bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PNO1 promotes cell proliferation in prostate cancer
Authors: Hu Jianpeng , Cui Feilun , Xv Zhipeng , Tan Jian , Wang Zhengyu
Published: April 2020

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers. The functions of PNO1 in yeasts were involved in regulating ribosome and proteasome biogenesis. However, its roles in PCa remained largely unclear. The present study for the first time demonstrated PNO1 was up-regulated in PCa samples compared to normal tissues. ShRNA mediated knockdown of PNO1 significantly suppressed PCa proliferation and clone formation, however, induced PCa apoptosis. Microarray analysis and bioinformatics analysis revealed PNO1 was involved in regulating multiple cancer related biological processes, such as regulation of DNA repair, single organismal cell-cell adhesion, translational initiation, RNA splicing, transcription, and positive regulation of mRNA catabolic process. OF note, in vivo results showed PNO1 knockdown remarkably reduced the PCa growth rate. Despite more in-depth research is still required, this study showed PNO1 could serve as a potential biomarker for PCa.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound May Be Useful for Detecting Pediatric Intussusception at an Early Stage
Authors: Lee Jeong-Yong , Kim Jung Heon , Choi Seung Jun , Lee Jong Seung , Ryu Jeong-Min
Published: April 2020

Background: This study aimed to verify the usefulness of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) performed by pediatric emergency physicians for detecting intussusception at an early stage. Methods: This retrospective study included 1-month- to 6-year-old children with clinically suspected intussusception, who underwent POCUS in the pediatric emergency department between December 2016 and February 2018. The criteria for performing POCUS were set to broader standards: presenting any one of intermittent abdominal pain/irritability or bloody stool, or ≥2 symptoms among nonspecific abdominal pain/irritability, abdominal mass/distension, vomiting, or lethargy. POCUS results were interpreted and categorized as “negative” or “suspicious,” and a radiologist performed confirmatory ultrasound in “suspicious” cases. Results: We analyzed 575 POCUS scans from 549 patients (mean age, 25.5 months). Among the 92 “suspicious” cases (16.0%), 70 (12.2%) were confirmed to have intussusception. POCUS showed 100% sensitivity, 95.6% specificity, and 97.8% accuracy. Patients with confirmed intussusception were mainly diagnosed in the early stages, with a mean symptom duration of 11.7 hours, and most patients (97.1%) were treated successfully via air enema reduction. Compared to the non-intussusception group, the intussusception group had more intermittent abdominal pain ( P < 0.001), but less vomiting ( P = 0.001); the other clinical features showed no intergroup differences. Conclusion: POCUS performed using the criteria set to broader standards by pediatric emergency physicians may be useful for detecting intussusception at an early stage, which may present with obscure clinical symptoms.
High frequency of benzimidazole resistance alleles in trichostrongyloids from Austrian sheep flocks in an alpine transhumance management system
Authors: Hinney Barbara , Schoiswohl Julia , Melville Lynsey , Ameen Vahel J. , Wille-Piazzai Walpurga , Bauer Karl , Joachim Anja , Krücken Jürgen , Skuce Philip J. , Krametter-Frötscher Reinhild
Published: April 2020

Background: Infections of small ruminants with trichostrongyloid nematodes often result in reduced productivity and may be detrimental to the host. Anthelmintic resistance (AR) against most anthelmintic drug classes is now widespread amongst the trichostrongyloids. Baseline establishment, followed by regular monitoring of the level of AR, is necessary for farmers and veterinarians to make informed decisions about parasite management. The detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is a sensitive method to detect AR against benzimidazoles (BZs), one of the most widely used anthelmintic classes. Alpine transhumance constitutes a special type of pasturing of sheep from many different farms, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of benzimidazole resistance alleles in this particular management system. Results: Sixteen sheep flocks in Styria and Salzburg in Austria were examined by pyrosequencing for SNPs at codons 167, 198 and 200 of the isotype-1 β-tubulin gene. The frequency of the resistance-associated exchange F200Y was 87–100% for H. contortus, 77–100% for T. colubriformis and <5–66% for T. circumcincta. Additionally, the F167Y polymorphism was detected in T. colubriformis from two farms at a frequency of 19% and 23% respectively. Conclusions: The high resistance allele frequency in H. contortus and T. colubriformis in the examined sheep population urgently calls for the development of new treatment strategies to sustainably control trichostrongyloid infections for this kind of pasturing, since the frequent mixing of flocks during the alpine summer grazing must be considered an important risk factor for the spread of resistant nematodes to a large number of farms.
Five Novel PRNP Gene Polymorphisms and Their Potential Effect on Scrapie Susceptibility in Three Native Ethiopian Sheep Breeds
Authors: Teferedegn Eden Yitna , Yaman Yalcin , Un Cemal
Published: April 2020

Background: Classical scrapie susceptibility in sheep has been linked to three polymorphisms at codon 136, 154, and 171 in the prion protein gene (PRNP) whereas atypical scrapie susceptibility is related to polymorphisms at position 141. Many other variants over the length of the PRNP have been reported. Some of the variants may play crucial roles in fighting against the emergence of a new form of scrapie disease. Scrapie surveillance, scrapie associated genotyping and PRNP characterization studies have been conducted across the globe. However, such in-depth studies have never addressed the African continent’s sheep breeds. Therefore, genotyping native Ethiopian sheep breed’s PRNP gene has socioeconomic and scientific merits. This study aimed to identify PRNP variants in three native Ethiopian sheep breeds and their potential effect on scrapie susceptibility. Results : Five novel variants were identified in the PRNP gene of three native Ethiopian sheep breeds. Four non-synonymous heterozygous substitutions i.e. H99Q (CAC-->CAA), H99L (CAC-->CTA), A116E (GCA-->GAA), A116T (GCA-->ACA), and one synonymous N103N (AAC-->AAT) were detected. In addition to the novel variants, polymorphisms at codon 126,127,138,142,146,231, and 237 were also identified. The haplotype ARR was observed in Menz and Afar breeds at frequencies of 0.02 and 0.05 respectively. Neither ARR/ARR nor VRQ/VRQ genotypes were identified in the population under study. Conclusion: Two of the novel variants at codon 99 and 103 that are placed closer to the proteinase K cleavage site and the variant at codon 116 in the palindrome region along with variants at codon 127 in glycine repeat domain may influence the conformational flexibility of prion protein. The rarity of ARR haplotype and the abundance of 141L variant demonstrated that the present study population was less resistant to classical scrapie and less predisposed to genotype associated atypical scrapie. This study provides a valuable dataset that can be potentially integrated into selective breeding strategies during interbreeding, crossbreeding and help to take precautionary measures against scrapie.
Hearing loss and cognitive function among Chinese older adults: The role of participation in leisure activities
Authors: Gao Jiamin , Armstrong Nicole M. , Deal Jennifer A. , Lin Frank R. , He Ping
Published: April 2020

Background Hearing loss, a highly prevalent sensory impairment affecting older adults, is a risk factor for cognition decline. However, there were very limited studies on this association in low-resource countries. This study aimed to assess whether having hearing loss were associated with cognitive decline and engagement in leisure activities modified this association among Chinese elderly. Methods Using data from the nationally representative survey of China Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) between 2011-2014, 9,710 individuals aged 65 years old or above with self-reported measures of hearing status and global cognition, as measured by the Modified Mini Mental Examination (MMSE), were included in this study. Fixed-effects models were used to estimate whether leisure activity engagement moderated the association of self-perceived hearing loss with global cognitive change in the overall sample and by sex. Results People with self-reported hearing loss was associated with cognitive impairment, with an odds ratio of 2.48 [1.22, 5.06]. Sex difference on the association of hearing loss and cognitive impairment was not found. Self-reported hearing loss was associated with cognitive function decline with 8% [-1.22, -0.39] increase in risk compared with those with normal hearing. Frequent engagement in leisure activities moderated the association between hearing loss and cognition. Actively participating in leisure activities modified the relationship between hearing loss and cognitive decline in males, while leisure activity engagement did not modify any associations among females. Conclusion Hearing loss was associated with cognitive decline, and leisure activities engagement moderated the association among males rather than females.
Preference of blood pressure measurement methods by primary care doctors in Hong Kong: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lee Eric Kam Pui , Choi Ryan Chun Ming , Liu Licheng , Gao Tiffany , Yip Benjamin Hon Kei , Wong Samuel Yeung Shan
Published: April 2020

Background

Hypertension is the most common chronic disease and is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Its screening, diagnosis, and management depend heavily on accurate blood pressure (BP) measurement. It is recommended that the diagnosis of hypertension should be confirmed or corroborated by out-of-office BP values, measured using ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) and home BP monitoring (HBPM). When office BP is used, automated office BP (AOBP) measurement method, which automatically provides an average of 3–5 BP readings, should be preferred. This study aimed to describe the BP measurement methods commonly used by doctors in primary care in Hong Kong, to screen, diagnose, and manage hypertensive patients.

Methods

In this cross-sectional survey, all doctors registered in the Hong Kong “Primary Care Directory” were mailed a questionnaire, asking their preferred BP-measuring methods to screen, diagnose, and manage hypertensive patients. Furthermore, we also elicited information on the usual number of office BP or HBPM readings obtained, to diagnose or manage hypertension.

Results

Out of the 1738 doctors in the directory, 445 responded. Manual measurement using a mercury or aneroid device was found to be the commonest method to screen (63.1%), diagnose (56.4%), and manage (72.4%) hypertension. There was a significant underutilisation of ABPM, with only 1.6% doctors using this method to diagnose hypertension. HBPM was used by 22.2% and 56.8% of the respondents to diagnose and manage hypertension, respectively. A quarter (26.7%) of the respondents reported using only one in-office BP reading, while 40% participants reported using ≥12 HBPM readings. Doctors with specialist qualification in family medicine were more likely to use AOBP in clinics and to obtain the recommended number of office BP readings for diagnosis and management of hypertension.

Conclusion

Doctors in Hong Kong primary care prefer to use manual office BP values, measured using mercury or aneroid devices, to screen, diagnose, and manage hypertension, highlighting a marked underutilisation of AOBP and out-of-office BP measuring techniques, especially that of ABPM. Further studies are indicated to understand the underlying reasons and to minimise the gap between real-life clinical practice and those recommended, based on scientific advances.
Small Auxin Up RNAs influence the distribution of indole-3-acetic acid and play a potential role in increasing seed size in Euryale ferox Salisb.
Authors: Huang Zhiheng , Bao Ke , Jin Zonghui , Wang Qian , Duan Huifang , Zhu Yayin , Zhang Sen , Wu Qinan
Published: April 2020

Background: Aquatic Euryale ferox Salisb. is an economically important crop in China and India. Unfortunately, low yield limitations seriously hinder market growth. Here, we generated a new hybrid line (HL) by crossing South Gordon Euryale and North Gordon Euryale (WT). The hybrid showed significant heterosis, including a non-prickly, thin-coated, large seed. However, the functional genes and developmental mechanism involved in formation of the larger seed in HL is unclear.
Results: Both concentration and localization of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) at two growth stages of fruits of WT and HL were detected by LC-MS and immunofluorescence. Although IAA content between the two lines did not differ, IAA distribution was significantly different. To elucidate the mechanism and to seek the key genes underlying this difference, RNA-seq was performed on young fruits at the two selected growth stages, and differentially expressed genes related to the auxin transduction pathway were selected for further analysis.
Conclusion: Hybrid Euryale ferox Salisb. expressed significant heterosis, resulting in non-prickly, thin-coated, large seeds, which accounted for the significantly larger yield of HL than that of WT. Our study indicated that Small Auxin Up RNA s (SAURs) -mediated localization of IAA regulates seed size in Euryale ferox Salisb. We found that some SAURs may act as a positive mediator of the auxin transduction pathway, thereby contributing to the observed heterosis.
Risk of multi-drug resistant Campylobacter spp. and residual antimicrobials at poultry farms and live bird markets in Bangladesh
Authors: Neogi Sucharit Basu , Islam Md. Mehedul , Islam SK Shaheenur , Akhter A.H.M. Taslima , Sikder Md. Mahmudul Hasan , Yamasaki Shinji , Kabir S. M. Lutful
Published: April 2020

Background: Understanding potential risks of multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens from the booming poultry sector is a crucial public health concern. Campylobacter spp. are among the most important zoonotic pathogens associated with MDR infections in poultry and human. This study systematically examined potential risks and associated socio-environmental factors of MDR Campylobacter spp. in poultry farms and live bird markets (LBMs) of Bangladesh. Methods: Microbial culture and PCR-based methods were applied to examine the occurrence and MDR patterns of Campylobacter spp. in potential sources (n = 224) at 7 hatcheries, 9 broiler farms and 4 LBMs in three sub-districts. Antimicrobial residues in broiler meat and liver samples (n = 50) were detected by advanced chromatographic techniques. A questionnaire based cross-sectional survey was conducted on socio-environmental factors. Results: Overall, 32% (71/ 224) samples were found contaminated with Campylobacter spp. In poultry farms, Campylobacter spp. was primarily found in cloacal swab (21/49, 43%), followed by drinking water (8/24, 33%), and meat (8/28, 29%) samples of broilers. Remarkably, at LBMs, Campylobacter spp. was detected in higher prevalence (p <0.05) in broiler meat (14/26, 54%), which could be related (p <0.01) to bacterial contamination of drinking water (11/21, 52%) and floor (9/21, 43%). Campylobacter isolates, one from each of 71 positive samples, were differentiated into Campylobacter jejuni (66%) and Campylobacter coli (34%). Alarmingly, 49% and 42% strains of C. jejuni and C. coli, respectively, were observed as MDR, i.e., resistant to three or more antimicrobials, including, tetracycline, amoxicillin, streptomycin, fluoroquinolones, and macrolides. Residual antimicrobials (oxytetracycline, ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin) were detected in majority of broiler liver (79%) and meat (62%) samples, among which 33% and 19%, respectively, had concentration above acceptable limit. Inadequate personal and environmental hygiene, unscrupulously use of antimicrobials, improper waste disposal, and lack of health surveillance were distinguishable risk factors, with local diversity and compound influences on MDR pathogens. Conclusion: Potential contamination sources and anthropogenic factors associated with the alarming occurrence of MDR Campylobacter, noted in this study, would aid in developing interventions to minimize the increasing risks of poultry-associated MDR pathogens under ‘One Health’ banner that includes poultry, human and environment perspectives.
Spectrum of Alpha Thalassemia Alleles in Kuwait
Authors: Adekile Adekunle , Sukumaran Jalaja , Thomas Diana , De Souza Thomas , Haider Mohammad
Published: April 2020

Background: The frequency of alpha thalassemia trait is about 40% in the Kuwaiti population, but there has been no comprehensive study of the prevalent alleles. This is a report of the patients who were referred for molecular diagnosis over a 20-year period. Methods: Blood samples from suspected cases were sent to the Hemoglobin Research Laboratory of the Department of Pediatrics, Kuwait University. A retrospective study of the molecular characterization of samples from 1994 to 2015 was carried out. The alpha globin genotypes were determined by a combination of PCR, allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization and reverse dot-blot hybridization (Vienna Lab Strip Assay). Results: 400 samples were characterized and analyzed from individuals aged <1 month to 80 years, with a median of 6 years (~60% children and adolescents). Most (90.8%) were Kuwaiti nationals. The common genotype was homozygosity for the polyadenylation-1 mutation (αPA-1α/α PA-1α) in 33.3%, followed by heterozygosity (αα/α PA-1α) for the same mutation in 32.3%. The PA-1 was therefore the most frequent allele (0.733). The frequency of the α0, –MED was 0.19. Rare alleles that were found in very low frequencies included the α0 (--FIL) in a Filipino child, Hb Constant Spring, Hb Adana,and Hb Icaria. Conclusion: There is a wide variety of alpha thalassemia alleles among Kuwaitis, but the nondeletional PA-1 is by far the most common cause of moderate to severe HbH disease phenotype. The α0 (–MED) allele is also encountered, which has implications for pre-marital counselling especially the possibility of having babies with alpha thalassemia major (Barts hydrops fetalis).
Noninvasive Oxygenation Strategies in Adult Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure: A Protocol for a Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Ferreyro Bruno Leonel , Angriman Federico , Munshi Laveena , Sorbo Lorenzo del , Ferguson Niall D , Rochwerg Bram , Ryu Michelle , Saskin Refik , Wunsch Hannah , Costa Bruno R da , Scales Damon C
Published: April 2020

Background: Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure is one of the leading causes of intensive care unit admission and associated with high mortality. Non-invasive oxygenation strategies such as high flow nasal cannula, standard oxygen therapy and non-invasive ventilation (delivered by either face mask or helmet interface) are widely available interventions applied in these patients. It remains unclear which of these interventions are more effective in decreasing rates of invasive mechanical ventilation and mortality. The primary objective of this network meta-analysis is to summarize the evidence and compare the effect of non-invasive oxygenation strategies on mortality and need for invasive mechanical ventilation in patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Methods: We will search key databases for randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of non-invasive oxygenation strategies in adult patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. We will exclude studies in which the primary focus is either acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cardiogenic pulmonary edema. The primary outcome will be all-cause mortality (longest available up to 90 days). The secondary outcomes will be receipt of invasive mechanical ventilation (longest available up to 30 days). We will assess the risk of bias for each of the outcomes using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Bayesian network meta-analyses will be conducted to obtain pooled estimates of head-to-head comparisons. We will report pairwise and network meta-analysis treatment effect estimates as risk ratios and 95% credible intervals. Subgroup analyses will be conducted examining key populations including immunocompromised hosts. Sensitivity analyses will be conducted by excluding those studies with high risk of bias and different etiologies of acute respiratory failure. We will assess certainty in effect estimates using GRADE methodology. Discussion : This study will help to guide clinical decision making when caring for adult patients with AHRF and improve our understanding of the limitations of the available literature assessing noninvasive oxygenation strategies in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure.
Risk Perception and Behavior in Egyptian Adolescent Pesticide Applicators: An Intervention Study
Authors: Rohlman Diane S , Davis Jonathan W , Ismail Ahmed , Rasoul Gaafar Abdel , Hendy Olfat , Olson James R , Bonner Matthew R
Published: April 2020

Background: Adolescents are engaged in agricultural work, including pesticide application, around the world. Adolescent pesticide applicators are more likely to be exposed to pesticides than their adult counterparts because of their application practice and hygiene habits surrounding pesticide use. There is a need for low-cost interventions to reduce pesticide exposure. We evaluated a theoretically based educational intervention to change perceptions about the risk of pesticide use and hygiene habits during and after pesticide application for adolescent and young adult pesticide applicators in Egypt.
Methods: Young adult and adolescent male pesticide applicators were given a one-hour educational intervention to inform them about the risk of pesticide use and how to reduce pesticide exposure. The median age of participants was 18 years old. Changes in perceived susceptibility and effectiveness were measured with a survey pre and post-intervention (n=119) on the same day. The same survey (n=95) was given 8-month post-intervention to identify sustained effects. Observational checklists of pesticide application practice were also completed during application seasons before and after the intervention.
Results: There was an increase in the proportion of individuals who viewed pesticides as being a long-term health risk (74.7% pre-intervention to 97.9% post-intervention, McNemar test p<0.001). This change remained significant when surveyed at the 8-month follow-up (90.5%, p<0.001). There was also a sustained improvement in regard to participant’s view of proper hygiene practice surrounding pesticide application. Applicators were observed wearing goggles, shoes, and mask more frequently post-intervention.
Conclusion: This theoretically based intervention is an example of a low-cost solution that can improve adolescent and young adult’s practices regarding pesticide application and personal hygiene practice during and after pesticide application. The intervention can be applied in other countries with similar safety culture surrounding pesticide application.
The impact of informing diagnosis on quality of life in patients with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wan Miao , Luo Xianggui , MVOGO Louis.B NDZANA , Wang Juan , Chang Chen , Li Zhenfen , Zhang Jianglin
Published: April 2020

Objective

To assess the impact of informing diagnosis and disease status on the quality of life in patients with cancer

Method

We searched the follow databases, Pubmed, CENTRAL(Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), PsycINFO, WEB OF SCIENCE, Embase, CBM (Chinese Biomedical Literature database), WANFANG database (Chinese Medicine Premier), and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure). And the terms used are as follows: neoplasm, cancer, tumour, tumor, carcinoma, disclosure, truth telling, breaking bad news, knowledge, knowing, awareness, quality of life, QOL. Pairs of reviewers independently screened documents and extracted the data. Meta-analysis was conducted by Revman 5.0 software.

Results

There were 11740 records retrieved from databases and 23 studies were included finally. Meta-analysis of informed and uniformed cancer patients revealed no differences in both the general quality of life and symptoms of fatigue, pain, dyspnea, insomnia, appetite loss and diarrhea (P>0.05). Additionally, no difference in physical function, role function, cognitive activity and emotional function between the above 2 groups(P>0.05) were found. On the vitality area, the patients who were totally informed about their diagnosis had higher vitality than the uniformed patients. However, patients aware about their illnesses seemed to get lower scores in social function. Between the partly informed of the diagnosis and uninformed cancer patients, there were no differences in general quality of life, function domains and disease-related symptoms (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Informing the cancer patients their diagnosis may not have a bad effect on their quality of life.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42017060073.
Nurses’ and family caregivers’ perception of dignity in burns patients: a qualitative study
Authors: Tehranineshat Banafsheh , Rakhshan Mahnaz , Torabizadeh Camellia , Fararouei Mohammad , Gillespie Mark
Published: April 2020

Background: A focus of nursing care is the preservation of patients' human dignity. The aggressive nature of burn injuries is a threat to the integration of the patient's existential dimensions and dignity, however, previous studies have not examined the experience of dignity about this client group. The present study was aimed to define and explain the concept of dignity for burn patients from the perspective of their caregivers .Methods: This study was a qualitative research design. The data were collected by using semi-structured in-depth individual interviews. Also, data analysis was performed using conventional content analysis. Nurses and family caregivers of the biggest burn injury hospital in southeastern Iran were selected based on purposeful sampling method (n=18) to reach data saturation from October 2017 to August 2018.Results: According to the findings obtained from interviews, three main themes were identified, including the creation of an intimate atmosphere, respect, and comprehensive support.Conclusions: Burn patients need to be provided with care in a cordial and friendly atmosphere facilitated through empathetic caregiver-patient communication, as well as enough time to allow them to express their feelings and concerns. Also, patients' intrinsic values and beliefs and all aspects of existence should be taken into crucial account to preserve the dignity of these individuals. Therefore, the establishment of training interventions based on these indicators may improve the quality of nursing care.
Adsorption selectivity of Jatropha curcas leaves on Pb(II) and Cd(II) mixture contaminant removal in liquid waste
Authors: Zubir Moondra , Muchtar Zainuddin , Mahmud Mahmud , Nasution Hafni Indriati , Syahputra Ricky Andi , Rahmah Siti , Kristanti Esly Gusti , Akma Wan Musta Khairul
Published: April 2020

Jatropha leaves from Durian, Labu Beach, North Sumatera was prepared as a biosorbent for the selectivity absorption of Pb2+ and Cd2+ in their mixture system. Jatropha curcas leaves was prepared by heating at 105 oC for 4h, then characterized by XRD and FTIR. FTIR spectra indicate the content of organic groups as -OH, -CN and -CO groups in their function to reduce of Pb and Cd ions in liquid contaminant. Pb2+ and Cd2+ were adsorbed in the single system obtained as optimum amount of Pb2+ at 100 mgL-1 and 60 min contact time is 4.72 mgg-1 which higher than Cd2+ as 4.42 mgg-1 at 100 mgL-1 ion solution for 90 min. Interestingly, in the mixture solution of Pb and Cd ions, Cd2+ was adsorbed as 2.64 mgg-1 which higher than Pb2+ adsorption amount as 2.11 mgg-1 at 100 ppm solution and adsorption time for 90 min. It indicates the mixture content of Pb and Cd ions in liquid solution shows a preferential adsorption properties compared with their single system adsorption.
Uptake and predictors of direct-acting antiviral treatment for hepatitis C among people receiving opioid agonist therapy in Sweden and Norway: a drug utilization study from 2014 to 2017
Authors: Aas Christer F. , Vold Jørn Henrik , Skurtveit Svetlana , Odsbu Ingvild , Chalabianloo Fatemeh , Lim Aaron G. , Johansson Kjell Arne , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: April 2020

Background Treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) offers an opportunity to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) endemic among people who inject drugs (PWID) and people enrolled in opioid agonist therapy (OAT) programs. The objective of this study was to estimate and to compare HCV treatment uptake after the introduction of DAAs among patients receiving OAT in Sweden and Norway. We also aimed to evaluate predictors of DAAs treatment among OAT patients in both countries. Methods This observational study was conducted with data from The Swedish Prescribed Drug Register and The Norwegian Prescription Database. We studied dispensed medications to calculate HCV treatment among OAT patients from 2014 to 2017 in Sweden and Norway. HCV prevalence was estimated from primary and secondary sources. Dispensations of medicines from different therapeutic areas, which served as proxy for co-morbidities in 2017, were conditionally adjusted for age, gender, and OAT medications. Logistic regression was used to evaluate these parameters. Results In total 3,529 individuals were identified with dispensed OAT in the Swedish cohort and 7,739 individuals in the Norwegian cohort. HCV treatment was utilized by 407 persons in Sweden and 920 in Norway during the study period. Annual HCV and DAA treatment uptake increased in both countries. The estimated cumulative HCV treatment uptake at the end of 2017 was 31% in Norway and 28% in Sweden. DAA treatment was associated with increased age (aOR 1.8; 95% CI 1.0-3.2) and dispensation of drugs used for diabetes (aOR 3.2; 95% CI 1.8-5.7) in Sweden. In Norway, lipid modifying agents and antibacterials were associated with decreased odds (aOR 0.4; 95%CI 0.2-0.9, aOR 0.8; 95%CI 0.6-1.0). Conclusions An increase in DAA treatment and HCV treatment uptake was observed among Swedish and Norwegian OAT patients during the introduction period of new direct-acting treatment regimens. However, more than two thirds of the OAT population in Norway and Sweden were untreated at the beginning of 2018. A further scale-up is crucial to be able to control and eliminate the HCV endemic among OAT patients.
Solitary Drinking in South Korea: Are the Drinking Norms, Motives, and Alcohol Consumption of Solitary Drinkers Different from those of Social Drinkers?
Authors: Park Jumoon , Aeree Sohn
Published: April 2020

Background: This study aimed to clarify the differences in drinking norms and motives among different groups (non/light, solitary, and social drinkers) in a representative sample of Korean adults. We also examined which group—solitary or social drinkers—was more likely to engage in heavy drinking. Methods: The study used nationwide cross-sectional data collected in 2018. A total of 3,000 subjects aged 19 to 60 years were sampled for this study, including 1,532 men and 1,469 women. The data were analyzed with SPSS 23.0. Results: Solitary drinkers are more likely to be divorced or separated, less educated, and marginally employed (people with temporary jobs, rather than regular; the self-employed; and people with service- and sales-related jobs). Solitary drinkers peaked in their 30s (18.5%) and social drinkers in their 50s (68.1%). Solitary drinkers drank more frequently than social drinkers (Mean=6.1 vs. 3.6 per month, p<.001) and consumed a significantly larger quantity of alcohol (Mean=69.5 g vs. 46.8 g per week). S olitary drinkers were more accepting of drinking-related behaviors in a variety of situations than were social drinkers. The regression analysis revealed that personal motives for drinking were the most important factor of drinking frequency and drinking consumption for both solitary and social drinking. Conclusion: These findings suggest that people who drink alone may be more vulnerable to alcohol abuse than social drinkers.
Preparation of copper aluminum-biochar composite as adsorbent of malachite green in aqueous solution
Authors: Palapa Neza Rahayu , Taher Tarmizi , Mohadi Risfidian , Rachmat Addy , Lesbani Aldes
Published: April 2020

In this work, CuAl/Biochar (BC) composite was prepared by the coprecipitation method. The materials were applied to remove malachite green in aqueous solution. These materials were characterized using XRD, FTIR, BET and SEM-EDX analyses. The composite material was confirmed by X-ray diffractograms with reflection (002) at 24o and the appearance of new peaks at 1095 cm -1 . The BET result of CuAl/BC composite has larger surface area is 168 m 2 /g than 46 m 2 /g for LDH. The morphologies of composite materials show agglomeration and micro particle size. The result of the adsorption study indicated the composite material follows pseudo-second-order (PSO) and Langmuir isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacity of malachite green using CuAl/BC uptake is 164.316 mg/g. The thermodynamic analysis indicates that the malachite green adsorption is spontaneous, endothermic. Regeneration study of adsorbent CuAl/BC composite shows after four times reused, it still has high removal efficiency at 89%.
Ibutilide is efficacy but not safe in cardioversion of atrial fibrillation for patients aged over 75 years
Authors: Huang Chunxia , Zhang ZhiMin , Li Bin , Li YunTian
Published: April 2020

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the common arrhythmia resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Ibutilide is used to convert AF to sinus rhythm pharmacologically. We aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of ibutilide for patients over 75 years old with recent onset AF.Methods: 81 patients over 75 years old with recent onset AF less than 72 hours, range from 75 to 85 years, were analyzed retrospectively from January 2015 to January 2019. 40 patients received ibutilide, and another 41 patients received propafenone as the control group. In ibutilide group, patients weighing over 60 kg were received 1 mg of ibutilide, and ibutilide at 0.01 mg / kg were administrated when the patient’s body weight was less than 60 kg. If cardioversion failed, 1 mg or 0.01 mg/kg of ibutilide would be given after 10 minutes. In control group, patients were received propafenone at 75mg. If there was no effect on cardioversion, 35 mg of propafenone would be given after 10 minutes.Results: In control group 26 patients (63.4%) converted to sinus rhythm, and in ibutilide group, 35(87.5%) converted to sinus rhythm (p<0.05, vs control group). The converting time of ibutilide group was shorter than control group(13.5±9.27s vs 43.72±10.27s,P<0.05 ). The corrected QT (QTc) intervals was significantly prolonged in patients after the administration of ibutilide(P<0.05). In ibutilide group, five patients (12.5%) appeared torsades de pointes (TdP) and converted to sinus rhythm via electrical cardioversion. Six patients (14.6%) developed severe bradycardia in control group, and the bradycardia alleviated after discontinuation of propafenone. Nine patients (21.9%) who failed in cardioversion with 24 hours by propafenone converted to sinus rhythm via electrical cardioversion.Conclusion: Ibutilide could effectively convert recent onset (<72 hours) AF in patients aged over 75 years. However, it was worth noting that the high rate of TdP emerged in these elderly patients after the treatment of ibutilide.
Clinical characteristics of 57 patients infected with COVID-19 in Baodi area of Tianjin, China
Authors: Zhang Yingchao , Lin Zhentao , Wang Lijing , Shan Shuxiang
Published: April 2020

BackgroundCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been spreading worldwide.Objective﻿To study the clinical characteristics of COVID-19, we included 57 real-time RT-PCR confirmed patients in Baodi area of Tianjin, China, admitted to hospital from 31 January 2020 and 22 February 2020.MethodsEpidemiological, demographic, clinical, and radiological features and laboratory data were analyzed. Patients were confirmed by real-time RT-PCR with pharyngeal swab and/or sputum samples. Some patients that presented positive results with sputum samples yielded negative results with multiple swab tests, suggesting sputum samples RT-PCR tests may be a more reliable means of positively diagnosing infected individuals.ResultsOf the 57 patients studied, three were mild and 54 were moderate in severity. None of the patients infected traveled to Wuhan indicating all studied cases were infected by human to human transmission. The most common symptoms at onset of illness were included fever (86%), cough (29.8%), myalgia or fatigue (14%), chest tightness (5.3%), sore throat (5.3%), and diarrhea (5.3%).ConclusionCompared with patients of COVID-19 in Wuhan, the symptoms of patients in Baodi area of Tianjin province are relatively mild.
A CBCT image noise reduction method based on cGAN
Authors: Miao Yu , Ding Yifei , Zhu Xianchun , Shi Weili , Zhao Jiashi , Zhang Ke , Jiang Zhengang , Yang Huamin
Published: April 2020

Background: As an imaging modality, cone beam CT (CBCT) is widely used in dentistry, which can help dentists to observe tissues such as roots and jaws without confusion. CBCT has the advantages of convenience and low radiation dose, however low contrast and large noise are the serious points in the images. These disadvantages make it extremely difficult for doctors to accurately identify target tissues. Due to the differences in scanning methods and reconstruction algorithms between CBCT and multi-row detector spiral CT (MDCT)，the current CT noise reduction models have significant shortcomings when reduce the noise on CBCT images. Methods: In this paper, we propose a method of image noise reduction based on conditional generative adversarial network to improve the quality of CBCT images. The normal-dose MDCT images are used as the ground truth images to train the model to generate the denoise images. Results: In order to increase the model’s sensitivity to the gradient information, a gradient loss function is involved in our proposed method. The verification experiments on the simulated data set and the real data set show that our model effectively generates the denoise images as well as preserves the quality of the images. Conclusions: We compared the denoising effect between our model and other models with different loss functions. The scores by PSNR, MS-SSIM and GMSD showed that our model had better edge characteristics and denoising effect.
Development and validation of the 10-item Social Provisions Scale (SPS-10) Japanese version
Authors: Katsuki Fujika , Yamada Atsurou , Kondo Masaki , Sawada Hanayo , Watanabe Norio , Akechi Tatsuo , Rucci Paola
Published: April 2020

Objective: The Social Provisions Scale is one of the most widely used measures of perceived social support. Our aim was to develop and validate the Japanese version of the 10-item Social Provisions Scale (SPS-10) to be able to evaluate the social support of individuals easily in Japan. Results: The English version of the SPS-10 questionnaire was translated to Japanese and cross-culturally adapted. The SPS-10 Japanese version was administered to 72 mothers (age, mean ± standard deviation, 55.1 ± 6.7 years) of patients with eating disorders. The construct validity of the SPS-10 Japanese version was examined by comparing their scores with the scores on other scales: Pearson’s correlation coefficient was -0.79 with the UCLA Loneliness Scale, -0.44 with the Beck Depression Inventory, and -0.39 with the K6. Cronbach’s α as a measure of internal consistency was good at 0.89. Structural validity was tested using confirmatory factor analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis model showed satisfactory goodness-of-fit indices except for RMSEA (CFI=0.894, GFI=0.871, AGFI=0.716, RMSEA=0.14). All items had high loadings on the respective factors, ranging from 0.48 to 0.88. Our findings supported the construct validity, structural validity, and reliability of the SPS-10 Japanese version in Japanese people as a measure of social provisions.
The association of dietary inflammatory index with urinary risk factors of kidney stones formation in men with nephrolithiasis
Authors: Maddahi Niloofarsadat , Yarizadeh Habib , Aghamir SeyedMohammad Kazem , Moddaresi SeyedSaeed , Alizadeh Shahab , Yekaninejad MirSaeed , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: April 2020

Objective: Inflammation plays a leading role in the pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis. The association of the dietary inflammatory index (DII) with urinary lithogenic factors is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the relation of DII to urinary risk factors of kidney stones formation.Results: Of 264 participants, 61.4% (n= 162), 72% (n=190), 74.6% (n=197), 68.6% (n=181), and 80.3% (n=212) had hyperoxaluria, hypercreatininuria, hypercalciuria, hyperuricosuria, hypocitraturia, respectively. There was a significant increasing trajectory in urinary calcium, uric acid, and creatinine as well as a decreasing trend in urinary citrate across tertiles of DII score (all P=≤0.001). After multivariate adjustment for energy intake, age, physical activity and body mass index, high DII scores were associated with elevated odds of having hypercreatininuria (OR=2.80, 95%CI: 1.10-7.12, Ptrend=0.04), hypercalciuria (OR=7.44, 95%CI: 2.62-21.14, Ptrend≤0.001), hyperuricosuria (OR=2.22, 95%CI: 1.001-4.95, Ptrend=0.05), and hypocitraturia (OR=5.84, 95%CI: 2.14-15.91, Ptrend≤0.001). No association was identified between DII and hyperoxaluria.
Significance to investigate the TH1 /TH2 cytokines and their proportions in peripheral blood of women with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion and normal women based on pregnancy status
Authors: Peng Yizhi , Wang Min
Published: April 2020

Background: To investigate the significance of th1/th2 cytokines in the pathogenesis of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion(URSA) patients. Methods: Flow cytometry was used to determine the level of th1/th2 cytokines in peripheral blood of URSA patients, comparison between two groups was analysed by Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to test three or more groups. Results : T he content of il-6 in peripheral blood of adverse pregnancy group (ad-pregnancy group) was significantly higher than that of URSA group and pregnancy group. The ratio of il-2 / il-4 and IFN-γ/il-4 in peripheral blood of URSA group was significantly higher than that of pregnancy group, the ratio of IFN-γ/il-10 and IFN-γ/il-4 in peripheral blood of ad-pregnancy group was significantly higher than that of pregnancy group. The AUC of IFN-γ/il-4 was 0.821, with high diagnostic efficiency, sensitivity as high as 84.09% and specificity as high as 69.05%, which were higher than other indicators. Conclusion : The Variable of IFN-γ/il-4 can be used for the initial diagnosis of Ursa to reduce the rate of missed diagnosis, the cytokine ratio in the Th1/Th2 immune response was more important than the expression of single cytokine.
How Does Social Support Affect Public Service Motivation of Healthcare Workers: the Mediating Effect of Job Stress
Authors: Deng Jianwei , Guo Yuangeng , Gao Yongchuang , Chen Zhenjiao , Yang Tianan
Published: April 2020

Background: This study examined relations between social support, job stress, and public service motivation, also assessed how social support and job stress affect public service motivation based on the job demands-resources (JD-R) theory. Methods: The survey investigated a sample of 973 healthcare workers employed in public hospitals in Beijing, Xiamen, and Guangzhou in 2017. Through random sampling according to employee number, age and job title, we selected 5% to 10% of healthcare workers in each target hospital. Finally, we got 973 valid participants, and the response rate was 93.8%. We used correlation analysis, structural equation modeling, Sobel test, and subgroup analysis to test by investigating a sample of 973 healthcare workers from 3 Chinese public hospitals. Results: Challenge stress and hindrance stress were directly inversely associated with public service motivation. Supervisor support was significantly positively associated with public service motivation, and the path from coworker support to public service motivation was significant. Supervisor support was significantly negatively associated with hindrance stress, and coworker support was significantly inversely associated with challenge stress. Hindrance stress and challenge stress significantly mediated the relations between supervisor support and public service motivation, and between coworker support and public service motivation respectively. Conclusions: Public service motivation might be raised by increasing supervisor support and coworker support and by limiting hindrance stress and challenge stress among healthcare workers in China.
Painted clay sculpture in Shanxi Province: Material analysis of the Tutang Buddha and two attendants in Jingyin Temple, Taiyuan
Authors: Bai Xiaojian , Jia Chen , Chen Zhigen , Cheng Huwei , Wang Jiayue
Published: April 2020

There are more painted clay sculptures in Shanxi Province than in any other province in China. These fine relics, dating from the Sui and Tang dynasties to the Ming and Qing dynasties, are important to the study of ancient sculpture in China. We investigated the Tutang Buddha (from the Jin dynasty) and two attendant bodhisattvas (from the Ming dynasty) in the Buddha Pavilion of the Jingyin Temple in Taiyuan. The Tutang Buddha was the first clay Buddha in Jinyang (now Taiyuan). According to the inscription, the Tutang Buddha was carved out of the hill. Our onsite investigation revealed that there were coarse and fine layers of clay mixed with wheat straw. It is clear that the construction of the Tutang Buddha is different with the traditional painted clay sculpture. The two attendant bodhisattvas are the traditional painted clay sculptures, which consist of a wood framework covered with layers of coarse clay, fine clay, white ash, paper and pigments. Damaged sections of the painted sculptures were visually examined, sampled and subsequently analysed. All three sculptures have been repainted at least twice. The material samples were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, biological microscopy, and particle size analysis. The analysis enabled us to infer the techniques used by the creators of the sculptures. This research provides a foundation for the conservation and future protection of these and similar sculptures.