bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Xpert MTB/RIF assay for diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Seo Young Seok , Kang Ji-Man , Kim Dong Soo , Ahn Jong Gyun
Published: September 2019

Background: The Xpert® MTB/RIF assay (Xpert; Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) is a cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification assay for rapid tuberculosis diagnosis and assessment of antibiotic sensitivity. Although previous evidence supports the use of Xpert for diagnosing extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) in adults, information regarding the accuracy of Xpert for EPTB only in children is lacking. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the accuracy of Xpert for detecting EPTB in children.

Methods: We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register from January 1, 2010, to July 16, 2019, for studies on diagnostic performance wherein Xpert was analyzed against cultures or composite reference standards for <18-year-old children with EPTB.

Results: Exclusively on the basis of pediatric studies, 7 studies including 560 samples were selected. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of Xpert for all samples were 67% (95% CI 0.51-0.79) and 94% (95% CI 0.87-0.98), respectively. The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (sROC) curve was 0.89. For lymph node tissues or aspirates, the pooled sensitivity and specificity of Xpert were 75% (95% CI 0.54-0.89) and 90% (95% CI 0.77-0.96), respectively; for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), they were 40% (95% CI 0.23-0.60) and 96% (95% CI 0.85-0.99), respectively.

Conclusion: Overall, Xpert displayed high specificity but modest specificity across various samples in the diagnosis of pediatric EPTB in comparison with the composite reference standard. Xpert sensitivity varied with the sampling site, and was especially lower for CSF samples. Positive Xpert results may be considered to indicate a presumptive case of pediatric EPTB, whereas negative test results indicate that the possibility of pediatric EPTB should not be excluded.
Breast cancer risk factors that are identical and differential associated with menopause status of women in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Gomes Kedma Anne Lima , Jerônimo Aline Ferreira de Araújo , Ramos Raissa de Oliveira , Andrade Lorena Sofia dos Santos , Weller Mathias
Published: September 2019

Background: This case-control study was aimed at the identification of factors that modify breast cancer risk in a population from Northeastern Brazil. Breast cancer risk factors in this population are poorly understood. Methods: Data of 291 patients with invasive breast cancer and 291 healthy controls were obtained from medical records and personal interviews. Odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CI) were determined using univariate and multiple regression analysis. Results: Oral contraceptive use increased the risk of breast cancer among pre- and post-menopause women 3.661 (95% CI: 1.81-7.39; p < 0.001) and 3.086 (95%CI: 1.85-5.79; p < 0.001) times. Family history increased the risk of breast cancer among pre- and post-menopause women 3.791 (95%CI: 1.85-7.77; p < 0.001) and 3.538 (95%CI: 2.16-5.79; p = 0.000) times. Risk of breast cancer among post-menopause women who regularly consumed alcohol was 4.21 (95%CI: 2.08-8.50; p < 0.001) times increased compared to women who did not consume alcohol. Obese and overweight post-menopause women had 2.117 (95%CI: 1.15-3.88) and 1.217 (95%CI: 0.74-2.19) times increased risk, compared to women with normal weight ( p = 0.044). Waist-to-hip ratio > 0.8 increased the risk of breast cancer among pre- menopause women 2.026 (0.94-4.38; p = 0.067) times in the univariate analysis. Nulliparous post-menopause women had 2.667 (95%CI: 1.30-5.50; p = 0.070) times increased risk. Univariate analysis of nulliparity among pre-menopause women indicated 2.59 (OR= 0.386; 95%CI: 0.15-0.98; p = 0.038) times decreased risk. Conclusions: Oral contraceptive use, family history and alcohol consumption increased the risk of breast cancer among pre- and post-menopause women. High body mass index increased the risk only among post-menopause women, whereas unadjusted high waist-to-hip ratio increased the risk of pre- menopause women. Nulliparous pre-menopause women tended to have decreased risk, whereas nulliparous post-menopause women tended to have increased risk of breast cancer.
Women’s empowerment is associated with maternal nutrition and low birth weight: Evidence from Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey
Authors: Kabir Alamgir , Rashid Md Mahbubur , Hossain Kamal , Khan Md Arifuzzaman , Shikder Shegufta Shefa , Gidding Heather F
Published: September 2019

Background The burden of maternal malnutrition and low birth weight (LBW) incurs enormous economic costs due to their adverse consequences. Women’s empowerment is believed to be one of the key factors for attaining maternal and child health and nutritional goals. Our objective was to investigate the association of women’s empowerment with maternal malnutrition and LBW.Methods We used nationally representative data from the Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey for 2011 and 2014. We analysed 27,357 women and 9,234 mother-child pairs. A women’s empowerment index (WEI) was constructed using principal component analysis. We estimated odds ratios as the measure of association between the WEI and the outcome measures using generalized estimating equations to account for the cluster level correlation.Results The overall prevalence of maternal malnutrition was 20% and LBW was 18%. The WEI was significantly associated with both maternal malnutrition and LBW with a dose-response relationship. The adjusted odds of having a LBW baby was 32% [AOR (95% CI):0.68 (0.57, 0.82)] lower in the highest quartile of the WEI relative to the lowest quartile. Household wealth significantly modified the effect of the WEI on maternal nutrition.; in the highest wealth quintile, the odds of maternal malnutrition was 54% [AOR (95% CI): 0.46 (0.33, 0.64)] lower while in the lowest wealth quintile the odds of malnutrition was only 18% [AOR (95% CI): 0.82 (0.67, 1.00)] lower comparing the highest WEI quartile with the lowest WEI quartile. However, the absolute differences in prevalence of malnutrition between the highest and lowest WEI quartiles were similar across wealth quintiles (6-8%).Conclusions This study used a comprehensive measure of women’s empowerment and provides strong evidence that low levels of women’s empowerment is associated with maternal malnutrition as well as with delivering LBW babies in Bangladesh. Therefore, policies to increase empowerment of women would contribute to improved population health.
Predicting the microbial cause of community-acquired pneumonia: can physicians or a data-driven method differentiate viral from bacterial pneumonia at patient presentation?
Authors: LHOMMET Claire , GAROT Denis , GRAMMATICO-GUILLON Leslie , JOURDANNAUD Cassandra , ASFAR Pierre , FAISY Christophe , MULLER Grégoire , BARKER Kimberly A. , MERCIER Emmanuelle , ROBERT Sylvie , LANOTTE Philippe , GOUDEAU Alain , BLASCO Helene , Guillon Antoine
Published: September 2019

Background Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP) requires urgent and specific antimicrobial therapy. However, the causal pathogen is typically unknown at the point when anti-infective therapeutics must be initiated. Physicians synthesize information from diverse data streams to make appropriate decisions. Artificial intelligence (AI) excels at finding complex relationships in large volumes of data. We aimed to evaluate the abilities of experienced physicians and AI to answer this question at patient admission: is it a viral or a bacterial pneumonia? Methods We included patients hospitalized for sCAP and recorded clinical/paraclinical data available in the first 3-hour period of care. We built a machine learning model prediction using all collected data. Finally, an independent validation set of samples was used to test the pathogen prediction performance of: ( i ) a panel of three experts and ( ii ) the AI algorithm. Both were blinded regarding the final microbial diagnosis. Positive likelihood ratio (LR) values >10 and negative LR values <0.1 were considered clinically relevant.Results We included 153 patients with sCAP (70.6% men; 62 [51-73] years old; mean SAPSII, 37 [27-47]). The discriminant abilities of the AI approach were low to moderate (LR+ = 2.12 for viral and 6.29 for bacterial pneumonia), and the discriminant abilities of the experts were very low to low (LR+ = 3.81 for viral and 1.89 for bacterial pneumonia).Conclusion Neither experts nor an AI algorithm can predict the microbial etiology of sCAP within the first hours of hospitalization when there is an urgent need to define the anti-infective therapeutic strategy.
Does the association between guardians’ sense of coherence and their children’s untreated caries differ according to socioeconomic status?
Authors: Mizuta Akiko , Aida Jun , Nakamura Mieko , Ojima Toshiyuki
Published: September 2019

Background Untreated caries is the most prevalent disease in the world. A sense of coherence (SOC) is believed to contribute to oral health. However, it is unclear whether the contribution of SOC is larger among children with lower socioeconomic status (SES). We aimed to clarify the association between guardians’ SOC and their children’s caries based on socioeconomic status (SES) in Japan.Methods This study’s subjects were Japanese public junior high schoolers, aged 12-15, and their guardians. We administered a questionnaire survey among guardians in 2016 to assess their SOC and family environment. With their students’ consent, public junior high schools shared the results of the dental examinations that were part of their school physicals. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to clarify the association between guardians’ SOC and their children’s untreated decayed permanent teeth. We also conducted a stratified analysis according to a relative poverty line. Furthermore, the interaction between annual equivalent incomes, educational attainment with guardians’ SOC was evaluated by including the interaction term respectably.Results Proportion of untreated decayed permanent teeth of adolescents was 9.37% for 12 - 13 years, 9.02% for 14 years, and 11.78% for 15 years. Guardians’ SOC score was 15.1 (SD 3.2, range 3 - 21). We observed in the multivariate regression, a significant inverse association between children’s untreated decay and their guardians’ SOC (OR 0.93, 95%CI 0.87-1.00). Equivalent annual income had a significant marginal association with decayed teeth (OR 0.14, 95%CI 0.02-1.04). The association of SOC was stronger in the low economic group (OR 0.64, 95%CI 0.43-0.95). The interaction terms of educational attainment and guardians’ SOC was not significant. In the high economic group, educational attainment was significantly associated with decayed teeth (OR 0.50, 95%CI 0.27-0.91). The interaction terms of educational attainment and guardians’ SOC was not significant.Conclusions Guardians with higher SOC were associated with children having fewer caries. Guardians’ SOC is an important factor for the incidence of caries and access to dental care, especially among children with low economic status.
Educational roles as a continuum of mentoring’s role in medicine – A systematic review and thematic analysis of educational studies from 2000 to 2018
Authors: Krishna Lalit , Renganathan Yaazhini , Tay Kuang Teck , Tan Benjamin Jia Xing , Chong Jia Yan , Ching Ann Hui , Prakash Kishore , Quek Nicholas Wei Sheng , Peh Rachel Huidi , Chin Annelissa Mien Chew , Taylor David C M , Mason Stephen , Kanesvaran Ravindran , Toh Ying Pin
Published: September 2019

Introduction: Mentoring studies have gone through great lengths to differentiate mentoring from teaching, tutoring, role modelling, coaching and supervision in efforts to better understand mentoring processes. This review seeks to evaluate the notion that teaching, tutoring, role modelling, coaching and supervision may in fact be part of the mentoring process. To evaluate this theory, this review scrutinizes current literature on teaching, tutoring, role modelling, coaching and supervision to evaluate their commonalities with prevailing concepts of novice mentoring. Methods: A three staged approach is adopted to evaluate this premise. Stage one involves four systematic reviews into teaching, tutoring, role modelling, coaching and supervision published between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2018. Braun and Clarke’s (2006) approach to thematic analysis was used to identify key elements within these approaches and facilitate comparisons between them. Stage two will provide an updated view of novice mentoring to contextualize the discussion. Stage three infuses mentoring into the findings delineated in stage one. Results: 17499 citations were reviewed, 235 full-text articles were reviewed, and 104 articles were thematically analysed. Four themes were identified – characteristics, processes, nature of relationship, and problems faced in each of the four educational roles. Discussion: Role modelling, teaching and tutoring, coaching and supervision lie within a mentoring spectrum of increasingly structured interactions assisted by assessments, feedback and personalised support that culminate with a mentoring approach. Still requiring validation these findings necessitate a reconceptualization of mentoring and changes to mentor training programs and how mentoring is assessed and supported.
A non-randomised trial of video and written educational adjuncts in undergraduate ophthalmology
Authors: Hogg Henry David Jeffry , Pereira Michael , Purdy Julian , Fre Richard J.R. , Lau Gordon B.
Published: September 2019

Background Provision of relevant pre-learning materials has been shown to increase student engagement and improve outcomes in medical education. This non-randomised study attempts to quantify the educational gains, and relative efficacy of video and written pre-learning materials, in ophthalmology undergraduate teaching.Methods 98 final year medical students were contacted prior to their three-day ophthalmology placements at a British tertiary ophthalmology unit. All participants were sent welcome packs prior to arrival requesting they undertake 90 minutes of work focusing on a list of specified ophthalmic conditions. In addition one cohort ( N =33) were sent written materials and another ( N =32) were provided with video materials. The teaching remained otherwise unchanged. On arrival participants completed a simple knowledge test, a questionnaire estimating the time they spent preparing for the placement and a self-reported knowledge score. At the conclusion of each placement participants completed a challenging knowledge test, a clinical skills test and repeated self-reported knowledge scores.Results 86.7% of students receiving specified materials claimed to complete pre-placement work compared to 69.7% of those receiving learning outcomes alone ( p =0.05). Students receiving learning materials scored higher in tests of knowledge ( p <0.001), 74.8% (72.4-77.2%) vs 63.6% (95%CI 59.3-67.9%) and skills ( p =0.04), 86.9% (83.9-89.9%) vs 81.3% (77.2-85.4%). Students using video resources outperformed students using written materials in their visual acuity assessment test ( p =0.03), 90.4% (86.6-94.2%) vs 83.6% (80.1-87.1%) whilst those receiving written rather than video material performed better in the end of placement knowledge test ( p =0.03), 72.0% (68.9%-75.1%) vs 77.7% (74.3-81.1%).Conclusion This study showed that providing pre-placement learning materials improves undergraduates’ commitment and achievement. Written materials better facilitate knowledge acquisition while video materials preferentially promote skill acquisition. This is a novel demonstration within ophthalmology and can help address the imbalance between the expectations placed on graduates and the resources committed to ensuring they are met.
Enhanced genome assembly and a new official gene set for Tribolium castaneum - from a draft to a reference genome
Authors: Herndon Nicolae , Shelton Jennifer , Gerischer Lizzy , Ioannidis Panos , Ninova Maria , Dönitz Jürgen , Waterhouse Robert M. , Liang Chun , Damm Carsten , Siemanowski Janna , Kitzmann Peter , Ulrich Julia , Dippel Stefan , Oberhofer Georg , Hu Yonggang , Schwirz Jonas , Schacht Magdalena , Lehmann Sabrina , Montino Alice , Posnien Nico , Gurska Daniela , Horn Thorsten , Seibert Jan , Jentzsch Iris M. Vargas , Panfilio Kristen A. , Li Jianwei , Wimmer Ernst A. , Stappert Dominik , Roth Siegfried , Schröder Reinhard , Park Yoonseong , Schoppmeier Michael , Klingler Martin , Chung Ho-Ryun , Kittelmann Sebastian , Friedrich Markus , Chen Rui , Altincicek Boran , Vilcinskas Andreas , Zdobnov Evgeny , Griffiths-Jones Sam , Ronshaugen Matthew , Stanke Mario , Brown Sue J. , Bucher Gregor
Published: September 2019

Background: The red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum has emerged as an important model organism for the study of gene function in development and physiology, for ecological and evolutionary genomics, for pest control and a plethora of other topics. RNA interference (RNAi), transgenesis and genome editing are well established and the resources for genome-wide RNAi screening have become available in this model. All these techniques depend on a high quality genome assembly and precise gene models. However, the first version of the genome assembly was generated before the advent of next generation sequencing and with a small set of RNA sequence data limiting annotation quality. Results: Here, we present a new genome assembly (Tcas5.2) and an enhanced genome annotation resulting in a new official gene set (OGS3) for Tribolium castaneum , which significantly increase the quality of the genomic resources. By adding large-distance jumping library DNA sequencing and using an improved assembly pipeline, the gaps in the genome assembly were reduced and the N50 increased to 4,753kbp. The precision of the gene models was enhanced by the use of a large body of RNA-Seq reads of different life history stages and tissue types, leading to the discovery of 1,452 novel gene sequences. We also added new features such as alternative splicing, well defined UTRs and miRNA target predictions. For quality control, 399 gene models were evaluated by manual inspection. The current gene set was submitted to Genbank and accepted as a RefSeq genome by NCBI. Conclusions: The new genome assembly (Tcas5.2) and the official gene set (OGS3) provide enhanced genomic resources for genetic work in Tribolium castaneum . The much improved information on transcription start sites supports transgenic and gene editing approaches. Further, novel types of information such as splice variants and microRNA target genes open additional possibilities for analysis.
Pearl extract protects HaCaT cells from UV radiation-induced apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway regulation
Authors: Chen Zhixiong , Wang Jing , Yang Anquan , Zhang Lihua , Lu Yaojia , Mo Jiahuan , Xie Min , Shen Xinzhong
Published: September 2019

Background: Previous studies demonstrated that pearl extract (PE) promotes wound healing and skin whitening. However, whether PE can inhibit ultraviolet (UV) photodamage in HaCaT cells remains unclear. In this study, an in vitro photoaging cell model was established to observe the effect of PE on UV-induced damage and apoptosis of HaCaT cells. The aim was to provide a reference for future development of natural sunscreen agents. Results: PE concentrations of 0.1 and 1 μg/mL were considered as the most effective and safe concentrations. Compared to the control group, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in the photoaging group were significantly reduced, while malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species content, along with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) and interleukin (IL)-10 mRNA and protein levels were markedly increased. In contrast, Bcl-2 protein expression was significantly decreased, while caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax protein expression levels were significantly increased. Compared to the photoaging group, HaCaT cell proliferation was significantly increased in the PE group. Both PE concentrations significantly increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in cells, reduced malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species content, decreased TNF-a and IL-10 mRNA expression in cells, and reduced TNF-a and IL-10 protein levels in the supernatant. Additionally, Bcl-2 protein expression levels were significantly increased, while caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax protein expression levels were significantly reduced by PE treatment. Conclusions: PE can inhibit UV-induced apoptosis by inhibiting mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and regulating TNF-a and IL-10 expression.
Age is a powerful predictor of survival in pT2N0M0 clear cell renal cell cancer patients: A SEER-based study
Authors: Huang Lanting , Cheng Wenfang , Chen Juhui , Teng Kaiyuan
Published: September 2019

Background: To elucidate whether age is a prognostic factor in clear cell renal cell cancer (ccRCC) with stage II (pT2N0M0,the American Joint Committee on Cancer 6 th or 7 th staging system) , we analyzed data from the SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results) database to evaluate the impact of age on clinicopathological features and survival in pT2N0M0 ccRCC patients. Methods: A total of 2806 patients with stage II (pT2N0M0) were collected. Patients were categorized into three groups according to age at diagnosis as follows: young age (< 40 years, n = 129), middle-age (40-69 years, n = 2,075), and old age (≥ 70 years, n = 602) groups. Clinicopathological variables and survival rates were compared between the three groups. Results: 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 93.0%, 83.9%, 69.3% respectively and 10-year OS rates were 87.6%, 74.5%, 47.0% respectively in the young, middle, and old age groups (P<0.001). 5-year cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates were 94.6%, 88.4%, 84.4% respectively and 10-year CSS rates were 90.7%, 82.1%, 74.6% respectively in the young, middle, and old age groups (P<0.001). Age at diagnosis was the only predictor for both overall survival and cancer-specific survival in multivariate analysis (each P<0.001). Age together with marital status, tumor size and grade were independent prognostic factors for CSS in multivariate analysis (P<0.001,P=0.017, P=0.001, P=0.02 respectively). Conclusions: Age at diagnosis is a powerful predictor for survival in pT2N0M0 clear cell renal cell cancer patients. Compared to their young counterparts, elder patients have a significantly worse outcome with regard to overall survival and cancer-specific survival.
Clinical features and treatment outcomes of rare genera of fungal keratitis in China
Authors: Wang Xin , Lu Xiuhai , Li Suxia , Wang Ting , Jia Yanni , Wang Shuting , Wang Jingting , Dong Chunxiao , Shi Weiyun
Published: September 2019

Background Fungal keratitis can cause severe corneal blindness, although the major fungal genera in China have been widely reported, however rare genera of fungal keratitis is little known. This study aimed to investigate the clinical features and treatment outcomes of rare genera of fungal keratitis in China.Methods This retrospective observational study included a total of 1608 patients infected with fungal keratitis and treated at the Shandong Eye Hospital. The risk factors, course of disease, clinical features, confocal microscopy images, histopathological features, in vitro drug sensitivity tests, and treatment outcomes of 16 patients with 8 rare fungal genera were evaluated.Results No immune rings were observed among the 8 fungal genera studied. Rhizopus and Pythium insidiosum keratitis presented as endothelial plaque and hypopyon. Curvularia crescentulum keratitis presented as endothelial plaque, feathery edges, and raised lesions. Purpureocillium lilacinum keratitis showed endothelial plaque, hypopyon, and raised lesions. Colletotrichum , Exserohilum, and Bipolaris keratitis had feathery edges, while Sarocladium keratitis had no typical fungal clinical characteristics. In 2/3 cases (12.5%) of Curvularia crescentulum keratitis, it was cured with medication, while in 14/16 cases (87.5%), surgery was required, including 3 cases of evisceration. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, LogMAR) of 13 cases was 1.47±0.87 before treatment and 0.64 ±0.48 after treatment, and the difference was statistically significant [(95% CI, 0.26–1.40) ( P =0.006].Conclusions Curvularia crescentulum keratitis showed good results when treated with medicine, while for Rhizopus, Sarocladium, Colletotrichum, Exserohilum, Bipolaris, and Purpureocillium lilacinum keratitis, early surgical intervention shortened the course of the disease. The prognosis of Pythium insidiosum keratitis is poor, as medication failed and the recurrence cycle after surgery was short.
Risk factors analysis of HPS patients with acute Stanford A aortic dissection
Authors: Xie Qiuxia , Qin Haoling , Lin Ling , Guan Jian , Zhou Xuhui
Published: September 2019

Background: AAD refers to the blood flow into the middle membrane through the intimal rupture of the aorta. HPS is a common complication of Stanford-A AAD. The risk factors of HPS are remaining unclear
Methods: In this study, we have probed the potential risk factors of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) patients with acute Stanford A aortic dissection. 18 HPS patients with acute Stanford A aortic dissection were selected as case group. 36 Normal people were considerate as control group. Demographic data, treatment methods, AD related disease history, clinical symptoms and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) values of each patient were collected. Meanwhile, the values of maximum diameter of ascending aorta (mm), aortic dissection range, and main branch of aorta, pleural effusion/blood, and pericardial effusion/blood were measured by two experienced cardiovascular radiological physicians. Univariate and multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis were used in this study.
Results: CCI value and the branches of the brachiocephalus in case group were significant higher than that in control group (p<0.05). Univariate conditional logistic regression analysis showed CCI and branches of the brachiocephalus were associated with HPS. Multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis suggested that branches of the brachiocephalus was an independent risk factor for HPS (OR=7.02, 95%CI=1.28-38.62, p=0.025).
Conclusions: Branches of the brachiocephalus were an independent risk factor for HPS.
Elevated glycosylated hemoglobin levels and its interactive effects on hypertension risk in non-diabetic population: a cross-sectional survey in China
Authors: song jian , wei nana , zhao yingying , jiang yuhong , wu xuesen , gao huaiquan
Published: September 2019

Background Abnormal glucose metabolism have been suggested to be involved in the development of hypertension. The present study aimed to investigate the associations and potential interactions of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with other factors on the risk of hypertension among Chinese non-diabetic adults. Methods As a cross-sectional survey, the current work provided questionnaire survey, anthropometric tests and biochemical measure for each of the eligible participants. The HbA1c levels were quantified and grouped by quartiles. The correlation between HbA1c and hypertension risk in non-diabetic were investigated by univariate and multivariate analyses. For evaluating the interactive effects, the parameters of Relative Excess Risk due to Interaction (RERI), Attributable Proportion due to Interaction (AP) and Synergy Index (SI) were calculated, respectively. Results In the current study, 1462 non-diabetic subjects were enrolled. Totally, the prevalence of hypertension was 22.4% (n=327) in the individuals without diabetes. When the HbA1c levels were grouped by quartiles, it was revealed that the prevalence of hypertension substantially elevated across groups ( P for trend <0.001). In the multivariable logistic regression analyses, in comparison with the first quartile of HbA1c, the normalized OR for hypertension risk were 1.90 (95% CI:1.28-2.80) for the highest quartile. Besides, the ROC curve analysis indicated that the best threshold of HbA1c as the predictor for hypertension risk was 4.95 in non-diabetic subjects, with the AUC of 0.60 (0.58-0.63). Eventually, it was demonstrated from the interactive effect analysis that the HbA1c significantly interacted with abdominal obesity (RERI: 1.48, 95% CI: 0.38- 2.58; AP: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.14-0.60 and SI: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.06-3.62) and family history of hypertension (AP: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.05-0.70) on the risk of hypertension in non-diabetic participants. Conclusion The risk of hypertension was aggravated by the up-regulated HbA1c in an independent and synergistic manner with abdominal obesity and family history of hypertension in Chinese subjects without diabetes.
DNA extraction from resin producing Boswellia tree
Authors: Khan Adil , Khan Abdul Latif , Asaf Sajjad , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Al-Rawahi Ahmed
Published: September 2019

Wild and medicinal plants producing resin and ladle with phenolic and polysaccharides have been found a major hurdle to extract high quality of genomic DNA. These contaminants co -precipitate with DNA and inhibit enzymatic modification of DNA. Previously reported protocols yielded highly viscous DNA regimen that were not amicable to down-stream analysis. We tried several commonly used protocols but were unable to isolate high quality DNA from frankincense producing Boswellia sacra. We extensively optimized the Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) based protocol used for Commiphora wightii and Passiflora foetida previously. The current methos involves changes in buffer conditions, handling methods, and cycles of steps to remove resin at earlier stages of extracton. The obtained gDNA can be used for genetic diversity, DNA barcoding and next generation sequencing approaches. To our knowledge, this is the first optimized protocol which a rapid and less laborious for the extraction of DNA from Boswellia species.
DECOMPOSITION OF GENDER WAGE GAP IN POLAND USING COUNTERFACTUAL DISTRIBUTION WITH SAMPLE SELECTION
Authors: Landmesser Joanna Małgorzata
Published: September 2019

In the paper, we compare income distributions in Poland taking into account gender differences. The gender pay gap can only be partially explained by differences in men’s and women’s characteristics. The unexplained part of the gap is usually attributed to the wage discrimination. The objective of this study is to extend the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition procedure to different quantile points along the income distribution. We use the RIF-regression method to describe differences between the incomes of men and women along the two distributions and to evaluate the strength of the influence of personal characteristics on the various parts of the income distributions. As the sample selection is a serious issue for the study, therefore our decomposition approach will be adjusted for sample selection problems. The results suggest not only differences in the income gap along the income distribution (in particular sticky floor and glass ceiling), but also differences in the contribution of selection effects to the pay gap at different quantiles. The analysis is based on data from the EU-SILC data for Poland in 2014.
Identification of Novel Key Biomarkers in Simpson-Golabi-Behmel Syndrome (SGBS): Evidence from Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Mustafa Mujahed I. , Abdelmoneim Abdelrahman H. , Elfadol Nafisa M. , Murshed Naseem S. , Mohammed Zainab O. , Hassan Mohamed A.
Published: September 2019

The Simpson-Golabi-Behmel Syndrome (SGBS) or overgrowth Syndrome is an uncommon genetic X-linked disorder highlighted by macrosomia, renal defects, cardiac weaknesses and skeletal abnormalities. The purpose of the work was to classify the functional nsSNPs of GPC3 to serve as genetic biomarkers for overgrowth syndrome. The raw data of GPC3 gene were retrieved from dbSNP database and used to examine the most damaging effect using eight functional analysis tools, while we used I-mutant and MUPro to examine the effect of SNPs on GPC3 protein structure; The 3D structure of GPC3 protein is not found in the PDB, so RaptorX was used to create a 3D structural prototype to visualize the amino acids alterations by UCSF Chimera; For biophysical validation we used project HOPE; Lastly we run conservational analysis by BioEdit and Consurf web server respectively. Our results revealed three novel missense mutations (rs1460413167, rs1295603457 and rs757475450) that are that are more likely to be responsible for disturbance in the function and structure of GPC3. This work provides new insight into the molecular basis of overgrowth Syndrome by evidence from bioinformatics analysis. Three novel missense mutations (rs757475450, rs1295603457 and rs1460413167) are more likely to be responsible for disturbance in the function and structure of GPC3; therefore, they may be assisting as genetic biomarkers for overgrowth syndrome. As well as these SNPs can be used for the larger population-based studies of overgrowth syndrome.
Application of Genetic Algorithm in Common Optimization Problems
Authors: Topuria Nika , Kikvidze Omar
Published: September 2019

Use of non-deterministic algorithms for solving multi-variable optimization problems is widely used nowadays. Genetic Algorithm belongs to a group of stochastic biomimicry algorithms, it allows us to achieve optimal or near-optimal results in large optimization problems in exceptionally short time (compared to standard optimization methods). Major advantage of Genetic Algorithm is the ability to fuse genes, to mutate and do selection based on fitness parameter. These methods protect us from being trapped in local optima (Most of deterministic algorithms are prone to getting stuck on local optima). In this paper we experimentally show the upper hand of Genetic Algorithms compared to other traditional optimization methods by solving complex optimization problem.
Assessment of empirical methods for estimation of reference evapotranspiration in the Brazilian Savannah
Authors: Santos Lucas da Costa , Cruz Guilherme Henrique Terra , Capuchinho Frank Freire , José Jeffersom Vieira , Reis Elton Fialho dos
Published: September 2019

Evapotranspiration can be sufficiently estimated when meteorological data are available to implement robust models such as Penman-Monteith (PM). However, due to data scarcity, alternative approaches are necessary. In this context, this study aims to compare the reference evapotranspiration (ETo) obtained from the PM standard method with eight empirical equations to identify the simplest method that can be alternative to the reference method (Penman Monteith method) for ten places in state of Goiás (located in west-central Brazil, Brazilian Savanna). To estimate the ETo, air temperature and relative humidity air, wind speed, sunshine and solar radiation data, which were obtained from the data platform National Institute of Meteorology and the Meteorological and Hydrological System of the State of Goiás, were used. For comparison of empirical methods with PM standard method, we used the following statistical indicators: slope and intercept coefficients (β0 and β1) of regressions equations, the coefficient of determination (r²), Pearson's correlation (r), mean bias error (MBE), root mean square error (RMSE) concordance index refined (dr) and performance index (Pi). Our results indicated that the Turc method is the best option for the state of Goiás when meteorological data are not suffeciently available to use the standard PM method. On the other hand, the method of Romanenko did not present acceptable performance in nine of the ten studied localities. Therefore, its use is advised only in the municipality of the Itumbiara. Among evaluated methods the Hargreaves-Samani method is the best alternative, when there is only air temperature data.
Genetic diversity analysis of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) genotypes making use of SSR markers
Authors: Kujane Keitumetse , Sedibe Moosa M , Mofokeng Alina
Published: September 2019

In this study, we aimed to investigate the genetic diversity and polymorphism among 30 soybean genotypes maintained by the ARC using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Soybean genotypes were characterized using 20 SSR primers. DNA was extracted using the standard cetyl trimethylammonium bromide method and amplified using PCR. Allele size was determined via comparison with a 100 base pair (bp) DNA ladder. Molecular data were analyzed, and a dendrogram and matrix were generated using GGT 2.0 software. A total of 216 alleles with an average of 10.8 alleles per locus were detected. The allele sizes ranged between 2 and 33 bp with an average of 18.7 bp. The polymorphic information content among genotypes varied from 0.85 (Satt001) to 0.75 (Satt43) with an average of 0.716, and heterozygosity ranged from 0.87 to 0.78 with an average of 0.7485. The most diverse genotypes were B 66 S 31, 69S 7, and R5-4-2 M, which indicated the efficiency of the SSR markers for the detection of genetic diversity. The results of the current study revealed the diversity among the soybean genotypes tested, which might aid breeders in the future in the selection of parents for breeding.
Miscible displacement of copper in soil columns using increasing doses of bentonite
Authors: Tito Gilvanise Alves , Chaves Lucia Helena Garófalo , Guerra Hugo Orlando Carvallo , Fernandes Josely Dantas , Mendes Jacqueline da Silva , Chaves Iêde de Brito
Published: September 2019

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of applying increasing doses of bentonite to the soil on the miscible displacement of copper, quantifying copper retention in the soil and elimination by leachate, in order to prevent potential risks for environmental contamination. The experiment was conducted on a laboratory using leaching columns filled by a sandy texture soil contaminated with 250 mg kg-1 of copper each. The experimental design was a completely randomized with four doses of bentonite, 0; 30; 60 and 90 t ha-1, and three replications totalizing 12 experimental units. The leaching columns were made with PVC tubes constituted by three rings, overlaid and joined with silicone glue. Each column was filled with 4 kg of Cu contaminated soil, mixed with the doses of bentonite specified by the treatments (0; 45; 90 and 135 g). After the filling of the columns, each one received five pore volumes of distillated water, and left to percolation under a steady state flux. After percolation, the Cu concentrations in the soil and in the percolate, the breakthrough curves of the flux density and the percolation velocity were determined. The results were submitted to variance analyses using the F test and regressions. The increasing doses of bentonite until 90 t ha-1 increased the adsorption of copper by the soil, reducing the percolation of this element around 72%. Bentonite application to the soil decreased the flux density and flux velocity of the copper percolation, diminishing the potential risks for the environment contamination.
Productive potential and seed quality of soybean genotypes with different maturity groups
Authors: Cover Jonas Estevon , Aguiar Cibele Divino , Silva Antônio Veimar da , Silva Carla Michelle da , Mielezrski Fabio
Published: September 2019

Soybean has economically stood out worldwide. In MATOPIBA region of Brazil (Maranhão, Tocantins, Paiuí e Bahia) it is the most economically important crop with participation in the country’s GDP growth. Due to this great growth economic and the incentive to the production of this oilseed, this study aimed to understand the behavior and physiological quality of soybean genotypes and to determine the productive potential of soybean seeds of different cultivars in the Cerrado of the State of Piauí. To this end, an experiment was carried out at Celeiro Farm, located in Serra do Quilombo, municipality of Monte Alegre do Piauí. Sowing followed the usual standards and was carried out on January 10, 2016. The experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The treatments consisted of five cultivars of INTACTA RR2 PRO soybean, with different maturity groups: C1: MG 8.6, C2: MG 8.3, C3: MG 8.6.1, C4: MG 7.9 and C5: MG 8.5. The analyzed variables were: plant height, number of nodes, internode length, pod length, number of grains per pod, number of grains per plant, one thousand seed weight, productivity, first germination count, germination, seedling length, germination speed index and seedling dry mass. The results indicated that the best cultivars were: C5:TMG 2185 IPRO for plant height, internode length and pod length, and C4: BÔNUS IPRO for number of grains per pod, number of grains per plant, one thousand seed weight, and productivity. Considering the first count, germination, and germination speed index, the best cultivar was C5.
Performance of agricultural tractor consuming diesel and biodiesel derived from babassu (Orbinya martiana)
Authors: Lira Thyago Augusto Medeiros , Santos Ariston Pinto , Moreti Thaisa Calvo Fugineri , Lopes Afonso , Oliveira Melina Cais Jejcic de , Neves Murilo Coelho Theodoro , Iamaguti Priscila Sawasaki , Lima Leomar Paulo de , Koike Gilberto Hirotsugu Azevedo , Silva Rogerio de Abreu
Published: September 2019

Biodiesel is an alternative fuel to diesel engines. This study aimed to evaluate fuel consumption and smoke density of agricultural tractors fueled by biodiesel, diesel, and biodiesel/diesel mixtures in a tilled field. Treatments consisted of distilled methyl ester (biodiesel) of babassu (Orbinya martiana) and seven combinations of it with two standard diesel fuels (B S1800 and B S50). The blending ratios were 0, 5, 15, 25, 50, and 100% biodiesel in diesel oil (B0, B5, B15, B25, B50, and B100, respectively). Regarding the results for hourly volumetric consumption, no difference was found between B0 and B100 when using B S1800, whereas an 8% increase was observed when using the S50. The weighted hourly consumption increased by 11.29 and 16.9% from B0 to B100 using B S1800 and B S50, respectively. Similarly, the specific fuel consumption increased by 11.1% and 14.3% from B0 to B100 using B S1800 and B S50, respectively. Yet, when comparing B0 and B S1800, the smoke density reduction was 68.6% and between B S50 and B100 was 58.0%. Our findings show that babassu biodiesel is a suitable substitute for diesel oil, without causing any damage to the tractor's engine.
El microcrédito como estrategia para atenuar la pobreza de las mujeres, ¿cuál pobreza?
Authors: García Horta José Luis , Zapata Martelo Emma , Valtierra Pacheco Esteban , Garza Bueno Laura
Published: September 2019

Autores especializados en el tema de las microfinanzas indican que facilitar el microcrédito a las mujeres es una estrategia para mejorar la situación de pobreza en que viven. El presente artículo habla sobre la experiencia de las prestatarias atendidas por ProMujer en su Centro Focal de Ixmiquilpan, estado de Hidalgo. Durante el ejercicio de los recursos financieros, se encontró que las acreditadas lograron conciliar lo productivo con lo reproductivo, sin embargo, esto derivó en dobles o triples jornadas de trabajo y restringió su libertad y disponibilidad de tiempo. Se reafirma que el microcrédito mejora significativamente la pobreza alimentaria o de patrimonio de las mujeres, pero al analizar el problema desde la perspectiva de género, ellas resultan ser más pobres si se considera la pobreza por capacidades.
El impacto en los primeros años de aplicación del programa Oportunidades por tipo de pobreza en México y Baja California, 2002–2006
Authors: Bracamontes Nevárez Joaquín , Camberos Castro Mario , Huesca Reynoso Luis
Published: September 2019

En este trabajo se muestra el limitado impacto del programa Oportunidades en la reducción de la pobreza en México y Baja California durante el periodo de estudio 2002–2006, lo que obedece a la insuficiencia de recursos y la exclusión de hogares pobres. En el país los tres tipos de pobreza tuvieron una modesta reducción y en Baja California la pobreza de capacidades disminuyó ligeramente, pero la pobreza alimentaria y la patrimonial se incrementaron pese a Oportunidades.
Presencia e impacto espacial de los sectores creativos en las zonas metropolitanas de México
Authors: Valdivia López Marcos
Published: September 2019

La dinámica de crecimiento de las ciudades contemporáneas y su estructura territorial están influidas por las actividades económicas asociadas a las industrias o sectores creativos. Se realiza un análisis espacial de las acti­vidades económicas creativas en todas las zonas metropolitanas (ZM) de México. Para mostrar la importancia espacial que las industrias creativas tienen sobre la estructura urbana del país, se calcula la concentración del empleo de cada uno de los sectores y subsectores económicos respecto de la distancia con el centro económico de la ZM más cercana. Concluimos que las industrias creativas tienden a localizarse en el centro económico de las ZM y son, entre todas las actividades económicas, de las que tienen mayor capacidad para desarrollar derramas positivas en el crecimiento del empleo.
Brachial Plexopathy as a Complication of Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shabeeb Dheyauldeen , Musa Ahmed E. , Keshavarz Mansoor , Mihandoust Ehsan , Hassanzadeh Gholamreza , Hadian Mohammad R. , Shirazi Alireza , Najafi Masoud
Published: September 2019

Background:

Radiotherapy is a commonly used cancer treatment modality. However,
radiation-induced complications are major drawbacks, especially at high doses. Radiation-induced
brachial plexopathy (RIBP) is mostly observed in breast and lung cancer patients some months to
years after radiotherapy. RIBP symptoms have negative effects on patients’ quality of life. The
aim of this study was to review RIBP according to the preferred reporting items for systematic
reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Methods:

Online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase) were searched to
retrieve relevant studies on brachial plexopathy as a complication of radiotherapy.

Results:

Initial search results yielded a total of 657 articles. After careful screening of their titles
and abstracts, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 31 articles were finally included in
this study. Findings from these 31 papers showed that a total of 9192 cancer patients had undergone
radiotherapy for different regions including chest, axillary area, thoracic outlet, neck and
breast. 26.4% of these patients had RIPB (associated with symptoms such as paresthesia, pain,
weakness, and/or motor dysfunction, organ pathology/dysfunction etc.) with different follow up
times, where 8.2% of patients had RIPB after a mean time of 1.2 years, 15.8% after 2.6 years,
51% after 5 years, 14% after 7.8 years, and 11% after 10.5 years.

Conclusion:

From our findings, we can conclude that the issue of radiation-induced brachial
plexus complication in human is of great concern. Common symptoms associated with this complication
include paresthesia, numbness, pain and weakness. We recommend the use of individual
dose planning and computer-assisted image segmentation techniques that support rapid and reliable
contouring of the brachial plexus. Also, the radiation dose to the brachial plexus should be
limited as much as possible to reduce the risk of brachial plexopathy.