bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residual Malaria Among Migrant Workers in Myanmar: Why Still Persistent and How to Eliminate? 
Authors: Nyunt Myat Htut , Aye Khin Myo , Naing Shine Thura , Mon Aye Su , Htwe Mi Mi , Win Su Mon , Thwe Wai Myat , Thi Aung , Kyaw Myat Phone
Published: November 2020

Background Residual malaria may be an important source for re-emerging of the malaria infection in the (pre)elimination era. Assessment of the residual-malaria in endemic areas as well as in (pre) elimination areas and identification of factors for residual malaria is needed to explore to support the evidence-based decision to the stakeholders and policymakers. MethodsThis study was conducted to explore the factors influencing the residual malaria infection among migrant workers in Myanmar by mixed-model method in two sentinel sites (one from pre-elimination areas and one from still endemic areas).ResultsA total of 102 migrant workers (65 in Bamauk and 37 in Shwegyin) were included in this study for quantitative assessment by using pretested questionnaires in household visits. Only 57.9% of the migrant in Shwegyin and 68.3% in Bmanuk were using the Long-lasting Insecticidal treated bed nets (LLINs) regularly although utilization of any bed net is high (91.0% in Shwegyin vs 79.9% in Bamauk). The mean of the number of the LLINs in their family was 2.89 (95%CI: 2.67-3.11) in Shwegyin and 1.64 (95%CI:1.48-1.81) in Bamauk. Unfortunately, their knowledge of the prevention of malaria was still low. Qualitative findings revealed that some of them reported no health information for malaria prevention was received in the last two years. ConclusionStrategy for distribution of LLINs for mobile/migrant populations should be reviewed and an appropriate action plan should be formulated. Health promotion activities for behavior change communication for malaria should be emphasized in the migrant population. Unlike the residence, an appropriate action plan should be considered for migrant groups, as some of the migrant groups are unable to be easily accessible by local health authorities nor village volunteers.
Severe Orthostatic Hypotension in Otherwise Uncomplicated Plasmodium Vivax Infection
Authors: Sivakorn Chaisith , Wilairatana Polrat , Krudsood Srivicha , Schultz Marcus J. , Techarang Tachpon , kheawsawaung Khanittha , Dondorp Arjen M.
Published: November 2020

Impaired autonomic control of postural homeostasis resulting in orthostatic hypotension has been described in falciparum malaria. However, severe orthostatic intolerance in Plasmodium vivax has not been previously reported. We describe a non-immune previously healthy Thai woman presenting with Plasmodium vivax infection with well-documented orthostatic hypotension. In addition to oral chloroquine and intravenous artesunate, the patient was treated with fluid resuscitation and norepinephrine. During hospitalization, her hemodynamic profile revealed orthostatic hypotension persisting for another three days after microscopic and polymerase chain reaction confirmed parasite clearance. Potential causes are discussed.
Ammonium Nitrate Regulated the Color Characteristic Changes of Pigments in Monascus Purpureus M9
Authors: Chen Di , Wang Yurong , Chen Mianhua , Fan Pei , Li Guiling , Wang Changlu
Published: November 2020

Monascus pigments (MPs) with different color characteristics, produced by submerged fermentation of Monascus purpureus M9, have potential application in food industry. In the present study, the effects and regulatory mechanisms of ammonium nitrate (AN) on the color characteristics of MPs were investigated. The concentration of intracellular pigments was significantly decreased when subjected to AN. The hue and lightness value indicated AN altered the total pigments appearance from original red to orange. The HPLC analysis for six major components of MPs showed that the production of rubropunctatin or monascorubrin, was significantly reduced to the undetectable level, whereas the the yields of monascin, ankaflavin, rubropunctamine and monascorubramine, were apparently increased with AN supplement. To be noted, via real-time quantitative PCR strategy, the expression level of mppG, closely relative to orange pigments biosynthesis, was significantly down-regulated. However, the expression of mppE, involved in yellow pigments pathway, was up-regulated. Moreover, the broth pH value was dropped to 2.5-3.5 in the fermentation process resulted from AN treatment, along with the increased extracellular polysaccharide biosynthesis. Taken together, the change of MPs categories and amounts by AN might be the driving force for the color characteristics variation in M. purpureus M9. The present study provided useful data for producing MPs with different compositions and modified color characteristics.
Characteristics of the Aspergillus oryzae GATA Transcription Factor Family and Expression Analysis under Temperature or Salt Stresses
Authors: Jiang Chunmiao , Lv Gongbo , He Bin , Zhang Zhe , Hu Zhihong , Zeng Bin
Published: November 2020

GATA transcription factors（TFs）are involved in the regulation of diverse growth processes and various environmental stimuli stresses. Although the analysis of GATA TFs involved in abiotic stress has been performed in plants and some fungi, information regarding GATA TFs in A. oryzae is extremely poor. Therefore, we identified seven GATA TFs from A. oryzae 3.042 genome and classified into six subgroups in NJ_tree, including a novel AoSnf5 with 20-residue between the Cys-X2-Cys motifs which was found in Aspergillus for the first time. Conserved motifs demonstrated that Aspergillus GATA TFs with similar motif compositions clustered into one subgroup, which suggests they might have similar genetic functions and further confirms the accuracy of the phylogenetic relationship. Moreover, the expression patterns of seven A. oryzae GATA TFs under temperature and salt stresses indicated that A. oryzae GATA TFs were mainly responsive to high-temperature and high salt stress. The PPI network of A. oryzae GATA TFs proposed some potentially interacting proteins. The comprehensive analysis of A. oryzae GATA TFs will be beneficial to understand their functional and evolutionary features and provide useful information for the further analyzing the role of GATA TFs in regulation of distinct environmental conditions in A. oryzae.
Cellular, molecular and biochemical impacts of silver nanoparticles on rat cerebellar cortex
Authors: Mohamed Eman , Kattaia Asmaa A.A. , Abdul-Maksoud Rehab , El-Baset Samia Abd
Published: November 2020

Background The excessive exposure to silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) has raised concerns about their possible risks to the human health. The brain is a highly vulnerable organ to nano-silver harmfulness. The aim of the current work was to evaluate the impacts of Ag-NPs exposure on the cerebellar cortex of rats especially changes at the ultrastructural and molecular levels. Methods Forty adult male albino rats were assigned to: control, vehicle control, Ag-NP-exposed groups (at doses of 10mg and 30mg/kg/day). Cerebellar cortex samples were processed for light and electron microscope examinations. Immunohistochemical localization of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) and Calbindin D28k (CB) proteins was performed. Tissue homogenates were prepared for analysis of gene expression of DNA damage inducible transcript 4 (Ddit4), flavin containing monooxygenase 2 (FMO2) and thioredoxin-interacting protein (Txnip). Serum levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were also measured. Results Ag-NPs exposure resulted in activation of apoptosis cascades coupled with stimulation of oxidative stress and inflammation pathways. This was evident by the upregulation of Ddit4 gene expressions and JNK protein immune expressions. Alterations of redox homeostasis were verified by enhancement of Txnip and FMO2 gene expressions, favoring the activation of inflammatory responses by increasing NFκB immune expressions and serum inflammatory mediator levels. Another considerable cytotoxic effect was the reduction of CB immune expressions, the crucial regulator of intracellular calcium level. Conclusion Ag-NPs exposure provoked biochemical, cellular and molecular changes of rat cerebellar cortex in a dose-dependent manner.
Perceptions of Adolescent Pregnancy in Rural Contexts: An Approach based on Social Determination of health inequities
Authors: Palacios-Perdomo Herlan , Acosta-Ramirez Naydu
Published: November 2020

Background: The phenomenon of teen pregnancy as a social process in rural areas within settings of violence and peacebuilding are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to inquire into the perceptions of lived experiences in Colombian rural areas on the social forces and social determination of adolescent pregnancy. Methods: Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Data triangulation included young people and other social actors from the Amaime river basin (municipalities of Palmira and El Cerrito in Colombia). Perceptions about the social conditions, specific ways of living, and lifestyles, were analyzed with approximations from phenomenology with the theoretical approach of social determination of health inequities. Results: Living conditions with strong social stigma and demand for social, political, and cultural opportunities were found. Regarding the way of living, an isolated young person is perceived with emotional gaps, sanctioned by the social group, and with little communication and information on sexual education. Regarding lifestyles, there are standardized youth behaviors that affect a person’s life plan and sexuality with precarious gender relations and with various types of violence that limit exercising peacebuilding. Conclusions: This study contributes to a pressing topic in sexual and reproductive health, with a novel approach that generates conclusions that contribute to comprehensively expanding the required interventions.
Production and Statistical Optimization of Paromomycin by Streptomyces rimosus NRRL 2455 in Solid State Fermentation
Authors: El-Housseiny Ghadir S. , Ibrahim Asmaa A , Yassien Mahmoud A , Aboshanab Khaled
Published: November 2020

Background: Paromomycin is a 2 deoxystreptamine aminocyclitol aminoglycoside antibiotic with broad spectrum activity against Gram-negative, Gram-positive bacteria and many protozoa. This study introduces a strategy for paromomycin production through solid-state fermentation using Streptomyces rimosus subsp. paromomycinus NRRL 2455. Solid state fermentation has gained enormous attention in the development of several products because of their numerous advantages over submerged liquid fermentation. After selecting the best solid substrate, a time course study of paromomycin production was carried out followed by optimization of environmental conditions using response surface methodology. Paromomycin yields obtained using this technique were also compared to those obtained using submerged liquid fermentation.Results: Upon screening of 6 different substrates, maximum paromomycin concentration (0.51 mg/g initial dry solids) was obtained with the cost-effective agro-industrial byproduct, corn bran, impregnated with aminoglycoside production media. This value was higher than that obtained using submerged liquid fermentation using the same conditions. Optimization of environmental conditions using D optimal design yielded a 4.3-fold enhancement in paromomycin concentration reaching 2.21 mg/g initial dry solids at a pH of 8.5, inoculum size of 5% v/w and a temperature of 30 °C. Conclusion: Compared to submerged liquid fermentation, solid state fermentation resulted in higher paromomycin concentrations, cost reduction of raw materials, less energy consumption and waste water discharge, which have major implications in industrial fermentation. Therefore, SSF is a superior alternative to SLF for paromomycin production. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the optimized paromomycin production through solid state fermentation process.
Standardizing and Optimizing Acupuncture Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Delphi Expert Consensus Study
Authors: Su Xin-Tong , Wang Li-Qiong , Zhang Na , Li Jin-Ling , Qi Ling-Yu , Wang Yu , Yang Jing-Wen , Shi Guang-Xia , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: November 2020

Background: Acupuncture has been regarded as a potential physical approach for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, there is still no adequate conclusive evidence on its efficacy and optimal therapeutic strategy of acupuncture for IBS. The purpose of this expert consensus study was to put forward some viable recommendations for clinical acupuncture practitioners in treating IBS.Methods: A panel composed of 74 acupuncturists, was convened to participate in a 2-round clinical issue investigation. Subsequently, systematic reviews on acupuncture for IBS were screened using 3 databases. An initial consensus voting list was generated from the results of clinical issue investigation and literature review. Finally, a multi-round Delphi vote was conducted to develop an expert consensus on these specific issues. 30 authoritative experts were required to respond with agreement, neutrality, or disagreement for the items on the consensus voting list. Consensus achievement was identified as the level of agreement on a given item > 80%.Results: Following a 2-round Delphi vote, there were 19 items achieving consensus; of which 5 items (26.32%) achieved complete consensus, and more than 80% expert agreement was reached for the other 14 items. These items can be roughly categorized into 3 major domains of acupuncture for IBS: (1) therapeutic effects, (2) therapeutic principles and protocols, (3) possible adverse events.Conclusions: Without any ready-made guidelines, this preliminary expert consensus could be helpful for acupuncturists in daily clinical practice and patients with IBS to acquire appropriate and standardized acupuncture treatment. In addition, it also points out the clinical issues which need to be further explored in future studies.
Lobectomy for lung cancer with a displaced left B1+2 and an anomalous pulmonary vein: a case report
Authors: Sakamoto Shinichi , Takizawa Hiromitsu , Kawakita Naoya , Tangoku Akira
Published: November 2020

Background: A displaced left B1+2 accompanied by an anomalous pulmonary vein is a rare condition involving complex structures. There is a risk of unexpected injuries to bronchi and blood vessels when patients with such anomalies undergo surgery for lung cancer.Case presentation: A 59-year-old male with suspected lung cancer in the left lower lobe was scheduled to undergo surgery. Chest computed tomography revealed a displaced B1+2 and hyperlobulation between S1+2 and S3, while the interlobar fissure between S1+2 and S6 was completely fused. Three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) revealed an anomalous V1+2 joining the left inferior pulmonary vein and a branch of the V1+2 running between S1+2 and S6. We performed left lower lobectomy via video-assisted thoracic surgery, while taking care with the abovementioned anatomical structures. The strategy employed in this operation was to preserve V1+2 and confirm the locations of B1+2 and B6 when dividing the fissure.Conclusion: The aim of the surgical procedure performed in this case was to divide the fissure between S1+2 and the inferior lobe to reduce the risk of an unexpected bronchial injury. 3D-CT helps surgeons to understand the stereoscopic positional relationships among anatomical structures.
Predictions of daily contagions of CoViD-19 from October 10, 2020 until February 2021 in Italy with a new Epidemiologic FRActal Model plus Expolinear (EpiFRAME) to better frame the pandemic due to the 2B-BetaSarbeco-virus SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Rinzivillo Calogero , Conte Sergio , Casciaro Francesco , Bernardini Renato , Cascio Antonio , Benigni Elena , Monte Ines Paola , Kaleagasioglu Ferda , Wang Fang , Mordeniz Cengiz , Liberti Giuseppe , Spatola Corrado , Conte Elio
Published: November 2020

We study a new fractal model for prediction of contagions of CoViD-19 using experimental data from October 10, 2020 to predict contagions from November until February 2021 in Italy. We obtain that the time of the peak is estimated to be at November 11, 2020 when number of contagions will be about 38489 cases.
A comprehensive multivariate model of biopsychosocial factors associated with opioid misuse and use disorder in a 2017-2018 United States national survey
Authors: Ishino Francisco Alejandro Montiel , McNab Philip R. , Gilreath Tamika , Salmeron Bonita , Williams Faustine
Published: November 2020

Background: Few studies have comprehensively and contextually examined the relationship of variables associated with opioid use. Our purpose was to fill a critical gap in comprehensive risk models of opioid misuse and use disorder in the United States by identifying the most salient predictors.Methods: A multivariate logistic regression was used on the 2017 and 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which included all 50 states and the District of Columbia of the United States. The sample included all noninstitutionalized civilian adults aged 18 and older (N=85,580; weighted N=248,008,986). The outcome of opioid misuse and/or use disorder was based on reported prescription pain reliever and/or heroin use dependence, abuse, or misuse. Biopsychosocial predictors of opioid misuse and use disorder in addition to sociodemographic characteristics and other substance dependence or abuse were examined in our comprehensive model. Biopsychosocial characteristics included socioecological and health indicators. Criminality was the socioecological indicator. Health indicators included self-reported health, private health insurance, psychological distress, and suicidality. Sociodemographic variables included age, sex/gender, race/ethnicity, sexual identity, education, residence, income, and employment status. Substance dependence or abuse included both licit and illicit substances (i.e., nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, inhalants, methamphetamine, tranquilizers, stimulants, sedatives). Results. The comprehensive model found that criminality (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=2.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.98-3.37, p<0.001), self-reported health (i.e., excellent compared to fair/poor [AOR=3.71, 95%CI=2.19-6.29, p<0.001], good [AOR=3.43, 95%CI=2.20-5.34, p<0.001], and very good [AOR=2.75, 95%CI=1.90-3.98, p<0.001]), no private health insurance (AOR=2.12, 95%CI=1.55-2.89, p<0.001), serious psychological distress (AOR=2.12, 95%CI=1.55-2.89, p<0.001), suicidality (AOR=1.58, 95%CI=1.17-2.14, p=0.004), and other substance dependence or abuse were significant predictors of opioid misuse and/or use disorder. Substances associated were nicotine (AOR=3.01, 95%CI=2.30-3.93, p<0.001), alcohol (AOR=1.40, 95%CI=1.02-1.92, p=0.038), marijuana (AOR=2.24, 95%CI=1.40-3.58, p=0.001), cocaine (AOR=3.92, 95%CI=2.14-7.17, p<0.001), methamphetamine (AOR=3.32, 95%CI=1.96-5.64, p<0.001), tranquilizers (AOR=16.72, 95%CI=9.75-28.65, p<0.001), and stimulants (AOR=2.45, 95%CI=1.03-5.87, p=0.044). Conclusions. Biopsychosocial characteristics such as socioecological and health indicators, as well as other substance dependence or abuse were stronger predictors of opioid misuse and use disorder than sociodemographic characteristics.
Improvement of the therapeutic capacity of insulin-producing cells trans-differentiated from human liver cells using engineered cell sheet 
Authors: Lee Yu Na , Yi Hye-Jin , Seo Eun Hye , Oh Jooyun , Lee Song , Ferber Sarah , Okano Teruo , Shim Inkyong , Kim Song Cheol
Published: November 2020

Background: Although pancreatic islet transplantation therapy is ideal for diabetes patients, several hurdles have prevented it from becoming a standard treatment, including donor shortage and low engraftment efficacy. In this study, we prepared insulin-producing cells trans-differentiated from adult human liver cells as a new islet source.Also, cell sheets formation couldimprove differentiation efficiencyand graft survival. Methods: Liver cells were expanded in vitro and trans-differentiated to IPCs using adenovirus vectors carrying human genes for PDX1, NEUROD1 and MAFA. IPCs were seeded on temperature-responsive culture dishes to form cell sheets. Differentiation efficiency were confirmed by ß cell-specific gene expression, insulin production, and immunohistochemistry. IPCs suspension was injected by portal vein (PV), and IPCs sheet was transplanted on the liver surface of the diabetic nude mouse.The therapeutic effect of IPC sheet was evaluated by comparing blood glucose control, weight gain, histological evaluation and hepatotoxicity with IPCs injection group. Also, cell biodistribution was assessed by in vivo/ex vivo fluorescence image tagging.Results: Insulin gene expression and protein production were significantly increased on IPC sheets compared with those in IPCs cultured on conventional culture dishes. Transplanted IPC sheets displayed significantly higher engraftment efficiency and fewer transplanted cells in other organs than injected IPCs, and also lower liver toxicity, improved blood glucose levels, and weight gain. Immunohistochemical analyses of liver tissue revealed positive staining for PDX1 and insulin at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after IPCs transplantation.Conclusions: In conclusion, cell sheet formation enhanced the differentiation function and maturation of IPCsin vitro. Additionally, parameters for clinical application such as distribution, therapeutic efficacy, and toxicity were favorable. The cell sheet technique may be used with IPCs derived from various cell sources in clinical applications.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of Direct Agglutination Test for Serodiagnosis of Human Visceral Leishmaniasis: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis
Authors: Mohebali Mehdi , Keshavarz Hossein , Shirmohammad Sedigheh , Akhoundi Behnaz , Borjian Alireza , Hassanpour Gholamreza , Mamishi Setareh , Mahmoudi Shima
Published: November 2020

Background: Direct agglutination test (DAT) as a simple, accurate and reliable method, has been widely used for serodiagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) during the last three decades. The present study is a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of DAT for serodiagnosis of human VL.Methods: Electronic databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), SCOPUS, Web of Science, SID and Mag Iran (two Persian scientific search engines) were searched from December 2004 to April 2019. We determined the pooled sensitivity and specificity rates of DAT for the diagnosis of human VL, calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves parameters across the eligible studies.Results: Of the 2928 records identified in the mentioned electronic databases and after examining reference lists of articles, 24 articles met inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the systematic review and out of them 20 records qualified for meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity rates of DAT was 96% [95% CI, 92–98] and 98% [95 % CI, 86–99], respectively. The likelihood ratio of a positive test (LR+) was found to be 21 [CI95%, 6.6–66.5] and the likelihood ratio of a negative test (LR−) was found to be 0.04 [(CI95%, 0.02–0.08]. The combined estimate of the diagnostic odds ratio for DAT was high [467 (CI95%, 114-1912]). We found that the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) is positioned near the upper left corner of the curve and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.98 (95% CI, 0.97 to 0.99).Conclusion: Referring to our analysis, we determined that DAT can be considered as a valuable tool for the serodiagnosis of human VL with high sensitivity and specificity. As DAT is a simple, accurate and efficient serological test, it can be recommended for serodiagnosis of human VL particularly in endemic areas.
Exploring Determinants of Hand Hygiene among Hospital nurses: a qualitative study
Authors: Ghaffari Mohtasham , Rakhshanderou Sakineh , Safari-Moradabadi Ali , Barkati Hassan
Published: November 2020

Background: The present research is a qualitative one aiming to determine factors affecting hand-hygiene behavior of the nursing staff in Shariati Hospital of Tehran, Iran. Methods: This was a qualitative study performed using content analysis approach. Considering the aim of the study, 16 in-depth semi-structured interviews were held with the nursing staff of Shariati Hospital of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. A convenient sampling was performed and continued until data saturation and until no new codes and categories were obtained. Data were analyzed through a qualitative content analysis based on the Graham and landsman method. Directed qualitative content analysis was done in order to analyze the data. Results: The results of this study revealed 3 main themes in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) (attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control) and 8 main themes in the outside the framework (environment, perceptions, life style, morality, education, organizational culture, salience and personality). Conclusion: Due to the other factors also found in this study, an integration of theories and models for designing of interventions is recommended to increase adherence to hand hygiene behavior.
Disability-adjusted Life Years for respiratory syncytial virus in children under 2 years
Authors: Villamil Juana Patricia Sanchez , Polack Fernando , buendia jefferson
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND : Respiratory syncytial virus infection is the leading cause of bronchiolitis in Colombia. There is growing evidence about the impact of Respiratory syncytial virus on society in terms of years of life lost due to this condition. The objective of the present study is to determine the Disability-Adjusted Life Years for respiratory syncytial virus in children under 2 years in Colombia
METHODS : Data from the national epidemiological surveillance system were used to estimate DALYs, calculated from the sum of years of life lost and years lived with disability due to RSV infection in Colombia. A bootstrapped method with 10000 iterations was used to estimate each statistical parameter using the package DALY calculator in R.
RESULTS : In 2019, 260 873 years of life (CI95% 208 180- 347 023) were lost due to RSV bronchiolitis in Colombian children under 2 years. The estimated rate was 20 DALYs / 1000 person-year (95% CI 16 – 27).
CONCLUSION : This is the first report estimating the impact of RSV bronchiolitis morbidity and mortality in Colombia. The findings of the present study suggest that the actual burden and cost of bronchiolitis due to RSV is high. Prevention strategies, such as RSV vaccination, to reduce morbidity associated with RSV infection should be encouraged in our country.
Student Nurses’ Knowledge Acquisition on Oral Medication Administration: Comparison of Lecture Demonstration Vs. Video Demonstration
Authors: Sugathapala Ravilal Devananda Udeshika Priyadarshani , Chandrika Mattaka Gamage Ruwini
Published: November 2020

Background Oral Medication administration is one of the paramount nursing procedures, where nurses must pay their utmost commitment. The vital aims are to reduce medication errors and ensure patient safety. The objectives of this study were to evaluate whether the nursing students could learn and retain the basic guidelines for oral medication administration when they are taught using a video-assisted teaching method compared with the lecture-demonstration method and to assess the students' attitudes towards the two types of teaching methods.Methods This study was conducted as a quasi-experimental study with a pre and post-test design. Forty-five students in the first year of the bachelor's degree in nursing programme participated. All the participants completed a self- administered questionnaire, including socio demographic data and questions of oral medication administration. Subsequently, participants were randomly assigned to two groups. Oral medication administration procedure was taught using two different teaching methods. Finally, the post-test knowledge scores of both groups were assessed and analysed using the paired-sample t-test.Results The results revealed that there was no significant difference in terms of age, gender and type of residence of students in the two groups. When comparing the pre-test mean score and post-test mean score using paired sample t-test, there was a statistically significant difference in both video demonstration group (t = -4.533, p < 0.001) and lecture-demonstration group (t = -4.208, p < 0.001). Almost all the students obtained good knowledge scores regardless of the method used in teaching oral medication administration. However, when comparing post-test scores of both groups using an independent sample t-test, it was identified that there was no significant difference between the two groups. Therefore, it was difficult to identify which method was effective than the other. According to the student feedback obtained at the end of the study, 67% of them preferred to have more video demonstrations in their skills classes.Conclusion The results of this study suggested that oral medication administration can be effectively taught using lecture-demonstration and video-demonstration teaching methods.
A Comparison of the Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Circumcised and Uncircumcised Adult Males in Rustenburg, South Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Iyemosolo Blanchard Mbay , Chivese Tawanda , Esterhuizen Tonya Marianne
Published: November 2020

BackgroundSouth Africa has a persistent burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Male circumcision has been shown to be effective in preventing HIV, and STIs but data are scarce on the protective effect of circumcision in high-risk populations such as migrant miners. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of medical and traditional circumcision on the prevalence of STIs after adjusting for other risk factors in Rustenburg, a mining town in North West Province, South Africa.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used baseline data collected from a cohort study. Adult males in a mining town were assessed for STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis) using syndromic assessment. Data on circumcision status and other risk factors for STIs were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Multivariable log binomial regression was used to assess the independent effect of circumcision on STI presence after adjusting for confounders.ResultsA total of 339 participants with a median age of 25 years (IQR 22-29) were included in the study, of whom 116 (34.2%) were circumcised. The overall STIs prevalence was 27.4% (95% CI 22.8% to 32.6%) and was lower in the circumcised participants compared with those who were uncircumcised (15.5% vs 33.6%, respectively, p<0.001). Both medical (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.34-0.95, p = 0.030) and traditional circumcision (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13-0.86, p = 0.022) were strongly associated with a lower risk of STIs after adjustment for employment and condom use. ConclusionIn this high-risk population, with a relatively high prevalence of STIs, and where one third of males are circumcised, both medical and traditional circumcision appear to be protective against STIs.
Passive sensing on mobile devices to improve mental health services with adolescent and young mothers in low-resource settings: the role of families in feasibility and acceptability 
Authors: Maharjan Sujen Man , Poudyal Anubhuti , Heerden Alastair van , Byanjankar Prabin , Thapa Ada , Islam Celia , Kohrt Brandon A , Hagaman Ashley
Published: November 2020

Background: Passive sensor data from mobile devices can shed light on daily activities, social behavior, and maternal-child interactions to improve maternal and child health services including mental healthcare. We assessed feasibility and acceptability of the Sensing Technologies for Maternal Depression Treatment in Low Resource Settings (StandStrong) platform. The StandStrong passive data collection was piloted with adolescent and young mothers, including mothers experiencing postpartum depression, in Nepal.Methods: Mothers (15-25 years old) with infants (<12 months old) were recruited in person from vaccination clinics in rural Nepal. They were provided with an Android smartphone and a Bluetooth beacon to collect data in four domains: the mother’s location using the Global Positioning System (GPS), physical activity using the phone’s accelerometer, auditory environment using episodic audio recording on the phone, and mother-infant proximity measured with the Bluetooth beacon attached to the infant’s clothing. Feasibility and acceptability were evaluated based on the amount of passive sensing data collected compared to the total amount that could be collected in a 2-week period. Endline qualitative interviews (n=31) were conducted to understand mothers’ experiences and perceptions of passive data collection. Results: 782 women were approached and 320 met eligibility criteria. 38 mothers (11 depressed, 27 non-depressed) were enrolled. Of 9,605 possible readings per sensor, 5,579 audio recordings [mean (M)=57.4%; median (Mdn)=62.6%], 5,001 activity readings (M=50.6%; Mdn=63.2%), 4,168 proximity readings (M=41.1%; Mdn=47.6%), and 3,482 GPS readings (M=35.4%; Mdn=39.2%) were obtained. Feasibility challenges were phone battery charging, data usage exceeding pre-paid limits, and burden of carrying mobile phones. Acceptability challenges were privacy concerns and lack of family involvement. Overall, families’ understanding of passive sensing and families’ awareness of potential benefits to mothers and infants were the major modifiable factors to increase acceptability and reduce gaps in data collection. Conclusion: Approximately half of all possible passive data readings were collected. Feasibility challenges can be addressed by providing alternative phone charging options, setting up reverse billing for the app, and exploring smartwatches as a replacement for mobile phones. Enhancing acceptability will require greater family involvement and improved communication regarding benefits of passive sensing for psychological interventions and other health services. Registration: International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/14734
Young women’s autonomy and information needs in the schools-based HPV vaccination programme: A qualitative study
Authors: Fisher Harriet , Evans Karen , Ferrie Jo , Yates Julie , Roderick Marion , Audrey Suzanne
Published: November 2020

Background Until 2019, the English schools-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme was offered to young women (but not young men) aged 12 to 13 years to reduce HPV-related morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to explore the extent to which young women were able to exercise autonomy within the HPV vaccination programme. We consider the perspectives of young women, parents and professionals and how this was influenced by the content and form of information provided.Methods Recruitment was facilitated through a healthcare organisation, schools and community organisations in a local authority in the south-west of England. Researcher observations of HPV vaccination sessions were carried out in three schools. Semi-structured interviews took place with 53 participants (young women, parents of adolescent children, school staff and immunisation nurses) during the 2017/18 and 2018/19 programme years. Interviews were recorded digitally and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was undertaken, assisted by NVivo software.Results Young women’s active participation and independence within the HPV vaccination programme was constrained by the setting of vaccination and the primacy of parental consent procedures. The authoritarian school structure influenced the degree to which young women were able to actively participate in decisions about the HPV vaccination programme. Young women exercised some power, either to avoid or receive the vaccine, by intercepting parental consent forms and procedures. Reliance on leaflets to communicate information led to unmet information needs for young women and their families. Communication may be improved by healthcare professional advocacy, accessible formats of information, and delivery of educational sessions.Conclusions Strategies to improve communication about the HPV vaccine may increase young people’s autonomy in consent procedures, clarify young people’s rights and responsibilities in relation to their health care services, and result in higher uptake of the HPV vaccination programme.Trial registration: ISRCTN 49086105; Date of registration: 12 January 2018; Prospectively registered.
Test–retest reliability and convergent validity of the Test of Nonverbal Intelligence-Fourth Edition in patients with schizophrenia.
Authors: Chen Kuan-Wei , Lee Ya-Chen , Yu Tzu-Ying , Cheng Li-Jung , Chao Chien-Yu , Hsieh Ching-Lin
Published: November 2020

Background: Fluid intelligence deficits affect executive functioning and social behaviors in patients with schizophrenia. To help clinicians manage fluid intelligence deficits, a psychometrically sound measure is needed. The purposes of this study were to examine the test–retest reliability and convergent validity of the Test of Nonverbal Intelligence-Fourth Edition (TONI-4) assessing fluid intelligence in patients with schizophrenia.Methods: A total of 103 patients with stable condition were assessed with the TONI-4 twice with a 4-week interval to examine the test–retest reliability. We further used the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Tablet-Based Symbol Digit Modalities Test (T-SDMT) to examine the convergent validity of the TONI-4.Results: The intra-class correlation coefficient was 0.73 for the TONI-4. The percentages of standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change for the TONI-4 were 5.1% and 14.2%, respectively. The practice effect of the TONI-4 was small (Cohen’s d = -0.03). Convergent validity showed small to moderate significant correlations between the TONI-4 and the MoCA as well as the T-SDMT (r = 0.35, p = .011 with the T-SDMT and r = 0.61, p<.001 with the MoCA). The results demonstrated that the TONI-4 had good test–retest reliability, limited random measurement error, and a trivial practice effect. The convergent validity of the TONI-4 was good.Conclusions: These findings indicate that the TONI-4 has potential to be a reliable and valid assessment of fluid intelligence in patients with schizophrenia.
Molecular epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 clusters caused by asymptomatic cases in Anhui Province, China
Authors: yuan yuan , He Jun , Gong Lei , Li Weiwei , Jiang Liangliang , Liu Jiang , Chen Qingqing , Yu Junling , Hou Sai , Shi Yonglin , Lu Siqi , Zhang Zhuhui , Ge Yinglu , Sa Nan , He Lan , Wu Jiabing , Sun Yong , Liu Zhirong
Published: November 2020

Background: COVID-19 is a newly emerging disease caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which spread globally in early 2020. Asymptomatic carriers of the virus contribute to the propagation of this disease, and the existence of asymptomatic infection has caused widespread fear and concern in the control of this pandemic.Methods: In this study, we investigated the origin and transmission route of SARS-CoV-2 in Anhui’s two clusters, analyzed the role and infectiousness of asymptomatic patients in disease transmission, and characterized the complete spike gene sequences in the Anhui strains.Results: We conducted an epidemiological investigation of two clusters caused by asymptomatic infections sequenced the spike gene of viruses isolated from 12 patients. All cases of the two clusters we investigated had clear contact histories, both from Wuhan, Hubei province. The viruses isolated from two outbreaks in Anhui were found to show a genetically close link to the virus from Wuhan. In addition, new single nucleotide variations were discovered in the spike gene.Conclusions: Both clusters may have resulted from close contact and droplet-spreading and asymptomatic infections were identified as the initial cause. We also analyzed the infectiousness of asymptomatic cases and the challenges to the current epidemic to provided information for the development of control strategies.
RBE-weighted dose conversions for patients with recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma receiving carbon-ion radiotherapy from the local effect model to the microdosimetric kinetic model
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Wang Weiwei , Hu Jiyi , Lu Jiade , Kong Lin
Published: November 2020

Background: We sought to establish a conversion curve to convert the RBE-weighted doses calculated by local effect model I (LEM) (LEM RBE-weighted doses) in patients with locally recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (rNPC) to the RBE-weighted doses calculated by microdosimetric kinetic model (MKM) (MKM RBE-weighted doses). We also converted the LEM dose constraints (RBE-weighted dose constraints in LEM plans) for the brain stem, spinal cord, and optic nerve based on this curve.Methods: Data from 20 patients with rNPC receiving carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT) in our hospital were collected. LEM in Raystation (V8A, Raystation, Sweden) was used to generate treatment plans. The clinical target volume CTV1（GTV+5mm）was given 3 Gy (RBE) per fraction. Ninety-nine percent of target volumes should be covered by 95% of the prescriptions; the maximum doses of the brainstem and spinal cord were < 45 Gy (RBE) and < 30 Gy (RBE), respectively. The doses covering 20% volumes of optical nerves/chiasms D20 were < 30 Gy (RBE). Then physical doses of the LEM plans were recalculated by using MKM in Raystation to generate MKM plans. A series of conversion factors (i.e., the ratio of LEM RBE-weighted dose to MKM RBE-weighted dose) was then obtained by using an isovolumetric dose method. The LEM plan prescriptions (LEM prescription) and dose constraints of the organs at risk (OARs) (OAR constraints) were converted to the corresponding MKM prescriptions and dose constraints using this conversion curve. Results: For the CTV1 fractional RBE-weighted dose prescription of 3.00 Gy (RBE) and CTV2 of 2.70 Gy (RBE) in LEM plans, the conversion factors (LEM RBE-weighted dose/MKM RBE-weighted dose) were 1.37 (CI 95％ 1.35–1.39) and 1.46 (1.41–1.51), respectively. The average conversion factors from 1.37(CI 95％ 1.33–1.41) to 3.09 (2.94–3.24) corresponded to the LEM fractionated doses from 2.86 Gy (RBE) to 0.24 Gy (RBE), including the doses constraining upon OARs. LEM RBE-weighted doses of 30 Gy (RBE) and 45 Gy (RBE) in 21 fractions were converted to MKM RBE-weighted doses of 16.64 Gy (RBE) and 30.72 Gy (RBE) in 16 fractions. Conclusions: This conversion curve could be used to convert LEM RBE-weighted doses to MKM RBE-weighted doses for patients with rNPC receiving CIRT, providing dose references for re-irradiation therapy.
Comparing the Monetary Value of a Quality-Adjusted Life Year from the Payment Card and the Open-ended Format
Authors: Ye Ziping , Liu Fuyao , Ma Jia , Zhou Ziyang , Wang Chen , Sun Lihua
Published: November 2020

Background: The payment card (PC) format and the open-ended (OE) format are common methods in eliciting willing-to-pay (WTP) of one additional quality-adjusted life year (QALY). The aim of this research is to compare these two formats in eliciting the monetary value of a QALY.Methods: A contingent valuation survey was carried out using a pre-designed questionnaire with various hypothetical scenarios. The difference between the PC and the OE formats was evaluated by a two-sample equality test. Furthermore, regression analysis was carried out to control observed heterogeneity and to test theoretical validity.Results: In total, 461 individuals were involved, among whom 235 (51%) answered the PC question, while 226 (49%) answered the OE question. Excluding zero response and 1% top values, the mean WTP values of these two formats vary dramatically, which is 93,424 RMB (SD 117,601) for the PC, 143,347 RMB (SD 209,821) for the OE. Subgroup analysis indicated that the OE format tended to elicit lower values for less serious condition and higher values for more serious condition. Both formats were proved to be theoretically valid, whereas the OE technique was found to have a stronger association with most variables in the regression model than that of the PC format. Moreover, joint estimation indicated a significantly positive effect on the OE results.Conclusions: This research indicated that the PC format and OE format elicited different monetary value of a QALY, but both formats were proved to be theoretically valid. More research about the difference and the validity of various WTP eliciting methods would be recommendedfor a robust estimation of WTP/QALY.
LncRNA IMFlnc1 Promotes Porcine Intramuscular Adipocyte Adipogenesis by Sponging miR-199a-5p to Up-regulate CAV-1
Authors: Wang Jing , Chen Mingyue , Chen Junfeng , Ren Qiaoling , Zhang Jiaqing , Cao Hai , Xing Baosong , Pan Chuanying
Published: November 2020

Background: Local Chinese local pig breeds have thinner muscle fiber and higher intramuscular-fat (IMF) content. But its regulation mechanism has not been discussed in-depth. Studies indicated that long non coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important role in muscle and fat development.Results: The lncRNAs expressional differences in the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle were identified between Huainan pigs (local Chinese pigs, fat-type, HN) and Large White pigs (lean-type, LW) at 38, 58, and 78 days post conception (dpc). In total, 2131 novel lncRNAs were identified in 18 samples, and 291, 305, and 683 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) were found between these two breeds at three stages, respectively. The mRNAs that co-expressed with these DELs were used for GO and KEGG analysis, and the results showed that muscle development and energy metabolism were more active at 58 dpc in HN, but at 78 dpc in LW pigs. Muscle cell differentiation and myofibril assembly might associated with earlier myogenesis and primary-muscle-fiber assembly in HN, and cell proliferation, insulin, and the MAPK pathway might be contribute to longer proliferation and elevated energy metabolism in LW pigs at 78 dpc. The PI3K/Akt and cAMP pathways were associated with higher IMF deposition in HN. Intramuscular fat deposition-associated long noncoding RNA 1 (IMFlnc1) was selected for functional verification, and results indicated that it regulated the expressional level of caveolin-1 (CAV-1) by acting as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge miR-199a-5p.Conclusions: Our data contributed to understanding the role of lncRNAs in porcine-muscle development and IMF deposition, and provided valuable information for improving pig-meat quality.
patRoon: Open source software platform for environmental mass spectrometry based non-target screening
Authors: Helmus Rick , laak Thomas Ter , Wezel Annemarie van , de Voogt Pim , Schymanski Emma
Published: November 2020

Mass spectrometry based non-target analysis is increasingly adopted in environmental sciences to screen and identify numerous chemicals simultaneously in highly complex samples. However, current data processing software either lack functionality for environmental sciences, solve only part of the workflow, are not openly available and/or are restricted in input data formats. In this paper we present patRoon, a new R based open-source software platform, which provides comprehensive, fully tailored and straightforward non-target analysis workflows. This platform makes the use, evaluation and mixing of well-tested algorithms seamless by harmonizing various common (primarily open) software tools under a consistent interface. In addition, patRoon offers various functionality and strategies to simplify and perform automated processing of complex (environmental) data effectively. patRoon implements several effective optimization strategies to significantly reduce computational times. The ability of patRoon to perform time-efficient and automated non-target data annotation of environmental samples is demonstrated with a simple and reproducible workflow using open-access data of spiked samples from a drinking water treatment plant study. In addition, the ability to easily use, combine and evaluate different algorithms was demonstrated for three commonly used feature finding algorithms. This article, combined with already published works, demonstrate that patRoon helps make comprehensive (environmental) non-target analysis readily accessible to a wider community of researchers.