bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Diagnosis of Fetal Skeletal Dysplasia Using 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography: A Case Series
Authors: Waratani Miyoko , Ito Fumitake , Tanaka Yukiko , Mabuchi Aki , Mori Taisuke , Kitawaki Jo
Published: March 2020

Background: Fetal skeletal dysplasia constitutes a complex group of systemic bone and cartilage disorders. Many fetal skeletal dysplasia phenotypes have indistinct definitions, making definitive prenatal diagnosis difficult. Fetal skeletal dysplasia is typically diagnosed using sonography; however, three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) also aids in making a prenatal diagnosis. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of 3D-CT for the prenatal diagnosis of fetal skeletal dysplasia by comparing the diagnostic accuracy of fetal sonography and 3D-CT.Methods: Based on the suspicion of skeletal dysplasia based on ultrasound examination, we performed 3D-CT prenatally to confirm this diagnosis. In order to minimize exposure of the fetuses to radiation without compromising image quality, we used predetermined 3D-CT settings for volume acquisition.Results: Sixteen fetuses were suspected to have fetal skeletal dysplasia based on ultrasonography findings. Of these, 15 were diagnosed with fetal skeletal dysplasia using 3D-CT. All 15 fetuses diagnosed with fetal skeletal dysplasia prenatally were confirmed postnatally to have fetal skeletal dysplasia. The definitive postnatal diagnosis (campomelic dysplasia) differed from the prenatal diagnosis (osteogenesis imperfecta) in only one infant. 14 cases (93.3%) were diagnosed by an accyrate classification. Five infants had lethal skeletal dysplasia; one died in utero, and four died as neonates. We determined the appropriate delivery method for each infant based on the prenatal diagnosis.Conclusion: 3D-CT is a valuable tool to augment ultrasound examination for the diagnosis of skeletal dysplasia because it can provide a more definitive diagnosis of the type of dysplasia, enabling better planning for resuscitation of the infant after birth.Trial registration: University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Center trial registration number is UMIN000034744. Registered 1 October, 2018 – Retrospectively registered, https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=Roooo39610.
LncRNA PRNCR1 promotes breast cancer proliferation and inhibits apoptosis by modulating microRNA-377/CCND2/MEK/MAPK axis
Authors: Ouyang Jian , Liu Zilong , Yuan Xiaobing , Chen Xia , Wang Yongpeng , Liu Lu , Long Chunping , Liang Hui
Published: March 2020

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently become the vital gene regulators in diverse cancers. In our study, we purposed to inquiry into the mechanisms of lncRNA PRNCR1 in breast cancer via microRNA-377 (miR-377)/CCND2/MEK/MAPK axis.Methods: PRNCR1 expression in breast cancer tissues was detected, and the correlation between PRNCR1 expression and prognostic survival was analyzed. The expressions of PRNCR1 and miR-377 in breast cancer cell lines were detected. Relationships among PRNCR1, miR-377 and CCND2 were confirmed by luciferase activity, RNA pull-down or RIP assays. Breast cancer cells were introduced with silenced PRNCR1 or restored miR-377 to explore their functions in breast cancer’s malignant phenotype. Related proteins expression in MEK/MAPK pathway was determined by western blot analysis. Results: PRNCR1 was abnormally highly expressed and miR-377 was poorly expressed in breast cancer, and patients with high expression of PRNCR1 had a poor prognosis. PRNCR1 silencing or miR-377 overexpression resulted in suppressed breast cancer cell proliferation ability, blocked cell cycle process and induced apoptosis. PRNCR1 may participate in the modulation of CCND2 by competitively binding with miR-377. CCND2 activated the MEK/MAPK pathway, and after treatment with Mirdametinib, the MEK/MAPK pathway was inhibited, which was found to retard breast cancer growth.Conclusion: Our study highlights that lncRNA PRNCR1 may competitively bind to miR-377, leading to upregulated CCND2, which in turn leads to MEK/MAPK pathway activation, thereby promoting breast cancer growth.
Effectiveness of a family-centered behavioral and educational counselling approach to improve periodontal health of pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Pei , Wen Weiye , Yu Ka Fung , Gao Xiaoli , Lo Edward Chin Man , Wong May Chun Mei
Published: March 2020

Objectives: Poor oral hygiene and higher hormone levels during pregnancy always lead to poor periodontal health. Oral health education of the pregnant women to improve the periodontal outcomes might be ineffective and inconsistent. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a family-centered behavioral and educational counselling program on the pregnant women’s periodontal health and long-term effect after delivery. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among first-time pregnant women (10~20th gestational-week) in Hong Kong. Participating families were randomized into test and control group. The intervention in test group included: explanation on oral health education pamphlets, oral hygiene practice training by the “tell-show-do” technique, individualized feedback, and proposed solutions to overcome barriers on self-care. Reinforcement was implemented by interview, phone call or messaging to assess performance, identify barriers and to encourage participants on self-care, in around 32nd gestational-week and 6 months after delivery. Main outcomes assessed were periodontal health measurement including bleeding on probing (BOP), periodontal-pocket (Poc) and loss of clinical attachment levels (LoA); oral hygiene status was assessed by visible plaque index (VPI). The dental examinations were carried out at baseline, 32nd gestational-week and 12-months post-delivery.Results: 589 pregnant women were recruited and 369 completed all three visits (test 188; control 181). Mixed-effect model ANOVA indicated that in test group, % sites with visible plaque decreased from the baseline to the 32nd gestational-week and maintained to 12-months post-delivery while in control group the effect could not be sustained (p<0.001). Both groups showed significant decrease in BOP over time, and significantly lower % sites with BOP was found in test group than in control group at 12-months post-delivery (p<0.001). Generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) showed that there was significant less in sites with Poc and LoA in the both groups over time at 12-months post-delivery than during pregnancy (p<0.001), whereas there was no significant effect between the two groups (p>0.05). Conclusions: Providing family-centered, behavioral and educational counselling to pregnant women at early stage of pregnancy and reinforcements can improve their oral hygiene and periodontal health, the effect can be sustained over a longer period.
A proteomic investigation of protein adsorption to cerebral microdialysis membranes in surgically treated intracerebral hemorrhage patients
Authors: Tobieson Lovisa , Czifra Zita , Wåhlén Karin , Marklund Niklas , Ghafouri Bijar
Published: March 2020

Background Cerebral microdialysis (CMD) is a minimally invasive technique for sampling the interstitial fluid in human brain tissue. CMD allows monitoring the metabolic state of tissue, as well as sampling macromolecules such as proteins and peptides. Recovery of proteins or peptides can be hampered by their adsorption to the CMD membrane as has been previously shown in-vitro, however, protein adsorption to CMD membranes has not been characterized following implantation in human brain tissue. Methods In this paper, we describe the pattern of proteins adsorbed to CMD membranes compared to that of the microdialysate and of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We retrieved CMD membranes from three surgically treated intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients, and analyzed protein adsorption to the membranes using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) in combination with nano-liquid mass spectrometry. We compared the proteome profile of three compartments; the CMD membrane, the microdialysate and ventricular CSF collected at time of CMD removal. Results We found unique protein patterns for each of the three compartments, particularly in the molecular weight range of 10-35 kDa. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of analyzing the membranes in addition to the microdialysate when using CMD to sample proteins for biomarker investigation.
Association of arsenic exposure and cognitive impairment: a population-based cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Xin Wang , Xiaoyan Huang , Lu Zhou , Juan Chen , Xuxiang Zhang , Ke Xu , Zhijun Huang , Meian He , Minxue Shen , Xiang Chen , Beisha Tang , Lu Shen , Zhou Yafang
Published: March 2020

Background: Chronic arsenic exposure is a major public health issue worldwide. Previous studies explored the effects of arsenic exposure on cognitive impairment, but majority of previous studies focused on the effects on school children rather than adults. Moreover, few studies investigated the role of arsenic exposure in cognitive impairment process in a large scale in China.Methods: Aimed to evaluate the association between long-term exposure to arsenic and cognitive impairment in China, we designed a cross-sectional analytical study in which 1,556 adults from three locations around the Realgar Plant (Heshan Village, Wangyangqiao Community and Baiyangshan Village) were enrolled. Participants’ general cognitive function were evaluated by using a Chinese version of Mini-mental state Examination (MMSE). Internal arsenic exposure status of participants (hair arsenic concentrations) was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), and external arsenic exposure status of participants was approximately evaluated by measuring the distance between the participants’ location to Realgar Plant.Results: In our study, we found that the prevalence of cognitive impairment in arsenic-endemic areas was 20.6%, which was significantly higher than the prevalence of cognitive impairment in China (14.5%). Hair arsenic concentrations and prevalence of arsenicosis in cognitive impaired group (CI) was significantly higher than those in cognitive normal group (CN) (P<0.05).Conclusions: Our analyses revealed that the distance away from Realgar Plant was positively correlated with MMSE scores, while inversely associated with the prevalence of cognitive impairment. In addition, we found that MMSE scores were decreased with the increasing hair arsenic concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. In two-level Logistic regression analysis, arsenicosis was still a risk factor for cognitive impairment (odds ratio (OR) =1.77, P<0.05) even after adjusting for potential confounding variables. Our results showed that chronic arsenic exposure decreased cognitive function in adults in a dose-dependent manner, and arsenicosis was a risk factor for cognitive impairment.
Comprehensive multi-omics analysis identifies an immune related predicting model in early stage breast cancer
Authors: Li Xuan , Jin Wei
Published: March 2020

Background Breast cancer is known the highest incidence cancer in women. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells were reported closely related to cancers’ fate but it’s function still not very clear in breast cancer. The aim of our study is to build a infiltrating immune cells based nomogram model to better predict patients survival and explore its relationship with immune features. Methods We first use CIBERSORT to analyze 22 immune cells’ status in two unrelated breast cancer cohorts (TCGA and METRABRIC). The univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were used to analyze the prognostic ability of immune cells and other clinicopathological factors. Nomogram model were built by using independent prognostic factors. Different immune signatures and gene enrichment analysis were performed in different nomogram risk groups. Results Multivariate cox analysis showed that Macrophages M2 with HR of 1.733 (95% CI: 1.013-2.966) in TCGA cohort and 1.334 (95% CI: 1.125-1.581) in METABRIC cohort is the only independent prognostic factor among the 22 immune cells in early stage breast cancer. Macrophages M2, age, TNM stage and molecular types were used to build the nomogram model. The AUC of the ROC of nomogram reached 0.732 in TCGA cohort and 0.702 in METABRIC cohort. Using the nomogram score can better classified patients to low and high risk group. High risk group showed higher malignant signatures and predicted immunotherapy response rates than low risk group which consistent with the gene entrenchment analysis. Conclusion In this study, we revealed that M2 macrophages could predict the OS of breast cancer patients. Based on M2 and other clinical features we established a nomogram model which were significantly different in immune features that can better assess the OS risk or be a predictor for the immunotherapy response in breast cancer for further research.
Knowledge on intrapartum care practices among skilled birth attendants in Cambodia – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Matsui Mitsuaki , Saito Yuko , Po Rithy , Taing Bunsreng , Nhek Chamnan , Tung Rathavy , Masaki Yoko , Iwamoto Azusa
Published: March 2020

BackgroundDelivery is a critical moment for parturient women and babies, and careful monitoring is essential throughout the delivery process. The partograph is a useful tool for monitoring and assessing labour progress as well as maternal and foetal conditions; however, it is often used inaccurately or inappropriately. A gap between practices and evidence-based guidelines has been reported in Cambodia, perhaps due to a lack of evidence-based knowledge in maternity care. This study aims to address i) to what extent skilled birth attendants in the first-line health services in Cambodia have knowledge on the management of normal delivery, and ii) what factors are associated with their level of knowledge.MethodsMidwives and nurses were recruited working in maternity in first-line public health facilities in Phnom Penh municipality, Kampong Cham and Svay Rieng provinces. Two self-administered questionnaires were applied. The first consisted of three sections with questions on monitoring aspects of the partograph: progress of labour, foetal, and maternal conditions. The second consisted of questions on diagnostic criteria, normal ranges, and standard intervals of monitoring during labour. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify relationships between characteristics of the participants and the questionnaire scores.ResultsOf 542 eligible midwives and nurses, 523 (96%) participated. The overall mean score was 58%. Only 3% got scores of more than 90%. Multivariate analysis revealed that ‘Kampong Cham province’, ‘younger age’, and ‘higher qualification’ were significantly associated with higher scores. Previous training experience was not associated with the score. Substantial proportions of misclassification of monitoring items during labour were found; for example, 61% answered uterine contraction as a foetal condition, and 44% answered foetal head descent and 26% answered foetal heart rate as a maternal condition.ConclusionThis study found that knowledge was low on delivery management among skilled birth attendants in the study. Previous training experience did not influence the knowledge level, but this might be improved by Midwifery Coordination Alliance Team (MCAT) activities. A lack of understanding of physiology and anatomy was implied. Further experimental approaches should be attempted to improve the knowledge and to provide quality maternity services in Cambodia.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of Direct Agglutination Test for Serodiagnosis of Human Visceral Leishmaniasis: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis
Authors: Mohebali Mehdi , Keshavarz Hossein , Shirmohammad Sedigheh , Akhoundi Behnaz , Borjian Alireza , Hassanpour Gholamreza , Mamishi Setareh , Mahmoudi Shima
Published: March 2020

Background: agglutination test (DAT) as simple, accurate and non-expensive tool that has been used widely for serodiagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) during the last three decades. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of DAT for serodiagnosis of human VL.Methods: Electronic databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), SCOPUS, Web of Science, SID and Mag Iran (two Persian scientific search engines) were searched from December 2004 to April 2019.The study quality was evaluated using the QUADAS checklist. We determined the sensitivities and specificities across studies, calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curves parameters.Results: Of the 2928 records identified in the mentioned electronic databases and through articles’ reference lists, 25 articles met inclusion criteria and enrolled into the systematic review and among them 22 records were qualified for meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of DAT was 96% [(95% CI, 93–98] )and 95% [(95 % CI, 88–98]), respectively. The likelihood ratio of a positive test (LR+) was found to be 19.8 [CI95%, 7.6–51.8] and the likelihood ratio of a negative test (LR−) was found to be 0.04 [CI95%, 0.02–0.08]. The combined estimate of the diagnostic odds ratio for DAT was high [454 )136-1561]) ].We found that the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) is positioned near the upper left corner of the curve and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.98 (95% CI, 0.97 to 0.99).Conclusion: Based on our analysis, we find DAT can be considered as valuable tool for the serodiagnosis and seroprevalence of human VL with high sensitivity and specificityrates. As DAT is simple, accurate ,non-invasive and efficient serological test, it can be used for serodiagnosis of human VL particularly in endemic areas of the disease.
DFNA5 attenuated in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma acquired with radio-resistance and associated with PD-L2
Authors: Huang Weiqiang , Yuan Lu , Zheng Qiaocong , Pan Hua , Yang Mi , Wu Xixi , Zhang Longshan , He Benfu , Wang Xiaoqing , Li Shaoqun , Wang Yin , Ye Feng , Guan Jian
Published: March 2020

Treatment of recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) after radiotherapy (RT) with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have attained certain success recently. However, some patients remained progressed and the total efficacy was finite, highlighting the need to identify new therapeutic options. DFNA5, also called GSDME, could switch chemotherapy drug induced-pyroptosis mediated by caspase-3. Presently, the relationship between DFNA5 and radiation in HNSCC remained unclear. Here, we showed that DFNA5 was up-regulated in HNSCC, and correlated with the expression of PD-L2, both of which reduced after the acquisition of radioresistance. Furthermore, PD-L1 was also tended to attenuate in radiation-resistant HNSCC. In sum, we showed that DFNA5 overexpressed in HNSCC and decreased with PD-L2 after attaining radiation-resistance, suggesting the potential role of DFNA5 as a possible combined target to amplify the immunotherapeutic efficacy in the future.
Physical therapy interventions for older people with vertigo, dizziness and balance disorders addressing mobility and participation: a systematic review
Authors: Regauer Verena , Seckler Eva , Müller Martin , Bauer Petra
Published: March 2020

Background Vertigo, dizziness and balance disorders (VDB) are among the most relevant contributors to the burden of disability among older adults living in the community and associated with immobility, limitations of activities of daily living and decreased participation. The aim of this study was to identify the quality of evidence of physical therapy interventions that address mobility and participation in older patients with VDB and to characterize the used primary and secondary outcomes. Methods A systematic search via MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PEDro, forward citation tracing and hand search was conducted initially in 11/2017 and updated in 7/2019. We included individual and cluster-randomized controlled trials and trials with quasi-experimental design, published between 2007 and 2017/2019 and including individuals ≥ 65 years with VDB. Physical therapy and related interventions were reviewed with no restrictions to outcome measurement. Screening of titles, abstracts and full texts, data extraction and critical appraisal was conducted by two independent researchers. The included studies were heterogeneous in terms of interventions and outcome measures. Therefore, a narrative synthesis was conducted. Results A total of 20 randomized and 2 non-randomized controlled trials with 1,876 patients met the inclusion criteria. The included studies were heterogeneous in terms of complexity of interventions, outcome measures and methodological quality. Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) was examined in twelve studies, computer-assisted VR (CAVR) in five, Tai Chi as VR (TCVR) in three, canal repositioning manoeuvres (CRM) in one and manual therapy (MT) in one study. Mixed effects were found regarding body structure/function and activities/participation. Quality of life and/or falls were assessed, with no differences between groups. VR is with moderate quality of evidence superior to usual care to improve balance, mobility and symptoms. Conclusion To treat older individuals with VDB, VR in any variation and in addition to CRMs seems to be effective. High-quality randomized trials need to be conducted to inform clinical decision making.
Using augmented reality technology for balance training in the elderly. A feasibility study
Authors: Blomqvist Sven , Seipel Stefen , Engström Maria
Published: March 2020

BackgroundImpaired balance leading to falls is common in the elderly, and there is strong evidence that balance training reduces falls and increases independence. Reduced resources in health care will result in fewer people getting help with rehabilitation training. In this regard, the new technology augmented reality (AR) could be helpful. With AR the elderly can receive help with instructions and get feedback on their progression in balance training. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of using AR-based visual-interactive tools in balance training of the elderly.MethodsSeven elderly participants (66-88 years old) with impaired balance trained under supervision of a physiotherapist twice a week for six weeks using AR-based visual-interactive guidance, which was facilitated through a Microsoft HoloLens holographic display. Afterwards, participants and physiotherapists were interviewed about the new technology and their experience of the training. Also, fear of falling, balance and physical ability were measured before and after training.ResultsMost participants experienced the new technology as positive in terms of increased motivation and feedback. Experiences were mixed regarding the physical and technical aspects of the HoloLens and the design of the HoloLens application. The majority of participants perceived that they were steadier after training; this was also shown in the balance tests. Also, most participants reduced their fear of falling after the training. Participants also described issues that needed to be further improved, for example, the training program was difficult and monotonous. Further, the HoloLens hardware was felt to be heavy, the application's menu was difficult to control with different hand maneuvers, and the calibration took a long time. Suggestions for improvements were described.ConclusionsThe study showed that training with the new technology is, to some extent, feasible for the elderly, but needs further development. Also, the technology seemed to stimulate increased motivation and adherence to training. However, the new technology and training requires further development and testing in a larger context.
Conscious sedation for the management of dental anxiety in third molar extraction surgery: a systematic review.
Authors: Melini Matteo , Forni Andrea , Cavallin Francesco , Parotto Matteo , Zanette Gastone
Published: March 2020

Background: Dental anxiety is a condition associated with avoidance of dental treatment and increased medical and surgical risks. This systematic review aims to summarize available evidence on conscious sedation techniques used for the management of Dental anxiety in patients scheduled for third molar extraction surgery, to identify best approaches and knowledge gaps. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted including MEDLINE/Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, clinicaltrials.gov and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews through March 2019. Only randomized controlled trials were included. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Risk of bias was appraised as reported in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Results: Seventeen RCTs with a total of 1,788 patients were included. Some aspects limited the feasibility of a meaningful meta-analysis, thus a narrative synthesis was conducted. Conscious sedation was associated with improvement in Dental anxiety in six studies. One study reported lower cortisol levels with midazolam vs. placebo, while another study found significant variation in perioperative renin levels with remifentanil vs. placebo. Conclusions: This review found inconclusive and conflicting findings about the role of Conscious sedation in managing Dental anxiety during third molar extraction surgery. Relevant questions remain unanswered due to the lack of consistent, standardized outcome measures. Future research may benefit from addressing these limitations in study design.
Psoralen alleviates high glucose-induced HK-2 cell injury via upregulating miR-874
Authors: Lin Yongtao , Zhong Lili , Li Hailun , Xu Yong , Li Xiang , Zheng Donghui
Published: March 2020

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) causes the vast proportion of excess mortality for patients with diabetes. Novel therapeutic approaches slowing down its incidence is still lacking. Psoralen is the major active ingredient of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. (PCL), which was used to treat a number of diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether psoralen could alleviate DN and to explore the underlying mechanisms.Methods: Cell viability assay and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate the effect of psoralen on high glucose (HG)-stimulated human kidney HK-2 cells. RT-qPCR was used to detect the expressions of miRNA in cells. Cell transfection, apoptosis assay and Western blot were further performed to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.Results: Psoralen alleviated HG-induced viability decrease of HK-2 cells via inhibiting apoptosis. Meanwhile, the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation induced by HG in HK-2 cells were also decreased by psoralen. In addition, the expression of miR-874 in HK-2 cells was significantly upregulated by psoralen. Western blot assays indicated that psoralen inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad2 signaling via upregulation of miR-874.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that psoralen could significantly alleviate HG-induced HK-2 cell injury via upregulation of miR-874. Therefore, psoralen might serve as an agent for the treatment of DN.
Knowledge of and barriers to palliative care perceived by healthcare providers before and after promotion of the Patient Autonomy Act: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen I-Hui , Kuo Shu-Fen , Lin Yen-Kuang , Huang Tsai-Wei
Published: March 2020

Background: During the period of 2016~2018, many efforts were put into promoting the Patient Autonomy Act (PAA) in Taiwan, such as nationally sponsoring advertisements, promoting campaigns, and conducting in-service training programs for healthcare providers. However, no study has examined the impacts of promoting the PAA on healthcare providers. This study was designed to investigate healthcare providers’ knowledge of palliative care and perceptions of palliative care barriers before and after promoting the PAA. Methods: A cross-sectional design was conducted in 2013 and 2018 respectively that used a self-reporting questionnaire to examine healthcare providers’ knowledge of palliative care and perceived barriers to providing palliative care. One hospital recruited 277 healthcare providers in 2013 and 222 healthcare providers in 2018 in another hospital. Statistical analyses involved descriptive statistics for demographic characters. Multivariate linear regression analyses were used to identify predictors of knowledge of and perceived barriers to palliative care. A principal component analysis was to identify the most appropriate factorial structure for the contents of knowledge and perceived barriers to palliative care. Results: Three factors related to knowledge of palliative care were identified in both 2013 and 2018 data: ‘policy, regulation, and promotion’, ‘philosophy and treatments’, and ‘myths and misunderstandings’. Study findings in the two periods were similar. As for barriers to providing palliative care, three factors were identified in 2013 of ‘quality palliative care’, ‘palliative care difficulties’ and ‘messaging and communication’, and in 2018 of ‘messaging and information’, ‘knowledge and attitudes’ and ‘quality palliative care’ were identified. Study findings differed between the two periods. Conclusion: After implementation of the PAA, perceived barriers changed. Policies can better reinforce mitigating strategies—including opportunities for education, shared decision-making, and changes in institutions and care systems. Also, assessing barriers creates important opportunities for further research to address the most critical aspects to improving end-of-life care for patients and their families.
Isolation, identification and 16S rRNA gene analysis of Yersinia enterocolitica strains isolated from the Gymnocypris przewalskii
Authors: Zhang Hongjian , Cai Qigang , Zhao Jing , Fan Yuxia , Kong Fanlin , Gao Xiaolong , Tong Linna
Published: March 2020

Background: Yersinia enterocolitica is a human-animal-fish-associated infectious diarrhea pathogen that has caused widespread international attention in recent years. Many strains of Yersinia enterocolitica were identified from different animal species, but there is no information reported Yersinia enterocolitica in Gymnocypris przewalskii. The Gymnocypris przewalskii is a very important species in the Qinghai Lake. They were listed in the China' s second-class protected animal species. Preliminary research on the distribution of Yersinia enterocolitica and the drug sensitive fauna test on Gymnocypris przewalskii was a urgent solving problem for which maintain the original ecological symbiotic system and restore Gymnocypris przewalskii resource. In order to solve these issues, we performed this research.Methods: Pathogen of Yersinia enterocolitica of 75 death Gymnocypris przewalskii was isolated by routine isolation culture and identification technique in fishing bank of Xining. At the same time, the drug sensitive fauna test had been detected. At the meantime, 16S rRNA gene of Yersinia enterocolitica was cloned and sequences identified.Results: The results showed that 5 strains Yersinia enterocolitica were obtained, positive ratio was 6.67% (5/75). 1 strains bacteria had lethal effect to mice by pathogenic test. The average drug-resistant of 5 strain Yersinia enterocolitica was 54.29% (38/70) to 14 kinds of antibiotic. The result of 16S rRNA gene of Yersinia enterocolitica identified showed that one piece of 1419 bp specific braid was obtained. The homologies of nucleotide of 16S rRNA were 91%-95% between 15 strains of Yersinia enterocolitica from GenBank by measuring sequence.Conclusion: Yersinia enterocolitica can infect Gymnocypris przewalskii. Some strains cause lethal effect to mice and have drug-resistant effect. The 16S rRNA gene matches 91%-95% with other strains nucleotides download from GenBank and forms a unique branch separated from them.Trial registration: During this research, we didn’t need to apply for trail and have no trial registration number.
Development, Implementation and Evaluation of Educational Package for Controlling Metabolic Syndrome Components: a quasi-experimental trial in Iran
Authors: Aein Afsaneh , Omidi Negar , Khatami Farnaz , Samat Shahed , Khorgami Mohammad Rafie
Published: March 2020

Background This study was to develop, implement, and evaluate the impact of lifestyle education package in order to control metabolic syndrome components.Methods Totally, 72 women and men aged 18-68 years with MetS from two health centers enrolled through randomized sampling to either intervention group who take usual care plus a 3-month lifestyle modification intervention or control group. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure, lipid profiles, and fasting blood glucose were assessed at baseline and after 3month.Results Lifestyle modification program was associated with modest weight loss (2 ± 0.4 kg, P<0.001), a significant reduction in waist circumference (2.3 ± 0.9 cm, P <0.001) and hip circumference (1 ± 0.3cm, P <0.001), and a significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure (5.3 ± 1.4 mm Hg, P<0.001) compared with baseline values in the intervention group. Also, 33.8% of the changes in metabolic syndrome components were attributable to educational intervention (P<0.001, F= 5.27).Conclusions Lifestyle educational package had a significant effect on waist, hip circumference, and diastolic blood pressure at a 3-month. It is suggested that long-term educational interventions should perform to control other MetS components such as blood sugar and systolic blood pressure.Retrospectively registered: This study was retrospectively registered in the Iranian website (www.irct.ir) for registration of clinical trials (IRCT20200212046470N1), on 2020-02-23.
Oral neuromuscular training in patients with dysphagia after stroke: a prospective, randomized, open-label study with blinded evaluators
Authors: Hägglund Patricia , Hägg Mary , Jäghagen Eva Levring , Larsson Bengt , Wester Per
Published: March 2020

Background: Oral and pharyngeal swallowing dysfunction are common complications in acute stroke patients. This primary aim of this study was to determine whether oral neuromuscular training improves swallowing function in participants with swallowing dysfunction after stroke. A secondary aim was to assess how well results of the timed water-swallow test (TWST) correspond with swallowing dysfunction diagnosed by videofluoroscopy (VFS). Methods: This was an intention-to-treat two-centre prospective randomized open-label study with blinded-evaluators (PROBE) design. At 4 weeks after stroke onset, participants with swallowing dysfunction were randomized to 5 weeks of continued orofacial sensory-vibration stimulation with an electric toothbrush or additional oral neuromuscular training with an oral device (Muppy®). Participants were examined with TWST, a lip-force test, and VFS before (baseline), after 5 weeks’ training (the end-of-treatment), and 12 months after treatment (follow-up). The primary endpoint was changes in swallowing rate assessed using TWST, from baseline to the end of training and from baseline to follow-up based on intention-to-treat analyses. The secondary endpoint was the corresponding changes in lip-force between baseline, the end-of-treatment, and follow-up. Results: The participants were randomly assigned as controls ( n = 20) or for intervention with oral neuromuscular training ( n = 20). After treatment, both groups had improved significantly (intervention, P < 0.001; controls, P = 0.001) in TWST but there was no significant between-group difference in swallowing rate. At the 12-month follow-up, the intervention group had improved further whereas the controls had deteriorated, and there were significant between-group differences in swallowing rate ( P = 0.032) and lip force ( P = 0.001). A TWST <10 mL/sec at baseline corresponded to VFS-verified swallowing dysfunction in all assessed participants. Conclusion: The 5-week oral neuromuscular training improved swallowing function in participants with post-stroke dysphagia compared with the controls 12 months after intervention, but there was no between-group difference in improvement immediately after treatment. TWST results corresponded with VFS results, making TWST a feasible method for identifying persons with swallowing dysfunction after stroke. Larger randomized controlled trials are required to confirm our preliminary positive long-term results. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04164420. Registered on 15 November 2019.
Notes on 8 Majorana Fermions
Authors: Tong David , Turner Carl
Published: March 2020

Eight Majorana fermions in d=1+1d=1+1
dimensions enjoy a triality that permutes the representation of the
SO(8)SO(8)
global symmetry in which the fermions transform. This triality plays an
important role in the quantization of the superstring, and in the
analysis of interacting topological insulators and the associated
phenomenon of symmetric mass generation. The purpose of these notes is
to provide an introduction to the triality and its applications, with
careful attention paid to various
{\bf Z}_2
global and gauge symmetries and their coupling to background spin
structures.
El cambio social como resultado de innovación social mediante metodologías participativas: una revisión bibliométrica
Authors: Mesa Rodríguez Maria Camila , Restrepo Medina Liliana Patricia
Published: March 2020

El motor para el cambio social es la innovación social y en medio de estos dos términos está la participación ciudadana, sin la cual no sería posible resolver de manera eficiente los problemas actuales de la sociedad, el artículo hace un análisis bibliométrico para generar resultados cuantitativos y cualitativos, a partir de un análisis de la producción existente enfocada en la relación de “innovación social y cambio social” e “innovación social y metodologías participativas. Uno de los resultados más concluyentes es que el interés en los temas seleccionados ha aumentado exponencialmente en los últimos años.
Factors of macroeconomic growth in Nigeria: wages demand, taxes, and entrepreneurship development
Authors: Zhuravka Fedir , Shkarupa Olena , O. Aiyedogbon John , Adeyinka Olure-Bank , Shkarupa Ivan
Published: March 2020

This paper contributes to clarifying the scientific debate on the impact of entrepreneurship development and wages increases on Nigeria’s macroeconomic development. The main purpose of this research is to estimate the impacts, problems, and consequences between wages growth and the growth of a long-term relationship between wages and investment. The article deals with the current state of Nigeria’s macroeconomic indicators. The methodological tools for the research are the ARDL and DOLS methods, which were used to study the relationships between the macroeconomic indicators. The research period is 1987–2019. The research empirically confirms and theoretically proves that the country operates under unstable and uncertain conditions, so it is difficult to achieve macroeconomic stability. Also, the article presents the results of the analysis, which has shown a positive and statistically significant effect of raising the minimum wages on economic growth both in the long and short term. The study results can be useful for state authorities, private sector, as well as for the researchers. AcknowledgementsThis research was prepared as a part of the Scientific Project “Modeling the Transfer of Eco-Innovations in the Enterprise-Region-State System: Impact on Ukraine’s Economic Growth and Security” (No. 0119U100364), that is financed by the state budget of Ukraine.
The ability of trust to influence GDP per capita
Authors: Zakharov Dmytro , Bezruchuk Svitlana , Poplavska Viktoriia , Laichuk Svitlana , Khomenko Hanna
Published: March 2020

The article explores social capital and its impact on economic development. This paper aims to analyze the role of trust in the process of growth and economic development. The interdependence of GDP per capita and trust level as an element of social capital has been analyzed. The correlation between trust and GDP per capita in 43 countries has been reflected. World Values Survey (WVS) was used to obtain empirical trust data. To determine the relationship between confidence level and GDP per capita, the correlation model was built. The regression coefficient b = 0.834 shows the average change in the effective indicator. Thus, with an increase of 1 unit of trust, GDP per capita rises by an average of 0.834. The coefficient of determination indicates that 60.68% of cases of changes in trust lead to a change in GDP per capita. The result suggests that trust serves as a tool in assisting the economic growth and company’s value. The study examines the tools that help to build trust, as economic development as a whole depends on it.
Up-flow vs downflow anaerobic digester reactor configurations for treatment of fats-oil-grease laden poultry slaughterhouse wastewater: a review
Authors: Basitere M. , Njoya M. , Ntwampe S. K. O. , Sheldon M. S.
Published: March 2020

The process of anaerobic digestion has been and still remains the most efficient, cost effective and environmentally benign treatment process for poultry slaughterhouse wastewater (PSW). The PSW is characterized by a high concentration in chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD) and fats, oil including grease (FOG). The reactor configuration influences the performance of such anaerobic systems in the treatment of such oily wastewater. The up-flow reactor configuration provided by the Up-flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) Bioreactor or the Expanded Granular Sludge Bioreactor (EGSB) are highly dependent on up-flow velocity, which often contributes to periodical sludge washout during the treatment of PSW with high FOG and total suspended solids (TSS) concentration, resulting in poor reactor performance in comparison with downflow reactors such as the Static Granular Bed Reactor (SGBR), which achieves high organic load removal efficiency particularly when treating PSW due to its ability to retain sludge granules and solidified residue within the reactor. The washout of the sludge results from sludge flotation, which is induced by the inhibition of the anaerobic granular biomass by the accumulation of long chain fatty acids (LCFAs) from poor hydrolysis. The aim of this review is to highlight reactor configuration deficiencies, and to elaborate on the advantages of using anaerobic digestion for the treatment of FOG-laden PSW, with a focus on reactor performance. Additionally, a comparative analysis between up-flow reactors, such as the UASB including EGSB, and downflow reactors, such as SGBR, was performed.
Familia, remesas y redes sociales en torno a la migración en Veracruz central
Authors: Del Ángel Pérez Ana Lid , Rebolledo Martínez Andrés
Published: March 2020

Se realizó investigación de campo durante 2005 y 2006 en Veracruz Central, México. Se trabajó con 38 familias de migrantes indocumentados y cinco varones que han retornado a las localidades. El objetivo fue analizar los factores detonantes de la migración en cuatro localidades, el papel que desempeñan diversas redes sociales en el fenómeno, y la dinámica familiar a raíz de la ausencia del varón o proveedor económico. Los resultados mostraron como detonantes de la migración la búsqueda de mejores oportunidades de empleos y calidad de vida, fundamentada en una modificación de la ética de trabajo y expectativas que no pueden obtener en México, y donde diversos tipos de redes facilitan la salida de los migrantes, la estancia en los Estados Unidos y la búsqueda de empleo. Se encontró la continuidad y el reforzamiento de la estructura y dinámica de los grupos domésticos extensos, y la prevalencia de los roles patrilineales jerárquicos, donde las mujeres mantienen el papel doméstico tradicional, sin independencia económica y bajo la tutela económica y moral de la parentela del varón ausente. Con relación al uso de las remesas, la voluntad del varón es ejecutada por medio de sus parientes, por lo anterior, se conservan los tradicionales papeles de un tipo de matrimonio a distancia, fundamentado en la no co–residencia.
Estado y política agraria en la frontera sur argentina: el territorio nacional de Río Negro (1916–1930)
Authors: Ruffini Martha
Published: March 2020

En 1916 asumió la presidencia de la República Argentina Hipólito Yrigoyen, líder del partido Unión Cívica Radical (1916–1930), quien motorizó una política pretendidamente reparadora del “orden conservador” precedente. La implementación de la reparación en los territorios nacionales –verdaderas fronteras interiores del Estado nacional– se vio facilitada por la centralización política y administrativa de estos espacios, resultando un prisma adecuado para interpretar el comportamiento estatal, sus intereses y sus motivaciones. En este artículo nos proponemos analizar la relación Estado–territorios mediante un estudio de caso: el territorio nacional de Río Negro, situado en el norte de la Patagonia, espacio de antiguo poblamiento de la frontera sur, que desde su creación requirió de la decisión estatal para superar los factores condicionantes para el desarrollo agropecuario. Empero, el gobierno radical no se apartaría de la política agraria desarrollada hasta entonces y evidenciaría dificultades para subsanar las cuestiones básicas obstaculizadoras del desarrollo, vinculadas con la navegabilidad del río Negro, y sus inundaciones periódicas, destructivas de todo intento de desarrollo agrario sostenido.
Vivienda para los pobres: instrumentación e impactos del programa Tu Casa en la ciudad de Tijuana
Authors: Jardón Hernández Ana Elizabeth , Ordóñez Barba Gerardo
Published: March 2020

En el presente estudio se evalúan el funcionamiento y algunos de los principales resultados de uno de los programas federales más importantes en materia de vivienda dirigido a hogares en situación de pobreza, haciendo especial énfasis en su proceso de instrumentación e impactos frente al problema habitacional de las familias pobres en la ciudad de Tijuana. A partir de este trabajo se pretende dar cuenta de los cambios en el diseño del programa, que forzaron su transformación de Vivah a Tu Casa, de las dificultades operativas que enfrenta para implementarse adecuadamente en un contexto urbano determinado y de sus limitados efectos para resolver las necesidades de vivienda de tipo popular. No obstante, también se busca ponderar la importancia de los subsidios gubernamentales para la adquisición o el mejoramiento de viviendas, en su modalidad progresiva, como una alternativa para los segmentos sociales económicamente menos favorecidos y que se encuentran excluidos de cualquier otra opción de financiamiento público o privado.
Militarización de la frontera e inmigración ilegal: los jornaleros tamaulipecos
Authors: Izcara Palacios Simón Pedro
Published: March 2020

Tamaulipas presenta una larga tradición de emigración de su población rural a los Estados Unidos en busca de empleos agrarios. Hasta los años ochenta los trabajadores indocumentados tamaulipecos cruzaban la frontera sin muchas dificultades. Sin embargo, a partir de los años noventa, como resultado de una política de contención de la emigración ilegal centrada únicamente del lado de la oferta, el cruce de la frontera se torna más problemático, y los inmigrantes se ven obligados a contratar de forma generalizada los servicios de “polleros”. Este artículo analiza el impacto de la militarización de la frontera en la emigración irregular de trabajadores rurales tamaulipecos que buscan empleos agrarios en Estados Unidos.
Cuerpo y biopanoptismo en México a principios del siglo XXI: el Programa de Trabajadores Agrícolas Temporales a Canadá
Authors: Lutz Bruno , Vizcarra Bordi Ivonne , Flores Castro Verónica
Published: March 2020

Desde la firma de un convenio bilateral en 1974, México envía jornaleros agrícolas temporales para trabajar en granjas canadienses. El paulatino endurecimiento de los criterios para seleccionar a las y los trabajadores rurales a petición del gobierno canadiense, aunado a la aplicación de los mismos por la Secretaría del Trabajo en México y su interpretación discrecional en cada oficina de reclutamiento en los estados de la República, convergen hacia la constitución de un biopanoptismo de los candidatos a la emigración. Esta red institucional de vigilancia, control y sometimiento del cuerpo de los trabajadores se extiende durante toda su estancia laboral fuera del país y sigue hasta su regreso en México.