeted sample is individuals with rural hukou and only covered by NCMS. We define and use influential factors in our logistic regressions and descriptive tables to compare urban and rural disparities among these NCMS beneficiaries. Results In terms of inpatient care, urban beneficiaries have a lower probability (OR=1.013, P=0.892) and frequency (1.39 vs. 1.47, P=0.131) of having an inpatient visit than rural beneficiaries. However, urban beneficiaries have higher out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditures among inpatient visit (￥6788.98 vs. ￥6163.92, P=0.470) and medicine (￥3907.30 vs. ￥2649.67, P<0.01). In addition, urban beneficiaries were found to have higher reimbursement of inpatient visit (￥4457.66 vs. ￥4127.83, P<0.001) and medicine (￥2466.93 vs. ￥1774.55, P<0.05). In terms of outpatient care, urban beneficiaries have less possibility (OR=1.074, P=0.384) and frequency (2.15 vs. 2.26, P=0.225) of an outpatient visit than rural beneficiaries. Moreover, compared to rural beneficiaries, urban beneficiaries have less out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditures of outpatient visit (￥709.80 vs. ￥ 710.98, P=0.608) and drugs (￥448.68 vs. ￥ 522.95, P=0.645), and less reimbursement of outpatient visit (￥296.03 vs. ￥ 344.51, P=0.808) and drugs (￥99.25 vs. ￥ 114.60, P<0.05).Conclusion In terms of healthcare utilization, rural beneficiaries have both higher probability and frequency of inpatient and outpatient visits. In terms of healthcare expenditures, urban beneficiaries get more inpatient reimbursement with higher inpatient expenditures, while rural beneficiaries get more outpatient reimbursement with higher outpatient expenditures. Both situations have not solid answer yet, and therefore require further research.
Endosomal trafficking of the EGFR mutant, EGFRvIII, results in exosomal secretion that triggers astrocyte reactivity
Authors: Memarzadeh Kimiya , Patrizz Anthony N , Koellhoffer Edward C. , Gireud-Goss Monica , Bean Andrew
Published: October 2019

Background: The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) variant three (EGFRvIII) mutation is linked with approximately one third of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) tumors and is associated with poor patient prognosis. Persistent signaling due to a lack of the EGFR ectodomain and inefficient degradation have been suggested to underlie the tumorgenic properties of EGFRvIII. Methods: Cell viability and trans-well migration assays were used to determine the effects that expression of the oncoprotein, EGFRvIII, had on glioma cells. A cell-free reconstitution assay developed by our laboratory was utilized to determine trafficking of EGFR and EGFRvIII at the late endosome and determine molecular requirements for inward budding of proteins into the MVB. Western Blot Analysis and Nanosight Tracking Analysis were used to characterize exosomes by protein marker presence and vesicle size, respectively. Immunohistochemistry and Western Blot analysis were used to determine astrocyte reactivity marked by GFAP expression. Results: Like the parental EGFR, we observed that EGFRvIII is internalized into the intraluminal vesicles of late endosomes / multivesicular bodies (MVBs) but does not follow the canonical pathway by which wild-type EGFR is degraded following MVB fusion with lysosomes. These studies suggested that EGFRvIII is secreted on exosomes, the intraluminal vesicles that are secreted upon MVB fusion with the plasma membrane, suggested that EGFRvIII is localized in a subset of MVBs that preferentially fuse with the plasma membrane rather than with lysosomes which may account for its decreased degradation. Astrocytes are a component of the GBM tumor microenvironment with which tumor cells interact in a paracrine manner. EGFRvIII-containing exosomes derived from GBM cells induce changes in astrocytes that mimic reactive astrogliosis including an increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Conclusions: These studies reveal novel aspects of the endocytic trafficking of EGFRvIII that underlie its reduced degradation and the mechanism by which it is packaged into exosomes for secretion. Moreover, EGFRvIII secretion on exosomes can facilitate changes in the tumor microenvironment to enable tumor growth.
Reinvestigation of the origins of pineal meningiomas based on its related veins and arachnoid membranes
Authors: Yu Lei , Orazmyradov Berdimyrat , Qi Songtao , Song Ye , Fang Luxiong
Published: October 2019

Background: A series of patients harboring pineal region meningiomas were respectively analyzed to explore the origin of these tumors and the true meaning of the term "velum interpositum (VI) meningiomas".Methods: 21 patients with pineal meningiomas underwent operation in Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University from January 2005 to December 2016 were retrospectively included to analyze the clinical features, imaging findings and surgical video data of these patients. According to the method of literature, the data of this group were also divided into falcotentorial (FT) meningiomas and VI meningiomas, and the differences between the two types of tumors were compared.Results: Among the 21 cases of tumor, there were 12 cases of FT meningiomas, including 4 cases originating from cerebral falx, 4 cases from tentorium of cerebellum and 4 cases from straight sinus; there were 9 cases of VI meningiomas, 7 of which originated from the arachnoid sleeve of the Galen vein, 1 from the posterior part of the internal cerebral vein and 1 from the posterior surface of the pineal gland. Postoperative pathological examination showed meningiomas in all the 21 patients, including 16 cases of total resection and 5 cases of subtotal resection. Postoperatively limitation of binocular vertical motion was found in 3 cases, homotropic hemianopia in 7 cases, hemiplegia in 1 case and death in 1 case.Conclusions: This study suggests that pineal meningiomas are more suitable to be described by FT meningioma and primary pineal meningiomas by analyzing the origin of tumors. The term "VI meningiomas" can not accurately reflect the origin of pineal meningiomas. Before the removal of pineal meningiomas, more attention should be paid to the effects of the two types of tumors on the Galen vein and the straight sinus, and the establishment of venous collateral circulation.
Comparative genomic analysis of 142 bacteriophages infecting Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica
Authors: Gao Ruimin , Naushad Sohail , Moineau Sylvain , Goodridge Lawrence , Ogunremi Dele
Published: October 2019

Background: Bacteriophages are bacterial parasites and are considered the most abundant and diverse biological entities on the planet. Previously we identified 154 prophages from 151 serovars of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica . A detailed analysis of Salmonella prophage genomics is required given the influence of phages on their bacterial hosts and should provide a broader understanding of Salmonella biology and virulence and contribute to the practical applications of phages as vectors and antibacterial agents. Results: Comparative analysis of the full genome sequences of 142 prophages of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica retrieved from public databases revealed an extensive variation in genome sizes (6.4- 358.7 kb) and guanine plus cytosine (GC) content (35.5-65.4%) and a linear correlation between the genome size and the number of open reading frames (ORFs). We used three approaches to compare the phage genomes. The NUCmer/MUMmer genome alignment tool was used to evaluate linkages and correlations based on nucleotide identity between genomes. Multiple sequence alignment was performed to calculate genome average nucleotide identity using the Kalgin program. Finally, genome synteny was explored using dot plot analysis. We found that 90 phage genome sequences grouped into 17 distinct clusters while the remaining 52 genomes showed no close relationships with the other phage genomes and are identified as singletons. We generated genome maps using nucleotide and amino acid sequences which allowed protein-coding genes to be sorted into phamilies (phams) using the Phamerator software. Out of 5796 total assigned phamilies, one phamily was observed to be dominant and was found in 49 prophages, or 34.5% of the 142 phages in our collection. A majority of the phamilies, 4330 out of 5796 (74.7%), occurred in just one prophage underscoring the high degree of diversity among Salmonella bacteriophages. Conclusions: Based on nucleotide and amino acid sequences, a high diversity was found among Salmonella bacteriophages which validate the use of prophage sequence analysis as a highly discriminatory subtyping tool for Salmonella. Thorough understanding of the conservation and variation of prophage genomic characteristics will facilitate their rational design and use as tools for bacterial strain construction, vector development and as anti-bacterial agents.
Whole genome resequencing of the Iranian native dogs and wolves to unravel variome during dog domestication
Authors: Ghanatsaman Zeinab Amiri , Wang Guo-Dong , Fozi Masood Asadi , Peng Min-Sheng , Esmailizadeh Ali , Zhang Ya-Ping
Published: October 2019

Background

Advances in genome technology have simplified a new comprehension of the genetic and historical processes crucial to rapid phenotypic evolution under domestication. To get new insight into the genetic basis of the dog domestication process, we conducted whole-genome sequence analysis of three wolves and three dogs from Iran which covers the eastern part of the Fertile Crescent located in Southwest Asia where the independent domestication of most of the plants and animals has been documented and also high haplotype sharing between wolves and dog breeds has been reported.

Results

Higher diversity was found within the wolf genome compared with the dog genome. A total of 10.45, 7.82, 3.11 and 2.24 million SNPs and small Indels were identified within wolf and dog genomes, respectively. A total of 10,571 copy number variation regions (CNVRs) were detected across the 6 individual genomes, covering 154.65 Mb, or 6.41%, of the reference genome. The genes related to olfactory and immune systems were enriched in the set of structural variants (SVs) identified in this work. Annotation of genomic variations showed that in general the proportion of genomic variations in the intron and intergenic regions in wolf genome is higher than that in dog genome while their proportion in the coding sequences and 3'-UTR in dog genome is higher than that in wolf genome. Generally, genes engaged in digestion and metabolism and neurological process had an important role in the process of dog domestication.

Conclusions

By providing the first Iranian dog and wolf variome map, our findings contribute to understanding the genetic architecture of the dog domestication.
Integrating brief alcohol interventions with tobacco addictions treatment in primary care: qualitative study of health care practitioner perceptions
Authors: Minian Nadia , Noormohamed Aliya , Lingam Mathangee , Zawertailo Laurie , Foll Bernard Le , Rehm Jürgen , Giesbrecht Norman , Samokhvalov Andriy V. , Baliunas Dolly , Selby Peter
Published: October 2019

Background
Randomized trials of complex interventions are increasingly including qualitative components to further understand factors that contribute to the success of complex interventions. In this paper, we explore the experiences of health care professionals who participated in the COMBAT trial; a web-based intervention implemented in the Ontario-wide Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients (STOP) Program to prompt primary care practitioner delivery of a brief alcohol intervention as part of a smoking cessation program. This study conducted qualitative interviews with primary care practitioners to understand the factors influencing implementation and acceptability of the intervention.
Methods
Twenty three primary care practitioners were selected for a qualitative interview using intensity sampling, ensuring representation across study arms, organization types, and rates of intervention delivery. Interviews were 45 to 90 minutes in length and conducted by phone using an interview guide that was informed the National Implementation Research Network’s Hexagon tool. Interview recordings were transcribed and coded iteratively between three researchers to achieve consensus on emerging themes.
Results
Most interviewed practitioners recognized the need to simultaneously address risky alcohol use and tobacco use, and shared that this type of work fits within the priorities of their respective clinics. Although most practitioners were knowledgeable about the evidence of health risks associated with dual alcohol and tobacco use, most still felt they could have benefited from additional training – beyond the two webinars delivered by the STOP program – prior to the launch of the COMBAT initiative. Practitioners acknowledged the value of adding a validated screening tool to the STOP program’s baseline questionnaire; however, following through with a brief intervention and referral to treatment proved challenging due to limited time.
Conclusions
While practitioners recognized the value of the COMBAT initiative, insufficient training and time were frequently reported as barriers to adoption and delivery. The results of the study also show that practitioners’ beliefs were reflective of the current social norms around alcohol use and this influenced their decision to offer a brief alcohol intervention to patients. Future designs of primary care-based interventions need emphasize organizational and sociocultural factors as part of the design.
Women's Experiences of Rectovaginal Fistula: An Ethno- Religious Experience
Authors: Nezhad Fatemeh Touhidi , Jalali Rostam , Karimi Fozieh
Published: October 2019

Background: Obstetric fistulas are one of the most tragic injuries that occur after difficult, prolonged childbirth without timely intervention. These fistulas cause discomfort to patients and result in emotional, social, and even physical suffering. The aim of the present study was to explore the experiences of women with rectovaginal fistula in Kamyaran city, in Kurdestan province, west of Iran.
Methods: In a phenomenological study, 16 patients, healthcare personnel and patients' families were investigated. Purposive sampling was performed and Study participants were interviewed in-depth semi-structured interviews. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim (word by word) and analyzed by Colaizzi's method. In order to determine the validity of the study, Lincoln and Guba’s criteria, which include credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability, were considered.
Results: Five general themes and ten sub-themes emerged after investigating interviews. Themes include religious harassment the sub-theme of being defiled), fail (subthemes of loss and negative attitudes, disrupted sex (the subtheme of sexual dissatisfaction), consequence (three subthemes of sleep disturbance, mental crisis, and isolation), and ultimately panic (three subthemes of humiliation, secrecy, and fear).
Conclusion: The rectovaginal fistula is a complex and multifaceted problem with social, individual, familial, religious, and ethnic-environmental dimensions, so there is no simple solution to interact with this problem and there is a need to find a solution, considering the dimensions of the problem and plan for help these patients cope with their disease, and take steps to fully treat it.
Ultrasound measurement of laryngeal structures in the parasagittal plane for the prediction of difficult laryngoscopies in Chinese adults
Authors: Ni Hongwei , Guan Chunming , He Guangbao , Bao Yang , Shi Dongping , Zhu Yijun
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Background: Abnormal laryngeal structures are likely to be associated with a difficult laryngoscopy procedure. Currently, laryngeal structures can be measured by ultrasonography, however, little research has been performed on the potential role of ultrasound on the evaluation of a difficult laryngoscopy. The present study investigated the value of laryngeal structure measurements for predicting a difficult laryngoscopy.
Objective: The main objective of this study was to explore the value of laryngeal structure measurements for predicting a difficult laryngoscopy.
Methods: Two hundred and eleven adult patients (over 18 years old) were recruited to undergo elective surgery under general anesthesia via endotracheal intubation. Ultrasound was utilized to measure the distance between the skin and thyroid cartilage (DST), the distance between the thyroid cartilage and epiglottis (DTE), and the distance between the skin and epiglottis (DSE) in the parasagittal plane. These metrics were then investigated as predictors for classifying a laryngoscopy as difficult vs easy, as defined by the Cormack and Lehane grading scale.
Results: Multivariate logistic regression showed that the DSE, but not DST or DTE, was significantly related to difficult laryngoscopies. Specifically, a DSE ≥ 2.36 cm predicted difficult laryngoscopies with a sensitivity and specificity of 0.818 (95% CI: 0.766-0.870) and 0.856 (95% CI: 0.809-0.904). Furthermore, when combining the best model constructed of other indicators (i.e. sex, body mass index, modified Mallampati test) to predict the difficult laryngoscopy, the AUC reached 93.28%.
Conclusion: DSE is an independent predictor of a difficult laryngoscopy; a DSE cutoff value of 2.36 cm is a better predictor of a difficult laryngoscope than other ultrasound or physiological measurements for predicting a difficult laryngoscope. Nevertheless, it's more valuable to apply the best model of this study, composed of various physiological measurements, for this prediction purpose.
Key words: difficult airway ;endotracheal intubation ; ultrasound