bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE LEVELS OF IL-4 AND IL-8 IN SERUM OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC GASTRITIS AND ULCERATIVE DISEASE OF STOMACH AND DUODENUM
Authors: Belaia Olga Fedorovna , Gutkin D. C , Volchkova E. V , Sundukova A. N , Kareva E. N , Kochina N. A , Krasnoshchok E. V , Maloletneva N. V , Shabalina O. Y , Tuaeva A. O
Published: March 2020

Local inflammation in H. pylori infection is characterized by infiltration of the gastric mucosa by neutrophils and specific lymphocytes, an increase in the production of immunoregulatory, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. IL-4 is the most important regulatory cytokine that plays a role in a huge number of immune and non-immune functions. IL-8 is a potent angiogenic factor and chemoattractant, its presence in the circulation can have a systemic pro-inflammatory effect on the body. IL-4 and IL-8 in H. pylori infection has been studied insufficiently. The goal is to establish serum levels of IL-4 and IL-8 in patients with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer and duodenal ulcer. Materials and methods. 95 patients of the gastroenterological department were examined, of them 37 men and 58 women (mean age 59 years): 53 patients diagnosed with chronic active gastritis (CAG, including erosive gastroduodenitis) and 42 patients diagnosed with peptic ulcer (PU). Patients were conditionally divided into 4 subgroups: PU (without confirming the presence in patients with Hp according to generally accepted methods), PU + Hp (patients with the presence of Hp), CAG and CAG + Hp. Results. An increase in serum IL-4 levels (above 10 pg / ml) was observed in only 50.7% of patients, with approximately the same frequency in patients with CAG and PU, and an increase in serum IL-8 levels (above 0.062 ng / ml) - in most patients (90%), and the highest levels of IL8 were detected in patients with PU + Hp. In the first analysis, 31% of patients had elevated levels of IL-8 in the absence of IL-4, while in the second analysis - already 62% of patients (p ≤ 0.01). This indicated a sharp twofold decrease in the production of IL-4 in just a few days between the two analyzes. Conclusion. Considering that an increase in serum levels of IL-8 is found in a larger number of patients than IL-4, which, moreover, ceases to be detected in serum, it can be assumed that the production and anti-inflammatory effect of IL-4 are insufficient in some patients with gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. Against this background, elevated levels of IL-8 can help maintain inflammation in a significant number of patients, as well as reduce the effectiveness of eradication therapy.
LIVER FLUKES: ALGORITHM OF DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT. ANALYSIS OF CASES AND REVIEW
Authors: Bronstein Alexander M. , Maximova M. S , Fedyanina L. V , Burova S. V , Malyshev N. A , Lashin V. Ya , Sokolova L. V , Davidova I. V
Published: March 2020

The liver flukes Opisthorchis felineus, O. viverrini and Clonorchis sinensis are endemic in Russia, Southeast Asia and Far East where more than 18 million people are estimated to be infected. Opisthorchiasis remains the public health significance in Russia, and Western Siberia must be considered as highly endemic region for opisthorchiasis in the Russian Federation. High infection rates result from hazardous behaviours, centuries-old raw-food culture, a poor knowledge of opisthorchiasis, ecological complexities and complex biology. The infection is associated with several hepatobiliary diseases, including cholangiocarcinoma. Praziquantel is the only option for treatment of Opisthorchiasis . The detection the parasite’s eggs in stool still referred as gold standard. Recent research has provided new diagnostic technologies applicable to diagnosis, treatment and control. Despite some progress in their control, liver flukes continue to be a major public health problem in endemic areas.
INAPPARENT IMMUNIZATION AS A SOCIO-HYGIENIC PROBLEM
Authors: Kolesin Igor D.
Published: March 2020

The study is based on a socio-hygienic assessment of the contribution of inapparent infections to anti-influenza immunization of risk groups. We use data on preventive vaccination against influenza and morbidity rate among vaccinated and unvaccinated in the period of 2010-2011 in the Sverdlovsk region. Based on information about the frequency of registration of inapparent and clinically apparent forms of infection, groups with the largest and the least contribution of the inapparent component were identified. The proportions of the vaccine and inapparent component in the total increase of herd immunity were calculated. The results of the analysis indicate the need for the usage of differentiated approach to the study of inapparent immunization, suggesting a purposive expansion of immunological studies of inapparent forms of infection. The study points that the optimal combination of naturally occurring asymptomatic immunization with vaccination can become an effective strategy for maintaining health.
Évolutions et perspectives de l’élevage des ruminants dans les montagnes françaises
Authors: MARTIN B. , LHERM M. , BÉRANGER C.
Published: March 2020

La marginalisation progressive de l’agriculture de montagne constatée jusque dans les années 1970 a pu être globalement enrayée grâce au dynamisme des acteurs montagnards et aux politiques de soutien mises en place par les pouvoirs publics. Les exemples de réussites locales comme celles des montagnes du Beaufortain ou de l'Aubrac ne doivent cependant pas occulter les fortes disparités qui perdurent au sein et entre les différents massifs montagneux, ni le nécessaire soutien des pouvoirs publics qui ont mis en place depuis 40 ans différentes formes de soutiens spécifiques, ou bénéficiant majoritairement à l’élevage de montagne. A l’heure actuelle, en France, 16% des exploitations et 14% des surfaces agricoles sont situées en zone de montagne. La superficie des exploitations de montagne diffère peu de celles de plaine mais leur potentiel économique est plus faible, en lien avec la forte proportion de surfaces fourragères qui nourrissent respectivement 17, 23 et 48% du cheptel national de vaches laitières, de vaches allaitantes et de brebis. L’analyse des évolutions structurelles et productives des exploitations de montagne révèle une dynamique plutôt positive : la SAU montagnarde s'est relativement bien maintenue par rapport aux risques encourus et le nombre d’exploitations et d’actifs agricoles a diminué moins vite qu’en plaine. A l’heure actuelle, malgré les soutiens publics, le revenu des éleveurs reste nettement plus faible en montagne qu’en plaine et les disparités se sont renforcées récemment. A l’avenir, le renforcement prévu des soutiens publics permettra de combler une partie de ce différentiel, mais la revalorisation des aides ne doit pas masquer que les perspectives de l’élevage de montagne sont liées avant tout aux dynamiques des acteurs locaux qui disposent d’atouts pour réduire les coûts de production et surtout pour valoriser mieux les richesses de leurs terroirs encore insuffisamment exploitées dans certaines zones ; la qualité des produits, de l’environnement, des paysages et de la culture.
Analyse et déterminants de l’évolution des performances d’élevages bovins et ovins allaitants en zones défavorisées de 1990 à 2012
Authors: VEYSSET P. , BENOIT M. , LAIGNEL G. , BÉBIN D. , ROULENC M. , LHERM M.
Published: March 2020

Au cours des vingt dernières années, les réformes de la Politique Agricole Commune (PAC) se sont succédées avec, au départ, des aides attribuées en compensation de la baisse des prix garantis. Un soutien a été accordé aux élevages herbagers et/ou extensifs. Malgré cela, les revenus des exploitations d’élevages allaitants, bovins et ovins, sont restés, en moyenne, parmi les plus faibles de  l’ensemble des exploitations agricoles françaises. Une des réponses à la PAC, mais également aux signaux du marché et aux aléas, a été un accroissement constant de la taille de ces exploitations et de la productivité du travail (de + 45 à + 60% en 20 ans selon les régions), accompagnée d’une simplification des pratiques, pour une quasi-stagnation des revenus par travailleur en euros constants. Ces observations réalisées sur le long terme, à partir des réseaux ovins et bovins allaitants de l’INRA de Clermont-Theix, amènent à se poser des questions sur les notions d’économie d’échelle, sur l’efficacité des systèmes de production et sur les évolutions futures des structures de ces exploitations.
Changements et innovations dans les systèmes d’élevage en Afrique
Authors: VALL E. , SALGADO P. , CORNIAUX C. , BLANCHARD M. , DUTILLY C. , ALARY V.
Published: March 2020

En Afrique, les productions animales font face à une évolution importante de la demande et sont en proie à de multiples changements. Les systèmes d’élevage du futur devront être à la fois plus productifs et respectueux de l’environnement et pour cela les éleveurs devront innover. Aujourd’hui les systèmes agro-pastoraux deviennent majoritaires, le pastoralisme se maintient notamment dans les zones arides, et les élevages périurbains et spécialisés prennent de l’importance. Les changements locaux et globaux survenus au cours des 50 dernières années créent davantage de contraintes mais offrent de nouvelles opportunités. Des innovations sont à l’oeuvre. En zone pastorale, elles concernent principalement la gestion des ressources et la mobilité du bétail, en zone agro-pastorale la diversification et l’intégration agriculture-élevage, en zone périurbaine la spécialisation et l’intensification de la production. Difficiles à déceler, lentes et progressives, les innovations favorisent la maîtrise du changement et doivent être encouragées et stimulées pour répondre aux enjeux de l’élevage. Les perspectives offertes par les réalités actuelles de l’élevage africain (faible productivité et progression rapide de la demande) devraient lui assurer un marché et des marges de progression significatives. Toutefois, ceci ne pourra se réaliser que moyennant la poursuite des réformes institutionnelles, une implication directe des organisations de producteurs, des termes du marché plus sécurisés et l’amélioration de l’appui technique.
Des animaux plus robustes : un enjeu majeur pour le développement durable des productions animales nécessitant l’essor du phénotypage fin et à haut débit
Authors: PHOCAS F. , BOBE J. , BODIN L. , CHARLEY B. , DOURMAD J.Y. , FRIGGENS N.C. , Hocquette J.F. , LE BAIL P.Y. , LE BIHAN-DUVAL E. , MORMÈDE P. , QUÉRÉ P. , SCHELCHER F.
Published: March 2020

L’enjeu majeur du phénotypage animal est d’acquérir une connaissance systémique de la robustesse des animaux d’élevage pour répondre au mieux à une double finalité en termes d’exploitation de la variabilité des aptitudes animales : une sélection éclairée vers des objectifs majeurs pour améliorer l’efficience et la robustesse des génotypes, et un élevage de précision exploitant la variabilité individuelle des animaux pour gagner en résilience à l’échelle du troupeau, ou pour améliorer la conduite à génotype donné. Deux défis majeurs de connaissance, interdépendants et communs à toutes les filières animales, sont à relever pour améliorer la robustesse des animaux : i) comprendre et prédire les compromis entre fonctions vitales, c’est-à-dire les changements de priorités dans l’allocation de ressources limitées ; ii) comprendre et exploiter les aspects temporels de la robustesse au cours de la vie de l’animal pour lui permettre de maintenir son niveau de production dans une large gamme d’environnements sans pour autant compromettre sa reproduction, sa santé et son bien-être. Atteindre ces objectifs nécessite de lever les verrous techniques suivants : i) définir des phénotypes complexes à partir de l’intégration de données obtenues à différentes échelles moléculaires, tissulaires, de l’animal ou d’une de ses fonctions ; ii) mettre en oeuvre des technologies à haut débit pour caractériser à moindre coût et le plus précisément possible le plus grand nombre d’animaux ; iii) développer d’importantes bases de données, des méthodes et outils informatiques performants, nécessaires aux traitements des informations à des fins de modélisation et de biologie prédictive.
Intégrer la caractérisation du microbiote digestif dans le phénotypage de l’animal de rente : vers un nouvel outil de maîtrise de la santé en élevage ?
Authors: CALENGE F. , MARTIN C. , LE FLOCH N. , PHOCAS F. , MORGAVI D. , ROGEL-GAILLARD C. , QUÉRÉ P.
Published: March 2020

Le microbiote digestif est un symbionte dont on a démontré l’implication essentielle dans la régulation de la physiologie de l’hôte qui l’héberge pour la digestion, le métabolisme et l’immunité. Ce microbiote a en particulier un rôle majeur, et jusqu’ici sous-estimé, sur la santé de son hôte et participe à son adaptabilité à des environnements changeants. Les technologies de séquençage à haut débit devraient faciliter l’inclusion de cet écosystème complexe dans le phénotypage des animaux d’élevage. Il faut pour ce faire prendre en compte sa composition, sa diversité, sa stabilité au cours du temps et ses variations selon différents facteurs comme le génotype de l’hôte, l’alimentation et les conditions d’élevage. Ces connaissances devraient permettre de définir les propriétés d’un microbiote digestif « normal » associé à une bonne santé, d’en préciser les dysfonctionnements et de comprendre leurs répercussions sur l’état de santé de l’animal. Cela conduira à identifier des marqueurs de diagnostic et de pronostic de ces dysfonctionnements, fournissant des moyens de contrôle nouveaux de la santé en élevage, appréhendée en terme d’optimisation des rendements de production, de résistance aux maladies et de maintien du bien-être. A terme, le contrôle du microbiote digestif par l’alimentation, la génétique ou les pratiques d’élevage permettra de favoriser l’adaptation des animaux à leur environnement d’élevage en améliorant leur robustesse, de limiter l’utilisation d’antibiotiques et de préserver la sécurité sanitaire des aliments en évitant le développement de bactéries pathogènes pour l’Homme. L’ampleur des données à générer et à analyser pour les différentes espèces d’intérêt reste le défi à relever.
Evaluation de l’efficience énergétique fossile des systèmes d’élevage en Afrique de l’Ouest : adaptations et perspectives méthodologiques
Authors: VIGNE M. , BENAGABOU I. , FAVERDIN P. , COULIBALY D. , BA A. , VALL E. , KANWE A. , BLANCHARD M.
Published: March 2020

Face au double défi du secteur de l’élevage qui devra répondre à l’augmentation future de la demande en protéines animales tout en réduisant ses impacts environnementaux, l’analyse énergétique fossile apparaît comme une méthode d’évaluation pertinente. Elle permet de fournir à la fois des références sur les consommations et l’efficience d’utilisation de l’énergie fossile, mais également sur les voies d’intensification écologique de ces systèmes. Son application dans le cadre de deux précédentes études à des systèmes d’élevage en Afrique de l’Ouest a nécessité des améliorations méthodologiques. Celles-ci ont concerné la prise en compte de la mobilité des troupeaux, l’analyse à l’échelle du troupeau afin de produire des comparaisons pertinentes entre systèmes, l’affectation d’un coût en énergie fossile au travail humain et animal et l’ouverture du panel des productions aux effluents et à la traction animale produite. D’autres perspectives d’amélioration, liées notamment à l’étude d’autres systèmes d’élevage et de nouveaux territoires, sont également proposées.
Table des matières
Authors: BERAUD P.
Published: March 2020

Tables des matières de l'année 2014
On Approximation Methods in Some Geodesic Spaces without the Nice Projection Property
Authors: Yotkaew Pongsakorn
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this paper is to prove strong convergent theorems for Browder's type iterations and Halpern's type iterations of a family of nonexpansive mappings in a complete geodesic space with curvature bounded above by a positive number. Moudafi's viscosity type methods are also discussed without the nice projection property.
Network Bioinformatics Analysis Provides Insight into Drug Repurposing for COVID-2019
Authors: Li Xu , Yu Jinchao , Zhang Zhiming , Ren Jing , Peluffo Alex E. , Zhang Wen , Zhao Yujie , Yan Kaijing , Cohen Daniel , Wang Wenjia
Published: March 2020

The COVID-2019 disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (aka 2019-nCoV) has raised significant health concerns in China and worldwide. While novel drug discovery and vaccine studies are long, repurposing old drugs against the COVID-2019 epidemic can help identify treatments, with known preclinical, pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and toxicity profiles, which can rapidly enter Phase 3 or 4 or can be used directly in clinical settings. In this study, we presented a novel network based drug repurposing platform to identify potential drugs for the treatment of COVID-2019. We first analysed the genome sequence of SARS-CoV-2 and identified SARS as the closest disease, based on genome similarity between both causal viruses, followed by MERS and other human coronavirus diseases. Using our AutoSeed pipeline (text mining and database searches), we obtained 34 COVID-2019-related genes. Taking those genes as seeds, we automatically built a molecular network for which our module detection and drug prioritization algorithms identified 24 disease-related human pathways, five modules and finally suggested 78 drugs to repurpose. Following manual filtering based on clinical knowledge, we re-prioritized 30 potential repurposable drugs against COVID-2019 (including pseudoephedrine, andrographolide, chloroquine, abacavir, and thalidomide) . We hope that this data can provide critical insights into SARS-CoV-2 biology and help design rapid clinical trials of treatments against COVID-2019.
PEREMPUAN, RESILIENSI DAN LINGKUNGAN (Studi Pada Ibu Yang Memiliki Anak Retardasi Mental)
Authors: Suminta Rini Risnawita
Published: March 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberi gambaran tentang resiliensi ibu yang memiliki anak retardasi mental. Metode penelitian ini adalah kualitatif eksploratif dengan menggunakan tiga orang subjek ibu berusia 30-45 tahun yang memiliki anak retardasi mental. Penentuan subjek menggunakan teknik purposif sampel.  Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah dengan tehnik wawancara, observasi, catatan lapangan dan dokumen-dokumen pribadi. Penelitian dianalisis dengan menggunakan analisis isi (content analysis). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa resiliensi ibu yang memiliki anak retardasi mental dilakukan  dengan menerima kondisi anak secara ikhlas, dan mengakui akan kekurangan anak. Ibu yang memiliki anak retardasi mental tetap mensyukuri anak sebagai anugrah dari Tuhan, tetap menyayangi anak tanpa rasa malu, berempati, dan terus berusaha mendidik anak. Selain itu, ibu yang  memiliki anak retardasi mental membuat dirinya  menjadi lebih sabar, pasrah dan selalu menjadi orang yang mau memperbaiki diri.
Migrating Mennonites: Understanding the Impacts of Anabaptist Farmers on Local Food in Northern Ontario
Authors: Sara Epp
Published: March 2020

As the cost of farmland in southern Ontario continues to increase, many farmers are seeking alternate locations suitable for agriculture. Northern Ontario, with an abundance of productive, less expansive land, has proven to be an opportune location for many farmers. In particular, over the past fifteen years, a significant movement of Amish and Old Order Mennonite farmers to northern Ontario has occurred. These farmers have increased access to local food, broadened the productive spectrum of crops and improved food sovereignty for many communities. Their impact on local communities has been significant, as has their impact on the broader farm community. Utilizing traditional farming practices, the Anabaptist community has significantly broadened the productive potential of northern farms, producing fruits and vegetables previously not grown locally. The potential to expand agriculture in northern Ontario is apparent and food sovereignty and security may be improved with the growth of this industry. As the potential movement of more Anabaptist farmers to northern Ontario is likely, it is important to understand their motivations to farm in the north and the challenges they incurred during and after this move. As part of this, this presentation will identify the impacts of Anabaptist farmers on both the production and consumption of local food in northern Ontario. Additionally, challenges regarding the expansion of agriculture in the north for Anabaptist farmers will be identified and opportunities to apply these lessons to the overall agricultural industry will be provided.
127- I levels in Ontario Bulk Tank Milk and its Association with Groundwater, Milking Management, and Other Risk Factors
Authors: Courtney Rogerson
Published: March 2020

The objectives of the present study were to determine the iodine concentration in milk sampled from 80 commercial dairy farms located in eastern (n=58) and southwestern (n=22) Ontario, and to identify if the iodide content of groundwater consumed by the lactating herd, along with other factors, are associated with higher bulk milk iodine (BMI). A bilingual questionnaire addressing water consumption, nutrition, milking management practices, and well characteristics was completed by each producer. The 127I concentration in milk and groundwater samples was established using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Potential predictor variables were screened for univariable significance (p0.05), and a general linear regression model was fitted to assess associations between BMI and explanatory variables such as 127I in water, well depth and age, water treatment, the use of iodine-based pre or post-dips, application strategies and post-dip coverage goal. Results of the data analysis suggest that there is a strong positive correlation between the iodide content of groundwater and BMI levels (p0.001). Post-milking practices including the use of an iodine-based teat disinfectant, the application strategies of a post-milking teat disinfectant and overall coverage goal of the solution on teats were also significantly (p0.05) associated with increased BMI levels. These results suggest a significant association exists between BMI levels in relation to post-milking management practices and the iodine content in groundwater consumed by the lactating herd. Post-milking practices and drinking water containing excessive levels of iodine should be monitored frequently and where needed mitigation strategies implemented to prevent high BMI levels on farm.
Mathematical Model of an Open Area of Space Sensor
Authors: Jezhora A. A. , Zavatski Y. A. , Kovalenko A. V. , Naumenko A. M.
Published: March 2020

For the effective use of dielectric sensors, optimization of the design parameters of the sensors, such as the depth of penetration of the electromagnetic fi and the magnitude of the sensor signal, is of great importance. The purpose of the work was to build a mathematical model of a sensor with an open area of space and calculate its parameters.Results of main parameters calculations of the open space sensor are presented. Methods of integral equations and mirror images are used for numerical 2D modeling. The surface of each electrode was considered as two parallel lamellae. This approach simplifi the procedure for numerically solving a two-dimensional problem. It allows you to calculate the electric fi of fl layered media with less time, using less powerful computers. The numerical calculation program is implemented in MAPLE.The program adequacy was checked for a sensor made on one-sided foil Tefl (ε1 = 2,3) with a thickness of b = 1.0 mm. The electric fi was calculated for the sensor in a three-layer medium. The calculated picture of the fi showed that the distribution of force lines is not uniform. It was found that the depth of the control zone does not depend on the metallization of the sensor surface. The depth of the control zone for an open-type sensor is in the same range as the depth of the control zone for fl overhead measuring capacitorsan analog of fringing electric fi d (FEF) sensors.
Adapting a nurse-led primary care initiative to cardiovascular disease control in Ghana: A qualitative study
Authors: Haykin Leah A. , Francke Jordan A. , Abapali Aurelia , Yakubu Elliasu , Dambayi Edith , Jackson Elizabeth , Aborigo Raymond , Awuni Denis , Nonterah Engelbert A. , Oduro Abraham R. , Bawah Ayaga A , Phillips James F. , Heller David J
Published: March 2020

Background : Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is a growing cause of morbidity and mortality in Ghana, where rural primary health care is provided mainly by the Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) initiative. CHPS locates nurses in community-level clinics for basic curative and preventive health services and provides home and outreach services. But CHPS currently lacks capacity to screen for or treat CVD and its risk factors. Methods : In two rural districts, we conducted in-depth interviews with 21 nurses and 10 nurse supervisors to identify factors constraining or facilitating CVD screening and treatment. Audio recordings were transcribed, coded for content, and analyzed for key themes. Results : Respondents emphasized three themes: community demand for CVD care; community access to CVD care; and provider capacity to render CVD care. Nurses and supervisors noted that community members were often unaware of CVD, despite high reported prevalence of risk factors. Community members were unable to travel for care or afford treatment once diagnosed. Nurses lacked relevant training and medications for treating conditions such as hypertension. Respondents recognized the importance of CVD care, expressed interest in acquiring further training, and emphasized the need to improve ancillary support for primary care operations. Conclusions : CHPS staff expressed multiple constraints to CVD care, but also cited actions to address them: CVD-focused training, provision of essential equipment and pharmaceuticals, community education campaigns, and referral and outreach transportation equipment. Results attest to the need for trial of these interventions to assess their impact on CVD risk factors such as hypertension, depression, and alcohol abuse.
Loss of FANCD2 and related proteins may predict malignant transformation in oral epithelial dysplasia
Authors: Ho Michael W , Ryan Mark , Gupta Juhi , Triantafyllou Asterios , Risk Janet , Shaw Richard , Wilson James
Published: March 2020

Background: Predicting malignant transformation in oral epithelial dysplasia(OED) is a clinical challenge. The higher rate of malignant transformation in non-smokers supports an endogenous aetiology. Loss of FANCD2 and associated proteins could lead to genomic instability and oncogenesis.
Patients & Methods: Longitudinal archival samples from 40 individuals with OED from time of diagnosis to the most recent review in 23 stable OED; or until excision of the SCC in 17 unstable OED undergoing malignant transformation. Histopathological reassessment, immunohistochemistry for FANCD2 and Western blotting for phosphorylation/monubiquitination status of ATR, CHK1, FANCD2 and FANCG were undertaken on each tissue sample.
Results: Decreased expression of FANCD2 was observed in the diagnostic biopsy of OED lesions which later underwent malignant transformation. Combining the FANCD2 expression scores with histological grading more accurately predicted malignant transformation (p=0.005) than histology alone and correctly predicted malignant transformation in 10/17 initial biopsies. Significantly reduced expression of total FANCD2, pFANCD2, pATR, pCHK-1 and pFANCG were observed in unstable OED.
Discussion: There is good evidence that defects in the DNA damage sensing-signalling-repair cascade are associated with malignant transformation in OED. Loss of post-translational modification in FANCD2 and related proteins, was more predictive of malignant transformation when compared to clinicopathological parameters.
Neck Lymph Node Metastasis Detection in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC) in Long-Term Follow-up: a ¹³¹I-SPECT/CT Study
Authors: Spanu Angela , Nuvoli Susanna , Marongiu Andrea , Gelo Ilaria , Mele Luciana , Piras Bastiana , Madeddu Giuseppe
Published: March 2020

Background: The identification of neck lymph node (LN) metastases represents a very important issue in the management of patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). To this purpose, in the present study, we used 131I-SPECT/CT as a diagnostic imaging procedure.
Methods: A consecutive series of 224 DTC patients with ascertained neck radioiodine-avid foci at ¹³¹I-SPECT/CT during long-term follow-up was evaluated. All patients had already undergone total thyroidectomy and radioiodine therapy and had been classified as follows: 62 at high risk (H), 64 at low risk (L) and 98 at very low risk (VL). ¹³¹I-Whole body scan (WBS) followed by SPECT/CT was performed in all cases.
Results: In the 224 patients, 449 neck iodine avid foci were ascertained at SPECT/CT, while 322 were evidenced at WBS in 165/224 patients. WBS classified as residues 263/322 foci and as unclear 59/322 foci; among the former foci SPECT/CT correctly characterized 8 LN metastases and 3 physiologic uptakes and among the latter, it pinpointed 26 LN metastases, 18 residues, and 15 physiologic uptakes. SPECT/CT also classified 127 foci occult at WBS as 59 LN metastases and 68 residues. Globally, SPECT/CT identified 93 LN metastases in 59 patients (26 H, 20 L, 13 VL), while WBS evidenced 34 in 25 cases. All 13 VL patients, T1aN0M0, 5 of whom with LN near sub-mandibular glands, had thyroglobulin undetectable or <2.5 ng/ml. Globally, SPECT/CT obtained an incremental value than WBS in 45.5 % of patients, a more correct patient classification changing therapeutic approach in 30.3 % of cases and identified WBS false-positive findings in 8% of cases.
Conclusions: ¹³¹I-SPECT/CT proved to correctly detect and characterize neck LN metastases in DTC patients in long-term follow-up, improving the performance of planar WBS. SPECT/CT routine use is thus suggested; its role is particularly relevant in patients with WBS inconclusive, VL, T1aN0M0 and with undetectable or very low thyroglobulin levels.

Keywords: Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), Neck lymph node metastases, Long-term follow-up, 131I-Whole body scan (WBS), 131I-SPECT/CT
Gingivitis Efficacy of a 0.454% w/w Stannous Fluoride Dentifrice: A 24-week randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Parkinson Charles Richard , MILLEMAN Kimberly R , MILLEMAN Jeffery L
Published: March 2020

Background: Plaque-induced gingivitis can be prevented and treated with regular effective oral hygiene, principally via mechanical cleaning with regular toothbrushing. To complement the mechanical plaque removal, antimicrobial ingredients can be incorporated into dentifrices to inhibit the growth of plaque. This study aimed to evaluate and compare gingivitis and the proportion of subjects moving between gingivitis severity (<10%, >10%<30%, >30% bleeding sites), and plaque reduction, following twice daily use of an experimental non-aqueous 0.454% weight/weight (w/w) stannous fluoride (SnF2) dentifrice, compared to a negative control dentifrice over 12 and 24 weeks.
Method: This was a single-center, examiner-blinded, randomized, stratified, two-treatment arm, parallel group, 24-week clinical study in healthy adult volunteers with moderate gingivitis. At baseline, after abstaining from toothbrushing overnight, subjects underwent MGI (modified gingival index), BI (bleeding index) and PI (plaque index) assessments. Eligible subjects, who met the inclusion/exclusion criteria, were stratified based on gender and baseline mean MGI score (Low ≤2.00 /High >2.00) and randomized to treatment. Following randomization, subjects underwent a thorough dental prophylaxis and flossing. After 12 and 24 weeks of twice daily brushing with their allocated treatment, subjects returned to the site (with overnight plaque, having abstained from oral hygiene procedures for 8 hrs prior to visit) for MGI, BI and PI assessments. Treatment effect was evaluated by comparing the MGI, BI and PI scores.
Results: One hundred and twenty-nine subjects were screened; 98 subjects were randomized and 90 subjects completed the study. Statistically significant differences between treatments, in favour of the 0.454% stannous fluoride dentifrice were observed, compared to the negative control dentifrice, for all outcome measures (MGI, BI, bleeding sites and PI at weeks 12 and 24 p<0.0001). At 24 weeks, 71% of subjects in the 0.453% SnF2 treatment group demonstrated <10% bleeding sites.
Conclusion: A dentifrice containing 0.454% w/w SnF2 was shown to be superior to a standard dentifrice in controlling gingivitis and supra-gingival plaque, over a 24-week period. Over two thirds of subjects in the 0.454% SnF2 treatment group demonstrated a level of bleeding sites potentially representative of “clinical periodontal health” (<10%) following a dental prophylaxis and 24 weeks of product use.
Did the extended coverage policy contribute to alleviating socioeconomic inequality in untreated dental caries of both children and adolescents in South Korea?
Authors: Shin Bo-Mi , Jung Se-Hwang , Kim Myong-Hee , Ryu Jae-In
Published: March 2020

Background Dental sealants have been covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) since December 2009 in South Korea. This study aims to determine whether the socioeconomic inequality in untreated dental caries decreased after implementing the extended coverage policy for dental sealant.

Methods The data were derived from the fourth (2007–2009) and sixth (2013–2015) waves of the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) conducted by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). Dental caries and sealant experience by income quartiles were tested using the Rao-Scott chi-squared test. In order to examine socioeconomic inequalities and their trends over time, the prevalence ratios (PRs), slope index of inequality (SII), and relative index of inequality (RII) were estimated for each wave and age group. All analyses were conducted using SAS version 9.3.

Results The adjusted PRs of untreated dental caries and sealants in the poorest in the aged 6-11 group were significantly higher and lower, respectively, compared to the most affluent quartile group for the fourth wave; however, all significant differences disappeared for the sixth wave, after the sealant coverage. The gap between the lowest and the highest was similar for the aged 12-18 group but it widened in the untreated dental caries even after the sealant coverage. The statistical significance of the PRs was maintained at the sixth wave for both caries and sealants. Children showed decreases in both SII and RII over time so its significance disappeared. The SII among adolescents decreased over time but the RII of untreated dental caries increased.

Conclusions This study found that the NHIS coverage expansion of dental care had a positive effect on overall status in dental health among children and adolescents. However, younger children benefited more in terms of inequalities. Our findings indicate that strategies to enhance access to preventive dental services should consider the differential effects for the vulnerable population in terms of socioeconomic status and age from the beginning stage of the policy. The extended coverage policy should continue, focusing on the underprivileged and young children population.
Evaluation of personal protection afforded by repellent-treated sandals against mosquito bites in south-eastern Tanzania.
Authors: Sangoro Peter Onyango , Gavana Tegemeo , Finda Marceline , Mponzi Winfrida , Hape Emmanuel , Limwagu Alex , Govella Nicodem J. , Chaki Prosper , Okumu Fredros O.
Published: March 2020

Background Outdoor and early evening mosquito biting needs to be addressed if malaria elimination is to be achieved. While indoor-targeted interventions such as insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying remain essential, complementary approaches that tackle persisting outdoor transmission are urgently required to maximize the impact. Major malaria vectors principally bite human hosts around the feet and ankles. Consequently, this study investigated whether sandals treated with efficacious spatial repellents can protect against outdoor biting mosquitoes. Methodology Sandals affixed with hessian bands measuring 48cm 2 treated with 6 ml, 10 ml and 12 ml of transfluthrin were tested in large cage semi-field and full field experiments. Sandals affixed with hessian bands measuring 240cm 2 and treated with 10 ml and 12ml of transfluthrin were also tested semi field experiments. Human landing catches (HLC) were used to assess reduction in biting exposure by comparing proportions of mosquitoes landing on volunteers wearing treated and untreated sandals. Sandals were tested against insectary reared Anopheles arabiensis mosquitoes in semi-field experiments and against wild mosquito species in rural Tanzania. Results In semi-field tests, sandals fitted with hessian bands measuring 48cm 2 and treated with 12 ml, 10ml and 6ml transfluthrin reduced mosquito landings by 45.9%, (95% confidence interval (C.I.) = 28–59%), 61.1% (48%–71%), and 25.9% (9% - 40%) respectively compared to untreated sandals. Sandals fitted with hessian bands measuring 240cm 2 and treated with 12 ml and 10ml transfluthrin reduced mosquito landings by 59% (43 - 71%) and 64% (48 - 74%) respectively. In field experiments, sandals fitted with hessian bands measuring 48cm 2 and treated with 12 ml transfluthrin reduced mosquito landings by 70% (60% - 76%) against Anopheles gambiae s.l and 66.0% (59% - 71%) against all mosquito species combined. Conclusion Transfluthrin-treated sandals conferred significant protection against mosquito bites in semi-field and field settings. Further evaluation is recommended for this tool as a potential complimentary intervention against malaria. This intervention could be particularly useful for protecting against outdoor exposure to mosquito bites. Additional studies are necessary to optimize treatment techniques and substrates, establish safety profiles and determine epidemiological impact in different settings.
Prevalence of violence and associated factors among Youth in Northwest Ethiopia: Community-based Cross-sectional study.
Authors: Geremew Alehegn Bishaw , Gelagay Abebaw Addis , Bisetegn Telake Azale , Habitu Yohannes Ayanaw , Abebe Solomon Mekonen , Biru Eshetie Melese , Mekonen Temiro Azanaw , Ayele Yilikal Tiruneh , Yeshita Hedija Yenus
Published: March 2020

Background Violence as a known serious public health problem affects people in all stages of life, from childhood to the elderly. In society, one of the most visible forms of violence is young people violence, whereas they, adolescents and young adults, are the main victims of such violence. There was limited information on the burden of violence and factors among this age group. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of violence and its associated factors among youth in Northwest, Ethiopia.Methods A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted to estimate the magnitude of violence among youth in Northwest, Ethiopia. The calculated sample size was 1765. A structured and pretested interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. A multi-stage cluster sampling technique was employed to get the study participants. Data were entered using Epi Info version 7 and then exported to STATA 14 for data analysis. The bivariate logistic regression model was employed to identify associated factors. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to determine factors associated with violence. Results From the total 1765 representatives of the youth population, 1597 (90.5%) youth participated in the study. Overall, the prevalence of violence among youth aged 15–24 years for the last 12 months was 21.5%. In the multivariate logistic regression model, factors significantly associated with violence were being married and divorced (AOR= 1.77, 95% CI: 1.13, 2.79) and (AOR=5.67, 95%CI: 2.93, 10.99), respectively, Living with mother’s only (AOR= 1.85, 95% CI: 1.28, 2.66) and father’s only (AOR=2.45, 95% CI: 1.30, 4.63), and substance use (AOR= 2.38, 95% CI: 1.56, 3.66).Conclusions The prevalence of violence among youth was high compared to other studies. Special emphasis should be given to reduce the burden of youth violence and preventing and controlling the identified factors by modifying the existing policies/strategies or developing new strategies and interventions program. Keywords: Violence, Youth, Physical violence, Sexual violence, Psychological violence
Factors associated with changing behaviour for arboviruses prevention: evidence from a quasi-experimental intervention study using mobile devices.
Authors: Santos Silvana , Smania-Marques Roberta , Albino Victor Alves , Fernandes Izabelly Dutra , Mangueira Francisco Fernandes Abel , Olinda Ricardo , Bond Carol S , Matheson David , Traxler John
Published: March 2020

Background: Dengue was reintroduced in Brazil in the 80’s. Since 2010, it is estimated that there have been over a million cases of dengue per year, leading to hundreds of deaths. Community health education is one of the main objectives of vector control policies.Objective: Here we compare perceptions and behaviours before and after an educational intervention based on behavioural change theories (BCT) of a group of Endemic Disease Control Agents (ACEs) with a group of college students of Campina Grande city, Paraiba state, Brazil.Methods: Using a distance-learning platform adapted for mobile devices, the intervention consisted of tasks or missions that were presented through short videos with people performing the desired target behaviour. To demonstrate the accomplishment of the tasks, participants produced videos and shared on social networks. A questionnaire was completed before and after the intervention by 58 participants, 31 students and 27 ACEs. Results: Most of the participants were female (83.9% and 72.2% of college students and ACEs, respectively); 27.8% of ACEs attended higher education and 70.4% were married contrasting with 9.8% of the students. Among college students, a significant difference in the chi-square test was found for all ten-target behaviours after the intervention. ANOVA analysis showed that ACEs have a higher perception of susceptibility and more fear of acquiring arboviruses than students do; and there was a correlation between facilitating behaviours with behaviour change. Conclusion: Intervention based on BCT thus contributed to bring students' behaviour patterns closer to those of ACEs.
Time to Prostate-Specific Antigen Nadir After Radical Prostatectomy – a new potential predictive prognostic parameter and its impact on clinical outcomes
Authors: Tran Minh Dac , Moretti Kim L , O'Callaghan Michael E
Published: March 2020

BackgroundTo investigate and validate previously published associations between time to prostate-specific antigen nadir and the time-to-nadir after radical prostatectomy with biochemical recurrence and to extend this analysis to overall survival and prostate cancer-specific mortality risk. MethodsThis is a retrospective analysis of 1796 men from the South Australian Prostate Cancer Clinical Outcomes Collaborative database treated with radical prostatectomy between 1998-2018 with available prostate-specific antigen nadir data within 1-6 months after surgery. Uni- and multivariable analyses of prostate-specific antigen nadir, time-to-nadir, biochemical recurrence and death were performed with Cox and competing risks models (adjusted for age, surgery year, tumour features and preoperative prostate-specific antigen).ResultsThe univariable analysis demonstrated those with shorter time-to-nadir <3 months had a decreased risk of biochemical recurrence (log-rank, p=0.0098) compared to those with longer time-to-nadir 3-6 months. For men with a time-to-nadir <3 months, a Log-rank test showed a decreased risk of prostate cancer-specific mortality (p=0.026) compared to time-to-nadir 3-6 months, without a difference in overall survival. Multivariable competing risk analyses indicated that biochemical recurrence was more likely when time-to-nadir was 3-6 months compared to <3 months (sHR=1.43, CI 1.01-2.02, p=0.04).ConclusionsAmong men undergoing radical prostatectomy, a shorter post-operative time-to-nadir <3 months is associated with decreased risk of biochemical recurrence compared to time-to-nadir 3-6 months. Following adjustment for confounders and competing risks, there was no significant difference in time-to-nadir for mortality outcomes.
Diabetic acute ischaemic stroke patients have an increase in glycemic variations assessed by continuous glucose monitoring: a multi-center, observational study
Authors: Xu Han-rong , Wu Zheng-gang , Li Feng-fei , Lu Guo , Gong Xiao-qian , Guan Xue-neng
Published: March 2020

Background One-third of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) occurs in patients with an abnormal glucose metabolism, but little is known the differences in glycemic variations (GV) between stroke patients with and without abnormal glucose metabolism. The objective of this study was to observe the differences in GV between AIS patients with T2D and without T2D using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Methods This was a multi-center, prospective, observational study performed between March 2018 and September 2018 in 5 hospitals in China. After admission, all recruited patients were subjected to a consecutive 4-day CGM. At the endpoint, patients were divided into two groups according to the T2D status. The primary outcome was the differences in GV between AIS patients with and without T2D. Results A total of 149 patients (63 patients with T2D and 86 patients without T2D) were recruited into this study. AIS patients with T2D had a significant increase in the standard deviation of mean glucose, the mean amplitude glycemic excursions, the mean lowest glucose, the incremental area over the curve of hypoglycemia, the percentage of time spent in hypoglycemia, and the time in target range compared to those AIS patients without T2D (p<0.05 for all). Conclusions Our data demonstrates that AIS patients with T2D had a significant increase in GV compared to those without T2D. Our results indicated that therapies aimed to improvement in GV may be important to a better clinical outcome in patients with AIS after the onset of a stroke.