bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring contraception myths and misconceptions among young men and women in Kwale County, Kenya
Authors: Mwaisaka Jefferson , Gonsalves Lianne , Thiongo Mary , Waithaka Michael , Sidha Hellen , Agwanda Alfred , Mukiira Carol , Gichangi Peter
Published: January 2020

Background: Myths and misconceptions around modern contraceptives have been associated with low contraceptive uptake. Nearly all the research on the link between contraceptives’ misconceptions and low contraceptive prevalence comes mostly from women with little focus on men. This qualitative study therefore sought to explore and understand both young men’s and young women’s knowledge of modern contraception and to identify key concerns regarding modern pregnancy prevention methods.Methods: We used focus group discussions (FGD) with vignette and writing activities to explore key myths and misconceptions around the use of contraceptives. Six FGDs (three for young men and three for young women) were conducted with a total of 28 young women and 30 young men from Kwale County, Kenya. We included 10 discussants aged 18-24 per FGD, one FGD had 8 participants.Results: Both men and women participants reported basic awareness of contraceptives. A mixture of biological and social misconceptions around contraception were discussed, they included jeopardizing future fertility, prolonged menstrual bleeding, problems conceiving, birth defects, promiscuity, against religion and perceived to be un-African including denying couples their sexual freedom. Compared to female respondents in the study, young men appeared to be strong believers of the perceived socio-cultural effects of contraceptives. Results are presented under three key themes namely (i) Awareness of contraception (ii) Myths and misconceptions around contraception and (iii) Males’ contraceptive narratives. Conclusions: This study revealed a low level of contraceptive knowledge among young men and women in Kwale County, Kenya. Most respondents reported contraceptive fears and misconceptions resulting from critical gaps in Sexual and Reproductive Health knowledge. Improved sexual and reproductive health (SRH) literacy to address contraceptives’ fears through appropriate and gender specific interventions to reach out to young men and women with factual SRH information may contribute to increased uptake of SRH services including modern contraceptive methods.
Long Term Follow up of the Lived Attenuated Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine (SA-14-14-2) Efficacy in Children of the four hyper-endemic Provinces of Northern Thailand, 2016.
Authors: Nitatpattana Narong , Nakgoi Khajornpong , Juntarapornchai Sanjira , Ruangdachsuwan Sasiporn , Ratchakum Supot , Auethavekiat Supatana , Yoksan Sutee , Veas Francisco , Gonzalez Jean-Paul Joseph
Published: January 2020

Background. In Thailand, Japanese encephalitis appears with a higher incidence of the Northern region (0.0/100,000 cases/year) as compared to the central southern region of the country (0.01/100,000/year). Also, all Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) recently isolated strains in country belong to the genotype I and III.Methods. In order to evaluate the long-term efficacy of the newly developed live attenuated SA 14-14-2 Japanese encephalitis vaccine in Thailand, the immune response in children was studied after a second immunization campaign. Following 2012 immunization campaign, a second JEV immunization vaccine was delivered to children among four provinces of the Northern Region of Thailand. For each province, the recipients were identified accordingly to the two vaccine campaigns time including the children who received the second dose of vaccine: 1/ less than one year before the present study (N=30 by province); 2/ more than one year before the present study (N=70 by province). Altogether, a total of 400 children were enrolled in this project. After receiving the second vaccine dose, blood samples were collected and tested for JEV (Genotypes I and III) neutralizing antibodies following a standard procedure of LLC-MK2 infected cells.Results. All recipient presented neutralizing antibodies cross reacting against the prevalent JEV genotypes I (SM1 JEV strain) and genotype III (SA 14-14-2 and Beijing JEV strains). Most of the children from the first group had a seroconversion rate of 94.2% against homologous (i.e. GIII). Among them, an optimal rate of 100% seroconversion was find at the Phayao Province against both heterologous (GI) and homologous (GIII) JEV strains. Geometric Mean Titer (GMT) of neutralizing antibody against SM1, SA 14-14-2 JEV, and Beijing JEV strains were consistently high, respectively as 239±50, 323±201.2 and 177±36.7. For the second group, seroconversion rate was lower against SM1, SA 14-14-2 and Beijing JEV strains with a rate of 94.3, 90% and 86.8% with respectively a GMT of 154±32, 90±23 and 82±13.6.Conclusion. Although, the immunity appears to decrease within the period of 2.5 years, neutralizing antibody rate are consistent to protect against the JEV infection. Nevertheless, a long-term follow up is suitable to evaluate an eventual third dose opportunity.
High viremia and Poor Immunity are Potential Surrogates of Anti-toxoplasmic Immunoglobulin G Quantification among HIV-Infected Individuals: A Cross-sectional Study in Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Ka'e Aude Christelle , Sosso Samuel Martin , Fokam Joseph , Simo Rachel Kamgaing , Essama Sara Riwom , Nka Alex Durand , Yagai Bouba , Dzukou Cédric Joël Ninsu , Tchouaket Michel Carlos Tommo , Chenwi Collins , Abba Aissatou , Fainguem Nadine , Zam Marie Krystel Nnomo , Yimga Junie Flore , Colizzi Vittorio , Ndjolo Alexis
Published: January 2020

Background: Toxoplasmosis remains a neglected common opportunistic infection in immunocompromised individuals, who are mainly people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in whom reactivation of toxoplasmosis may occur with advanced HIV conditions in resource-limited settings (RLS). Our objective was to evaluate the correlation between the anti-toxoplasmic IgG (Tg-IgG) concentration and the immuno-virological status of PLWHIV.Methods : A prospective and cross-sectional study was conducted among PLWHIV aged>18 years from February to November 2018 at the Chantal BIYA international Reference Centre. Blood samples were collected from eligible consenting PLWHIV; Tg-IgG level was assessed by quantitative ELISA, CD4-T lymphocytes counts were measured by flow cytometry and HIV-1 plasma viral load (PVL) measurement by real-time-PCR. Data were analysed using Excel and Graph Pad softwares; with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.Results : A total of 100 PLWHIV were enrolled: 56% seropositive for IgG anti- Toxoplasma gondii, 33% seronegative and 11% indeterminate results. According to viremia, 100% (19/19) of those with PVL>1000 copies/mL were seropositive to Tg-IgG versus 52.85% (37/70) of those with PVL<1000 copies/mL (median [IQR] IgG concentration 152.78 [139.24-444.43] versus 34.44 [13.04-36.47] IU/mL, respectively); p<0.0001. According to CD4, 100% (11/11) of those with T-CD4<200 cells/µL were seropositive to Tg-IgG versus 57.69% (45/78) of those with T-CD4>200 cells/µL (median IgG [IQR] 432.92 [145.06-450.47] versus 35.01 [15.01-38.01] IU/mL, respectively); p<0.0001. Interestingly, there were moderate-positive and strong-negative correlations respectively with HIV-1 PVL (r = 0.54; p<0.0001) and T-CD4 (r = -0.70; p<0.0001) as compared to Tg-IgG concentration. After adjusting for age, gender, immune status and PVL in logistic regression, only poor immune status (T-CD4<200 cells/µL) was independently associated to Tg-IgG seropositivity (p=0.0004).Conclusion : In a typical RLS like Cameroon, about half of PLWHIV might be seropositive to Tg-IgG. Of relevance, decreasing immunity appears with risk of increasing IgG anti- T gondii concentration, which suggests a relapse of toxoplasmosis. Thus, in the context of immunodeficiency, routine quantification of Tg-IgG would alleviate the programmatic burden of this opportunistic infection in RLS with generalized HIV epidemics.
Perspectives on Health, Participation, and Security Related to Active Aging Among Older Adults in North-eastern Thailand – a qualitative study
Authors: Wongsala Manothai , Anbäcken Els-Marie , Rosendahl Sirpa
Published: January 2020

Background Health, participation, and security are basic pillars of Active Aging suggested by WHO is used by professionals but need to be explored from the perspectives of older people themselves. This study aims to explore how older adults experience and describe health, participation, and security. Methods A qualitative research approach based on open-ended interview questions with 20 older Thai adults, aged 60-92 years was used. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Findings The results showed perspectives related to experiences of daily life and local culture. Health was described as status of the body in the absence of barriers to a continued daily living, and a peaceful mind with an adaptive mind-set while aging. Participation was described as maintaining social networks and being a formal volunteer emphasizing the making of merits, on meaningful activities and being respected. Security was described as manageable living conditions and managing to finalize life well, balancing dependency and independency in relation to children to sustain the traditional value of gratitude between generations. Conclusions These understandings benefit the providing of resources and activities related to older adults’ perspectives to enhance their quality of life for both Thai and other cultural contexts.
Evaluating rate of cataract surgery through smart partnership between Ministry of Health, Malaysia and Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council
Authors: N nor fariza , muhamad nor asiah , Azni Roslin , H elias , salowi mohamad aziz , k zabri , Lodz Noor Aliza , M nurul syarbani eliana , abdullah noor hisham , Aris Tahir
Published: January 2020

Background Cataract is the leading cause of blindness in developing countries including Malaysia. Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) and Ministry of Health, Malaysia (MOH) have established a cataract day care centre called Pusat Pembedahan Katarak, MAIWP- Hospital Selayang (MAIWP- Selayang Hospital Cataract Surgery Centre) to offer a day care cataract surgery with the aim reduce the waiting list among patients plan for cataract operation at the MOH referral hospital in Klang Valley. This smart partnership enables more patients to undergo cataract surgery with a lesser waiting period irrespective of their religious belief. Objective This paper aims to estimate the cataract surgery rate (CSR) of Pusat Pembedahan Katarak, MAIWP- Hospital Selayang (Cataract Operation Centre) from 2013 to 2016 and descriptive assessments of the patients who received eye treatments in the centre. Methods All cataract patients who underwent for operations in Selayang Hospital were requested to complete the “Registration Form,” that consist of the these information namely name, sex, age, home address, cataract classification, detailed ophthalmological exam information (such as naked eyesight, optometry, tonometry, etc.), cataract surgeon, surgical management, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation or not, operation cost origin, operation outcome (mainly 1st–3rd postoperative day corrected visual acuity (VA), etc. Cataract surgery data are entered into the local Eye Clinic Management System (ECMS) which synchronises with National Eye Database (NED) at regular intervals. Results Cataract surgery rate for 2013 was about 27 and increased to 37.3 in 2014. However, it was declined to 25 in 2015 before bouncing back to 36 in year of 2016. Female patients who received eye treatment at Pusat Pembedahan Katarak, MAIWP- Hospital Selayang was higher (53.7%) as compared to male patients (46.3%). Mean duration of cataract surgery from 2013 to 2016 was 21.25 ± 11.071 minutes. Conclusions Increased in cataract surgery rate for MAIWP-HS through smart partnership for day care cataract surgery proved that easy accessibility is possible to achieve the short and long-term strategies for the reduction and prevention of blindness in Malaysia.
Influence of Segmental Supply of Cilioretinal Artery on Morphology of Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Raman Rajiv , Khan Rehana , Shanmugam Mahesh , Ramanjulu Rajesh , Chablani Jay , Singh Niharika
Published: January 2020

Background The supply of Cilioretinal artery (CRA) to different layers of retina influences retinal pathologies like diabetic retinopathy. Since the supply of CRA is segmental, Our aim is to analyze the location of CRA) with non center-involving and center-involving diabetic macular edema (DME) and to evaluate the supply of CRA with segments of macular edema based on Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) scale using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Design Retrospective study Methods and Materials A retrospective study in which forty-three patients at various stages of diabetic retinopathy with the presence of CRA were identified. Presence and location of CRA was recognized using fundus fluorescein angiography. Diabetic retinopathy was graded based on ETDRS classification using OCT. Results Evaluation of 26 men and 17 women of various groups of diabetic retinopathy revealed unilateral CRA in 40 subjects and bilateral CRA in 3 subjects. When CRA supplied the central area, maximum retinal thickness was noted at the temporal quadrant (271.67±164.02 μm) and had noncenter-involving DME (194.87±121.06 μm), when CRA supplied the lower area, maximum retinal thickness was noted at the superior quadrant (293.64±159.36 μm) and had center-involving DME (395±285.75 μm), and when it supplied the upper area, maximum retinal thickness was noted at the nasal quadrant (293.49±176.18μm) with center-involving DME (292±192.79 μm). Conclusion The presence of CRA seems to alter the morphology and influences the segment involved in DME. However, further studies with larger sample size are warranted to prove this association.
USP22 promotes pro-inflammatory responses in Pseudomonas aeruginosa-induced keratitis by targeting TRAF6
Authors: CHEN DI , SONG DAWEI , MA YIBIN , LU WEIZHAO , QIU JIANFENG , Wang Yi
Published: January 2020

Background Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA)-induced keratitis is characterized by inflammatory epithelial edema, stromal infiltration, corneal ulceration, and can lead to vision loss. In the present study, we aim to study the effect of ubiquitin-specific protease 22 (USP22) on PA-induced keratitis. Methods Lentivirus containing control plasmid or shRNA targeting USP22 were used to silence the expression of USP22 in mouse corneas and cultured RAW264.7 cells, the inflammatory processes were detected. Results We found the expression level of USP22 was significantly increased in both mouse corneas and cultured RAW264.7 cells after PA stimulation. In addition, we observed that silencing of USP22 attenuate disease progression, downregulate NF-κB pathway and suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines after PA stimulation. Most importantly, we found the expression of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) was decreased by silencing of USP22, and USP22 was found to remove K48-linked poly-ubiquitination chains from TRAF6 to stabilize TRAF6 expression after PA infection. Conclusion This data indicated USP22 as a positive regulator of pro-inflammatory responses in PA induced keratitis.
Identification and validation of two LUAD-development characteristic gene sets for diagnosing lung adenocarcinoma and predicting prognosis
Authors: Liu Cheng , Li Xiang , Shao Hua , Li Dan
Published: January 2020

Purpose Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is one of the main types of lung cancer, the low rates for early diagnosis and a bad prognosis for advanced stage lead to a higher mortality rate. Therefore, it is of great significance to identify the related genes that promote its development.Patients and methods 512 LUADs from The Cancer Genome Atlas were used to performed differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis and short-term time-series expression miner to identify the LUAD-development characteristic gene sets. Survival analysis was applied to identified LUAD-unfavorable gene set and LUAD-favorable gene set. Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was performed to score individual samples against the two gene sets. ROC curve analysis, univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of the two GSVA score systems. Two independent data sets from GEO were used for verifying the results. Functional enrichment analysis was used to explore the potential biological functions of LUAD-unfavorable gene set.Results With the development of LUAD, 185 DEGs were gradually up-graduated, including 84 genes associated with survival and classed as LUAD-unfavorable gene set; 237 DEGs were gradually down-graduated, including 39 genes associated with survival and classed as LUAD-favorable gene set. ROC curve analysis and univariate/multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses indicated both of LUAD-unfavorable GSVA score and LUAD-favorable GSVA score were biomarkers for diagnosing LUAD and independent biomarkers for predicting prognosis. The LUAD-unfavorable genes were involved in multiple cancer-related pathways, such as p53 signaling pathway and cell cycle.ConclusionWe identified and validated two LUAD-development characteristic gene sets that not only have diagnostic value but also prognostic value. It may provide new insight for further research on LUAD.
Potential associated factors of functional disability in Chinese older inpatients: A multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Hongpeng , Jiao Jing , Zhu Chen , Zhu Minglei , Wen Xianxiu , Jin Jingfen , Wang Hui , Lv Dongmei , Zhao Shengxiu , Wu Xinjuan , Xu Tao
Published: January 2020

Background: Older adults are vulnerable to a decline in physical functioning, including basic activities of daily living (ADL) and higher-level instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). The causes of functional disability in older adults are multifactorial. A comprehensive understanding of these factors will contribute toward future health service planning. However, studies of ADL and IADL in Chinese older adults are insufficient. The aim of this study is to describe the level of ADL and IADL in different age groups and explore the factors associated with functional disability in Chinese older inpatients.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study consisted of 9,996 Chinese older inpatients aged 65 years and older. Participants were recruited from six provinces or municipality city in southwest (Sichuan province), northeast (Heilongjiang), south central (Hubei province), northern (Beijing municipality city), northwest (Qinghai province), and eastern China (Zhejiang province) from October 2018 to February 2019. The levels of ADL and IADL were measured by scores of the Barthel index and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale in consecutive intervals from 65 years of age. After controlling for the cluster effect of hospital wards, a mixed-effect generalized linear model was used to examine the association between functional disability and covariates.
Results: The average ADL score was 27.68±4.59 and the mean IADL score 6.76±2.01 for all participants. A negative correlation between scores and age was observed, and there was a significant difference in ADL and IADL scores among different age groups. The top negatively influential factor in ADL and IADL was stair climbing and shopping, respectively. After controlling for the cluster effect of hospital wards, aging, emaciation, frailty, depression, falling accidents in past 12 months, hearing dysfunction, cognitive dysfunction, urinary dysfunction, and defecation dysfunction were associated with ADL and IADL. Patients transitioned from the emergency department and other hospitals were also affected by ADL disability. Former smoking was associated with lower IADL scores. Higher level of education, living in a building without elevators, and current alcohol consumption were correlated with better IADL performance.
Conclusion: Decreased functional ability was associated with the increasing age. Sociodemographic characteristics (such as age), physical health variables (frailty, emaciation, hearing dysfunction, urinary dysfunction, defecation dysfunction, falling accidents in past 12 months), and mental health variables (cognitive dysfunction, depression) were associated with functional disability. These findings potentially have major importance for the planning of hospital services, discharge planning, and post-discharge care.
Are suicidal behaviors more prevalent among rural-to-urban migrants than non-migrant rural and urban residents in Wuhan, China? –Evidence from a GIS/GPS-assisted probability sample
Authors: Yu Bin , Chen Xinguang
Published: January 2020

Background There is a lack of solid data on suicide among rural-to-urban migrants in China, a large and rapid growing population currently totaling 280 million. The study aims to investigate whether suicidal behaviors are more prevalent among the rural migrants than the non-migrant rural and urban residents. Methods Data from a probability sample (N=3951, 32.65% rural-to-urban migrants) were analyzed. The sample was selected in Wuhan, China using the GIS/GPS-assisted multistage probability sampling method. Suicidal ideation and attempt in the past year were measured. Prevalence rate [95% CI] was calculated using survey estimation method, considering the sampling design with sample clusters, disproportionate probabilities, and weights. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) [95% CI] was used to compare the difference of rural migrants with rural and urban residents in suicidal behaviors controlling for covariates. Results Among rural migrants, 5.74% [4.81, 6.68] reported having suicidal ideation, compared to 4.74% [3.07, 6.42] and 3.65% [2.64, 4.65] for rural and urban residents, respectively. The migrant-urban resident difference was significant with AOR =1.93 [1.26, 2.94] while the migrant-rural resident difference was not with AOR= 0.87 [0.46, 1.67]. The prevalence rate of suicidal attempt was 5.47% [4.57, 6.36] for rural migrants, significantly higher than 1.14% [0.43, 1.85] for rural residents with AOR=2.89 [1.12, 7.43]; and 2.01% [1.21, 2.82] for urban residents with AOR =3.97 [2.15, 7.34]. Conclusions Rural migrants are at higher risks for suicide comparing to rural and urban residents. Additional research is needed to examine factors related to the increased risk of suicidal behaviors among rural migrants in China.
Exogenous melatonin promotes rice seed germination under salinity through regulating antioxidants and metabolic homeostasis
Authors: Huangfu Liexiang , Zhang Enying , Fang Huimin , Li Pengcheng , Xu Yang , Chen Rujia , Yao Youli , Zhu Minyan , Yin Shuangyi , Xu Chenwu , Zhou Yong , Yang Zefeng
Published: January 2020

Background Melatonin plays important roles in multiple plant developmental processes and stress responses. However, little is known about the role and putative mechanism of exogenous melatonin in regulating rice seed germination under salt stress. Main Body Here, we revealed that the exogenous application of melatonin can significantly promote rice seed germination under salinity. Its putative molecular mechanisms are further investigated through metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses. The results revealed that the phytohormone concentrations in germinating seeds are reprogrammed, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) are enhanced, and the total antioxidant capacity under salinity is activated by exogenous melatonin. In addition, rice seeds pre-treated with melatonin exhibit higher concentrations of glycosides than non-treated seeds under salinity. Furthermore, exogenous melatonin alleviates the accumulation of fatty acids under salinity. Genome-wide transcriptomic profiling is used to identify 7160 transcripts which are differentially expressed under salt (NaCl), salt + melatonin (MT100), and control treatments. Pathway and GO enrichment analyses reveal that the genes involved in the response to oxidative stress, hormone metabolism, heme building, mitochondrion, and tricarboxylic acid transformation are altered after melatonin pre-treatment under salinity. Conclusion This study provides evidence for exogenous melatonin increasing rice seed germination under salt stress, mainly through the activation of antioxidants and modulation of metabolic homeostasis.
Acceptability, equity, and feasibility of using antipsychotics in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review.
Authors: D'Alò Gian Loreto , De Crescenzo Franco , Amato Laura , Cruciani Fabio , Davoli Marina , Fulceri Francesca , Minozzi Silvia , Mitrova Zuzana , Morgano Gian Paolo , Nardocci Franco , Saulle Rosella , Schünemann Holger Jens , Scattoni Maria Luisa
Published: January 2020

Background: It is unclear whether the administration of antipsychotics to children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is acceptable, equitable, and feasible. Methods: We performed a systematic review to support a multidisciplinary panel in formulating a recommendation on antipsychotics, for the development of the Italian national guidelines for the management of ASD. A comprehensive search strategy was performed to find data related to intervention acceptability, health equity, and implementation feasibility. We used quantitative data from randomized controlled trials to perform a meta-analysis assessing the acceptability and tolerability of antipsychotics, and we estimated the certainty of the effect according to the GRADE approach. We extracted data from systematic reviews, primary studies, and grey literature, and we assessed the risk of bias and methodological quality of the published studies. Results: Antipsychotics were acceptable (dropouts due to any cause: RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.48-0.78, moderate certainty of evidence) and well tolerated (dropouts due to adverse events: RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.55- 1.79, low certainty of evidence) by children and adolescents with ASD. Parents and clinicians did not raise significant issues concerning acceptability. We did not find studies reporting evidence of reduced equity for antipsychotics in disadvantaged subgroups of children and adolescents with ASD. Workloads, cost barriers, and inadequate monitoring of metabolic adverse events were indirect evidence of concerns for feasibility. Conclusion : Antipsychotics in children and adolescents with ASD were likely acceptable and possibly feasible. We did not find evidence of concern for equity.
Serological and molecular evidence of Brucella species in the rapidly growing pig sector in Kenya
Authors: Akoko James Miser , Pelle Roger , Kivali Velma , Schelling Esther , Shirima Gabriel , Machuka Eunice , Mathew Coletha , Fèvre Eric M. , Kyallo Victoria , Falzon Laura , Lukambagire AbdulHamid , Halliday Jo E.B. , Bonfoh Bassirou , Kazwala Rudovick , Ouma Collins
Published: January 2020

BackgroundBrucellosis is an emerging, yet neglected zoonosis that has been reported in Kenya. Epidemiological data on brucellosis in ruminants is readily accessible; however, reports on brucellosis in pigs remain limited. This study sought to detect Brucella infection in pig serum by both serological and molecular techniques. Serum from 700 pigs randomly collected at a centralized abattoir in Nairobi, Kenya were screened in parallel, using the Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and competitive Enzyme-Linked Immuno-sorbent Assay (cELISA) for antibodies against Brucella spp.. All sera positive by RBT and 16 randomly selected negative samples were further tested using conventional PCR targeting bcsp31 gene and real-time PCR (RT-PCR) assays targeting IS711 and bcsp31 genes.ResultsA prevalence of 0.57% (n=4/700) was estimated using RBT. All RBT positive sera were also positive by both PCRs, while two sero-negative samples also tested positive on RT-PCR (n = 6/20). Brucella abortus was detected in four out of the six PCR positive samples through a multiple real-time PCR. ConclusionThe detection of antibodies against Brucella spp. and DNA in serum from slaughterhouse pigs indicate the presence of Brucella in pigs. Therefore, investigation of the epidemiology and role of pigs in the transmission of brucellosis in Kenya is needed. Further targeted studies would be useful to systematically quantify and identify the spp. of Brucella in pigs.
Ethno-medicinal uses of vertebrates in Chitwan-Annapurna Landscape, central Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Jagan Nath , Bhattarai Bishnu Prasad , Rokaya Maan Bahadur , Thapa Tej Bahadur
Published: January 2020

Background: Traditional knowledge on use of animal products to maintain human health is important since time immemorial. Although a few studies are reported as food and medicinal values of different animals, a comprehensive ethno-medicinal study of vertebrates in Nepal is still lacking. Thus, present study is aimed to document the ethno-medicinal knowledge related to vertebrate fauna among different ethnic communities in Chitwan-Annapurna Landscape, central Nepal.Methods: Ethno-medicinal information collected by using semi-structured questionnaires, focus group discussion and key informant interview. The data were analyzed by applying Use Value (UV), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) and Fidelity level (FL).Results: The study reported a total of 58 species of vertebrates of which 53 were wild and 5 as domestic. They were used to treat 62 different types human ailments. Four vertebrates were also used for veterinary and agriculture. The most commonly used species was Felis chaus (UV = 0.25) with 3 use-reports by 10 informants. Cardiovascular and dental problems had the highest ICF value (0.974) with cardiovascular problems having 351 use-reports for 10 animal species and dental problems having 77 use-reports for 3 animal species. The least ICF was found in ophthalmological problems (ICF=0.833, use reports=7 for 2 species). Conclusions: The vertebrates are widely used by the local people and the traditional healers in Chitwan-Annapurna landscape against various ailments. The users collected the vertebrates mostly from wild. People intentionally or unintentionally kill wild animals that has threated the availability of different species. Our study revealed in-depth knowledge on use of vertebrates including their status needed for the sustainable ethno-medicinal uses and their future conservation.
Comparison of treatment response, survival profiles as well as safety profiles between CalliSpheres® microspheres transarterial chemoembolization and conventional transarterial chemoembolization in huge hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Duan Xuhua , Liu Juanfang , Han Xinwei , Ren Jianzhuang , Li Hao , Li Fengyao , Ju Shuguang
Published: January 2020

Background: This study aimed to compare treatment response, survival and safety profiles between drug-eluting beads transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) with CalliSpheres® microspheres (CSM) and conventional TACE (cTACE) in huge hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients.Methods: 71 patients with huge HCC underwent DEB-TACE or cTACE were consecutively enrolled. Treatment response was assessed at first month (M1), third month (M3) and sixth month (M6) after TACE therapy; progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated; liver function indexes were recorded before TACE operation (M0), at first week (W1), M1 and M6 after TACE therapy; adverse events which occurred after TACE operation were recorded. Results: DEB-TACE presented with higher objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) compared to cTACE. Regarding survival profiles, the short-term mortality rate was lower, and PFS as well as OS were longer in DEB-TACE group compared with cTACE group. Multivariate Cox’s regression further illustrated that DEB-TACE vs cTACE was an independent protective factor for PFS and OS. As for safety profiles, patients’ liver function injury was reduced in DEB-TACE group compared with cTACE group. The incidence of fever was lower and CINV were less severe in DEB-TACE group compared with cTACE group, while no difference in occurrence of liver abscess, increase of ascites or moderate pain between two groups was observed. Conclusion: DEB-TACE with CSM presents with better treatment response, survival profiles as well as safety profiles compared to cTACE in treatment for huge HCC patients.
Selection and validation of reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR analysis of Nitraria tangutorum
Authors: Wang Bo , WANG Lirong , Duan Huirong , Chong Peifang , Su Shiping , Shan Lishan , Yi Dan , Li Yi
Published: January 2020

Background: Suitable reference genes can be used to calibrate the error in quantitative real‑time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) experiments and make the results more credible. However, reference genes suitable for different species and different experimental conditions do not exist. Nitraria tangutorum Bobr. is a typical plant in desert areas and desert plains, which is drought-resistant, saline-alkali resistant, barren-resistant, and has extremely strong adaptability. Due to insufficient understanding of the importance of this germplasm in the past, it is still unclear which genes can be used as reference genes to calibrate qRT-PCR data of N. tangutorum .Results: In this study, we analyzed the expression levels of 10 candidate reference genes (ACT, GAPDH, TUA, TUB, CYP, UBC, His, PP2A, HSP, and EF1-α) in three tissues (root, stem and leaf) and under five abiotic stresses (salt, drought, heat, cold, and ABA) of N. tangutorum seedlings by qRT-PCR. Three analysis software programs (geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper) were used to evaluate expression stability of ten genes. Comprehensive analysis showed that EF1-α and His had the best expression stability, whereas HSP was the least suitable as a reference gene. The expression profile of NtCER7, a gene related to the regulation of the waxy synthesis of N. tangutorum, verified the accuracy of the experimental results.Conclusion: Based on this study, we recommend EF1-α and His as suitable reference genes for N. tangutorum. This study provides the first data on stable reference genes in N. tangutorum, which will be beneficial to study of the gene expression of N. tangutorum and other Nitraria species in the future.
Impact of malocclusion on oral health related quality of life of 11-14-year-old children
Authors: Geevarghese Amrita , Baskaradoss Jagan , Alsaadi Waad , Alemam Hoda , Alghaihab Amjad , Almutire Amal , Almethen Abeer
Published: January 2020

Background This study investigates the impact of malocclusion on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of 11-14-year-old children.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 caregiver/child (11-14-year-olds) dyads seeking orthodontic consultation at the orthodontic center at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) was assessed using child perception questionnaire 11-14 (CPQ 11–14 ) and the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) was used to assess severity of malocclusion. CPQ 11–14 scores ranged from 0 to 64, with lower scores representing a better quality of life. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to assess differences between domain and total CPQ 11–14 scores with the co-variates. Results The mean CPQ 11–14 score was 19.89±9.8. Mean scores for the global rating, oral symptoms, functional limitations, emotional well-being, and social well-being domains were 4.91±2.15, 5.26±3.22, 3.67±3.58, 3.98±3.89 and 2.08±2.98, respectively. The distribution of subjects across the four severity categories was minor/none – 37%, definite – 22%, severe – 15% and very severe 24%. The overall and domain-specific scores of CPQ 11–14 varied across the different categories of malocclusion. In the comparisons by pairs, it was found that children with very severe malocclusion had significantly higher scores for the social well-being domain and global rating of oral health as compared to children with no/minor malocclusion (p<0.05). Conclusion Substantial variability in the well-being domain of CPQ 11–14 was observed among children with no/minor malocclusions as compared to children with severe malocclusions.
Community-Based Outreach associated with Increased Health Utilization among Navajo Individuals living with Diabetes: a Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Franz Calvin , Atwood Sidney , Orav John , Curley Cameron , Brown Christian , Trevisi Letizia , Nelson Adrianne Katrina , Begay Mae-Gilene , Shin Sonya S
Published: January 2020

Background Navajo community members face high rates of diabetes mellitus and other chronic diseases. The Navajo Community Health Representative Outreach Program collaborated with healthcare providers and academic collaborators to implement structured and coordinated outreach to patients living with diabetes. The intervention, called Community Outreach and Patient Empowerment or COPE, provides home-based health coaching and community-clinic linkages to promote self-management and engagement in healthcare services among patients living with diabetes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how outreach by Navajo Community Health Representatives (“COPE Program”) to affected utilization of health care services among patients living with diabetes. Methods De-identified data from 2010 to 2014 were abstracted from electronic health records at participating health facilities. In this observational cohort study, 173 cases were matched to 2,880 controls. Healthcare utilization was measured as the number of times per quarter services were accessed by the patient. Changes in utilization over four years were modeled using a difference-in-differences approach, comparing the trajectory of COPE patients’ utilization before versus after enrollment with that of the control group. The model was estimated using generalized linear mixed models for count outcomes, controlling for clustering at the patient level and the service unit level. Results COPE enrollees showed a 2.5% per patient per quarter (pppq) greater increase in total utilization (p = 0.001) of healthcare services than non-COPE enrollees; a 3.2% greater increase in primary care visits (p = 0.024); a 6.3% greater increase in utilization of counseling and behavioral health services (p = 0.013); and a 9.0% greater increase in pharmacy visits (p < 0.001). We found no statistically significant differences in utilization trends of inpatient, emergency room, specialty outpatient, dental, laboratory, radiology, or community encounter services among COPE participants versus control. Conclusions A structured intervention consisting of Community Health Representative outreach and coordination with clinic-based providers was associated with a modest increase in health care utilization, including primary care and counseling services, among Navajo patients living with diabetes. Community health workers may provide an important linkage to enable patients to access and engage in clinic-based health care.
Clinical, Functional and Radiographic Outcomes of Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty between Direct Anterior Approach and Posterior Approach: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Linbo , Zeng Yi , Wu Yuangang , Zeng Junfeng , Liu Yuan , Shen Bin
Published: January 2020

Background: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the clinical, functional and radiographic outcomes of primary total hip arthroplasty between the direct anterior approach and posterior approach. Methods: We searched the PubMed, EMBASE databases and Cochrane library from the inception dates to November 1, 2019. And we also searched for the meta-analysis which was published in the past for randomized controlled trials. Results: A total of 7 randomized controlled trials with 600 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Among these, 301 and 299 patients were in the DAA and PA groups, respectively. DAA was associated with a longer surgery time by a mean of 13.74 min (95% CI 6.88 to 20.61, p < 0.0001, I2=93%). Postoperative early functional outcomes were significantly better in the DAA group than PA group such as Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) postoperative 1 day (MD=-0.65, 95% CI -0.91 to -0.38,p < 0.00001, I2=0%), VAS score postoperative 2 days (MD=-0.67, 95% CI -1.34 to -0.01, p =0.05,I2=88%) and Harris Hip Score (HHS) postoperative 6 weeks(MD=6.05, 95% CI 1.14 to 10.95, p =0.02, I2=52%).There was no significant difference between the DAA and PA groups at length of incision, length of stay(LOS), blood loss, transfusion rates or complication rates. We found no significant difference between the two groups about late functional outcomes such as VAS score postoperative 12 months or HHS scores postoperative 3, 6, 12 months. A significant difference in Radiographic outcomes can not be detected too. Conclusions: DAA needs longer surgery time than PA in primary total hip arthroplasty. The DAA offers better early functional recovery than PA. There is no significant difference between the two groups in terms of other clinical, complication, late functional and radiographic outcomes. The evidence about the superiority of DAA is insufficient, which needs more research.
MicroRNA expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells associated with syphilis
Authors: Huang Tao , Zhang Jun , Ke Wujian , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Wentao , Yang Jieyi , Liao Yiwen , Liang Fangwen , Mei Shuqing , Li Mingjiu , Luo Zhenzhou , Zhang Qiwei , Yang Bin , Zheng Heping
Published: January 2020

Background
Treponema pallidum ( T. pallidum ) infection evokes significant immune responses, resulting in tissue damage. The immune mechanism underlying T. pallidum infection is still unclear, although microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to influence immune cell function and, consequently, the generation of antibody responses during other microbe infections. However, these mechanisms are unknown for T. pallidum .
Methods
In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs in healthy individuals, untreated patients with syphilis, patients in the serofast state, and serologically cured patients. miRNAs were profiled from the peripheral blood of patients obtained at the time of serological diagnosis. Then, both the target sequence analysis of these different miRNAs and pathway analysis were performed to identify important immune and cell signaling pathways. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed for microRNA analysis.
Results
A total of 89 differentially regulated miRNAs were identified. Following RT-qPCR confirmation, three miRNAs (hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-223-3p, hsa-miR-589-3p) showed significant differences in the serofast and serologically cured states ( P <0.05). One miRNA (hsa-miR-195-5p) showed significant differences between untreated patients and healthy individuals.
Conclusions
This is the first study of miRNA expression differences in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in different stages of T. pallium infection. Our study suggests that the combination of three miRNAs has great potential to serve as a non-invasive biomarker of T. pallium infections, which will facilitate better diagnosis and treatment of T. pallium infections.
Diagnostic and predictive value of aEEG in newborns in critical state under sedation
Authors: Zadvornov A. A. , Grigoriev E. V.
Published: January 2020

The objective: to study the diagnostic and prognostic value of amplitude-integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) in sedated neonates in critical state, through testing the level of S100B protein. Subjects and methods: 44 patients were enrolled in the study. The study group included patients with pathological patterns of 24-hour aEEG, in the control group, all patients had normal patterns. The level of serum S100B protein was compared in the groups on the 1st and 7th day of life as well as the early neurological outcome which was used to assess the prognostic significance of aEEG. In addition, the cut-off point of S100B in predicting an adverse outcome was estimated.Results. There were no significant difference in the level of S100B of the 1st day of life between the groups, however, there was a correlation between the severity of depression of electrocortical activity and the level of S100B protein (tau = -0.36, p < 0.001). On the 7th day of life, the level of S100B protein was significantly (p = 0.047) higher in the study group (337 (251; 819) ng/l) compared to the control group (259 (136; 354) ng/l). Elevation of S100B protein by the 7th day of life was not associated with pathological aEEG patterns or the outcome. aEEG sensitivity (Se) was 87%, specificity (Sp) ‒ 62%. The cut-off point for S100B of the first day of life was 493 ng/l with Se of 52% and Sp of 91%.Conclusion. There is a correlation between the severity of depression of electrocortical activity recorded by aEEG and S100B level on the 1st and 7th days of life,which confirms the diagnostic value of aEEG in newborns in critical state despite the use of sedation. The elevated level of S100B in the first week of life has neither diagnostic nor prognostic significance. aEEG has the highest predictive sensitivity, and S100B above 493 ng/l has the highest predictive specificity.
Results of the randomized comparative study of second-generation supraglottic airways in orbital osteosynthesis
Authors: Kostetskiy I. V. , Shamrikov A. A. , Bagin V. A. , Kaliskin A. A.
Published: January 2020

The objective:to assess and compare supraglottic airways of LMA-Supreme and i-gel during orbital osteosynthesis.Subjects and methods.91 patients were included into the study. All of them underwent osteosynthesis of the orbit. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. LMA-Supreme group included 42 patients, while i-gel group included 49 patients.Results.The parameters of hemodynamics, gas exchange, and artificial pulmonary ventilation (APV) did not basically differ between the groups at different stages of the study. The oropharyngeal leak pressure differed between the groups at the end of surgery and made (Me – median, Q1and Q3– upper and lower quartiles): 28.0 (22.0; 30.0) and 21.0 (19.0; 27.0) mm WG the LMA-Supreme and i-gel groups, respectively;p= 0.021. A significant difference was observed in the insertion time of supraglottic airways (Me is the median, Q1and Q3are the upper and lower quartiles): 27.5 (19.3; 36.5) sec. for LMA-Supreme and 15.0 (13.8; 25.0) sec. – for i-gel;p= 0.001. When inserting the LMA-Supreme duct in 33 (78.6%) patients, jaw thrust maneuver, extension of the neck, etc. were required; while in the i-gel group, similar maneuvers were necessary in 18 (36.7%) patients;p< 0.001. The number of postoperative complications was minimal in both groups.Conclusion.Both supraglottic airways can be used with equal efficacy in osteosynthesis of the orbit. At the same time, the i-gel duct has an advantage over the LMA-Supreme in speed and simplicity of insertion. The LMA-Supreme had greater leak pressure at the end of surgery, which might be an advantage in patients requiring greater peak inspiratory pressure to provide effective APV.
Specific features of difficult airways in patients with face and neck burns
Authors: Korneev A. V. , Orudzheva S. A. , Kudryavtsev A. N.
Published: January 2020

The problem of difficult airways remains relevant for many years. Complications associated with unpredictable difficult airways often lead to the lethal outcome or neurological problems. This article analyzes the causes of difficult airways in patients with burns of face and neck. Such patients face a higher risk to develop difficult airways and it is impossible to follow the traditional procedure for maintaining airway patency. The article expresses the opinion about the inability of modern methods for assessing airway patency to predict possible problems associated with tracheal intubation and ventilation of patients with burns of face and neck.