bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The IASP Pain curriculum for undergraduate allied health professionals: educators defining competence level using Dublin Descriptors.
Authors: Lankveld Wim van , Afram Basema , Staal J. Bart , Sande Rob van der
Published: November 2019

Background. Improving pain education for undergraduate health professionals is hampered by lacking shared education outcomes. This study describes how educators and pain experts operationalize content and competency levels deemed necessary for an undergraduate pain education core curriculum for health professionals (physical and occupational therapists, nurses, psychologists). Methods. Educators and experts on pain and pain education gave their opinion on content and competency level for each individual item of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) inter professional curriculum. Participants decided whether or not to include each item in the undergraduate curriculum. Items were included when > 70% of the respondents agreed. The required competency for each item was rated using ordinal Dublin Descriptors. Results. Overall, 22 experts rated the curriculum, with > 70% agreement on inclusion on 62% of the IASP items. Within the IASP domain ‘Multidimensional nature of pain’ there was full agreement on the inclusion of 12 items. ‘Ethics’ was considered less important with only 1 item deemed necessary. There is a high number of items selected within the domains ‘Pain Assessment and measurement’ (78%) and ‘Management of Pain’ (74%). Considerably less items were chosen in the domain ’Clinical Conditions’ (41%). For most items the median required skills and competency level was either Knowledge and Understanding, or Applying Knowledge and Understanding. Conclusion. Overall, educators and experts in pain agreed on content and competency levels for an undergraduate pain curriculum based on the IASP. Defining a shared competency level will help improve definition of education outcome.
Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Radiologists in Saudi Arabia: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shammari Malak Al , Hassan Ali , Dandan Omran Al , Gadeeb Mohammed Al , Bubshait Dalal
Published: November 2019

Background : Musculoskeletal symptoms account for the majority of work-related illnesses resulting in a significant economic burden on society. Computer users are subject to unique repetitive strains that predispose them to musculoskeletal symptoms. In the digitalized field of radiology, radiologists spend long hours interpreting medical images on computers. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among radiologists in Saudi Arabia and their contributing factors. Methods : An online survey was sent to radiologists in all hospitals (academic, public and private) in the major cities of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia covering demographic characteristics, workload (e.g. the time spent at a computer workstation), and workstation environments including the number of monitors as well as the adjustability of the height of the workstation and the viewing distance. This survey of 263 radiologists was conducted in April 2019. It included an evaluation of musculoskeletal symptoms using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The study outcome was the presence of disabling musculoskeletal symptoms in any body region, which restricted the performance of normal activities in the last 12 months. Results were analyzed descriptively using a Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis to estimate the odd ratio of experiencing disabling musculoskeletal symptoms in the last 12 months. Results : The survey was completed by 198 participants (111 men and 87 women) with a response rate of 75.3%. Most participants (71.2%) were aged below 40 years. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed being a female radiologist (OR = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2–6.5), aged 30–39 years (OR = 4.1; 95% CI: 1.1–15.3), and predominantly reviewing computed tomography (CT) images (OR = 4.1; 95% CI: 1.4–12.3) or ultrasound scans (OR = 5.9; 95% CI: 1.4–25.3) were associated with higher prevalence of disabling musculoskeletal symptoms, compared to those aged below 30 years and those who reviewed various imaging modalities, respectively. Conclusions : Musculoskeletal symptoms are common among radiologists with lower back and neck pain being the most frequent complaints. Being a female radiologist, aged 30–39 years, and reviewing CT or ultrasound scans were associated with higher rates of disabling musculoskeletal symptoms.
A pilot study: A possible implication of Candida as an etiologically endogenous pathogen for oral lichen planus
Authors: He Hong , Xia Xinyu , Yang Haiping , Peng Qiao , Zheng Jiaoer
Published: November 2019

Background: The aim of this study wasto investigate the prevalence and genotypic profiles of Candida albicansinpatients with oral lichen planus (OLP).
Materials and Methods:Positive rates and genotypic profiles of Candida albicansstrains from OLP patients and healthy controls were analyzed. Random amplified polymorphic DNA and internal transcribed spacer of ribosome DNApolymerase chain reactions were used to sequence the DNA of these strains, and then their geneticsimilarity was measured using BLAST, UIV Band, and Vector NTI Suite Sequence AnalysesSoftware.
Results:The prevalence of C. albicansstrains detected from erosive-OLP, non-erosive OLP, and normal individuals was 18.87%, 18.75%, and 7.92%, respectively. Four different genotypes were revealed by the two methods. To be specific, type I was found only in the healthy subjects; type II a and II b were found in non-erosive OLP, and type III was identified in erosive OLP. Intragroup similarity coefficients, i.e. SABwere 100%, and inter-groups similarity coefficients, i.e. SABwere less than 30%.
Conclusions:The genotypic results of C. albicansin OLPrevealedan endogenous rather than exogenous infection of C. albicans. In addition, a possible pathogenic role of C. albicansin OLP, with theetiologic sense contributing to a more proper recognition on the pathogenesis,development, and progression of OLP, as well as some strategies for its diagnosis and treatment were identified.
Relocation experiences of the elderly to a long-term care facility in Taiwan: a qualitative study
Authors: Wu Chia-Shan , Rong Jiin-Ru
Published: November 2019

Background Relocation to a long-term care (LTC) facility is a major life change for most elderly people. Following relocation, many elderly experience difficulties in adapting to changes in the living environment. Taiwan is increasingly becoming an "aging society” and the numbers of those who relocate from family residences to long-term residential care facilities have increased over years. However, in-depth evidence on the experiences of the elderly of their stay in LTC facilities in Taiwan is relatively sparse. This study aimed to explore the relocation experiences of the elderly to a LTC facility to inform policy and practice to address their needs effectively. Methods A qualitative study, using semi-structured in-depth interviews, was conducted to explore the experiences of 16 elderly people who have relocated to and lived in a LTC facility in Taiwan for up to a period of 12 months. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using grounded theory approach. Results Participants’ accounts reflected four interrelated key themes: wish to minimize the burden, but stay connected with the family; perceived barriers to adaptation; valuing tailored care; and acceptance and engagement. Each theme included interrelated subthemes that influenced one another and represented the different stages in the relocation journey. Most participants viewed relocation as a way of minimizing the burden of their care from family members, but desired to keep a close connection with family and friends. Participants recounted experiences of psychological resistance while making the decision to relocate. Fear of losing autonomy and the ability to perform self-care was a major reason for resistance to adapt. Provision of tailored care was accorded much value by the participants. The decision to accept the relocation and to adapt themselves to the new environment due to their needs for constant care was explicit in some accounts. Conclusions Relocation to LTC facility is a dynamic process in the first year of moving into the facility, and involves a range of emotions, feelings and experiences. Adaptation of the elderly into the LTC facility can be maximized if the relocation is well planned with provisions for individually tailored care and family involvement.
Canine colostrum exosomes: characterization, influence on canine mesenchymal stem cell secretory profile and fibroblast anti-oxidative capacity
Authors: Villatoro Antonio J , Martín-Astorga María del Carmen , Alcoholado Cristina , Becerra José
Published: November 2019

Background Colostrum is a specific secretion of the mammary gland fundamental for the survival of the puppy during the first weeks after birth. It contains important bioactive molecules involved in the passive immunity and the maturation of various organs, highlighting small vesicles named exosomes. Exosomes have not been described yet in canine colostrum milk, where its role is crucial in dam-newborn communication for the development of the neonate. Results Exosomes were abundant in canine colostrum milk and appeared with a characteristic cup-shaped morphology and well-defined round vesicles. Their size distribution was between 37−140 nm and western blot analysis showed an expression of specific exosomal markers. Proteomic analysis revealed a total of 826 proteins in exosomes cargo. We also found that exosomes modified proliferation and secretory profile in canine mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow and adipose tissue, differently according to their origin. Besides, the exosomes of canine colostrum demonstrated a potent antioxidant effect on canine fibroblast. Conclusions We described for the first time the isolation and characterization of milk exosomes from canine colostrum. Our findings highlight the abundant presence of exosomes in the colostrum of the canine species and contribute to explain their important antioxidant capacity after parturition and their role in the modulation of cell development and tissue differentiation in the newborn, where mesenchymal stem cells seem to play a key role.
Immediate implant placement in anterior teeth with grafting material of autogenous tooth bone vs xenogenic bone
Authors: Wu Dong , Zhou Lin , Lin Jichao , Chen Jiang , Author) wenxiu huang(Former Corresponding , Author) Yonghui Chen(New Corresponding
Published: November 2019

Background: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of the autogenous tooth bone and xenogenic bone grafted in immediate implant placement with bone defect.
Methods: Thirty patients whose compromised anterior teeth need immediate implant placement were enrolled. Autogenous tooth bone made from the extracted teeth by chair-side or the xenogenic bone were used to repaired bone defect. Clinical examination, radiographic assessment about the horizontal bone change in the level of 0mm, 3mm and 6mm below the implant neck and the marginal bone loss were made immediately, 6 and 12 months after implant placement. Questionnaire of feeling was made at the time of removing the sutures.
Results: All implants achieved the success criteria without any complications at the follow-up period. The percent of the horizontal bone change and the marginal bone loss at 6 and 12 months were almost the same between two groups (P>.05). The horizontal bone loss at the first or the latter 6 months is almost the same (P>.05). But the horizontal bone loss at the 6 mm level is less than the 0 mm and 3 mm levels at 6 and 12 months (P<.05). Meanwhile patients seem more satisfied with the autogenous tooth bone derived from the questionnaire.
Conclusion: The bone volume change in the facial part of the implant after immediate placement is almost the same between two groups. Providing clinical evidence that the autogenous tooth bone made from compromised tooth can be an acceptable bone graft material.
Complete genome sequence of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans YNTRS-40, a strain of the ferrous iron- and sulfur-oxidizing acidophile
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Shuang , Zhao Dan , Ni Yongqing , Wang Weidong , Yan Lei
Published: November 2019

Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans YNTRS-40 ( A. ferrooxidans ) is a chemolithoautotrophic aerobic bacterium isolated from Tengchong, Yunnan Province, China and with a broad growth pH range of 1.0-4.5. This study reported the genome sequence of this strain and the information of genes related to the adaptation of diverse stresses and the oxidation of ferrous iron and sulfur. Results showed that YNTRS-40 possesses chromosomal DNA (3,209,933-bp) and plasmid DNA (47,104-bp). The complete genome of 3,257,037-bp was consist of 3349 CDS genes comprising 6 rRNAs, 52 tRNAs and 6 ncRNAs. There are many encoded genes associated with diverse stresses adaptation and ferrous iron and sulfur oxidation such as rus operon, res operon, pet Ⅰ , pet Ⅱ , sqr gene, doxDA , cydAB and cyoABCD . This study will provide essential information for further application of A. ferrooxidans YNTRS-40 in industry.
Separating the signal from the noise in metagenomic cell-free DNA sequencing
Authors: Burnham Philip , Gomez-Lopez Nardhy , Heyang Michael , Cheng Alexandre Pellan , Lenz Joan Sesing , Dadhania Darshana , Lee John Richard , Suthanthiran Manikkam , Romero Roberto , De Vlaminck Iwijn
Published: November 2019

Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in blood, urine and other biofluids provides a unique window into human health. A proportion of cfDNA is derived from bacteria and viruses, creating opportunities for the diagnosis of infection via metagenomic sequencing. The total biomass of microbial-derived cfDNA in clinical isolates is low, which makes metagenomic cfDNA sequencing susceptible to contamination and alignment noise. Results: Here, we report Low Biomass Background Correction (LBBC), a bioinformatics noise filtering tool informed by the uniformity of the coverage of microbial genomes and the batch variation in the absolute abundance of microbial cfDNA. We demonstrate that LBBC leads to a dramatic reduction in false positive rate while minimally affecting the true positive rate for a cfDNA test to screen for urinary tract infection. We next performed high throughput sequencing of cfDNA in amniotic fluid collected from term uncomplicated pregnancies or those complicated with clinical chorioamnionitis with and without intra-amniotic infection. Conclusions: The data provide unique insight into the properties of fetal and maternal cfDNA in amniotic fluid, demonstrate the utility of cfDNA to screen for intra-amniotic infection, support the view that the amniotic fluid is sterile during normal pregnancy, and reveal cases of intra-amniotic inflammation without infection at term.
Macrophage-derived Netrin-1 participates in endometriosis-associated pain
Authors: Ding Shaojie , Guo Xinyue , Zhu Libo , Wang Jianzhang , Li Tiantian , Yu Qin , Zhang Xinmei
Published: November 2019

Background: Endometriosis is a common disease in reproductive-age women and usually causes pelvic pain. Endometriosis pain is considered as a kind of neuropathic pain and infiltrating nerve fiber in endometriotic lesions may play an important role. Netrin-1 is widely reported as an axon guidance cue that regulates axonal attraction or rejection in neural injury and regeneration. In this study, we aim to determine the role of Netrin-1 in endometriosis-related pain. Methods: Peripheral blood, peritoneal fluid, and endometrial tissues were sampled from women with (n=37) and without (n=23) endometriosis. Serum Netrin-1 concentrations, endometrial expression levels of Netrin-1 and its receptors including DCC, A2BAR, UNC5B, UNC5C and DSCAM were assessed. The polarization phenotypes of the peritoneal macrophages were identified by detecting the marker expression of M1 (CD86+) /M2 (CD163+) macrophages via flow cytometry. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) stimulated human monocytic cell line (THP-1) and rat alveolar macrophage-derived cell line (NR8383) cells to induce M1 phenotype macrophages. The expression levels of M1 markers and Netrin-1 in THP-1/NR8383 cells were determined. Results: The expression levels of Netrin-1 in serum and endometriotic lesions were significantly higher in women with endometriosis when compared with those in women without endometriosis (P<.05), and both were correlated with pain symptoms (P<.05). Netrin-1 was co-expressed with CD 68 (a macrophage marker) in endometriotic lesions, and was synthesized and secreted by THP-1 and NR8383 cells in process of M1 polarization. In women with endometriosis, peritoneal macrophages were polarized towards M1 phenotype. In addition, increased expression of DCC and A2BAR, and decreased expression of UNC5B, UNC5C and DSCAM in endometriotic lesions were found. Conclusions: These results suggest that Netrin-1 production by macrophages in endometriotic lesions may play an important role in endometriosis pain.
Exploring the reasons why women prefer to give birth at home in rural northern Ghana: A qualitative study
Authors: Adatara Peter , Strumpher Johanita , Ricks Esmeralda
Published: November 2019

Background

Skilled birth care during childbirth is reported in literature as one critical strategy for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. Despite the importance of birth care provided by skilled birth attendants, women in rural areas of northern Ghana still give birth utilising the birth services provided by Traditional Birth Attendants.

Methods

A qualitative approach was adopted to explore the reasons for women preference to deliver at home in rural areas of northern Ghana. Individual interviews were used to obtain a thick description of factors and experiences of women associated with home births in rural areas in Ghana. The research population consisted of 10 women who utilised birth care services provided by Traditional Birth Attendants in a rural of northern Ghana. Data collected from the interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed to identify themes.

Results

Findings showed that women gave birth at home in rural northern Ghana due to: Perceived poor quality of care and conduct of Skilled Birth Attendants; women received better care from Traditional Birth Attendants; due to financial constraints and women lacked access to healthcare facilities in the rural areas.

Conclusion

The study highlighted some barriers experienced by participants to the utilisation of birth care services provided by skilled birth attendants in rural northern Ghana. There is a need for skilled birth attendants to collaborate with Traditional Birth Attendants in rural and deprived communities to provide quality and culturally acceptable care in the rural communities to encourage women to patronise the services provided by skilled birth attendants.
Identification of a robust functional subpathway signature for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by comprehensive and integrated analyses
Authors: Wang Ping , Zhang Chunlong , Li Weidong , Zhai Bo , Jiang Xian , Reddy Shiva , Jiang Hongchi , Sun Xueying
Published: November 2019

Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal malignancy and its mortality continues to rise globally. Because of its high heterogeneity and complex molecular landscapes, published gene signatures have shown low specificity and robustness. Functional signatures containing a group of genes involved in similar biological functions display a more robust performance. Methods: The present study was designed to excavate potential functional signatures for PDAC by analyzing maximal number of datasets extracted from available databases with a recently developed method of FAIME (Functional Analysis of Individual Microarray Expression) in a comprehensive and integrated way. Results: By using appropriate search strategies, we extracted 11 PDAC datasets from GEO, ICGC and TCGA databases. By systemically analyzing these datasets, we identified a robust functional signature of subpathway (path:00982_1), which belongs to the drug metabolism-cytochrome P450 pathway. The functional signature has displayed a more powerful and robust capacity in predicting prognosis, drug response and chemotherapeutic efficacy for PDAC, particularly for the classical subtype, in comparison with published gene signatures and clinically used TNM staging system. This signature was further verified by meta-analyses and validated in cell line databases and available clinical datasets. Conclusion: This is the first functional signature for PDAC identified from the largest number of datasets by using comprehensive and integrated analyses. The novel signature warrants a further investigation, since it is like to improve the current systems for predicting the prognosis and monitoring drug response, and to serve a potential linkage to therapeutic options for combating PDAC.
Genome-wide analysis of chalcone synthase (CHS) family from eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) in flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and expression pattern in response to heat stress
Authors: Wu Xuexia , Zha Dingshi
Published: November 2019

Background Enzymes of chalcone synthase (CHS) family participate in the synthesis of a series of secondary metabolites in plants, fungi and bacteria. Some of these metabolites have a wide variety of biological functions such as flower pigmentation, protection against UV radiation, pathogen defense, auxin transport and pollen fertility. CHS also showed significant correlation to the accumulation patterns of anthocyanin. The peel color mainly determined by the content of anthocyanin, is a majority economic trait for eggplant affected by heat stress. Results A total of 7 CHS ( SmCHS1-7 ) putative genes were identified in genome-wide of eggplant ( S. melongena L . ). The SmCHS genes distribute on 7 scaffolds and were classified into 3 clusters. Phylogenetic relationships analysis showed that 73 CHS genes from 7 Solanaceae species were classified into 10 groups. SmCHS5 , SmCHS6 and SmCHS7 were continuously down-regulated under 38℃ and 45℃ treatment, while SmCHS4 was up-regulated under 38℃ but little change at 45℃ in peel. Expression profiles of anthocyanin biosynthesis key genes families showed that the PAL, 4CL and AN11 genes were mainly expressed in all five tissues. CHI, F3H, F3’5’H, DFR, 3GT and bHLH1 genes were expressed in flower and peel. Under heat stress, 52 key genes expression level were reduced under heat stress. By contrast, expression patterns of eight key genes similar to SmCHS4 up-regulated at the 38℃-3h. Conclusions Comparative analysis of putative CHS protein biochemical characteristics, cis -regulatory elements, regulatory network revealed that SmCHS genes family have conservation gene structure and functional diversification. SmCHS showed two or more expression patterns and execute multiple functions to regulate anthocyanin content. Combined with regulatory networks, it is possible to further understand the regulation mechanism of peel color in eggplant.
Clinicopathological variables influencing overall survival, recurrence and post-recurrence survival in resected stage I non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Chengdi , Wu Yuxuan , Shao Jun , Liu Dan , Li Weimin
Published: November 2019

Background: To investigate clinicopathological variables influencing overall survival, overall recurrence, and post-recurrence survival (PRS) in patients who experienced curative-intent surgical resection of stage I non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Methods: We investigated a series of 1,387 patients with stage I NSCLC who underwent surgical resection from 2008 to 2015. The effecting clinicopathological factors on death, recurrence, and PRS were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier estimates and cox regression analysis.
Results: Among the 1,387 stage I patients, 301 (21.7%) experienced recurrence. The 5-year cumulative incidence of recurrence (CIR) for all patients was 20.2% and median PRS was 25.5 months. The older age (P=0.036), p-stage IB (P=0.001), sublobar resection(P＜0.001), histology subtype (P＜0.001), and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (P=0.042) were significantly associated with worse overall survival. Among 301 recurrent patients, univariable analysis indicated that p-stage IB (versus IA) (P＜0.001), LVI (P＜0.001) and visceral pleural invasion (VPI) (P＜0.001) were remarkably correlated with the higher incidence of recurrence. Taking the clinicopathological variables on PRS into consideration, smoking history (P=0.043), non-adenocarcinoma (P=0.013), high architectural grade of LUAD (P=0.019), EGFR wild status (P=0.002), bone metastasis (P=0.042) and brain metastasis (P=0.040) were substantially related with poorer PRS. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that high architectural grade of LUAD (P=0.008), brain metastasis (P=0.010) and bone metastasis (P=0.043) were independently associated with PRS.
Conclusion: In patients with resected stage I NSCLC, the older age, p-stage IB (versus IA), sublobar resection, histology subtype, and LVI were significantly associated with worse overall survival. P-stage IB (versus IA), LVI, and VPI were significantly correlated with the higher incidence of recurrence. High architectural grade of LUAD, brain metastasis and bone metastasis were independent risk factors with PRS.
High-throughput RNAi screen identifies ILK as a target to overcome intrinsic EGFR-TKI resistance of lung squamous carcinoma
Authors: Ju Lixia , Dong Zhiyi , Yang Juan , Li Jing , Ren Rongzheng
Published: November 2019

Although targeted therapy has made a significant efficacy in lung adenocarcinoma, there are still no effective targeted drugs for lung squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC). Moreover, immunotherapy only prolonged the OS of lung SqCC for less than 5 months, so till now, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are still the main treatments of advanced SqCC. Lung SqCC patients express higher epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) than adenocarcinoma patients, but they are intrinsic resistant to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs). Therefore, if this resistance can been reversed, it would benefit to most of the SqCCs. Herein a high-throughput RNAi technology was used to screen the genes related with EGFR-TKI erlotinib resistance of lung SqCCs, and then Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) was found to be the most effective gene. We also studied the effects of ILK on erlotinib resistance in cell line and ILK expression in SqCC and adenocarcinoma patients. At last we analyzed the mechanism of ILK in EGFR-TKIs resistance using Pathway Analysis, GO Analysis and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). ILK knockout could overcome erlotinib resistance via inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis and blocked the cells at G2/M phase. ILK was expressed significantly higher in SqCC patients than in adenocarcinoma patients with sensitizing EGFR mutations. Moreover, the cell cycle pathway of G2/M DNA Damage and checkpoint regulation was identified significantly inhibited by ILK knockout in IPA, Pathways and GO analysis. Our results may provide further understanding of EGFR-TKIs resistance in lung SqCCs and thus aiding the development of potential targeted therapies for lung SqCCs.
Clinicopathological and Prognostic Significance of Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) in Gastric Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xunlei , Zhao Wenjing , Yu Yang , Qi Xue , Song Li , Zhang Chenfei , Li Guoxing , Yang Lei
Published: November 2019

Background: Systemic inflammatory parameters, such as the elevator PLR (platelet-lymphocyte ratio), have been found to be associated with the prognosis in gastric cancer (GC); however, the results remain controversial. So we aimed to evaluate the prognostic role of the PLR in gastric cancer by conducting this meta-analysis.
Methods: We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library. The hazard ratio (HR) /Odds Ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence (CI) of survival outcomes and clinicopathological parameters were calculated.
Results: A total of 38 studies (39 cohorts) with 23,317 GC patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled results showed that elevated PLR was significantly associated with poor overall survival (OS) (HR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.25-1.51, p < 0.001; I2= 82.10%, Ph < 0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR 1.52, 95%CI 1.22–1.90, P< 0.001, I2= 88.6%, Ph< 0.001) of GC patients. Furthermore, patients with elevated PLR had a higher risk of lymph node metastasis (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.03–1.70, p=0.027), serosal invasion (T3 +T4) (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.09–1.31, p=0.017) and increased advanced stage (III+IV) (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.00–1.89, p=0.050).
Conclusions: This meta-analysis demonstrated that elevated PLR was a prognostic factor for poor OS and DFS, and associated with clinicopathological parameters in patients with GC.
Study of the Potential of Reversal of the Fatty Acid Beta-Oxidation Pathway for Stereoselective Biosynthesis of (S)-1,3-Butanediol from Glucose by Recombinant Escherichia coli Strains
Authors: Skorokhodova A.Yu. , Debabov V.G.
Published: November 2019

A possible contribution of collateral enzymes to the formation of key precursor metabolite, 3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA, in a recombinant Escherichia coli strain engineered for 1,3-butanediol biosynthesis from glucose through the inverted fatty acid beta-oxidation pathway has been evaluated. The inactivation of the 3-hydroxyadipyl-CoA dehydrogenase gene, paaH, did not prevent the 1,3-butanol biosynthesis during anaerobic glucose utilization by the strain with the intact essential gene fabG coding for 3-ketoacyl-ACP reductase, which can catalyze the conversion of acetoacetyl-CoA to (R)-3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA. The subsequent inactivation in the strain of fadB gene coding for (S)-stereospecific 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase of the fatty acid beta-oxidation led to the abolishment of the 1,3-butanediol synthesis. The respective diol was also not found among the products secreted by the strain possessing the intact fabG and paaH genes upon an individual deletion of fadB gene. It was established that the collateral enzymes did not participate in the formation of 3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA in the studied strains and the respective CoA-derivative was synthesized solely by the (S)-specific enzyme of the fatty acid beta-oxidation pathway. The obtained results indicate that the reversal of the fatty acid beta-oxidation pathway can ensure the enantioselective biosynthesis of the (S)-stereoisomer of 1,3-butanediol in engineered E. coli strains. 1,3-butanediol, fatty acid beta-oxidation, Escherichia coli, glucose, metabolic engineering, stereoisomer. The work was carried out with financial support Russian Foundation for Fundamental Research (No. 18-29-08059).
Dimerization of the Antimicrobial Peptide Polyphemusin I into One Polypeptide Chain: Theoretical and Practical Consequences
Authors: Zenin V.A. , Sadykhov E.G. , Fedorov A.N.
Published: November 2019

A strategy of sequential dimerization of monomers of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) into one polypeptide chain has been implemented on the example of a beta-structural AMP polyphemusin I which is one of the most effective candidate for use as an antibiotic. The possible polyphemusin I monomer and dimer structures in lipid membrane were studied in this work via molecular modeling. To this end, these molecules were chemically synthesized so that the dimer represented two monomers connected in series into one polypeptide chain with a flexible linker. The antimicrobial effects of monomer and dimer were then tested on various bacterial cultures, and their similarity was shown. Therefore, we can conclude that the pore formation is not a putative mechanism of the polyphemusin I action.

antimicrobial peptides, peptide dimerization, mechanism of antimicrobial action, polyphemusin

The work was supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (Project Unique Identifier RFMEFI57517X0151).
Use of a Preparation Based on Soybean Low-Molecular Compounds to Improve Xylanase and Endoglucanase Activities in the Trichoderma reesei Co-44 Mutant Strain
Authors: Kostyleva E.V. , Velikoretskaya L.A. , Tsurikova N.V. , Khabibulina N.V. , Bikbov T.M. , Bubnova T.V. , Nemashkalov V.A.
Published: November 2019

A possibility to use a concentrate of soybean low molecular substances, the BioAccel preparation, as a component of fermentation media for the cultivation of T. reesei Co-44 strain has been studied. BioAccel is a by-product of the soy protein concentrate production with 3D-stracturing technology. T. reesei Co-44 is a highly active producer of cellulases and hemicellulases with an increased level of xylanase and endoglucanase biosynthesis. The addition of 1-9% BioAccel to the fermentation medium significantly improved the xylanase and endoglucanase activity and the dynamics of their biosynthesis during the T. reesei Co-44 cultivation in flasks. The positive effect of BioAccel grew with the increase in its concentration in the medium. The addition of 5% and 7% of the preparation improved the endoglucanase activity by 1.8 times and the xylanase activity by 40-50%. The maximum increase in the xylanase and endoglucanase activity (twice as compared to the control on average) was obtained with the introduction of 9% BioAccel. Fed-batch fermentation of T. reesei Co-44 in laboratory fermenters according to the industrial scheme showed the promise of using BioAccel as a component of the fermentation medium instead of the expensive yeast extract.

concentrate of low molecular soybean compounds, Trichoderma reesei, cultivation, xylanase, endoglucanase

This work was financially supported by the Basic Research Program of the Russian Academy of Sciences for 2019-2021 (Project no. 0529-2019-0066).
Revertir la memoria del conflicto armado colombiano, análisis del discurso en la prensa escrita
Authors: Londoño Bluzmanis Diego Alberto , Arboleda-Ariza Juan Carlos , Morales Herrera Milton Danilo
Published: November 2019

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación sobre los procesos de reversión de memorias del conflicto armado colombiano publicados en la prensa escrita. Se adopta la noción de memoria revertida como dispositivo narrativo mediante el que se relatan acontecimientos del pasado a partir de la cobertura de eventos actuales con valor noticioso en los medios de comunicación. Se empleó el método de Análisis del Discurso sobre notas de prensa referidas a los procesos de reparación a víctimas del conflicto, adelantados en el marco de las disposiciones de la Ley de Víctimas y Restitución de Tierras (2011) en Colombia. Dicha narrativa opera a través de diferentes portadores de memoria, entendidos como personas en las categorías de víctimas y victimarios; la reparación como fenómeno a través del que se paga una deuda histórica, por medio del reconocimiento y búsqueda de la verdad; y lugares donde se conmemoran los eventos, representados en museos. El análisis revela una narrativa en la que se concibe la memoria institucional del conflicto como rectificación del olvido ante el sufrimiento de las víctimas. Este desplazamiento discursivo configura un marco de posibilidad para el desarrollo de formas diferentes de relacionamiento entre las víctimas, el Estado y la sociedad en general, legitimando así el accionar del Estado como ente aglutinador y factor de cohesión nacional.
On the efficiency of adapting the thermostabilizers for building activity in permafrost
Authors: Gorelik Jacob B. , Khabitov Artur K.
Published: November 2019

This article proposes a calculation method of frozen soil temperature field in the base of the buildings with ventilated basement and with using thermostabilizers. The results of calculation indicate that finned thermostabilizers provide the necessary decrease in temperature (up to 3…4°C) during the first year of their exploitation (for the longest buildings in plan). The application of unfinned thermostabilizers (even though their coefficient of the heat exchange with air is substantially lower than for finned one) provides a sufficieny cooling effect (up to 1…2°C) for faint saline sandy ground, which are wide-spread in any cold regions. In the latter case, it allows creating a most efficient construction of foundation: an unfinned thermostabilizer is placed completely inside a pile’s corps.
The authors have compared the calculation results for unfinned thermostabilizers with existing experimental data, which confirm the basis of suggested technical decision in facts.
Мониторинг изменения содержания кислорода в тканях по кинетике замедленной флуоресценции экзогенных красителей
Authors: Летута С.Н. , Пашкевич С.Н. , Алиджанов Э.К. , Лантух Ю.Д. , Раздобреев Д.А. , Чакак А.А. , Ишемгулов А.Т.
Published: November 2019

The dynamics of oxygen consumption during photodynamic processes and its subsequent restoration in malignant tumors and healthy tissues of mice were studied in vitro by kinetics of long-term luminescence of xanthene dyes. It was shown that to estimate changes in tissue oxygen tension, specific type of delayed fluorescence can be used which caused by singlet-triplet annihilation of singlet oxygen and a sensitizer in triplet state. In tumors under pulse excitation of sensitizers, reversible quenching of delayed fluorescence was observed, which is associated with a decrease in the tissue oxygen tension during photodynamic processes. Method for visualizing the restoration of the initial oxygen level in tissues after photodynamic action is proposed.
Predictors of the Number of Installs in Psychiatry Smartphone Apps: Systematic Search on App Stores and Content Analysis
Authors: Pinheiro Mariana , Serra Madalena , Pereira-Azevedo Nuno
Published: November 2019

Background

Mental health is integral to our salubrity, but mental disorders are very debilitating and common. Therefore, it is critical to provide accessible, timely, and inexpensive mental care. This can be done through mobile health (mHealth), namely, mobile medical apps, which are gaining popularity among clinicians and patients. mHealth is a fast-paced field, and there is significant variation in the number of installs among psychiatry apps. However, the factors that influence psychiatry app installs have yet to be studied.

Objective

This study aimed to identify predictors of the number of app installs in psychiatry.

Methods

A literature review identified which factors influence app installs. Psychiatry apps available in the Google Play Store were reviewed, and publicly available data were collected. A multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of said factors on the number of installs.

Results

Our search identified 128 psychiatry apps: 2.3% (3/128) had never been installed, approximately half (53.1%, 68/128) had less than 500 installs, and only 0.8% (1/128) had over 10,000,000 installs. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified that apps with a lower price (P<.001), a higher rating (P<.001), optional in-app purchases (P<.001), and age restriction (P=.04) had a higher number of installs. The involvement of a psychiatrist or other health care professional (HCP) had no statistically significant influence on the number of installs. Only data from the Google Play Store and the developers’ websites were available for analysis, and the depth of involvement of HCPs was impossible to document.

Conclusions

Psychiatry apps with a lower price, optional in-app purchases, age restriction, and a higher rating are expected to have a higher number of installs. Unlike other medical fields, in this study, the explicit participation of psychiatrists in app development was not a significant predictor of the number of installs. Research is needed to identify other factors that may influence the number of installs, as that can help mHealth app development.
Brief Intervention to Prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections and Unintended Pregnancies: Protocol of a Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
Authors: Stephenson Rob , Metheny Nicholas , Goldenberg Tamar , Bakunina Nataliia , De Vasconcelos Sofia , Blondeel Karel , Kiarie James , Toskin Igor
Published: November 2019

Background

Sexual well-being is fundamental to physical and emotional health, and the ability to achieve it depends on access to comprehensive sexuality information and high-quality sexual health care from evidence-informed, nonjudgmental providers. Adequate and timely delivery of these components to individuals who are at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, and unintended pregnancies promotes sexual health and mitigates consequences arising from risky sexual behavior. Brief interventions that allow health care providers to improve the information available to clients and motivate and help them to develop risk-reduction skills are seen as efficient ways to improve knowledge, change client behavior, and reduce provider stigma regarding sexual health.

Objective

The aim of the study is to evaluate five aspects of feasibility (acceptability, willingness, safety, satisfaction, and process) of a brief sexuality-related communication (BSC) intervention based on motivational interviewing and behavior change techniques in primary health care settings in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

This protocol outlines a multisite, multiphase study of feasibility of a BSC intervention in primary health care settings in LMICs that will be examined across four phases of the study. Phases I through III involve the collection of formative, qualitative data to examine provider and client perceptions of the feasibility of the intervention, adaptation of the intervention guide, and training providers on how to implement the final version of the BSC intervention. During phase IV, the feasibility of the intervention will be tested in a nonrandomized pre-post test trial where providers and clients will be followed for 6 months and participate in multiphase data collection.

Results

Phase I is currently underway in Moldova, and phases I and II were completed in Peru in late 2019. Results are expected for the feasibility study in 2021.

Conclusions

This feasibility study will determine whether the implementation of brief intervention programs aimed at improving sexual health outcomes is possible in the constraints of LMIC health systems and will add to our understanding of factors shaping clinical practice among primary care providers.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/15569
Some Physiological Responses of Clarias gariepinus Fed Graded Levels of Cirina forda Larvae Based Diets
Authors: A.A. Adewumi, , E.O. Idowu, , J.B. Edward, , O.A. Iwalaye, , O.O. Fadiya, , B.D. Obafemi,
Published: November 2019

The study examined the growth performance, hematological and digestive enzymes of Clarias gariepinus juveniles fed Cirina forda meal (CFM) based diets in the laboratory for a period of 10weeks. Five iso-nitrogenous (30%) experimental diets were formulated at various levels of CFM inclusion levels of 0% (control), 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50%, designated as diets Q, A10, B20, C30, D40 and E50 respectively. Fish fed the CFM based diets showed mean weight gain (MWG), specific growth rate (SGR) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) comparable to the control diet. There was significant differences in the digestive enzyme activities of the fish as the CFM level in the experimental diets increased. Protease and maltase activities significantly increased, with diet C30 recording the highest maltase activity (4.37) while the cellulase and glucanase activities of the fish significantly (P<0.05) reduced. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the PCV and RBC of the blood of the fish fed the various diets. Highest RBC (2.75 x106/µL) was obtained in fish fed the control diet while the lowest (2.55 x106/µL) was recorded in the fish fed diet E50. The White Blood Cell count and the Neutrophils of the fish fed the trial diets were not significantly higher (P>0.05) than those of the fish fed the control diets. From the results of this experiment, it is concluded that up to 50% inclusion level of Cirina forda meal in the diet of Clarias gariepinus was tolerable for good growth and physiological well-being of the fish.
Globalization, Sociology and Intercultural Pedagogy. What to Do in the School?
Authors: Sorbara Agostino , Giarrizzo Domenica Ina , Gennaro Santuzza
Published: November 2019

The present study aims to offer a new perspective through which to study the current phenomena of globalization, research and offer educational operations suitable for the elimination of the distances between the various cultures and the concept of mono identity and the achievement of the concept of poly identity. The study will focus in particular on the theoretical perspective of the intercultural approach, starting from a reflection of the relationship between sociology and globalization.
ANATOMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF MEDICINAL PLANTS USING FOLDSCOPE: A PAPER BASED ORIGAMI MICROSCOPE-(NEW DIAGNOSTIC TOOL)
Authors: S. SHARMILA , K. RAMYA E. , S. MOWNIKA
Published: November 2019

Objective: This study mainly focussed how foldscope can be used as an efficient viewable tool to detect in morphological and anatomical investigation of various bioactive medicinal plants. Microscope provides a beneficial instrument for visualization of living cells. Its cost is very high which is not affordable for rural based educational institutes. Foldscope is the ultra-affordable and versatile, paper microscope designed to be extremely portable, durable and to give optical quality similar to conventional research microscopes.

Methods: For enhancing scientific temperament among rural children, Indian Born Scientist (Dr. Manu Prakash) has introduced an ultra-low-cost foldable origami-based approach for large-scale manufacturing of microscope, specifically demonstrating bright field, dark field and fluorescence microscopes. However, its potential as in research tool in the area of aromatic medicinal plants is still not known. The slides were prepared by own and were observed with the magnification power of 140X.

Results: The result of the present study reported that the Foldcsope images revealed viable stained areas in the respective plant parts like trichomes, stomata, pollen grains, stem and leaf of different medicinal plants and indicating their live activities.

Conclusion: Based on the attractive images captured from the Foldscope, the uses of foldscope were recommended to public. Previously we had organized some awareness cum demonstration programme regarding foldscope and its applications in the field of science education in the different educational institute of Erode District, Tamilnadu. Based on the clarity of images and easy handling of Foldscope the uses of origami microscope were recommended for higher studies.
TOBACCO INTAKE STATUS–A REVIEW
Authors: KUMARESAN C.
Published: November 2019

One of the global health issues is tobacco consumption, either in the form of smoked tobacco and smokeless tobacco (ST). In the world wide more than 300 million people consumes various ST product. Tobacco makes addiction and cause cancer, the cardiovascular mortality risk level more and poor pregnancy outcomes. The smoked tobacco and ST causes major disease burden in different countries and regions.

This article reviews briefly about the various health issues causes by tobacco products consumption and its effects of stimulating diseases.
Factores limitantes del diálogo entre los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje y el contenido jurídico, en la educación del derecho
Authors: Gómez Francisco Taeli , Cardozo Pozo Rodrigo , Rubio González Juan
Published: November 2019

The purpose is demonstrate the importance acquired -for the teaching of the legal sciences- how the student relates to the object of legal knowledge or content to be learned. It explains some of the limits that exist for this relation as an active dialogue, and there is suggested why the student is not related to the legal theoretical system. All of this, in order to overcome the reproduction and passive assimilation of contents. The central conclusion demonstrates the weaknesses that must be addressed in order to overcome the passive relationship of the student with the object of legal educational knowledge, and what are their projections for a democratic classroom.