bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renewable Energy and Population for Sustainable Development in the Southeast Asian Countries
Authors: Vo Duc Hong , Vo Anh The
Published: January 2021

BackgroundThe energy – environment – growth nexus has been examined for the Southeast Asian countries mainly using time series data. Few studies have been conducted using panel data. The roles of renewable energy and population have largely been ignored in previous studies. As such, this study is conducted to investigate a dynamic causal link between renewable energy usage, population, carbon emissions, and economic growth. Unlike previous panel data studies for the ASEAN region, a relatively new and advanced panel vector autoregressive model and the Granger non-causality test for heterogeneous panels are utilized using a sample of seven ASEAN countries for almost three decades since 1990.ResultsKey findings from this paper are as follows. First, energy consumption does lead to CO2 emissions - a 1 per cent increase in energy consumption will lead to an increase of about 0.34 per cent CO2 emissions which is lower than previously reported. Second, renewable energy usage explains a substantial proportion of the change in economic growth and energy consumption. Renewable energy also responds to population. Third, a bidirectional Granger causality between renewable energy, carbon emissions and population.ConclusionsWe argue that moderating population growth and extending renewable energy usage are important to achieve sustainable economic development in the ASEAN region.
Association Between Iron Deficiency and Febrile Seizure? A Case Control Study in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Noorbakhsh Samileh
Published: January 2021

Objective: Febrile convulsion (FC) is the most common form of seizures disorder (3-4%) in childhood with good prognosis. Some evidences indicate that iron deficiency (ID) might play a role in initiation of FC. The aim of this case‐control study was to evaluate, the role for ID in pathogenesis of FC (febrile convulsion). We studied 35 FC children and 35 controls (febrile diseases without convulsion) Methods; In this case–control study, 70 chidren admitted in pediatrics department (2014-2016) were studied. Cases included 35 children with FC ( mean age: 2.191 ± 0946 years); 62.9% male,37.1% female .The Controls consisted 35 children with febrile diseases without convulsion (( mean age: 1.93 ± 1.433 years) 65.7% male,34.3% female.Two militter of peripheral blood collected within the first day of admission in hospital. The blood were tested for CBC, HB ,MCV,MCH,MCHC in 2 groups. The remaining blood in an acid‐propylene tube were centrifuged and serum was preserved in‐80°C.Serum ferritin was estimated by EIAS test for the cases and controls .Data were analyzed by SPSS 13.HB ,,MCVMCH,MCHC ,and serum ferritin level were compared between 2 groups using appropriate statistical tools . The Ferritin level cut-off in serum for differentiating between 2 groups was constructed by receiver-operating-characteristic curve(ROC). Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, of test was calculated.Results: The mean age of cases were 2.191 ± 0946 vs 1.93 ± 1.433 years in controls .Mean Hemoglobin level (11.6 ± 079 vs 11.86± 071; p value= 0.2); MCV (75.8 ± 4.3 vs 77.62± 4.1,p value= 0.08); serum ferritin levels (54.57 ± 24 vs 58.31± 23, p value= 0.64) had not significant difference between 2 groups. The ferritin level 36ng/ml; had 74.3% sensitivity, 20% specifity, 56% PPV, 52% NPV, Positive likelihood Ratio: 1.3; Negative likelihood Ratio: 0.93 to discriminate 2 groups. In our opinion, ID could not lead to FC in all children, but in some cases with genetic basis; ID raises the threshold for seizures. Due to high prevalence of ID (26%) especially in your Iranian population, adding the Iron to diet might be helpful in decreasing FC in susceptible cases.Conclusion: The present study is the first to report the ferritin cut off level which discriminates the FC cases from non convulsive febrile children. Ferritin cut off (36ng/ml has an acceptable sensitivity (74.3% ) but poor specifity (20%) and just 56% PPV, and 52% NPV to differentiate the FC cases from non convulsive febrile children. In our opinion, ID could not lead to FC in all children, but in some cases with genetic basis; ID raises the threshold for seizures. Due to high prevalence of ID (26%) especially in your Iranian population, adding the Iron to diet, might be helpful in decreasing FC in susceptible cases.
Thermal Cycling Behavior of Bi-layer Yb2Si2O7/SiC EBC Coated Cf/SiC Composites in Burner Rig Tests
Authors: Chen Sian , Chen Pengju , Duan Junjie , Chen Maolin , Xiao Peng , Li Yang , Li Y.
Published: January 2021

To improve the oxidation resistance of carbon fiber reinforced SiC ceramic matrix composites (Cf/SiC) at high-temperature and high-speed gas scour environment in burner rig tests, a novel bi-layer Yb2Si2O7/SiC EBC was prepared on the surface of Cf/SiC composites by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and sol-gel method united with air spraying. Results show that bi-layer Yb2Si2O7/SiC coating showed better oxidation resistance for Cf/SiC specimens before 20 thermal cycles (300 min), which can efficiently prevent the oxidation of Cf/SiC specimens in a gas scour environment at 1773 K for 300 min with a weight loss of 5.93 × 10-3 g·cm-2. After 20 thermal cycles (≥300 min), the weight loss of the coated specimen is rapidly increased due to the formation of penetrating cracks. After the corrosion of 36 thermal cycles (540 min), some obvious annular corrosion pit area were found on the surface of Yb2Si2O7 outer coating, the center of the corrosion pit was easier to be the origin area of the cracks due to the greater impact force of the gas.
High Arsenic Levels Increase Activity Rather Than Diversity or Abundance of Arsenic Metabolism Genes in Paddy Soils
Authors: Zhang Si-Yu , Xiao Xiao , Chen Song-Can , Zhu Yong-Guan , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T.
Published: January 2021

BackgroundArsenic (As) is a toxic metalloid pervasively present in the environment. Microorganisms have evolved the capacity to metabolize As, and As metabolism genes are ubiquitously present in the environment even in the absence of high concentration of As. However, the As metabolism genes diversity, relative abundance, and transcriptional activity in response to different As levels remain unclear, limiting our understanding of the microbial activities that control the fate of an important environmental pollutant. To address this issue, we applied metagenomics and metatranscriptomics to paddy soils showing a gradient of As concentrations to investigate As resistance genes (ars), including arsR, acr3, arsB, arsC, arsM, arsI, arsP and arsH as well as energy-generating As respiratory oxidation (aioA) and reduction (arrA) genes.ResultsSomewhat unexpectedly, the relative DNA abundances and diversity of ars, aioA and arrA genes were not significantly different between low and high (~10 vs ~100 mg kg-1) As soils. By comparison to available metagenomes from other soils, geographic distance rather than As levels drove the different composition of microbial communities. Arsenic significantly increased ars genes abundance only when its concentration was higher than 410 mg kg -1. In contrast, between low and high (~10 vs ~100 mg kg-1) As soils, metatranscriptomics revealed a significant increase in transcription of ars and aioA genes, which are induced by arsenite, the dominant As species in paddy soils, but not arrA genes, which are induced by arsenate. Co-occurrence patterns of arsR, acr3, and arsM genes were revealed by network analysis corroborating that the arsR, acr3 and arsM genes are usually organized in a single ars operon. The transcriptome level response appeared to be community-wide as opposed to taxon-specific. ConclusionsHigh As levels increased the activity of As metabolism genes rather than their abundance or diversity in paddy soils. These findings advance understanding of how microbes respond to high As levels and the diversity of As metabolism genes in paddy soils, and indicated that future studies of As metabolism in soil, and likely other environments, should include the function (transcriptome) level.
Viromics Unveils Extraordinary Genetic Diversity of the Family Closteroviridae in Wild Citrus
Authors: Liu Qiyan , Zhang Song , Mei Shiqiang , Zhou Yan , Zhou Changyong , Cao Mengji
Published: January 2021

Background

Our knowledge of citrus viruses is largely skewed toward virus pathology in cultivated orchards; comparatively little is known about the virus diversity and ecology in natural ecosystems. The metatranscriptomics approach were used to analyze wild citrus from the Ailao Mountain region in China, a region embracing huge biodiversity in an area where citrus species originated. We investigated the evolutionary history of citrus viruses to identify the factors facilitating outbreaks of emerging viruses.
Results

An independent wild citrus habitat were identified where citrus tristeza virus (CTV) exists along with three novel monopartite, graft-transmissible members of the family Closteroviridae differing from the managed agricultural systems that harbor other diverse citrus viruses. The viruses analyzed in 16 sequencing libraries of 32 citrus samples comprised five CTV genotypes, two inferred new ampelovirus species, and a monopartite ancestor type of the multipartite crinivirus that may represent a new taxon. Acquisition of heat shock protein genes (all viruses) and coat protein duplication (most), exchange of other exogenous genes (some), and alteration of expression strategy (rare) may reflect the significant historical nodes through which a Closteroviridae ancestor as the relic species has flourished. During viral expansion, genetic mutation coupled with recombination may be the essential impetus to update best-adapted sequences, as in the cases of our CTV and one of the ampeloviruses.
Conclusions

This research represents the first time of virus diversity in wild citrus. The findings deepen our knowledge of Closteroviridae modular evolution and diversification. Given the potential emergence of similar novel viruses as pathogens, the need for surveillance of their pathogenic and epidemiological characteristics and the presence of other novel citrus viruses among wild citrus is of utmost priority for global citrus production.
Mitochondria-targeting Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Fluorescence Imaging-guided Synergistic Phototherapy of Drug-resistant Osteosarcoma
Authors: Zeng Wei-Nan , Yu Qiu-Ping , Wang Duan , Liu Jun-Li , Yang Qing-Jun , Zhou Zong-Ke , zeng yiping
Published: January 2021

Background: Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor occurring in children and young adults. Drug-resistant osteosarcoma often results in chemotherapy failure. Therefore, new treatments aimed at novel therapeutic targets are urgently needed for the treatment of Drug-resistant osteosarcoma. Mitochondria-targeted phototherapy, i.e., synergistic photodynamic/photothermal therapy, has emerged as a highly promising strategy for treating drug-resistant tumors. This study proposed a new nano-drug delivery system based on near-infrared imaging and multifunctional graphene, which can target mitochondria and show synergistic phototherapy, with preferential accumulation in tumors.Methods and Results: Based on our previous study, (4-carboxybutyl) triphenyl phosphonium bromide (TPP), a mitochondria-targeting ligand, was conjugated to indocyanine green (ICG)-loaded, polyethylenimine-modified PEGylated nanographene oxide sheets (TPP-PPG@ICG) to promote mitochondrial accumulation after cellular internalization. Thereafter, exposure to a single dose of near-infrared irradiation enabled synergistic photodynamic and photothermal therapy, which simultaneously inhibited adenosine triphosphate synthesis and mitochondrial function. Induction of intrinsic apoptosis assisted in surmounting drug resistance and caused tumor cell death. After fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic phototherapy, the mitochondria-targeting, multifunctional graphene-based, drug-delivery system showed highly selective anticancer efficiency in vitro and in vivo, resulting in marked inhibition of tumor progression without noticeable toxicity in mice bearing doxorubicin-resistant MG63 tumor cells. Conclusion: The mitochondria-targeting TPP-PPG@ICG nanocomposite constitutes a new class of nanomedicine for fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic phototherapy and shows promise for treating drug-resistant osteosarcoma.
Seropositivity and Risk Factors of Brucella Infection in Small Ruminants that had History of Recent Abortion in the Afar Region of North-Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Tekle Muluken , Legesse Mengistu , Mamo Gezahegne
Published: January 2021

Background: Brucellosis is one of the most important reproductive disease causes abortion and breeding failure in small ruminants and also causes severe systemic diseases in exposed humans. In Ethiopia, several studies of seroprevalence shows the magnitude and distribution of brucellosis both in animals and humans vary in different geographical localities. However, except few studies in Ethiopia all these serological studies was limited to RBPT and CFT, so far not supplemented with a varities of serological tests like ELISA to detect brucella infection, which is increase the likehood of detecting infected individulas and also improve the reliability of epidemiological data for appropriate control strategies. Hence, the present study was conducted in Amibara district of Afar Region, Ethiopia to detect the seropositivity and risk factor of Brucella infection in small ruminants that had history of recent abortion using mRBPT, cELISA and CFT. Materials and methods: Sera were collected from 226 animals (195 goats and 31sheep) and assessed for seropositivity of Brucella infection using modified Rose Bengal Plate Test (mRBPT), Complement Fixation Test (CFT) and competitive Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (cELISA).Results : In this study the over all seroprevalence was 12.0% (27 out of 226), 7.5% (17 out of 226) and 26.6% (60 out of 226) by mRBPT, CFT and cELISA, respectively. Out of 27 sera which were reactive by mRBPT, 17 (63.0%) were also reactive by (CFT). Out of the 17 sera which were reactive by CFT and mRBPT, 14 (82.4%) were reactive by cELISA. Out of the 29 sera which were non-reactive both by mRBPT and CFT, 10 (34.5%) were found to be reactive by cELISA. Out of the 226 sera which were tested both by mRBPT and cELISA, 20 (8.9%) were reactive by both tests, while 159 (70.4%) were non-reactive by both tests. The percentage of test agreement (79.2%) between mRBPT and cELISA was poor (k= 0.353). A high seropositivity for Brucella infection was significantly associated with the presence of retained placenta in the study animals (adjusted OR= 2.2, 95%CI, 1.1-4.4, P=0.030) as detected by cELISA. Conclusion: The findings of this study could suggest that brucellosis is main cause of abortion and breeding failure in small ruminants that had histry of recent abortion in the pastoral communities’ andwarrants the need for proactive measures to reduce its economic impact and risk of zoonotic transmission. This study indicates that cELISA based seroepidemiological survey increase the likehood of detecting infected individulas of brucellosis and also would be useful to provide reliable evidence for Brucella infection in small ruminants compared to mRBPT.
Association Between Adult Attachment Styles and Disordered Eating Among a Sample of Lebanese Adults
Authors: Zakhour Maha , Haddad Chadia , Salameh Pascale , Sacre Hala , Hallit Rabih , Akel Marwan , Kheir Nelly , Hallit Souheil , Obeid Sahar
Published: January 2021

ObjectivesThe current study will be the first to investigate relationships between attachment styles and disordered eating (binge eating, restrained eating, emotional eating, orthorexia tendencies and behaviors, and eating attitudes) and to check if these associations are mediated by body dissatisfaction among Lebanese adults. Designcross-sectional study.Settingall Lebanese governorates.ParticipantsA total of 811 participants was randomly selected to participate in this five-month study (January to May 2018). ResultsHaving an anxious attachment style was significantly associated with higher emotional eating, whereas having an avoidant attachment style was significantly associated with more inappropriate eating (higher EAT-26 scores) and more orthorexia nervosa (lower ORTO-R scores). Finally, having a secure attachment style was significantly associated with more appropriate eating (lower EAT-26 scores). Higher body dissatisfaction was significantly associated with higher orthorexia nervosa (lower ORTO-R scores), higher binge and restrained eating. Body dissatisfaction partially mediated the association between having an anxious attachment style and restrained eating (17.25%), having a secure attachment style and emotional eating (12.53%), eating attitudes (7.12%) and binge eating (21.47%), as well as the association between having an avoidant attachment style and orthorexia nervosa (9.75%). ConclusionIn conclusion, this research showed that attachment insecurity affected the maintenance of disordered eating symptoms and that body dissatisfaction plays a mediator role between adult attachment and disordered eating. Clinicians may consider interviewing or self-reporting measures to assess attachment insecurity.
Understanding the benefits and burdens associated with a Malaria Human Infection Study in Kenya: Experiences of study volunteers and other stakeholders
Authors: Chi Primus Che , Owino Esther Awuor , Jao Irene , Olewe Fredrick , Ogutu Bernhards , Bejon Philip , Kapulu Melissa , Kamuya Dorcas , Marsh Vicki , Team The CHMI-SIKA Study
Published: January 2021

Background Human infection studies that involve deliberately infecting healthy volunteers with a pathogen raise important ethical issues, including the need to ensure that benefits and burdens are understood and appropriately accounted for. Building on earlier work, we embedded social science research within an ongoing malaria human infection study in coastal Kenya to understand the study benefits and burdens experienced by study stakeholders in this low-resource setting and assess the wider implications for future research planning and policy. Methods Data were collected using qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews (44), focus group discussions (10) and non-participation observation. Study participants were purposively selected (key informant or maximal diversity sampling), including volunteers in the human infection study, study staff, community representatives and local administrative authorities. Data were collected during and up to 18 months following study residency, from sites in Coastal and Western Kenya. Voice recordings of interviews and discussions were transcribed, translated and analysed using Framework Analysis, combining data- and theory-driven perspectives.Findings Physical, psychological, economic and social forms of benefits and burdens were experienced across study stages. Important benefits for volunteers included the study compensation, access to health checks, good residential living conditions, new learning opportunities, developing friendships and satisfaction at contributing towards a new malaria vaccine. Burdens primarily affected study volunteers, including experiences of discomfort and ill-health; fear and anxiety around aspects of the trial process, particularly deliberate infection and the implications of prolonged residency; anxieties about early residency exit and interpersonal conflict. These issues had important implications for volunteers’ families, study staff and the research institution’s reputation more widely.Conclusion Developing ethically and scientifically strong HIS relies on grounded accounts of volunteers, study staff and the wider community, understood in the socioeconomic, political and cultural context where studies are implemented. Recognition of the diverse, and sometimes perverse, nature of potential benefits and burdens in a given context, and who this might implicate, is critical to this process. Prior and on-going stakeholder engagement is core to developing these insights, which can be importantly expanded and underlined through embedded forms of social science research.
The ancient Chinese civilization left remarkable signals in the marine environment since the Bronze Age
Authors: Sun Xiang , Hu Limin , Hu Bangqi , Sun Xueshi , Wu Xiao , Bi Naishuang , Lin Tian , Guo Zhigang , Yang Zuosheng
Published: January 2021

To understand the onset of human civilization evolution recorded in the marine environment, a 6000-year record of black carbon (BC), including char and soot, was examined in a sediment core from the central South Yellow Sea. The results showed that the colder and drier climate dominated the variation in fire activity in northern China after mid-Holocene via decreased precipitation and vegetation cover. The char released from the fire activity, can barely retrieve traces preserved in the marine sediments during the civilization evolution in China since ~1 ka BP. Fortunately, the soot-BC signal demonstrated that anthropogenic forces have overwhelmed the natural causes of soot emission since ~4 ka BP (Bronze Age) in northern China. The variation in soot closely matched periods when there was large-scale use of coal or charcoal after ~2 ka BP and when indigenous coking technology was promoted after ~1.3 ka BP, and times with low soot abundance coincided with periods of social unrest. This work provides evidence that the soot signal could be a robust tracer for tracking the civilization evolution, and the ancient Chinese civilization left remarkable soot signals in the marine environment since the Bronze Age.
Discovering the Low-Latitude Ionospheric Trough Associated With the Inner Radiation Belt
Authors: Karpachev Alexander
Published: January 2021

The dynamics of ionospheric troughs during great geomagnetic storm on April 11–13, 2001 is considered. An analysis is based on measurements of electron density at altitudes of the CHAMP satellite 410–465 km. The subauroral, mid-latitude and low-latitude troughs were observed at nighttime, sometimes simultaneously. The subauroral trough is usually defined as the main ionospheric trough. The mid-latitude trough is associated with the magnetospheric ring current. It appears at the beginning of the storm recovery phase at latitudes of 40–45° GMLat (L=1.7–2.0) and exists for a long time at the late recovery phase at latitudes of the residual ring current 50–55° GMLat (L~2.4–3.0). The low-latitude trough was revealed for the first time. It is developed at the latitudes of the inner radiation belt 34–45° GMLat (L=1.45–2.00). This trough is associated with the precipitation of energetic particles from the inner radiation belt.
Quantification of Arterial, Venous, and Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow Dynamics by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Under Simulated Micro-Gravity Conditions: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zahid Arslan , Martin Bryn , Collins Stephanie , Oshinski John N. , Ethier Christopher Ross
Published: January 2021

Background: Astronauts undergoing long-duration spaceflight are exposed to numerous health risks, including Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS), a spectrum of ophthalmic changes that can result in permanent loss of visual acuity. The etiology of SANS is not well understood but is thought to involve changes in cerebrovascular flow dynamics in response to microgravity. There is a paucity of knowledge in this area; in particular, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics have not been well characterized under microgravity conditions. Our study was designed to determine the effect of simulated microgravity (head-down tilt [HDT]) on cerebrovascular flow dynamics. We hypothesized that microgravity conditions simulated by acute HDT would result in increases in CSF pulsatile flow. Methods: In a prospective cohort study, we measured flow in major cerebral arteries, veins, and CSF spaces in fifteen healthy volunteers using phase contrast magnetic resonance (PCMR) before and during 15° HDT.Results: We found a decrease in all CSF flow variables [systolic peak flow (p=0.009), and peak-to-peak pulse amplitude (p=0.001)]. Cerebral arterial average flow (p=0.04), systolic peak flow (p=0.04), and peak-to-peak pulse amplitude (p=0.02) all also significantly decreased. We additionally found a decrease in average cerebral arterial flow (p=0.040). Finally, a significant increase in cerebral venous cross-sectional area under HDT (p=0.005) was also observed. Conclusions: These results collectively demonstrate that acute application of -15° HDT caused a reduction in CSF flow variables (systolic peak flow and peak-to-peak pulse amplitude) which, when coupled with a decrease in average cerebral arterial flow, systolic peak flow, and peak-to-peak pulse amplitude, is consistent with a decrease in cardiac-related pulsatile CSF flow. These results suggest that decreases in cerebral arterial inflow were the principal drivers of decreases in CSF pulsatile flow.
The oncometabolite R-2-hydroxyglutarate dysregulates the differentiation of human mesenchymal stromal cells via inducing DNA hypermethylation
Authors: Liu Lizhen , Hu Kaimin , Feng Jingjing , Wang Huafang , Fu Shan , Wang Binsheng , Wang Limengmeng , Xu Yulin , Yu Xiaohong , Huang He
Published: January 2021

Background: Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1/2) gene mutations are the most frequently observed mutations in cartilaginous tumors. The mutant IDH causes elevation in the levels of R-enantiomer of 2-hydroxylglutarate (R-2HG). Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are reasonable precursor cell candidates of cartilaginous tumors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of oncometabolite R-2HG on MSCs. Methods: Human bone marrow MSCs treated with or without R-2HG at concentrations 0.1 to 1.5mM were used for experiments. Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to detect the proliferation of MSCs. To determine the effects of R-2HG on MSC differentiation, cells were cultured in osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic medium. Specific staining approaches were performed and differentiation-related genes were quantified. Furthermore, DNA methylation status was explored by Illumina array-based arrays. Real-time PCR was applied to examine the signaling component mRNAs involved in. Results: R-2HG showed no influence on the proliferation of human MSCs. R-2HG blocked osteogenic differentiation, whereas promoted adipogenic differentiation of MSCs in a dose-dependent manner. R-2HG inhibited chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs, but increased the expression of genes related to chondrocyte hypertrophy in a lower concentration (1.0 mM). Moreover, R-2HG induced a pronounced DNA hypermethylation state of MSC. R-2HG also improved promotor methylation of lineage-specific genes during osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. In addition, R-2HG induced hypermethylation and decreased the mRNA levels of SHH, GLI1and GLI2, indicating Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling inhibition. Conclusions: The oncometabolite R-2HG dysregulated the chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs possibly via induction of DNA hypermethylation, improving the role of R-2HG in cartilaginous tumor development.
Effectiveness of the school-based social and behaviour change communication interventions on insecticide-treated nets utilization among primary school children in rural Ethiopia: a controlled quasi-experimental design
Authors: Ababulgu Fira Abamecha , Sudhakar Morankar , Gebretsadik Lakew Abebe , Lemu Yohannes Kebede , Alemayehu Guda , Koricha Zewdie Birhanu
Published: January 2021

BackgroundSchool-based behaviour change communication interventions could help to achieve behavioural changes in the school and enhance the enrollment of the students and teachers as health messengers to local communities. Evidence on the impacts of the school-engaged malaria preventive interventions are limited as far as the social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) is concerned. This study examined the effectiveness of the school-based SBCC approach on insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) utilization among primary school students in malaria-endemic settings of Ethiopia.MethodsVarious participatory, educational, and communication interventions were implemented from 2017 to 2019 in 75 primary schools and respective villages in Jimma to promote malaria preventive practices. A quasi-experimental design was conducted with randomly selected 798 students (i.e. 399 intervention and 399 control groups). Data were collected by trained interviewers using structured questionnaires. The SPSS version 26 software was used to analyse the data. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to control for possible confounding biases. The average effects of the intervention were estimated using multivariate general linear modelling to estimate for mean differences and odds ratio based on the nature of data.ResultsThe result showed that the ITNs utilization was 6.857 folds in the intervention groups compared to the counterpart; (OR=6.857; 95% CI: (4.636, 10.1430); effect size=39%). A mean differences (MD) of self-efficacy (MD=15.34; 95% CI: 13.73 to 16.95), knowledge (MD=5.83; 95% CI: 5.12 to 6.55), attitude (MD=6.01; 95% CI: 5.26 to 6.77), perceived malaria risk (MD=2.14; 95% CI: 1.53 to 2.76), and perceived family supports (MD=6.39; 95% CI: 5.57 to 7.22) were observed favoring the intervention. Multivariable logistic regression modelling results showed that knowledge (β=0.194, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.35) and perceived family supports (β=0.165, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.25) and self-efficacy (β=0.10, 95% CI: 1.22 to 2.32) predicted the ITN utilization among the school children.ConclusionThe finding of this study suggested that the school-based SBCC approach combined with peer education activities advanced the malaria-related knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, risk perceptions, and family supports and ultimately improved the sustained use of ITNs among school-going children. Further research should be conducted to understand the mechanism of these effects given the influences of social, health services, and school systems are considered.
The utility of simultaneous CT-guided localization for multiple pulmonary nodules using microcoil before Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery
Authors: Xu Yanyan , Ma Lingchuan , Sun Hongliang , Huang Zhenguo , Zhang Zhenrong , Xiao Fei , Ma Qianli , Lin Jie , Xie Sheng
Published: January 2021

Background: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of microcoil in simultaneous localization for multiple pulmonary nodules before video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS).Methods: Twenty-eight consecutive patients (26 two-nodule, 2 three-nodule; 58 nodules in total; Group A) underwent simultaneous CT-guided localization of multiple pulmonary nodules before VATS using microcoil. Successful targeting, localization, and VATS were defined as implantation of microcoil at the target site on CT image which was obtained immediately after the marking procedure, visualization of nodule location, and complete resection of the target nodule with adequate margin, respectively. Meanwhile, the clinical characteristics, localization procedure-related variables of the nodules and procedure-related complications in group A were also assessed and compared with those in a control group (221 single-localization procedures in 221 patients; Group B). Results: Similar rates of successful targeting, localization and VATS were observed in group A and B (96.6% vs 98.2%; 91.4% vs 91.0%; 100% vs 99.1%). Although the rate of overall complications (including localized pneumothorax and intrapulmonary hemorrhage) was a bit higher in group A than that in group B (32.8% vs 30.8%, p=0.771), only minor complications were observed in the subjects of the two groups with no need for further treatment. In addition, the duration of simultaneous localization procedures was significantly longer than that of single localization (24±7.5 vs 13±6 min, p<0.001).Conclusions: CT-guided simultaneous microcoil localization for multiple pulmonary nodules before VATS was clinically feasible and safe with acceptable increase in the procedure time. Compared with localization for a single pulmonary nodule, simultaneous microcoil localizations for multiple nodules were prone to pneumothorax and hemorrhage. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups.
Effect of gut microbiota modulation on feeding tolerance of enterally-fed critically ill adult patients: a systematic review
Authors: Seifi Najmeh , Esfahani Ali Jafarzadeh , Sedaghat Alireza , Rezvani Reza , Khadem-Rezaiyan Majid , Nematy Mohsen , Safarian Mohammad
Published: January 2021

Purpose: The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effect of pre-, pro-, and synbiotics on feeding tolerance of enterally-fed critically ill adult patients. Methods: Medline, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched up to November 2019. English language randomized controlled trials reporting the effect of pre, pro or synbiotics on the feeding tolerance of enterally-fed critically ill adult patients were included. Results: Overall, 15 papers were selected for review. Among six studies reporting the energy intake, only two studies showed significantly higher energy intake in the prebiotic-receiving groups. Among four RCTs reporting frequency or time to achieve the target calorie, only one found a significant effect of probiotics to reduce the time to achieve a target dose of calorie. About the prevalence or duration of diarrhea, 7 out of 12 RCTs reported a beneficial effect. All but one study found no beneficial effects for gut microbiota manipulation on clinical endpoints including length of stay (LOS) in hospital and intensive care unit (ICU). Conclusion: It should be noticed that the heterogeneity in study designs, product format, and ICU patient populations makes it difficult to draw any general conclusion. Overall, it seems that pre, pro or synbiotics have not significant beneficial effect on feeding tolerance and clinical endpoints in critically ill adults, but they may reduce the prevalence or duration of diarrhea.
On the move: Exploring Inuit and non-Inuit health service providers’ perspectives about family participation in care in Nunavik, a qualitative study.
Authors: Fraser Sarah Louise , Moulin Louise , Gaulin Dominique , Thompson Jennifer
Published: January 2021

Background: Literature about participation in health and social services suggests that youth, and more specifically Indigenous youth, are difficult to engage within health and social services. Youth are less likely to access services or to actively participate in decision-making regarding their personal care. Service providers play a crucial role in engaging youth based on the ways in which they seek, establish, and maintain relationships with youth and their families. The way in which providers engage with youth will depend on various factors including their own perceptions of the roles and relationships of the various people involved in youth’s lives. In this article, we analyze health and social service providers’ perspectives, experiences and expectations regarding the roles of Indigenous youth, families and community in care settings in Nunavik, Quebec. Methods: Using a snowball sampling approach, we recruited 58 interview participants (39 non-Inuit and 19 Inuit), including psychiatrists, general practitioners, nurses, social workers, school principals, teachers, student counsellors, representatives of local committees, and police officers. The interviews focused on three broad areas: 1) participants’ current and past positions and roles; 2) participants’ perceptions of the clientele they work with (youth and their families); and 3) participants’ understandings of how collaboration takes place within and between services and the community. We conducted inductive applied thematic analyses and then analyzed the interview transcripts of Inuit and non-Inuit participants separately to explore the similarities and differences in perceptions based on positionality. Results: We organized the findings around three themes: I) the most commonly described interventions, II) different types of challenges to and within participation; and III) what successful participation can look like according to service providers. Participants identified the challenges that families face in moving towards services as well as the challenges that services providers face in moving towards youth and families, including personal, organizational and historical factors. Conclusion: We adopt a critical lens to reflect on the key findings in order to tease out points of tension and paradoxes that might hinder the participation of youth and families, specifically in a social context of decolonization and self-governance of services.
Stakeholders’ Perceptions of the Nutrition and Dietetics Needs and the Requisite Professional Competencies in Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Kikomeko Peterson Kato , Ochola Sophie , Kaaya Archileo N. , Ogada Irene , Birungi Tracy Lukiya , Nakitto Peace
Published: January 2021

Background

Effective implementation of nutrition and dietetics interventions necessitates professionals in these fields to possess the requisite competencies for health systems performance. This study explored the stakeholders’ perceptions of the community nutrition and dietetics needs, the nature of work done by graduates of the Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition/Human Nutrition and Dietetics (HN/HND), and the competencies required of Nutrition and Dietetics professionals in Uganda.

Methods

A cross-sectional mixed methods design was used. Respondents included 132 graduates of the Bachelor’s degrees in HN/HND obtained from the Makerere and Kyambogo Universities during the period 2005-2016; 14 academic staff that train HN/HND in the two universities; and 10 HN/HND work/internship supervisors. Data from the graduates was collected through an email-based survey while that from other participants was through face to face interviews using a structured key informant interview guide.

Results

Most HN/HND respondents (84.8%) obtained their Bachelor's degrees from Kyambogo University and 61.4% graduated in the years 2013-2016. Most (64.3%) academic staff that responded were females and the majority (57.1%) had doctorate training. All stakeholders viewed communities as facing a variety of nutrition and dietetics challenges some of which fall across different Sustainable Development Goals. The nutrition and dietetics interventions requested, provided, and considered a priority to provide to communities were both nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive. Work done by HN/HND graduates encompassed seven main domains; the dominant being organizational leadership and management; management of nutrition-related disease conditions; nutrition and health promotion; research and documentation; and advocacy, communication, and awareness.

Conclusions

This study shows that nutrition and dietetics challenges in Uganda are multifaceted. HN/HND graduates are employed in different sectors; provide nutrition-specific and sensitive interventions in a multisectoral environment; are expected to possess a variety of knowledge and skills. However, graduates have knowledge and skills gaps even in some of the key areas they are expected to exhibit competency. We recommend using these findings to develop a HN/HND competency-based education model suitable for Uganda; develop a national HN/HND training and practice standards; and undertake further research to understand the quality and relevancy of HN/HND curricula to the job market requirements.
Efficiency of atorvastatin on in-hospital mortality of patients with acute aortic dissection (AAD): study protocol for a randomized, open-label, superiority clinical trial
Authors: Chen Yequn , Xiong Nianling , Wang Xin , Wu Shiwan , Hong Liangli , Huang Xiru , Chen Chang , Li Weiping , Wang Bin , Ye Shu , Tan Xuerui
Published: January 2021

Background: Dyslipidemia and local inflammation at sites of lipid deposition on blood vessel walls have been demonstrated to be risk factors for patients with acute aortic dissection (AAD). Statins have anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects, which suggest that statins may play an important role in prevention and treatment of AAD. Some retrospective studies show that statins can protect patients with aortic dissection. However, the effect of statins on survival of AAD patients has been scarcely investigated, especially in randomized trials. In this study, we will perform a randomized clinical trial to understand whether statins can reduce in-hospital mortality of AAD patients. Methods: A total of 384 subjects diagnosed with AAD in the First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College will be recruited. Participants will be randomly divided into an atorvastatin-treated or control group. The primary outcome will be the in-hospital mortality. Discussion: This study is designed to verify the efficacy of atorvastatin on reducing in-hospital mortality of patients with AAD. The aim is to provide a new means of improving survival as a complement to conventional drug therapy.Trial registration: Registered by the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (Registration number: ChiCTR1900023515, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=38275&htm=4). Registered 1 June 2019.
Public Health Implication of Drinking Water Sources Contaminated with Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in South Ethiopia
Authors: Damitie Mengistu , Santiago Dante , Leyns Luc , Mereta Seid Tiku , Mekonnen Zeleke
Published: January 2021

Background: Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. are topmost causes of gastrointestinal diseases mainly in socio-economically disadvantaged regions. Understanding the molecular diversity and distribution of these parasites in water sources and the environmental variables that influence their prevalence is important to effectively control infections in at-risk populations, however, the state of knowledge about risks of these parasites associated with source water is little in Africa. This study aimed at characterizing risks of Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. from water sources in southern Ethiopia.Methods: Twenty-one water samples (10L per source) were collected from five different types of drinking water sources. Sample was analyzed using immunofluorescence assay with fluorescein isothiocyanate–monoclonal antibodies and nested PCR; tpi-PCR was used for genotyping purpose in Giardia duodenalis isolates and SSU-rRNA and gp60-PCR in Cryptosporidium spp. isolates. Statistical analysis was performed using Spearman’s rho correlation and independent-samples nonparametric test.The risk was characterized using quantitative microbial risk assessment.Results: The immunofluorescence assay showed that cyst was detected in 81% (17/21) and oocyst in 71% (15/21) of the samples with mean concentrations of 64.6 cysts.10 L-1 and 62.8 oocysts.10 L-1. Genotypic analysis showed that Giardia duodenalis assemblage B was genotyped in 29.4% (5/17), assemblage A in 17.6% (3/17) and assemblages A+B in 52.9% (9/17) of the samples. Cryptosporidium spp. genotype was detected in 57.1% (12/21) of the samples; Cryptosporidium parvum in 38.1% (8/21), Cryptosporidium hominis in 14.3% (3/21) and Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium hominis in 4.7% (1/21) of the samples. The average probability of illness from the water sources was 0.06 for Giardia duodenalis and 0.22 for Cryptosporidium spp.Conclusions: The finding highlights the significance of water for transmission of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in southern Ethiopia. Genotypes detected in the samples indicate multiple sources likely contaminated the sources. Health risk that is inferred from the water sources to the public are significantly higher than most other reported findings. This study recommends the need of regular follow-up, improvement in water treatment facilities and setting appropriate legislation in areas where cycles of parasitic infection is linked to water sources.
Factors associated with failure of bony union after conservative treatment of acute cases of unilateral lumbar spondylolysis
Authors: Tatsumura Masaki , Gamada Hisanori , Okuwaki Shun , Eto Fumihiko , Nagashima Katsuya , Ogawa Takeshi , Mammoto Takeo , Hirano Atsushi , Koda Masao , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: January 2021

Background: If bone union is expected, conservative treatment is generally selected for lumbar spondylolysis. However, sometimes conservative treatments are unsuccessful. We sought to determine the factors associated with failure of bony union in acute unilateral lumbar spondylolysis with bone marrow edema including contralateral pseudoarthrosis.Methods: This study targeted unilateral lumbar spondylolysis treated conservatively in high school or younger students. Conservative therapy was continued until the bone marrow edema disappeared on MRI and bone union was investigated by CT. We conducted a univariate analysis of sex, age, pathological stage, lesion level complicating the contralateral bone defect, lesion level, and intercurrent spina bifida occulta, and variables with p < 0.1 were considered in a logistic regression analysis. An item with p < 0.05 was defined as a factor associated with failure of bony union.Results: We found 92 cases of unilateral spondylolysis with bone marrow edema and 66 cases were successfully treated conservatively. Failure of bony union in unilateral lumbar spondylolysis with bone marrow edema was associated with advanced pathological stage (p = 0.004), contralateral pseudoarthrosis (p < 0.001), and L5 lesion level (p = 0.002). The odds ratio was 20.0 (95% CI 3.0–193.9) for advanced pathological stage, 78.8 (95% CI 13–846) for contralateral pseudoarthrosis, and 175 (95% CI 8.5–8192) for L5 lesion level.Conclusions: Conservative therapy aiming at bony union is contraindicated in cases of acute unilateral spondylolysis when the pathological stage is advanced, the lesion level is L5, or there is contralateral pseudoarthrotic spondylolysis.
Key factors associated with oral health-related quality of life in Sri Lankan adolescents: a cross sectional study
Authors: Amilani Uttara , Jayasekara Prasanna , Carter Hannah E , Senanayake Sameera , Kularatna Sanjeewa
Published: January 2021

Background Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) measures have emerged as an important oral health outcome that is able to reveal the subjective burden of illness due to oral diseases. The association between socio-demographic and socio-economic factors, clinical dental conditions and OHRQoL indicators has been investigated in adolescents’ cohorts across the world. The purpose of this study was to investigate key factors associated with oral health-related quality of life of Sri Lankan adolescents.MethodsA cross sectional study was conducted amongst a sample of 15-19 year-old secondary school students, Gampaha district, Sri Lanka. The data was collected using two self-administered questionnaires. A modified Sinhalese version of the Oral Impact on Daily Performance (OIDP) questionnaire that has been validated for Sri Lankan adolescents was administered. A second questionnaire collected information on socioeconomic characteristics, oral health care seeking and oral health behaviours. A clinical oral examination was performed on each participant. Oral health related quality of life was measured using OIDP domains and total OIDP scores. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the key factors associated with the OIDP additive score.ResultsA total of 1,332 adolescents participated in the study. Negative quality of life impacts were more prevalent in the social and psychological domain of OIDP as compared with the functional domain. Total OIDP scores ranged from 0 to 36 with a mean of 3.16 (SD=4.71). The multivariable analysis revealed that presence of missing teeth, presence of anomaly and regular consumption of sugary items were risk factors for poorer OHRQoL and increased frequency of daily tooth brushing was a protective factor for good OHRQoL.ConclusionBehavioural and presence of teeth irregularities were associated with OHRQoL and could have implications for the improvement of OHRQoL among Sri Lankan adolescents.