bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Common Causes of Chest Pain in the Emergency Department of Orotta National Referral Hospital, Asmara, Eritrea
Authors: Berhe Selam , Amanuel Naomi
Published: December 2020

BackgroundChest pain is one of the common causes of visits to the emergency department. However, there is scarcity of studies on the causes and prevalence of this common symptom in Eritrea. This retrospective descriptive study was done to determine the prevalence, causes, clinical features, demographics, diagnostic modality and outcome of all patients with the chief complaint of chest pain who presented to the ED of Orotta national referral hospital in Eritrea and the association of demographic characters, diagnostic modality, and clinical features with final diagnosis and outcome.MethodsAfter securing approval by Ministry of Health ethical and research committee, Clinical Service Division and from Orotta National Referral Hospital in Asmara Eritrea, Records of patients 15 years and older presenting with the complaint of chest pain from 1st January 2018 through 31st December 2018 were assessed. Samples of patients who presented with chest pain and did ECG were also included. All data were collected in Microsoft excel software, cleaned and then analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20.Results855 patients presented with chest pain to the emergency department, out of which 798 patient files were retrieved. Respiratory disease was the most common cause 441(51.6%), with pneumonia the most common diagnosis 415 (94.1%) followed by cardiac cause at 234( 27.4%).Out of the study population 253 study sample were taken with inclusion criteria of those who did an ECG. In these study samples the most common cause was cardiovascular 149(58.9%) out of which the most common illness was ST elevation myocardial infarction 60(23.7%). Out of 253 patients who did electrocardiogram 230(90.9%) were discharged and 23(9.1%) died. 6(26%) of those who died were smokers and 13(56.5%) of those who died were above 69 years old.ConclusionThe main cause of chest pain was found to be respiratory disease, followed by cardiovascular disease in the population study, which was reversed in the sample study (those who did ECG). Age and Smoking were found to affect the prognosis. There were highest mortality rates in STEMI and pulmonary embolism.
Implementation and Evaluation of Obstetric Early Warning Systems in tertiary care hospitals in Nigeria
Authors: Umar Aminu , Ibrahim Saidu , Liman Idris , Chama Calvin , Ijaiya Munirdeen , Mathai Matthews , Ameh Charles
Published: December 2020

BackgroundObstetric Early Warning Systems (EWS) use combined clinical observations to predict increased risk of deterioration and alert health workers to institute actions likely to improve outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a validated obstetric EWS in improving health outcomes and explore the experience of health workers/managers regarding its use.MethodsThis mixed-method study included 2400 obstetric admissions to inpatient wards between 1 August 2018 and 31 March 2019 at three tertiary Nigerian hospitals (1 intervention and 2 control). The quality of patient monitoring and prevalence of outcomes were assessed through retrospective review of case notes before and 4 months after EWS was introduced. Outcomes were maternal death, direct obstetric complications, length of hospital stay, speed of clinical review, caesarean section (CS) and instrumental birth rates. Qualitative data was collected to explore the views of healthcare workers on EWS’ acceptability and usability.ResultsEWS correctly used in 51% (n=307) of cases. Of these, 58.6% (180) predicted to have increased risk of deterioration, and 38.9% (n=70) were reviewed within 1 hour. There was a significant improvement in the frequency of vital signs recording in the intervention site: observed/expected frequency improved to 0.91 from 0.57, p<0.005, but not in the control sites. CS rate reduced from 39.9% to 31.5% (chi-square p=0.002). No statistically significant effect was observed in the other outcomes.Health workers reported that the EWS helped cope with work demands while making it easier to detect and manage deteriorating patients. Nurses and doctors reported that the EWS was easy to use, and that scores consistently correlated with the clinical picture of patients.Identified challenges included rotation of clinical staff, low staffing numbers and monitoring equipment.ConclusionThe implementation of EWS improved the quality of patient monitoring, but a larger study will be required to explore the effect on health outcomes. With modifications to suit the setting, coupled with regular training, the EWS is a feasible and acceptable tool to cope with the unique demands faced in low-resource settings. Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN15568048. Registration date; 9/09/2020- Retrospectively registered, http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN15568048
C-Myc Overexpression Increases Ribosome Biogenesis and Protein Synthesis Independent of mTORC1 Activation in Mouse Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Mori Takahiro , Ato Satoru , Knudsen Jonas R. , Henriquez-Olguin Carlos , Li Zhencheng , Wakabayashi Koki , Suginohara Takeshi , Higashida Kazuhiko , Tamura Yuki , Nakazato Koichi , Jensen Thomas E. , Ogasawara Riki
Published: December 2020

Background: High-intensity muscle contractions (HiMC) are known to increase c-Myc expression which is known to stimulate ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis in tumor cells. However, whether the increase in c-Myc stimulates ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis in skeletal muscles remains unknown. Methods: We investigated the effect of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated c-Myc overexpression, with or without fasting or percutaneous electrical stimulation-induced HiMC, on ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis in adult mouse skeletal muscles. Results: AAV-mediated overexpression of c-Myc in mouse skeletal muscles for 2 weeks increased the DNA polymerase subunit POL1 mRNA, 45S-pre-rRNA, total RNA, and muscle protein synthesis without altering mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling under both ad libitum and fasted conditions. RNA-seq analyses revealed that c-Myc overexpression mainly regulated ribosome biogenesis-related biological processes. The protein synthesis response to c-Myc overexpression mirrored the response with HiMC. No additional effect of combining c-Myc overexpression and HiMC was observed. Conclusion: c-Myc overexpression is sufficient to stimulate skeletal muscle ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis without activation of mTORC1. Therefore, the HiMC-induced increase in c-Myc may contribute to ribosome biogenesis and increased protein synthesis following HiMC.
Effects of Refractive Errors and Age on Binocular Function in Normal Adult Population
Authors: Zhou Xiaodong , She Man , Li Tao , Hu Qianqian , Zhu Jie
Published: December 2020

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between binocular function with gender, ages, and spherical equivalent (SE) .Methods: This observational study enrolled 243 healthy, non-strabismic adults, including 94 men and 149 women aged from 20 to 59 years. The subjects were divided into three groups according to SE: myopic group, emmetropic group and hyperopic group. The subjects were also divided into four groups according to age: 20-29 years group, 30-39 years group, 40-49 years group, and 50-59 years group. The binocular vision function was measured with a synoptophore, including subjective angle (SA), divergence, convergence and fusional vergence range (FVR). Results: The mean values of SA, divergence, convergence and range of fusion for the whole sample group were 3.33±0.16°, 9.72±0.26°, 19.34±0.54°, and 29.06±0.62°, respectively. The mean values of SA and divergence in myopic group were significantly larger than the emmetropic group (both p<0.05). SE, SA, divergence and FVR were significantly different among age groups (all p<0.05). Besides, linear regression analysis showed SE was correlated with SA and divergence (p=0.007, p=0.003). Age was correlated with SE, SA, divergence and FVR (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.005, p=0.002, respectively). In addition, the proportion of SA being in comfort zone (defined as the value of SA located in the middle 1/3 area of FVR) in age groups were statistically different. (χ2=8.283, p=0.041)Conclusion: Both SA and motor fusion are associated with age and SE in normal adult population.
The Curative Effect of PTCD and PTGD in Obstructive Jaundice Patients
Authors: Liu Lei , Li Xiukun , Zhou Yanan , Sui Mingwei
Published: December 2020

Background: Both percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGD) and percutaneous transhepatic cholangial drainage(PTCD) can reduce jaundice in patients with obstructive jaundice, and recover of liver function. However, is there difference in effectiveness. No studies have confirmed that. We retrospectively investigated the change rate of jaundice and transaminase change rate in patients underwent PTCD and PTGD surgery. The incidence of complications was also studied.Methods: Retrospective analysis 106 patients with obstructive jaundice admitted to the First Hospital of Jilin University. 55 patients were treated with PTGD. 51 patients were treated with PTCD. Compared the serum TBil(total bilirubin), DBil(direct bilirubin), IBil(indirect bilirubin), ALT(alanine aminotransferase), AST(aspartate aminotransferase) levels 1 day before and 7 days after surgery, the decrease rate of jaundice was obtained. And compare the incidence of postoperative complications, such as infection, bleeding, and bile leakage, etc.Results: Reduction was observed in most patients, but elevation was still observed in a few patients. The change rate of jaundice and aminotransferase of PTGD and PTCD group have no significant difference (P>0.05), the incidence of complications have no significant difference between the two groups(P>0.05) . Conclusions: There was no significant difference between PTGD and PTCD in treatment of obstructive jaundice and incidence of postoperative complications. The appropriate puncture method can be selected according to the specific situation of the patient.
Reduced Levels of hsa-miR-342-5p in Plasma Are Associated With Worse Cognitive Evolution in Patients With Mild Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Dakterzada Farida , Benítez Iván David , Targa Adriano , Lladó Albert , Torres Gerard , Romero Leila , Gonzalo-Calvo David de , Moncusí-Moix Anna , Tort-Merino Adria , Huerto Raquel , Sánchez-de-la-Torre Manuel , Barbé Ferran , Piñol-Ripoll Gerard
Published: December 2020

Background: Progressive cognitive decline is the most relevant clinical symptom of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the rate of cognitive decline is highly variable between patients. Synaptic deficits are the neuropathological event most correlated with cognitive impairment in AD. Considering the important role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating synaptic plasticity, our objective was to identify the plasma miRNAs associated with the rate of cognitive decline in patients with mild AD.Methods: To discover the miRNAs related to the rate of cognitive impairment, we analysed 754 plasma miRNAs from 19 women diagnosed with mild AD using TaqMan low-density array cards. The patients were grouped based on the rate of decline in the MMSE score after two years (<4 points (N=11) and ≥ 4 points (N=8)). The differentially expressed miRNAs between the two groups were validated in an independent cohort of men and women (N=53) with mild AD using RT-qPCR.Results: In the discovery cohort, 17 miRNAs were differentially expressed according to the fold change between patients with faster declines in cognition and those with slower declines. miR-342-5p demonstrated differential expression between the groups and a good correlation with the rate of cognitive decline in the validation cohort (r=-0.28; p=0.026). This miRNA had a lower expression level in patients who suffered from more severe decline than in those who were cognitively more stable after two years (p=0.049).Conclusion: Lower levels of miR-342-5p in plasma were associated with faster cognitive decline in patients with mild AD after two years of follow-up.
Evaluation of the Relationship Between Vitamin D Levels and Related Serum Markers as Well as Disease Activity in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-sectional Study in Western Iran
Authors: Moghimi Nasrin , Faridfar Ali , Shahriarirad Reza , Nikandish Mohsen , Salimi Amirhossein , Salimi Maryam
Published: December 2020

Background: Many studies have reported the role of vitamin D in autoimmune disease including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) which is related to several serum autoantibodies such as RF and Anti CCP. It also has been shown that vitamin D deficiency affect the DAS28 and VAS score inversely. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and RA-related autoantibodies including Anti CCP and RF levels and also evaluate the association between these parameters and the severity of rheumatoid arthritis.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, RA patients over 16 years of age who refer to the clinic and rheumatology ward were enrolled. The severity of diseases was assessed via the DAS28 scoring system. Serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were determined by the ELISA method, along with other rheumatoid related laboratory evaluations including Anti CCP, RF and CRPResults: A total of 100 patients with a mean age of 45.27± 14.14 were included and evaluated; of them, 75% were female and 77% lived in the city. Most of the patients (66%) had moderate DAS28 levels; however, no substantial relationship was observed between DAS28 and vitamin D levels. A significant positive relation between serum 25(OH)D level and disease duration, as well as the level of education, was observed. There was also no significant correlation between RA-related autoantibodies (e.g. anti CCP, and RF) and inflammatory serum marker (e.g. CRP) with 25(OH)D.Conclusion: Due to vitamin deficiency in the majority of cases (73%) and the relationship between serum 25(OH)D levels and the duration of disease, it can be concluded that vitamin D levels should be checked in those patients.
Helicobacter Pylori Different Virulence Genes and the Risk of Gastric Cancer in Iranian Patients
Authors: Kianmehr Maryam , Hormati Ahmad , Zargar Mohsen , Fateh Roohollah , Nazari Razieh
Published: December 2020

Background: Some disease-specific Helicobacter pylori virulence genes can be used for predicting the outcome of diseases. Thus, the current study aimed to explore the frequency of the vacA, cagA, sabA, dupA, babA, oipA, and iceA1 genes in H. pylori isolates, and to determine whether any association exists between the expression of these genes and gastric cancer (GC).Methods: H. pylori isolates were collected from individuals with digestive diseases. The cagA, vacA, dupA, sabA, babA, oipA, and iceA1 genes were determined by PCR. The qRT-PCR was used for expression analysis of the tested genes. Results: The presence of the cagA, vacA, dupA, sabA, babA, oipA and iceA1 genes in H. pylori isolates were 41.3%, 95.5%, 31.0%, 93.1%, 55.1%, 82.7%, and 62.0%, respectively. The cagA, dupA, and babA expression in the GC patients was statistically higher than that of the control group (P <0.05). Conclusions: Our results indicated a high diversity and frequency of H. pylori virulence genes among individuals with gastric diseases in the Iranian population. The cagA, dupA, and babA expression were significantly higher in the GC patients, thus, it may suggest that screening of these genes may help identify peoples at higher risk for GC.
Headache in the Emergency Department in Chongqing Province, China: A Multicentre Study
Authors: Li Qin , Ye Tao , Ma Jingxi , Yuan Dongli , Peng Xuemei , Cai Min , Xi Zhengwei , Zhang Yujiao , Liu Qinlin , Tan Ge
Published: December 2020

Background: To investigate the present situation of emergency headache in many general hospitals in Chongqing Province, China.Methods: From January 1 to December 31, 2017, we studied patients who complained of headaches as the main symptom in the emergency department of 17 general hospitals in Chongqing Province. Each patient with a headache was interviewed and the medical history was collected by administering a questionnaire. The diagnosis of headache is based on the third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3 beta). Results: In 2017, 16434 patients complained of headache in 17 general hospitals in Chongqing, accounting for 2.3% of all emergency patients. Eight thousand one male patients (48.7%) and 8433 female patients (51.3%) experienced a headache. The average age was (41.8 ± 13.2) years, and the course of disease was 3 hours to 15.2 years. Regarding the initial diagnosis, 7299 patients (44.4%) were diagnosed secondary headache, 5076 (30.9%) were diagnosed with primary headache and 4059 (24.865%) could not be diagnosed. The hospitalization rates for these patients were 60.3%, 12.2%, and 41.5%, respectively. Migraine is still the most common type of primary headache. Conclusions: This study shows that the misdiagnosis rate and missed diagnosis rate of patients with an emergency headache are high, and the emergency department still performs overtesting and hospitalizations.
Cxcl5/Cxcr2 Modulates Inflammation-Mediated Neural Repair After Optic Nerve Injury
Authors: Liu Yu-Fen , Liang Jia-Jian , Ng Tsz Kin , Hu Zhanchi , Xu Ciyan , Chen Shaowan , Chen Shao-Lang , Xu Yanxuan , Zhuang Xi , Huang Shaofen , Zhang Mingzhi , Pang Chi Pui , Cen Ling-Ping
Published: December 2020

BackgroundPrevious studies reported that mild inflammation promotes retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival and axonal regeneration after optic nerve (ON) injury with involvement of infiltrating macrophages and neutrophils. Here we aimed to evaluate the involvement and regulation of the main inflammatory chemokine pathway Cxcl5/Cxcr2 in the inflammation-mediated RGC survival and axonal regeneration in mice after ON injury.MethodsThe expressions and cellular locations of Cxcl5 and Cxcr2 were confirmed in mouse retina. Treatment effects of recombinant Cxcl5 and Cxcr2 antagonist SB225002 were studied in the explant culture and the ON injury model with or without lens injury. The number of RGCs, regenerating axons, and inflammatory cells were determined, and the activation of Akt and Stat3 signaling pathways evaluated. ResultsCxcr2 and Cxcl5 expressions were increased after ON and lens injury. Addition of recombinant Cxcl5 promoted RGC survival and neurite outgrowth in retinal explant culture with increase in the number of activated microglia, which was inhibited by SB225002 or clodronate liposomes. Recombinant Cxcl5 also alleviated RGC death and promoted axonal regeneration in mice after ON injury, and promoted the lens injury-induced RGC protection with increase in the number of activated microglia. SB225002 inhibited lens injury-induced cell infiltration and activation, and attenuated the promotion effect on RGC survival and axonal regeneration through reduction of lens injury-induced Akt activation.ConclusionsCxcl5 promotes RGC survival and axonal regeneration after ON injury and further enhances RGC protection induced by lens injury through microglia activation, which is attenuated by Cxcr2 antagonist. Cxcl5/Cxcr2 should be a potential therapeutic target for RGC survival promotion after ON injury.
CXCL-12 Attenuates Neuroinflammation via the CXCR4/PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway in a Rat Model of SAH
Authors: Zuo Gang , Gu Ran , Wang Lu , Lenahan Cameron , Qu Hao , Li Shirong , Wei Changxiu , Liu Lijuan , Li Yangchun , Yang Tingting , Xie Lin , Tang Man , Liang Yulong , Li Chunyan , Han Lu , Zhao Kaijun , Hu Xiao
Published: December 2020

BackgroundSubarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a cerebrovascular disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. CXCR4 provides a neuroprotective effect, which can alleviate brain injury and inflammation induced by stroke. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of CXCR4 after SAH. Methods: SAH was induced via endovascular perforation. 185 male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Recombinant human cysteine-X-cysteine chemokine ligand 12 (rh-CXCL-12) was administered intranasally at 1 h after SAH induction. To investigate the underlying mechanism, the inhibitors of CXCR4 and P13K, AMD3100 and LY294002, respectively, were administered intraperitoneally at 1 h before SAH. The short- and long-term neurobehavior were assessed, followed by performing western blot and immunofluorescence staining. ResultsWestern blotting suggested that the expressions of endogenous CXCL-12 and CXCR4 were increased, and peaked at 24 h following SAH. Immunofluorescence staining showed that CXCR4 was expressed on microglia. Rh-CXCL-12 treatment reduced the number of M1 macrophages and improved the short- and long-term neurological deficits after SAH. Meanwhile, rh-CXCL-12 treatment increased the levels of CXCL-12, CXCR4, PI3K, and p-Akt, and reduced the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Moreover, the administration of AMD3100 and LY294002 abolished the post-SAH neurobehavioral and neuroinflammatory improvements of CXCL-12 and its regulation of PI3K and p-Akt protein levels.Conclusions﻿The CXCR4/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may be involved in CXCL-12-mediated reduction of post-SAH neuroinflammation. Early administration of CXCL-12 may be a preventive and therapeutic strategy against delayed brain injury after SAH.
Transcranial Sonographic Assessment of the Third Ventricle in Neuro-ICU Patients to Detect Hydrocephalus: A Diagnostic Reliability Pilot Study
Authors: WIDEHEM Remy , Bory Paul , Greco Frederic , Pavillard Frederique , Challard Kevin , Mas Alexandre , Djanikian Flora , Carr Julie , Molinari Nicolas , Jaber Samir , Perrigault Pierre Francois , Chanques Gerald
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND: Transcranial sonography is a point of care tool recommended in intensive care units (ICU) to monitor brain injured patients. OBJECTIVE: To assess feasibility and reliability of the third ventricle (V3) diameter measurement using transcranial sonography (TCS) compared to brain computedtomography (CT), the gold standard measurement, and to measure the TCS learning curve. METHODS: prospective study, in a 16-bed neurological ICU in an academic hospital. We included consecutive brain injured adult patient, who required a brain CT and TCS monitoring. V3 diameter was blindly measured by TCS and CT. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: V3 diameter measured by TCS and CT: Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman plot were used to assess the reliability and agreement between V3 measurements. Diagnosis performance of the V3 diameter using TCS to detect hydrocephalus was measured. Absolute difference between V3 measurement by residents and experts was measured consecutively to assess the learning curve. RESULTS: Among the 100 patients included in the study, V3 diameter could be assessed in 87 patients from at least one side of the skull. Both temporal windows were available in 70 patients. The ICC between V3 diameter measured by TCS and CT was 0.90 [95% Confidence-Interval 0.84-0.93] on the right side, and 0.92 [0.880.95] on the left side. In Bland-Altman analysis, mean difference, standard deviation, 95% limits of agreement were 0.36, 1.52, -2.71 to 3.45 mm, respectively, on the right side; 0.25, 1.47, -2.71 to 3.21 mm, respectively, on the left side. Among the 35 patients with hydrocephalus, V3 diameters could be measured by TCS in 31 patients from at least one side. Hydrocephalus was respectively excluded, confirmed, or inconclusive using TCS in 40, 29 and 31% of the 87 assessable patients. After 5 measurements, every resident reached a satisfactory measurement compared to the expert operator, defined by a mean absolute difference < 1 mm. CONCLUSION: TCS allows rapid, simple and reliable V3 diameter measurement compared with the gold standard in neuro-ICU patients. Aside from sparing irradiating procedures and transfers to the radiology department, it may especially increase close patient monitoring to detect clinically occult hydrocephalus earlier. Further studies are needed to measure potential clinical benefit. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02830269. Registered 17 July 2016, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02830269?term=NCT02830269&draw=2&rank=1
Hall effect in transmission lines
Authors: Kumar Abhimanyu
Published: December 2020

Transmission lines are subject to several undesired effects which are observed during distribution of power. This paper provides elementary proof-of-concept of a nonlinear phenomenon which causes the development of transverse electric potential in a conductor. In a simple setting for a two-cable HVDC transmission line, it is shown that a voltage perpendicular to the flow of current in a cable is generated, which is proportional to the square of current in the nearby cable. It also creates a deflection in electron path by concentrating them towards one side which produces an effect analogous to the skin effect (found with AC supply), but here occurring with DC supply.
Two novel biallelic mutations in PSMC3IP in a Chinese patient affected by primary ovarian insufficiency: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Mei Libin , Huang Lingling , Huang Yanru , Wu Xiaoling , He Huang , He XueMei , Su Zhiying , Li Ping
Published: December 2020

Background: Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a heterogeneous condition occurring when a woman experiences a loss of ovarian activity before the age of 40. It is one of the most common reproductive endocrine diseases in women of childbearing age. Here, we investigated the clinical manifestations and genetic features of a Chinese patient affected by POI.Methods: We applied next-generation whole-exome capture sequencing with Sanger direct sequencing to the proband and her clinically unaffected family members. Results: Two novel compound heterozygous mutations were identified in the PSMC3IP gene. The first is a splicing mutation (c.597+1G>T) that was inherited from her father, while the second mutation (c.268G>C p.D90H) was also discovered in her mother and younger sister. The two mutations were co-segregated with the disease phenotype in the family. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first report of PSMC3IP mutations causing POI in the Chinese population. Our findings further support the key role of the PSMC3IP gene in the etiology of POI. However, additional studies are required to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms involved.
Risk Factors for Stillbirth and Early Neonatal Mortality: A Case-Control Study in Tertiary Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Weldetensaye Eskinder Kebede , Kekulawala Melani
Published: December 2020

Background: Ethiopia is a Sub-Saharan country that has made significant improvements in maternal mortality and under-five mortality over the past 15 years. However, perinatal mortality continues to be a major obstacle. The nation continues to have one of the highest rates of perinatal mortality in the entire world with current estimates at 33 deaths per 1000 live births.Methods: This case-control study was conducted between October 2016 and May 2017 at Tikur Anbessa Hospital (TAH) and Gandhi Memorial Hospital (GMH). All women who had a stillbirth or early neonatal mortality during this period willing to participate were included as cases. A systematic random sample of women delivering at the hospital was approached for recruitment as controls to generate a 2:1 ratio of controls to cases. Data on potential risk factors were retrieved from medical records including health passports, delivery records, and treatment charts. Statistical differences in background and social characteristics of cases and controls were determined by t-test and chi-squared (or fisher's exact test) for quantitative and categorical variables respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was completed to determine any associations between risk factors and stillbirth/early neonatal mortality.Results: During the study period, 366 women delivering at the hospitals were enrolled as cases and 711 women delivering at the hospitals were enrolled as controls. During the study period, records from both hospitals indicated that the estimated stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates were30.7 per 1000. Neonatal causes (43.4%) were the most common, followed by antepartum (32.5%) and intrapartum (24.5%). Risk factors for stillbirths and early neonatal mortality were low maternal education (aOR 1.747, 95%CI 1.098-2.780), high parity (aOR 1.114, 95%CI .058- 2.484), previous stillbirth (aOR 9.447, 95%CI 6.245-14.289), previous preterm birth (aOR 3.620, 95%CI 2.363-5.546), and previous child with congenital abnormality (aOR 2.190, 95% 1.228-3.905), and antepartum hemorrhage during pregnancy (aOR 3.273, 95% 1.523-7.031).Conclusion: Antepartum hemorrhaging is the only risk factor in our study amenable for direct intervention. Efforts should be maximized to improve patient education and antenatal and obstetric services, particularly for women who have a history of obstetric complications identified as risk factors. Moreover, the most significant cause of mortality was asphyxia-related causes. It is imperative that obstetric capacity in rehabilitation services are strengthened and for further studies to investigate the high burden of asphyxia at these tertiary hospitals to better tailor interventions.
Structural equation modeling for identification of patient safety antecedents in primary care
Authors: Kosiek Katarzyna , Staniec Iwona , Godycki-Cwirko Maciej , Depta Adam , Kowalczyk Anna
Published: December 2020

Background:. Patient safety is defined as an activity that minimizes and removes possible errors and injuries to patients. A number of factors have been found to influence patient safety management, including the facilities available in the practice, communication and collaboration, education regarding patient safety and generic conditions. This study tested a theoretical model of patient safety interventions based on safety antecedents. Methods: Medical professionals were surveyed using a questionnaire developed by Gaal et al. The results were analyzed with SPSS 20 and AMOS. A hypothetical model of direct and indirect effects on patient safety in a primary care environment was created and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: SEM proved to be an effective tool to analyse safety in primary care. The facilities in the practice appear to have no significant influence on patient safety management in the case of female respondents, those below mean age, those who are not GPs (general practitioner) and respondents not working in counselling centres.Conclusions: The integrated safety model described in the study can improve patient safety management.
A novel essential protein identification method based on PPI networks and gene expression data
Authors: Zhong Jiancheng , Tang Chao , Peng Wei , Xie Minzhu , Sun Yusui , Tang Qiang , Xiao Qiu , Yang Jiahong
Published: December 2020

Background: Some proposed methods for identifying essential proteins have better results by usingbiological information. Gene expression data is generally used to identify essential proteins. However, gene expression data is prone to fluctuations, which may affect the accuracy of essential protein identification. Therefore, we propose an essential protein identification method based on gene expression and the PPI network data to calculate the similarity of "active" and "inactive" state of gene expression in a cluster of the PPI network. Our experiments show that the method can improve the accuracy in predicting essential proteins.Results: In this paper, we propose a new measure named JDC, which is based on the PPI network data and gene expression data. The JDC method offers a dynamic threshold method to binarize gene expression data. After that, it combines the degree centrality and Jaccard similarity index to calculate the JDC score for each protein in the PPI network. We benchmark the JDC method on four organisms respectively, and evaluate our method by using ROC analysis, modular analysis, jackknife analysis, overlapping analysis, top analysis, and accuracy analysis. The results show that the performance of JDC is better than DC, IC, EC, SC, BC, CC, NC, PeC, and WDC. We compare JDC with both NF-PIN and TS-PIN methods, which predict essential proteins through active PPI networks constructed from dynamic gene expression.Conclusions: We demonstrate that the new centrality measure, JDC, is more efficient than state-of-the-art prediction methods with same input. The main ideas behind JDC are as follows: (1) Essential proteins are generally densely connected clusters in the PPI network. (2) Binarizing gene expression data can screen out fluctuations in gene expression profiles. (3) The essentiality of the protein depends on the similarity of "active" and "inactive" state of gene expression in a cluster of the PPI network.
Technology-Based Interventions for Nursing Home Residents: Implications for Nursing Home Practice Amid and Beyond the Influence of COVID-19: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Su Zhaohui , Meyer Kylie , Li Yue , McDonnell Dean , Joseph Nitha Mathew , Li Xiaoshan , Du Yan , Advani Shailesh , Cheshmehzangi Ali , Ahmad Junaid , Veiga Claudimar Pereira da , Chung Roger Yat-Nork , Wang Jing
Published: December 2020

Background: A growing number of technology-based interventions are used to support the health and quality of life of nursing home residents. The onset of COVID-19 and recommended social distancing policies that followed led to an increased interest in technology-based solutions to provide healthcare and promote health. Yet, there are no comprehensive resources on technology-based healthcare solutions that describe their efficacy for nursing home residents. This systematic review will identify technology-based interventions designed for nursing home residents and describe the characteristics and effects of these interventions concerning the distinctive traits of nursing home residents and nursing facilities. Additionally, this paper will present practical insights into the varying intervention approaches that can assist in the delivery of broad digital health solutions for nursing home residents amid and beyond the impact of COVID-19. Methods: Databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus will be used to identify articles related to technology-based interventions for nursing home residents published between January 1st, 2010 to December 4th, 2020. Titles, abstracts, and full-texts papers will be reviewed against the eligibility criteria. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses procedures will be followed for the reporting process, and implications for existing interventions and research evaluated by a multidisciplinary research team. Results: NA—protocol study Conclusions: Our study will fill critical gaps in the literature by providing a review of technology-based interventions tested in the nursing home setting. As the older adult population grows, there is an urgent need to identify effective technology-based interventions that can address the distinctive characteristics and preferences of nursing home residents. Clear and comprehensive understanding of how available technology-based health solutions facilitate healthcare for nursing home residents will shed light on the approaches open to residents to fend off the negative health consequences amid and beyond the influence of COVID-19. Systematic Review Registrations: PROSPERO CRD 42020191880
Risk Perception and Community Vulnerability to COVID-19 Infection Among Residents In Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Adenike Olugbenga-Bello Iyanuoluwa , Olarewaju Sunday O , Ilori Oluwatosin Ruth , Callistus Akinleye , Olalekan Adebimpe Wasiu , Shobowale Joke O Ojediran- , Oluwaseyi Israel K
Published: December 2020

Background Understanding the risk perception, attitude and vulnerability to Corona Virus infection among community dwellers is important in designing appropriate behavioral change communication programs necessary to stop the spread of this deadly contagious disease. The objective is to assess the risk perception, attitude and community vulnerability to COVID 19 infection among residents of Osogbo, Osun-StateMethodsIt was a cross sectional descriptive study done using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire where 1000 individuals were selected using multistage sampling technique. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was carried out using appropriate test statistics and level of significance set at P less than 0.05. ResultsThe mean age was 38.4±13.9 years with majority been females (60%), married (67.3%), tertiary educational status (59.8% ) Christians (68.1%) and civil servants (33%). Almost all the respondents (99.3%) were aware of COVID 19 infection and commonest source of information is television, Also, more than half of respondents of respondents i.e 62.2%, 79.7% and 74,6% had good knowledge on symptoms, transmission and preventive measures respectively while 69.1% had good attitude. Overall, risky perception was poor (44.6%) while more than half (64.8%) were vulnerable to having infection. In binary logistic regression analysis, poor knowledge on preventive measures was significantly associated with vulnerability towards having COVID 19 infection. ( OR- 0.64, CI 0.47- 0.87)Conclusions The overall knowledge and attitude of COVID-19 infection is commendable, the risky perception is poor while assessed vulnerability towards COVID 19 infection is high particularly among those with lower knowledge. Therefore, there is need for health promotional programs for encouraging and maintenance of safety measures among the respondents.
Transparency of Public and Local Finances: Foreign Experience
Authors: SHKOLNYK INNA O. , VYHOVSKA NATALIIA G. , HAVRYSH YULIIA S. , IVANCHENKO ANDRII O.
Published: December 2020

In modern conditions, the role of transparency of both public and local finances is growing significantly, which is a tool to increase the efficiency of financial resources, which confirms the analysis of Ukrainian and foreign studies. In Ukraine, the level of transparency is improving every year and as of 2019 is assessed by international organizations as the minimum allowable. At the same time, the level of transparency of local budgets differs significantly in different regions. To improve the situation and implement best practices in the field of transparency of public finances at both the state and local levels, it is important to analyze the foreign experience of those countries that are leaders in ratings of transparency of public authorities and transparency of the budget process. The paper analyzes the experience of the Office of the Public Accountant of Texas (USA), the Treasury of New Zealand, and the Treasury of the Republic of South Africa, which according to the open budget rating provided by the International Budget Partnership are among the 10 most transparent countries. Analysis of the content of the information portal of the Texas Public Accounts Controller Office showed a separate section “Transparency” with a detailed presentation of information in terms of key blocks of revenues and expenditures, state budget and finances, information on the formation and use of funds in all localities, information on budget deficit as well as information on transparency at the level of individual settlements, school districts, etc. A comparative analysis with the state of transparency of Ukrainian government agencies responsible for the development and implementation of fiscal policy and identifies weaknesses and strengths in terms of their transparency. It is established that the openness of the process of using public finances in Ukraine is gradually increasing, while the positions in the world transparency rating are also improving. However, the conceptual difference between building sites in the countries analyzed is that they report to taxpayers in a form that is accessible to them, rather than simply covering available information without comment or explanation.

Keywords: open budget, participation, public finances, rating, fiscal policy.
Análise comparativa sobre a política de mudanças climáticas nos estados brasileiros da Amazônia Oriental
Authors: Costa Luana Lopes , Carneiro Carla Renata de Oliveira , Pontes Altem Nascimento
Published: December 2020

Atividades antrópicas em busca de recursos naturais para exploração ocasionam alterações climáticas trazendo a necessidade de políticas estaduais que as regulamentem sempre em conformidade com a política nacional e levando em consideração as peculiaridades de cada região. O objetivo do trabalho foi analisar comparativamente as políticas de mudanças climáticas nos estados da Amazônia Oriental, pois a região possui grande importância climática e ambiental no território nacional. Para isso realizou-se um estudo das políticas estaduais que tratam sobre mudanças climáticas, suas dinâmicas, compromissos e instrumentos. A análise dos dados foi qualitativa, pautada na comparação das políticas vigentes dos estados, pontuando sua aplicabilidade e efetividade diante do cenário atual levantado através das pesquisas bibliográficas e documentais realizadas. Após o estudo, observou-se que apenas três estados da região estudada (Mato Grosso, Pará e Tocantins) possuem políticas em conformidade com o estabelecido pelo Plano Nacional de Mudanças Climáticas enquanto o Maranhão apresenta o decreto que estabelece o Fórum sobre Mudanças Climáticas e Amapá mostra um retrocesso em relação aos outros estados. Portanto, a Amazônia deve participar de forma urgente na agenda de estudos de alterações climáticas dado que os impactos causados atingem pontualmente as regiões amazônicas refletindo em todos.
Self-dual $S_3$-invariant quantum chains
Authors: O'Brien Edward , Fendley Paul
Published: December 2020

We investigate the self-dual three-state quantum chain with
nearest-neighbor interactions and S_3S3,
time-reversal, and parity symmetries. We find a rich phase diagram
including gapped phases with order-disorder coexistence, integrable
critical points with U(1)U(1)
symmetry, and ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic critical regions
described by three-state Potts and free-boson conformal field theories
respectively. We also find an unusual critical phase which appears to be
described by combining two conformal field theories with distinct “Fermi
velocities”. The order-disorder coexistence phase has an emergent
fractional supersymmetry, and we find lattice analogs of its
generators.
COVID-19 EPIDEMIOLOGY AND COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF SARS-COV-2 WITH SARS-COV AND SPANISH FLU
Authors:   ijar, Verma Nishu , Vinocha Anjali
Published: December 2020

We are in the middle of a pandemic of COVID-19. Objective of the study is to study the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in India and its comparison to SARS-CoV and Spanish flu.Data used are primarily obtained from Worldometer, WHO and CDC. We have plotted bar and line charts based on MS-Excel.Comparative evaluation of COVID-19 data of India and World has been done which shows that with COVID-19 containment and mitigation strategy the total number of recovered patients is increasing day by day and surpassing total number of active infection in India as well as world.With continued non-pharmacological measures like social distancing, hand hygiene, judicious use of mask and effective lockdown, would definitely prove helpful in battle against COVID-19.
SARCOME DEWING DE LA VOUTE CRANIENNE: A PROPOS DUN CAS ET REVUE DE LA LITTERATURE
Authors:   ijar, Elallouchi Yassine , Chtira Kamal , Aniba Khalid
Published: December 2020

Le sarcome dEwing est une tumeur maligne touchant essentiellement le sujet jeune de moins de 20 ans, il represente la tumeur osseuse maligne la plus frequente apres losteosarcome chez le sujet jeune. Latteinte de la voute cranienne est rare, elle constitue 1% de toutes les localisations. Nous rapportons une observation afin de montrer la rarete et de mettre en evidence les particularites cliniques, therapeutiques et evolutives de cette affection.
LEVERAGE OF CIGARETTE ASH POWDER CONCENTRATIONS ON THE ALTERNATING BENDING FATIGUE OF UNSATURATED POLYESTER RESIN
Authors:   Department of Physicsand Seismic MonitoringCollege of ScienceMosul University., E. Al-Obeidi Edrees , Mahmoud Uonis Mohammed ,   Department of New and Renew Energy College of Science Mosul University., A. Al-Jubouri Mohammed ,   General Authority for Meteorological.
Published: December 2020

The present work, describes an attempt was made to study the effect of cigarette ash powder concentration,on the micro hardness and alternative bending fatigue behavior of unsaturatedpolyester resin reinforced with various weight fractions of cigarette ash powder (1.25, 3.7, 4.9 Wt. %), which is natural fibers form. The preparation of the composites was achieved using hand lay-up process. During the test, fatigue tests were used by applying a stress ratio sinusoidal wave (R= -1), which is believed to give a marginal increase in temperature. The effects of the fatigue life of the test composites are determined using the stress curves (S) number of cycles (N) (S Ã¢ÂˆÂ’ N).The results showed that the fatigue life of the composite being produced depends on the percentage of fractions of weight. This findings also shows an increase in fatigue age by four times longer for the weight fraction of (1.25 wt. %) and more than two for cigarette ash powder (3.7 wt. %). The higher weight fraction (4.9 wt. %) of cigarette ash powder, reduced the fatigue life lower than the matrix behavior. Increasing percentage weights of cigarette ash powder increases the toughness measured by hardness for all composites.
SURGICALOUTCOMESOF23-GAUGEPARSPLANA VITRECTOMYFOR RETINALDETACHMENT PATIENTS IN TRIPOLI
Authors:   Vitroretinal Consultant Surgeon At Tripoli Eye Hospital Lecturer Of Ophthalmology at Tripoli Eye University., Alswidi Khalifa , Albagdadi Alsharee Gareb ,   Vitroretinal Consultant Surgeon At Tripoli Eye Hospital Lecturer Of Ophthalmology at Tripoli Eye University., Massoud Alrujbani Rania ,   Ophthalmologistin Tripoli Eye Hospital.
Published: December 2020

Aim:To evaluate the outcomes and complications of 23-gauge (G) pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for repair of retinal detachment (RD). Method:Retrospective review of consecutive, single-surgeon 23-G PPV cases between January 2017 and December 2017. 117 eyes from 117 patients were operated on for RD all eyes were tamponaded with , silicone oil,Air. Mean age at surgery was 48.69 years (range 8-75 years), and mean length of follow-up was 5 weeks (range2weeks Ã¢Â€Â” 32 weeks). Primaryoutcomesincludedbest-correctedvisualacuity(BCVA),intraocular pressure (IOP), anatomic success, redetachment, andendophthalmitis. Result:We included 117 consecutive patients (117eyes).Males and females are equal . The average age was 48,69 years(range 8-75), The primary success rate with a single procedure was 98%. However, redetachment occurred in two eyes only (1.7%). Visual acuity was improve in 89.74% of the eyes. Mean IOP increased from 11.16 to 12.58mm Hg aftersurgery. ElevatedpostoperativeIOP(>22mmHg)occurredin10eyes,andnolowIOP There were no cases of endophthalmitis .The average follow-up periodfor all patients was 2weeks (range 2-32 weeks) Conclusion:Twenty-three-G PPV repair was safe and effective in the repair of RD.