bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Lipid Ratios and Triglyceride-Glucose (TyG) Index as Risk Markers of Insulin Resistance in Iranian Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Woman
Authors: Kheirollahi Asma , Teimouri Maryam , Karimi Mehrdad , Moradi Nariman , Sadeghi Asie , vatannejad akram
Published: June 2020

Background: Insulin resistance has a key role in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Previous investigations have informed that some lipid ratios could be a simple clinical indicator of insulin resistance (IR) in some disorders and ethnicities. We aimed to examine the correlation between triglyceride to HDL-cholesterol (TG/HDL-C), total cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol (TC/HDL-C) and fasting triglyceride-glucose (TyG) indices with IR (as measured by homeostasis model assessment of IR [HOMA-IR], quantitative insulin sensitivity check index [QUICKI] and fasting glucose to insulin ratio [FGIR]), and determine a good clinical predictor for IR in Iranian PCOS woman. Methods: We evaluated 305 PCOS women. After physical evaluations, biochemical parameters were measured using commercial kits and TG/HDL-C, TC/HDL-C and TyG indices were calculated using formula. Fasting insulin level measured using ELISA technique. IR was defined as a HOMA-IR value ≥2.63, FG-IR<8.25 and QUICKI <0.33. Results: The insulin-resistance and insulin-sensitive groups, which established by HOMA-IR, FG-IR and QUICKI values, were different in terms of TG/HDL-C, TC/HDL-C and TyG indices. These indices were associated with IR after adjusting for age and BMI. The under ROC curves (AUC) of TyG, TG/HDL-C and TC/HDL-C for predicting HOMA-IR index were 0.639, 0.619 and 0.623 respectively which were significant, with a p-value 0.012, 0.033 and 0.027, respectively. The AUC of TC/HDL-C (0.614) was significant (p-value 0.04) for predicting FG-IR.Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that the elevated TyG, TG/HDL-C and TC/HDL-C were significantly associated with IR and could be utilized as indicators of IR among PCOS women in Iran.
Offspring Development Conditioning (ODC): A Universal Trend in Evolution of Higher Organisms’ Reproduction
Authors: Fu Qiang , Liu Jianni , Wang Xin
Published: June 2020

Background All organisms evolve, according to Darwin. The question is how? Is there any generalpattern or trend in the organisms’ evolution? These are rarely asked and almost never answered questions. This situation makes the evolution frustrating an d mysterious to many.Results After surveying the reproductive modes in most animals and plants, we propose that all (at least most) of higher organisms demonstrate the similar trend underlying their reproductive evolution, namely, Offspring Development C onditioning (ODC). ODC benefit the organisms in two ways: one is enhanced physical protection, the other is secured nutrition supply.Conclusions This pattern makes the origin and evolution of reproductive organs in both animals and plants rational and co mprehensive . To the best of our knowledge, this pattern appears universal in higher organisms (including both plants and animals), although we encourage future colleagues to identify exceptions. We hope this will help frame the evolution of higher animals and plants, and make their evolution comprehensive to everyone.
Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Conjugated with Aβ Oligomer-Specific scFv Antibody and Class A Scavenger Receptor Activator Show Therapeutic Potentials for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Liu Xiao-ge , Zhang Lun , Lu Shuai , Liu Dong-qun , Huang Ya-ru , Zhu Jie , Zhou Wei-wei , Yu Xiao-lin , Liu Rui-tian
Published: June 2020

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable and progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Disease-modifying strategies to prevent or delay AD progression are urgently needed. Aβ oligomers (AβOs), rather than monomers or fibrils, are considered as the most neurotoxic species. Therapeutic approaches that direct against these oligomers and promote Aβ clearance may have great value for AD intervention. Results: We here reported the novel multifunctional nanoparticle W20/XD4-SPIONs, which were constructed by conjugating oligomer-specific scFv antibody W20 and class A scavenger receptor activator XD4 onto superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). Besides the diagnostic value, W20/XD4-SPIONs retained the properties of W20 and XD4 by inhibiting Aβ aggregation, attenuating AβOs-induced cytotoxicity and increasing microglial phagocytosis of Aβ. When applied to AD transgenic mouse model, W20/XD4-SPIONs significantly rescued cognitive deficits and alleviated neuropathology of AD transgenic mice. Conclusion: These results suggest that W20/XD4-SPIONs are a promising therapeutic agent for AD. As a molecular probe, W20/XD4-SPIONs also specifically and sensitively bind to the AβOs in AD brains to provide an MRI signal, demonstrating that W20/XD4-SPIONs are a promising agent for early-stage AD.
No SARS-CoV-2 detected in the vermiform appendix of a COVID-19 patient with appendicitis: a case report
Authors: Wolf Benjamin , Pietsch Corinna , Radosa Marc-Philip , Horn Lars-Christian , Liebert Uwe G. , Aktas Bahriye
Published: June 2020

Background:SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has been demonstrated to infect the gastrointestinal tract and might therefore be a source of infection for the surgical team during abdominal operations. One of the most common surgical procedures performed is appendectomy. However, reports of virologic testing of appendiceal tissue specimens in COVID-19 patients are lacking. We sought to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 is present in the appendectomy specimen of a patient with COVID-19. Case presentation:A female patient presented to the emergency department of our tertiary care academic hospital with lower abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. She was admitted to the gynecological floor because of suspected pelvic inflammatory disease. Due to worsening symptoms, a laparoscopy was performed the next day and a severely inflamed appendix was detected. Laparoscopic appendectomy was performed without complications. A few hours postoperatively, the patient was tested positive for corona virus disease 2019 (COVID 19). Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis targeting the SARS-CoV-2 E-gene was performed on the appendectomy specimen. SARS-CoV-2 could not be detected. During her hospital stay, the patient developed mild respiratory symptoms while the postoperative course was otherwise uncomplicated. Conclusions:The absence of SARS-CoV-2 in the appendectomy specimen of our case adds to the preliminary available evidence indicating that appendectomy in COVID-19 patients with mild disease carries probably a low risk of infection by aerosols generated during the procedure.
Finite element analysis of wedge and biconcave deformity in four different height restoration after augmentation of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture
Authors: Zuo Xiao-Hua , Chen Ying-Bing , Xie Peng , Zhang Wen-Dong , Xue Xiang-Yun , Zhang Qian-Xi , Shan Ben , Zhang Xiao-Bing , Bao Hong-Guang , Si Yan-Na
Published: June 2020

Purpose
Biomechanical comparison of wedge and biconcave deformity of different height restoration after augmentation of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures was analyzed by three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA).
Methods
Three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) of T11-L2 segment was constructed from CT scan of elderly osteoporosis patient. The von Mises stresses of vertebrae, intervertebral disc, facet joints, displacement, and range of motion (ROM) of wedge and biconcave deformity were compared at four different heights (Genant 0–3 grade) after T12 vertebral augmentation.
Results
In wedge deformity, the stress of T12 decreased as the vertebral height in neutral position, flexion, extension and left axial rotation, whereas increased sharply in bending at Genant 0; L1 and L2 decreased in all positions excluding flexion of L2, and T11 increased in neutral position, flexion, extension, and right axial rotation at Genant 0. No significant changes in biconcave deformity. The stress of T11-T12, T12-L1, and L1-L2 intervertebral disc gradually increased or decreased under other positions in wedge fracture, whereas L1-L2 no significant change in biconcave fracture. The utmost overall facet joint stress is at Genant 3, whereas there is no significant change under the same position in biconcave fracture. The displacement and ROM of the wedge fracture had ups and downs, while a decline in all positions excluding extension in biconcave fracture.
Conclusions
The vertebral restoration height after augmentation to Genant 0 affects the von Mises stress, displacement, and ROM in wedge deformity, which may increase the risk of fracture; Whereas restored or not in biconcave deformity.
Relationship between Th17-mediated immunity and airway inflammation in childhood neutrophilic asthma
Authors: Wei Qing , Liao Jing , Jiang Min , Liu Jing , Liang Xiuan , Nong Guangmin
Published: June 2020

Background
The pathogenetic mechanisms of neutrophilic asthma are not well understood now. Whether Th17-mediated immunity contributes to the pathogenesis of neutrophilic asthma in human is still under investigation. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between Th17-mediated immunity and airway inflammation in childhood neutrophilic asthma.
Methods
Twenty-eight children with exacerbated asthma and without using any glucocorticoids were divided into three groups: eosinophilic asthma (EA) group, neutrophilic asthma (NA) group and paucigranulocytic asthma (PGA) group according to the induced sputum cytology. Ten healthy children were recruited as healthy control (HC) group. Peripheral Th17 and Th2 cells, and the expression of Ki-67 in peripheral Th17 cells were detected by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression of RORγt in PBMCs was detected by qRT-PCR. The concentrations of IL-17, IL-8 and IL-5 in sputum, as well as IL-17 in plasma and culture supernatant of activated PBMCs were measured by ELISA.
Results
The percentage of Th17 cells in peripheral Th cells, and the concentrations of IL-17, IL-8 in sputum, as well as IL-17 in culture supernatant of activated PBMCs were all increased in NA group, and positively correlated with neutrophil level in sputum and with each other. Also, the mRNA expression of RORγt in PBMCs and Ki-67 positivity in peripheral Th17 cells were both increased in NA group. The percentage of Th2 cells in peripheral Th cells, and the concentration of IL-5 in sputum were both increased in EA group, and positively correlated with eosinophil level in sputum and with each other.
Conclusions
Both Th17- and Th2-mediated immunity are involved in the pathogenesis of childhood asthma. There is predominance of Th17-mediated immunity and Th17 cells proliferation in childhood neutrophilic asthma.
Transcriptomic, proteomic, and physiological comparative analyses of flooding mitigating low temperature stress on direct-seeded early indica rice at seedling stage
Authors: WANG WENXIA , Du Jie , Chen Liming , Zeng Yongjun , Tan Xueming , Shi Qinghua , Pan Xiaohua , Wu Ziming , Zeng Yanhua
Published: June 2020

Background

Low temperature (LT) often occurs at seedling stage in early rice-growing season, especially for direct-seeded early-season indica rice seedlings, and adopting flooding irrigation could mitigate LT damage. However, it is not clear on the response mechanisms of a mitigating effect on LT stress at early rice seedling stage.
Results

In this study, LT stress with 10/6°C (day/night), LT accompanied by flooding (LTF) and CK (control) treatments were established for 3d to aim to determine the response mechanisms on physiological, transcriptomic, and proteomic of direct-seeded rice seedlings at seedling stage. The results showed that the chloroplasts was severely degraded, thylakoid lamellae were seriously damaged and osmiophilic body increased gradually in LT contrast to CK, but LTF could alleviate the damage of low temperature on chloroplast structure. Compared with LT, LTF significantly increased the contents of Rubisco, chlorophyll, PEPCK, ATP and GA3 of rice seedlings whereas significantly decreased soluble protein, MDA and ABA content, suggesting the higher photosynthetic traits, antioxidant ability and better growth characteristic, although it could also affect the physiological activity contrast to CK. The identified differentially expressed genes and differentially expressed proteins indicated that photosynthesis metabolism pathway, reactive oxygen species and metabolic regulation had significant differences between LT and LTF stress, which were the main reasons that reduced the LT damage of rice seedlings for LTF.
Conclusions

Our results could provide comprehensive interpretation of physiological characteristics, genes and proteins expression changes in low temperature and low temperature flooding.
Reporting quality of systematic reviews with Moxibustion
Authors: Tian Ran , Zhang Xuan , Li Si-Yao , Aixinjueluo Qi-Ying , Lam Wai Ching , Bian Zhao-Xiang
Published: June 2020

Background: Moxibustion is one of the major interventions of Chinese medicine (CM). The systematic reviews (SRs) are essential references for evaluating the efficacy and safety of moxibustion interventions. This study aimed to assess the reporting quality of these SRs, particularly whether necessary information related to moxibustion was adequately reported.Methods: Five Databases (including Embase, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CNKI and VIP) were systematically searched for SRs of moxibustion that were published up to 31 December 2019. The primary analysis was to assess their reporting quality based on 27-item of the Preferred Reporting Items for SRs and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and 16-item of moxibustion-related information designed according to CM theory and the STRICTOM (STandards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials Of Moxibustion). Descriptive statistics were also used to analyze their baseline characteristics.Results: A total of 97 SRs of moxibustion were identified from 2011 to 2019. For 27-item of PRISMA, except item 5, 8, 16 and 23, the remaining 23 items had the reporting compliances higher than 50%, of which 2 items (item 20 and 26) were fully reporting (100%). However, for moxibustion-related information, 69.1% (67/97) SRs did not provide the specific type of moxibustion, 39.2% (38/97) lacked details regarding the materials, procedure and technique used for moxibustion, 67.0% (65/97) did not report the selection criteria of acupoints for moxibustion, 28.9% (28/97) did not provide the number or duration of treatment sessions, 69.1% (67/97) did not provide any information about safety evaluation, and 94.8% (92/97) SRs did not report the treatment environment. For 51 (55.4%) of 92 SRs that included meta-analysis, it was impossible to assess whether meta-analysis had been properly conducted due to inadequate reporting of moxibustion interventions.Conclusion: The reporting quality of SRs of moxibustion need further improvements in terms of adequate reporting of moxibustion interventions and of moxibustion-related rationales. Reporting guideline of “PRISMA extension for moxibustion interventions” should be developed thus to improve their quality.
Prognostic value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, lactate dehydrogenase, D-dimer and CT score in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Cai Yu-Qing , Zeng Hui-Qing , Zhang Xiao-Bin , Wei Xiao-Jie , Hu Lan , Zhang Zhen-Yu , Ming Quan , Peng Qiu-Ping , Chen Li-Da
Published: June 2020

Background

To explore the significance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), D-dimer and CT score in evaluating the severity and prognosis of coronavirus disease – 2019 (COVID-19).
Methods

Patients with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 were retrospectively enrolled. The baseline data, laboratory findings, chest computed tomography (CT) results evaluating by CT score on admission, and clinical outcomes were collected and compared. The logistic regression was used to assess the independent relationship between the baseline level of four indicators (NLR, LDH, D-dimer, CT score) and the severity of COVID-19.
Results

Among 432 patients, 125 (28.94%) cases were divided into severe group, the remaining (n = 307, 71.06%) were in non-severe group. In multivariate logistic regression, high level of NLR, LDH were independent predictor of the severe group in COVID-19 (OR = 2.163; 95%CI = 1.162–4.026; p = 0.015 for NLR > 3.82; OR = 2.298; 95%CI = 1.327–3.979; p = 0.003 for LDH > 246U/L). Combining NLR > 3.82 and LDH > 246U/L increased the sensitivity of diagnosis in severe patients (NLR > 3.82 [50.40%] vs. Combined diagnosis [72.80%]; p = 0.0007; LDH > 246 [59.2%] vs. Combined diagnosis [72.80%]; p < 0.0001).
Conclusions

High levels of NLR and LDH in serum have potential value in the early identification of severe patients with COVID-19. The combination of LDH and NLR can improve the sensitivity of diagnosis.
Infection deteriorating hepatitis B virus related acute-on-chronic liver failure: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhai Xing-Ran , Tong Jing-Jing , Wang Hong-Min , Xu Xiang , Mu Xiu-Ying , Chen Jing , Liu Zi-Feng , Wang Yu , Su Hai-Bin , Hu Jin-Hua
Published: June 2020

Background: Infection is common in acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), which may worsen the clinical condition and prognosis. However, the characteristics of infection and its influence on prognosis in hepatitis B virus related ACLF (HBV-ACLF) as defined by the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) have not been clarified. We aimed to investigate the characteristics of infection and its influence on mortality in HBV-ACLF defined by EASL in China.Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study with HBV-ACLF patients defined by EASL in a single center from January 2015 to December 2017. Patients were divided into an infection group and a non-infection group. The incidence, sites, strains of infection, and risk factors for mortality were evaluated. Results: A total of 289 patients were included, of which 185 (64.0%) were diagnosed with an infection. The most common was pneumonia (55.7%), followed by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (47.6%) and others. The gram-negative bacteria were the most frequent (58.3%). Patients with one, two, and three or more infection sites had a gradually increasing incidence of sepsis (P<0.01), sepsis shock (P<0.001), and ACLF-3 (P<0.05). One, two, and three or more strains were isolated in 86, 16, and 18 patients, who showed a growing incidence of sepsis (P<0.01) and sepsis shock (P<0.001). Infection was identified as an independent risk factor for 28-day mortality in HBV-ACLF patients. Infected patients showed a significantly higher 28-day mortality than those without (P<0.01), especially in patients with ACLF-3. Pneumonia and sepsis were identified as independent predictors of 28-day mortality for infected patients.Conclusions: Infection is associated with severe clinical course and high mortality in HBV-ACLF defined by EASL. The increased incidence of sepsis and sepsis shock was associated with an increased number of infection sites and isolated strains. Pneumonia and sepsis were independent predictors affecting mortality in HBV-ACLF patients with infection.
Temporal genetic variation and dispersal patterns of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) among three different temperature regions of China
Authors: Gao Jian , Zhang Hengduan , Guo Xiaoxia , Xing Dan , Dong YanDe , Lan CeJie , Wang Ge , Li ChaoJie , Li ChunXiao , Zhao TongYan
Published: June 2020

Background Aedes albopictus is an indigenous and primary vector for Dengue and Zika viruses in China. Compare with its insecticide resistance, biology, and vector competence; little was known about its genetic variation, corresponding to environmental variations. Thus, the present study aims to discuss how Ae. albopictus population varies among different temperatures regions of China and decipher its potential dispersal patterns.Methods The genetic variation and population structure of all 17 Ae. albopictus populations, collected from three temperature regions of China, were investigated with 11 microsatellite loci and mitochondrial COI gene.Results 11 pairs out of 44 isolated microsatellite markers were chosen for genotyping analysis with the average PIC value of 0.713, which was high polymorphism. The number of alleles was high for each population, with the ne value increased from the Temperate region (3.876) to the Tropical region (4.144). 25 COI Haplotypes were detected, and the highest diversity was observed among the Tropical region. The mean Ho value (ca. 0.557) of all temperature regions, was significantly lower than the mean He values (ca. 0.684), with nearly all populations significantly departed from the HWE test and displayed significant population expansion ( p-value < 0.05).Two genetically isolated groups and three Haplotype clades were evaluated via STRUCTURE and Haplotype phylogenetic analyses, with Tropical populations isolated from other regions, significantly. Meanwhile, the majority genetic variation of Ae. albopictus populations were detected within populations and individuals at 31.40% and 63.04%, respectively, via AMOVA test, and a relatively significant positive correlation was merely observed among populations from the temperate region via Isolation by distance (IBD) analysis (R2 = 0.6614, p = 0.048). Recent dispersions were observed among different Ae. albopictus populations and a total of four major migration trends were rebuilt between the Tropical and the other two regions with the high genetic flows (Nm>0.5). Environmental factors, especially temperature and rainfall, may be the leading cause of genetic diversity differences of different temperature regions. Conclusions Continuous dispersion contributes to the similarity of Ae. albopictus populations among different temperature regions, and environmental factors, especially temperature and rainfall, may be the leading cause of genetic variation.
Comparison of three lymph node staging systems in evaluating the prognosis of patients with pT3 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Di-tian , Wang Lin-shuo , Chen Yu-ping , Chen Shao-bin
Published: June 2020

Background: To explore the prognostic value of three lymph node staging systems, including number of positive lymph nodes (pN), lymph node ratio (LNR), and log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS), in patients with pT3 stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).Methods: Data from 1667 patients with pT3 stage ESCC who underwent surgical resection were reviewed. The log-rank test was used to assess the differences in overall survival (OS) between groups. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent prognostic factors. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to assess the prognostic accuracy of the three staging methods.Results: The median survival time for the entire group was 48.0 months, and the 1-, 3- and 5-year OS rates were 83.9%, 55.1% and 66.6%, respectively. All three lymph node staging systems were significantly correlated with OS in univariate and multivariate analyses. However, LNR and LODDS staging systems could more accurately predict survival than the pN staging system in patients with < 15 lymph nodes dissected, while LODDS have the best prognostic homogeneity.Conclusions: All three staging systems could be used for prognostic assessment in pT3 stage ESCC. But LODDS staging system might be superior to the others due to its prognostic homogeneity.
Early Improvement of Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Single Chronic Total Occlusion Vessel
Authors: Wang Shaoping , Li Shiying , Li Yijia , Zhao Yejing , Liu Tong , Cheng Shujuan , Peng Hongyu , Wu Zheng , Zhao Donghui , Zheng Bin , Liu Jinghua
Published: June 2020

Background

The effect of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusion (CTO) on left ventricular dyssynchrony was unclear.
Methods

Patients with one CTO vessel were included. Tissue Doppler imaging was used to assess the left ventricular dyssynchrony index (DI) in twelve segments before and after successful CTO PCI. Multiple regression was used to identify independent correlates of DI reduction.
Results

41 patients were included with the mean age of 65.88 years. 39(95.12%) had left ventricular DI more than 33. It decreased significantly from 67.48 ± 28.73 to 44.69 ± 23.90 (P < 0.01) after successful CTO PCI. PCI of infarct-relative CTO was associated with less percentage of DI reduction (Coefficient [Coef.], 25.60; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.13–43.08; P < 0.01). Higher initial DI was associated with more percentage of DI reduction (Coef., -0.35; 95% CI, -0.67- -0.03; P = 0.03). Percentage of DI reduction was associated with ejection fraction (EF) improvement (Coef., -5.09; 95% CI, -7.45- -2.72; P < 0.01) with linear relationship (P < 0.01).
Conclusion

Left ventricular dyssynchrony was reduced early after successful CTO PCI, which predicted EF improvement. The association between dyssynchrony reduction and long-term benefits of CTO PCI are expected.
Complementary feeding patterns of Filipino infants and toddlers lack diversity, especially among children from poor households
Authors: Jacquier Emma F , Angeles-Agdeppa Imelda , Lenighan Yvonne , Toledo Marvin B , Capanzana Mario V
Published: June 2020

Consumption of nutritionally adequate complementary foods is essential for optimal growth and development of infants and toddlers, particularly in developing countries. The aim of this study was to describe percentages of consumption, energy contribution (6-23.9mo), and usual nutrient intakes (12-23.9mo) from complementary foods among Filipino infants and toddlers stratified by household wealth. Data from 1087 infants and toddlers from the 2013 National Nutrition Survey were included. Dietary intake data was assessed using a 24Hr recall and population food intakes were stratified into pre-defined wealth categories. Breast milk, infant formula, powdered milk and rice were the most commonly consumed foods and beverages across the age groups. Several differences in complementary feeding by wealth status were observed. Infants and toddlers from poor households reported significantly greater consumption of human milk, in comparison to those from the rich households who reported a significantly greater consumption of infant/toddler formula (P>0.05). A higher percentage of toddlers from rich households consumed protein-containing foods, cookies and cakes. There was no difference in fruit and vegetable consumption between wealth groups in 6-11.9mo and 18-23.9mo children. Human milk and formula were the top contributors to energy in 6.11.9mo and 12-17.9mo children, while rice was the top energy contributor in 18-23.9mo children. Intakes of protein, fat, vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron and calcium were higher in 12-23.9mo children from rich households. Interventions are required to enable caregivers of young Filipino children to provide complementary foods of high nutritional quality, particularly among children from the poor households.
Mental distress and psychological disorders of Syrians in fragile Syria and multiple countries related to COVID-19
Authors: Kakaje Ameer , Fadel Ammar , Ghareeb Ayham , Zohbi Ragheed Al
Published: June 2020

Background:Syria has entered its ninth year of crisis which left millions of Syrians suffering from humanitarian crises. This study evaluates the mental health of Syrians living in Syria and who left the country due to war and living in different ten countries as evaluating their condition needs further study, particularly with Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19).Methods:Online questionnaires included SPTSS, K10, MSPSS, demographic, war- and COVID-19-related questions. This study included participants from 10 different countries and they were matched with Syrians according to age and gender as other variables could not be matched due to different standards between countries.Results:This study included 472 participants, of which 214 (45.3%) were males with a mean age of 29.1 ± 7.5). More participants from Syria suffered from reduced ability to earn money (P=0.007), and worried about being unable to provide food from COVID-19 (P=0.007) although they worried less about them getting infected (P=0.041). Participants from Syria declared higher PTSD scores than Syrians living in other countries (P=0.045), mainly among doctors. Interestingly, there was no significant difference in social support, days unable to work from distress in the past 4 weeks, and mental distress (K10) between Syrians living in Syria and other countries (P>0.05). Conclusions:Syrians in Syria suffered more than Syrians living in other countries. Providing food and reduced ability to earn were the major stress. They also had more PTSD symptoms and stress than Syrians and others in other countries.
APTIDÃO FÍSICA E FATORES DE RISCO CARDIOMETABÓLICOS EM ADOLESCENTES: UM ESTUDO LONGITUDINAL
Authors: Da Silva Paula Roldão , De Faria Waynne Ferreira , Da Silva Jadson Marcio , Dos Santos Géssika Castilho , De Oliveira Raphael Gonçalves , Neto Antonio Stabelini
Published: June 2020

Os níveis de aptidão física dos adolescentes são um importante indicador de seu estilo de vida e podem prevenir o desenvolvimento de fatores de risco cardiometabólicos. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar os fatores de risco cardiometabólicos em adolescente a partir das mudanças nos componentes de aptidão física relacionada à saúde após três anos de seguimento. Foram realizados testes motores segundo o manual do FITNESSGRAM (back-saver sit and reach; curl-up; push-up; e progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run) e foram avaliados os fatores de risco cardiometabólicos: circunferência de cintura; pressão arterial em repouso; HDL colesterol; triglicerídeos; e glicemia em jejum em dois momentos (2014 e 2017). Para comparar os fatores de risco cardiometabólicos a partir das mudanças dos componentes de aptidão física entre os períodos de acompanhamento foi aplicado o teste de Kruskal-Wallis ou ANOVA one-way.  Foi observado melhora significativa dos componentes de AFRS com o passar dos anos, com exceção da aptidão cardiorrespiratória. Não foram identificadas diferenças estatísticas nos fatores de risco cardiometabólicos a partir da manutenção ou mudanças dos componentes de AFRS durante o período de acompanhamento.
EFEITOS DE UM PROGRAMA DE TERAPIA MANUAL SOBRE A FUNÇÃO RESPIRATÓRIA E QUALIDADE DE VIDA DE INDIVÍDUOS COM DOENÇA PULMONAR OBSTRUTIVA CRÔNICA (DPOC)
Authors: Steidl Eduardo Matias dos Santos , Gonçalves Bruna Franciele da Trintade , Rockenbach Nathalia De Morais , Pasqualoto Adriane Schmidt , Mancopes Renata
Published: June 2020

Objetivo: investigar os efeitos da terapia manual (TM) sobre a função respiratória e qualidade de vida de indivíduos com DPOC. Métodos: foram avaliados 18 indivíduos com idade média 66,06±8,86 anos, 61,1% (11) homens e %VEF1 médio 40,28±16,73 após-programa de TM. As medidas de desfecho foram: frequência cardíaca (FC), frequência respiratória (FR), saturação periférica de oxigênio (SpO2), pressão inspiratória (PIM) e expiratória (PEM) máximas, sensação de dispneia (MRC) e qualidade de vida (SGRQ). Resultados: houve diferença significativa para FC (p=0,04), FR (p=0,007), SpO2 (p<0,0001), PIM e %PIM (p<0,0001), PEM e %PEM (p=0,001). Na qualidade de vida os domínios sintomas (p=0,001), impacto (p=0,001) e pontuação total (p=0,001) diferiram antes e após o programa. Conclusão: o programa de TM melhorou os parâmetros vitais, aumentou a força muscular respiratória e interferiu positivamente na qualidade de vida.
O BRINCAR DE MÃES E BEBÊS COM E SEM HISTÓRICO DE SOFRIMENTO PSÍQUICO
Authors: Schmitt Patricia Menezes , Nunes Sabrina Felin , De Moraes Anaelena Bragança , De Souza Ana Paula Ramos
Published: June 2020

Objetivo: Analisou-se a evolução do brincar em bebês com e sem risco psíquico e sua relação com o desenvolvimento infantil de nove aos 24 meses. Estudo quantitativo, observacional, retrospectivo. Método: A obtenção dos dados foi através do roteiro de análise do brincar, elaborado nesta pesquisa. Foram observados os aspectos cognitivos do brincar do bebê, a relação intersubjetiva e análise do investimento materno. Avaliaram-se 32 bebês e suas mães. Foram utilizados os indicadores clínicos do desenvolvimento infantil e os sinais PREAUT para detecção do risco psíquico. Resultados: Houve associação significativa no prazer da criança em relação ao risco na experiência com o objeto, bem como o prazer e empenho maternos no brincar. Com relação ao uso criativo do objeto nas crianças com risco aparece mais tardiamente do que no grupo sem sofrimento psíquico, aos 18 meses. Conclusão: As crianças com sofrimento psíquico e suas mães apresentaram menos construções criativas em relação às sem sofrimento.
Pengembangan Perangkat Pembelajaran pada Mata Kuliah Kimia Dasar Berdasarkan Kurikulum KKNI
Authors: Siregar Anggi Desviana
Published: June 2020

Penelitian pengembangan petunjuk praktikum berbasis green chemistry pada materi stoikiometri dilandaskan pada karakteristik  peserta didik yang lebih menyukai metode praktikum, namun di sekolah belum memiliki petunjuk praktikum yang dapat menyesuaikan waktu pelaksanaan praktikum dengan jam pelajaran di sekolah. Metode pengembangan yang digunakan adalah metode ADDIE  yang terdiri dari tahap analyze, design, development, implementation, dan evaluations. Produk divalidasi oleh dua dosen ahli materi dan dua dosen ahli media, kemudian dilakukan uji keterbacaan oleh guru dan peserta didik, dan diuji cobakan pada kelas kecil. Subjek uji keterbacaan yaitu satu guru mata pelajaran kimia serta tiga peserta didik kelas XI IPA SMA N 7 Semarang, dan subjek uji coba kelas kecil yaitu sembilan peserta didik kelas XI IPA SMA N 7 Semarang. Hasil penilaian validasi ahli materi didapatkan indeks validitas 0,902 dengan kategori sangat tinggi, dan penilaian validasi ahli media mendapat indeks validitas sebesar 0,984 dengan kategori sangat tinggi.  Pada uji keterbacaan oleh guru didapatkan kategori sangat baik dengan presentase sebesar 96,47%. Pada uji keterbacaan oleh peserta didik didapatkan presentase sebesar 95,83% dengan kategori sangat baik. Respon peserta didik memperlihatkan kategori sangat baik dengan presentase sebesar 94,29%.
Maximizing Religious Capital: Building English Villages Based on Islamic Education around the Campus
Authors: Saifullah Muhammad , Muthohar Sofa , Fadlilah Sayyidatul
Published: June 2020

Some Islamic groups, especially the traditional Indonesian circles, have a negative view of English. English is considered the language of infidel invaders and the language of hell. This paper aims to describe the development of society in implementing Islamic religious education while eliminating the negative impression of the use of English in Islamic societies to be an important language to be learned as a language of global communication. The research method uses the sociological phenomenological method. The results showed that the Amanah village had six social capital namely human capital, social capital, natural capital, physical capital, and financial capital and religious capital. The development strategy undertaken is to maximize religious capital by establishing religious institutions and carrying out religious activities by being given English language lessons. There are two centers of activity, namely the Baitussalam mosque and the AleC (Amanah Learning Center). Other capital that plays a significant role is social capital that is inclusive and accommodating towards migrants.AbstrakSebagian masyarat Islam terutama kalangan tradisional Indonesia berpandangan negative terhadap bahasa Inggris. Bahsa inggris dianggap sebagai bahasa para penjajah yang kafir dan bahasa neraka. Tulisan ini bertujuan untuk menggambarkan pembangunan masyarakat dalam melaksanakan pendidikan Agama Islam sekaligus menghilangkan kesan negative penggunaan bahasa Inggris di masyarakat Islam menjadi bahasa penting untuk dipelajari sebagai bahasa komunikasi global. Metode penelitian menggunakan metode fenomenologis sosiologis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kampung Amanah memiliki enam modal sosial yaitu human capital, social capital, natural capital, physical capital dan financial capital serta religious capital. Strategi pembangunan yang dilakukan yaitu dengan memaksimalkan modal relgius dengan mendirikan institusi agama dan menjalankan kegiatan-kegiatan agama dengan diberi sisipan pelajaran bahasa Inggris. Pusat kegiatan ada dua yaitu masjid baitussalam dan AleC (Amanah Learning Center). Modal lain yang sangat berperan adalah modal sosial masyarakat yang bersikap inklusif dan akomodatif terhadap para pendatang.
Waterborne diarrhoeal infection risk from multiple water sources and the impact of an earthquake
Authors: Ito Yuri , Shrestha Malla Sadhana , Bhattarai Arun Prasad , Haramoto Eiji , Shindo Junko , Nishida Kei
Published: June 2020

In the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, locals depend on multiple water sources due to the limited access to safe water, which is a great global concern regarding its impact on human health. This study aimed to compare the infection risk of diarrhoea from multiple water sources with different concentrations of Escherichia coli among water supply areas and evaluate the impact of changing water sources due to the Gorkha earthquake on the infection risk. The concentration of enteropathogenic E. coli was estimated in samples of piped water, jar water, groundwater, and tanker water, which were collected in the Valley. The volume of each water ingestion was determined based on a questionnaire survey and considering drinking and bathing sources. The highest estimated risk was observed for households drinking groundwater from shallow dug wells, followed by tanker water. The estimated risk implied the regional disparity due to various water sources with different quality. After the earthquake, the ratio of households drinking only jar water increased, and the estimated risk decreased. The damage on piped water supply, the decrease of tanker water availability and the decrease of residents’ trust in groundwater quality presumably enhanced the consumption of jar water despite its high price.
A two-layer improved invasive weed optimization algorithm for optimal operation of cascade reservoirs
Authors: Fang Guo-hua , Wu Cheng-jun , Liao Tao , Huang Xian-feng , Qu Bo
Published: June 2020

This paper proposes a two-layer improved invasive weed optimization (TIIWO) algorithm to overcome the disadvantages of the low quality of its initial population and the low optimization performance of IWO. The TIIWO algorithm includes dynamic corridor constraints (in its outer layer) and iterative reciprocating optimization (in its inner layer). The convergence of the TIIWO algorithm is achieved by minimizing the Schaffer function, which is characterized by its strong oscillatory behavior. In addition, the sensitivity of the main TIIWO parameters is analyzed using two methods, namely the revised Morris scheme and the Sobol index method. For experimental assessment, the TIIWO algorithm is firstly applied to a single reservoir. We investigate how the algorithm convergence is affected by four algorithm variants and parameter values. Then, the TIIWO algorithm is used to solve the problem of the optimal operation of cascade reservoirs. The results show that the TIIWO algorithm quickly and efficiently reaches the optimal operation of cascade reservoirs. In addition, this algorithm exhibits superior performance for high-dimensional, nonlinear and multi-constraint problems.
Determination of Selected Phthalates in Some Commercial Cosmetic Products by HPLC-UV
Authors: Dural Emrah
Published: June 2020

Aim and scope:

Due to the serious toxicological risks and their widespread use,
quantitative determination of phthalates in cosmetic products have importance for public health.
The aim of this study was to develop a validated simple, rapid and reliable high-performance liquid
chromatography (HPLC) method for the determination of phthalates which are; dimethyl phthalate
(DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), di(2-
ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), in cosmetic products and to investigate these phthalate (PHT) levels
in 48 cosmetic products marketing in Sivas, Turkey.

Materials and Methods:

Separation was achieved by a reverse-phase ACE-5 C18 column (4.6 x
250 mm, 5.0 μm). As the mobile phase, 5 mM KH2PO4 and acetonitrile were used gradiently at 1.5
ml min-1. All PHT esters were detected at 230 nm and the run time was taking 21 minutes.

Results:

This method showed the high sensitivity value the limit of quantification (LOQ) values
for which are below 0.64 μg mL-1 of all phthalates. Method linearity was ≥0.999 (r2). Accuracy and
precision values of all phthalates were calculated between (-6.5) and 6.6 (RE%) and ≤6.2 (RSD%),
respectively. Average recovery was between 94.8% and 99.6%. Forty-eight samples used for both
babies and adults were successfully analyzed by the developed method. Results have shown that,
DMP (340.7 μg mL-1 ±323.7), DEP (1852.1 μg mL-1 ± 2192.0), and DBP (691.3 μg mL-1 ± 1378.5)
were used highly in nail polish, fragrance and cream products, respectively.

Conclusion:

Phthalate esters, which are mostly detected in the content of fragrance, cream and nail
polish products and our research in general, are DEP (1852.1 μg mL-1 ± 2192.0), DBP (691.3 μg
mL-1 ± 1378.5) and DMP (340.7 μg mL-1 ±323.7), respectively. Phthalates were found in the
content of all 48 cosmetic products examined, and the most detected phthalates in general average
were DEP (581.7 μg mL-1 + 1405.2) with a rate of 79.2%. The unexpectedly high phthalate content
in the examined cosmetic products revealed a great risk of these products on human health. The
developed method is a simple, sensitive, reliable and economical alternative for the determination
of phthalates in the content of cosmetic products, it can be used to identify phthalate esters in
different products after some modifications.
The Epitome of Novel Techniques and Targeting Approaches in Drug Delivery for Treating Lymphatic Filariasis
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh , Gupta Anshita , Kaur Chanchal Deep
Published: June 2020

Background:

Lymphatic filariasis is a pervasive and life-threatening disease for human beings. Currently, 893 million people in 49 countries worldwide affected by lymphatic filariasis as per WHO statistics. The concealed aspects of lymphatic diseases such as delayed disease detection, inappropriate disease imaging, the geographical outbreak of infection, and lack of preventive chemotherapy have brought this epidemic to the edge of Neglected Tropical Diseases. Many medications and natural bioactive substances have seen to promote filaricidal activity against the target parasitic species. However, the majority of failures have occurred in pharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic issues.

Objective:

The purpose of the study is to focus on the challenges and therapeutic issues in the treatment of filariasis. The review brings novel techniques and therapeutic approaches for combating lymphatic filariasis. It also offers significant developments and opportunities for such therapeutic interventions.

Conclusion:

Through this review, an attempt has made to critically evaluate the avenues of innovative pharmaceuticals and molecular targeting approaches to bring an integrated solution to combat lymphatic filariasis.
Selenium: A Trace Element for a Healthy Skeleton - A Narrative Review
Authors: Vescini Fabio , Chiodini Iacopo , Palermo Andrea , Cesareo Roberto , De Geronimo Vincenzo , Scillitani Alfredo , Gennari Luigi , Falchetti Alberto
Published: June 2020

Inadequate serum selenium levels may delay the growth and physiological changes in bone
metabolism. In humans, reduced serum selenium concentrations are associated with both increased
bone turnover and reduced bone mineral density. Moreover, a reduced nutritional intake of selenium
may lead to an increased risk of bone disease. Therefore, selenium is an essential nutrient playing a
role in bone health, probably due to specific selenium-proteins. Some selenium-proteins have an antioxidation
enzymatic activity and participate in maintaining the redox cellular balance, regulating inflammation
and proliferation/differentiation of bone cells too. At least nine selenium-proteins are
known to be expressed by fetal osteoblasts and appear to protect bone cells from oxidative stress at
bone microenvironment. Mutations of selenium-proteins and reduced circulating levels of selenium are
known to be associated with skeletal diseases such as the Kashin-Beck osteoarthropathy and postmenopausal
osteoporosis. In addition, the intake of selenium appears to be inversely related to the risk
of hip fragility fractures. Recent data suggest that an altered selenium state may affect bone mass even
in males and selenium-proteins and selenium concentrations were positively associated with the bone
mass at femoral, total and trochanteric sites. However, selenium, but not selenium-proteins, seems to
be associated with femoral neck bone mass after adjustment for many bone fracture risk factors. The
present review summarizes the findings of observational and interventional studies, which have been
designed for investigating the relationship between selenium and bone metabolism.
A Method for the Assessment of Mitral Valve Regurgitation Grade and Severity
Authors: El Oakley Reida M. , Almanfi Abdelkader
Published: June 2020

Background:

Previous grading and severity scores of MR were based on a mix of objective echocardiographic data and subjective findings such as the presence or absence of symptoms. There is a need for a grade - and a severity -score for Mitral Valve Regurgitation (MR) that is based purely on objective findings and avoids the ambiguity of labelling the same degree of MR differently according to symptoms severity and/or the underlying etiology.

Methods:

We reviewed published reports regarding MR severity and grades and provided a method for the assessment of MR severity and grades based purely on objective data regardless of the symptom(s) and/or underlying cause(s) of MR. Objective Echocardiographic and/or Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) findings of Vena Contracta (VC) size in cm2, Effective Regurgitant Orifice area (ERO) in cm2, Effective Regurgitant Volume (ERV) in mls/beat, and Regurgitation Fraction (RF) as a percentage of the left ventricular stroke volume, were given a score value of A, B, C or D with increasing severity, thus ranging from the mildest degree“A” to most severe “D”.

Results:

As summarized in Table 4, MR severity ranged between 4 “As” to 4 “Ds”. Further elaboration regarding the parameter(s) most severely affected may be added to the score value, e.g., scoring MR with a VC = 0.60 cm2 associated with EROA = 0.4cm2, ERV = 60mls and RF = 45% will be 2D (EROA and ERV) MR, thereby avoiding overlap between various degrees of MR and/or further data manipulation to make other parameters fit one grade of MR or another.

Conclusion:

Applying this scoring/grading system to Echocardiographic and/or CMR studies of patients with mitral valve regurgitation will enhance our endeavors to use a clear and unified language regarding MR severity without compromising the quality of Echocardiographic or CMR findings and/or reporting.