bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertainty Space Expansion: A Consistent Integration of Measurement Errors in Linear Inversion
Authors: Likanapaisal Pipat , Tchelepi Hamdi A.
Published: May 2020

In general, a probabilistic framework for a modeling process involves two uncertainty spaces: model parameters and state variables (or predictions). The two uncertainty spaces in reservoir simulation are connected by the governing equations of flow and transport in porous media in the form of a reservoir simulator. In a forward problem (or a predictive run), the reservoir simulator directly maps the uncertainty space of the model parameters to the uncertainty space of the state variables. Conversely, an inverse problem (or history matching) aims to improve the descriptions of the model parameters by using the measurements of state variables. However, we cannot solve the inverse problem directly in practice. Numerous algorithms, including Kriging-based inversion and the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) and its many variants, simplify the system by using a linear assumption.

The purpose of this paper is to improve the integration of measurement errors in the history-matching algorithms that rely on the linear assumption. The statistical moment equation (SME) approach with the Kriging-based inversion algorithm is used to illustrate several practical examples. In the Motivation section, an example of pressure conditioning has a measurement that contains no additional information because of its significant measurement error. This example highlights the inadequacy of the current method that underestimates the conditional uncertainty for both model parameters and predictions. Accordingly, we derive a new formula that recognizes the absence of additional information and preserves the unconditional uncertainty. We believe this to be the consistent behavior to integrate measurement errors.

Other examples are used to validate the new formula with both linear and nonlinear (i.e., the saturation equation) problems, with single and multiple measurements, and with different configurations of measurement errors. For broader applications, we also develop an equivalent formula for algorithms in the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) approach, such as EnKF and ensemble smoother (ES).
Interrelation between Defensive Mechanisms and Coping Strategies in Psychiatry Trainees in Romania: A Multi-Centric Study
Authors: Panfil Anca-Livia , Frandes Mirela , Nirestean Aurel , Hurmuz Marinela , Lungeanu Diana , Cristanovici Madalina , Lemeti Laura , Isac Andra , Papava Ion , Bredicean Cristina
Published: May 2020

Background The challenges that a professional face when working in the field of psychiatry require the development of adequate defensive and coping styles. Aims To explore the coping strategies, the defense mechanisms and their relationship among psychiatry trainees in Romania. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine and to evaluate both defensive and coping styles of Romanian psychiatry trainees. DSQ-60 and COPE scales were applied to psychiatry trainees from five training centers in Romania. By applying structural equation modeling, we studied models that presumed the existence of relationships between coping strategies and defensive mechanisms. Results The results of the study indicate that superior defense mechanisms and task-oriented coping style were the commonly used approach by trainees in psychiatry. In addition, our findings show significantly consistent correlations (ranging from 0.2 to 0.5) between adaptive defense mechanisms and coping styles focused on the problem, or on the emotion. Similarly, the avoidant coping strategies correlated with defense styles that are not adaptive (correlations between 0.3 and 0.5). Our model presented good fit indices, X 2 (34) = 50.519, p < 0.001; GFI = 0.93; RMSE = 0.08. Moreover, the results indicated a weak association, r = 0.01, p < 0.001, between the two types of adaptive processes. Conclusions Our findings suggest that trainees in psychiatry present a profile based on two independent groups of adaptation processes, namely, adaptive defenses and problem-oriented coping scales, and non-adaptive defenses and avoidant coping scales.
Duration of antibiotic therapy in critically ill patients: a randomized controlled trial of a clinical and C-reactive protein-based protocol versus an evidence-based best practice strategy without biomarkers
Authors: Borges Isabela Nascimento , Carneiro Rafael , Bergo Rafael , Martins Larissa , Colosimo Enrico , Oliveira Carolina , Saturnino Saulo , Andrade Marcus Vinícius , Ravetti Cecília , Nobre Vandack
Published: May 2020

Background: The rational use of antibiotics is one of the main strategies to limit the development of bacterial resistance . We therefore sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a C reactive protein-based protocol in reducing antibiotic treatment time in critically ill patients. Methods: A randomized, open-label, controlled clinical trial conducted in two intensive care units of a university hospital in Brazil. Critically ill infected adult patients were randomly allocated to: i) intervention to receive antibiotics guided by daily monitoring of CRP levels, and ii) control to receive antibiotics according to the best practices for rational use of antibiotics. Results : 130 patients were included in the CRP (n=64) and control (n=66) groups. In the intention to treat analysis, the median duration of antibiotic therapy for the index infectious episode was 7.0 (5.0-8.8) days in the CRP and 7.0 (7.0-11.3) days in the control (p = 0.011) groups. A significant difference in the treatment time between the two groups was identified in the curve of cumulative suspension of antibiotics, with less exposure in the CRP group only for the index infection episode (p = 0.007). In the per protocol analysis, involving 59 patients in each group, the median duration of antibiotic treatment was 6.0 (5.0-8.0) days for the CRP and 7.0 (7.0- 10.0) days for the control (p = 0.011) groups. There was no between-group difference regarding the total days of antibiotic exposure and antibiotic-free days. Conclusions: Daily monitoring of CRP levels may allow early interruption of antibiotic therapy in a higher proportion of patients, without an effect on total antibiotic consumption. The clinical and microbiological relevance of this finding remains to be demonstrated. Trial Registry : ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02987790. Registered 09 December 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02987790 .
Perigraft abscess after DeBakey type-1 aortic dissection: a case report
Authors: Xu Lingling , Lin Shan , Yang Yali
Published: May 2020

Background: Perigraft abscess is a rare condition which constitutes a small proportion of aortic graft infection (AGI). Early diagnosis is very important for timely intervention and improving the survival rate of patients because of its significant morbidity and mortality.Case presentation: A 24-year-old young male patient with a history of complicated total arch replacement using elephant trunk technique for acute DeBakey type-1 aortic dissection 6 months before visited our hospital with the chief complaint of persistent fever. Antibiotic treatment in local hospital was ineffective. Echocardiography showed liquid dark area around the aortic graft, and a computerized tomography angiography (CTA) was done for further evaluation of periaortic fluid collection which showed findings to suggest perigraft abscess. The patient underwent surgical debridement of the abscess and was found to have an abscess around the aortic graft which was drained followed by antibiotic treatment. The patient was discharged to his local hospital and recovered well at two month follow-up appointment.Conclusion: This is a very rare case of aortic abscess around the graft that could successfully be managed by graft-conserving surgery, and it emphasizes the significance of early diagnosis of perigraft abscess in patients with aortic dissection surgery.
Variation in breeding practices and geographic isolation drive subpopulation differentiation, contributing to the loss of genetic diversity within dog breed lineages
Authors: Lampi Sara , Donner Jonas , Anderson Heidi , Pohjoismäki Jaakko L. O.
Published: May 2020

Background: Discrete breed ideals are not restricted to delimiting dog breeds from another, but also are key drivers of subpopulation differentiation. As genetic differentiation due to population fragmentation results in increased rates of inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity, detecting and alleviating the reasons of population fragmentation can provide effective tools for the maintenance of healthy dog breeds. Results: Using a genome wide SNP array, we detected genetic differentiation to subpopulations in six breeds, Belgian Shepherd, English Greyhound, Finnish Lapphund, Italian Greyhound, Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog, either due to geographical isolation or as a result of differential breeding strategies. The subpopulation differentiation was strongest in show dog lineages.Conclusions: Besides geographical differentiation caused by founder effect and lack of gene flow, selection on champion looks or restricted pedigrees is a strong driver of population fragmentation. Artificial barriers for gene flow between the different subpopulations should be recognized, their necessity evaluated critically and perhaps abolished in order to maintain genetic diversity within a breed. Subpopulation differentiation might also result in false positive signals in genome-wide association studies of different traits.Lay summary: Purebred dogs are, by definition, reproductively isolated from other breeds. However, similar isolation can also occur within a breed due to conflicting breeder ideals and geographic distances between the dog populations. We show here that both of these examples can contribute to breed division, with subsequent loss of genetic variation in the resulting breed lineages. Breeders should avoid creating unnecessary boundaries between breed lineages and facilitate the exchange of dogs between countries.
Risky sexual behaviours among women of reproductive age in a high HIV burdened township in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Hlongwa Mbuzeleni , Peltzer Karl , Hlongwana Khumbulani
Published: May 2020

Background: Despite several intervention programmes in South Africa, risky sexual behaviours among women of reproductive age remain a public health concern, thereby making them prone to unintended pregnancies and/or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This study investigated the predictors of risky sexual behaviours among women of reproductive age in a high HIV-burdened township in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 471 women of reproductive age (18-49 years, mean: 25.83) in 10 public health clinics in Umlazi Township, using a structured questionnaire. Data were coded, entered into Epi Data Manager and exported to Stata for analysis. A Pearson Chi-square test and logistic regression models (bivariate and multivariate) were employed to assess the level of the association between the predictor and outcome variables and the p-value 0.05 or lower was considered statistically significant.Results: More than half (51.80%) of women were aged 18-24 years and only a handful (18.26%) had tertiary qualification. The majority were single (88.96%) and the unemployed accounted for 53.50%. This study found that women who talked about condoms with partner during the preceding 12 months were more likely (p=<0.0001) to have used condoms during their last sexual experience. Older women (p=0.035) were more likely to have used a condom at last sex, compared to younger women. However, women who were exposed to physical partner violence (hitting and/or slapping), those who had been diagnosed with HIV and those whose sexual partners were diagnosed with HIV, did not show a significant association with condom use at last sexual encounter.Conclusion: Exposure to physical partner violence and poor partner discussions about condoms are key deterrents to condom usage. Holistic interventions are required in order to address the risky behaviours, and consequently reduce sexually transmitted infections and/or unintended pregnancies.
Validation of the French version of the McLean Screening Instrument for Adolescent Borderline Personality Disorder (MSI-BPD)
Authors: Mirkovic Bojan , Speranza Mario , Cailhol Lionel , Guelfi Julien-Daniel , Perez-Diaz Fernando , Corcos Maurice , Robin Marion , Pham-Scottez Alexandra
Published: May 2020

Background: The study examines the psychometric properties of the French version of the McLean Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (MSI-BPD) created by M. Zanarini to screen borderline personality disorder in clinical and non-clinical populations.Method: In this multicentric longitudinal study from the European Network on Borderline Personality Disorder, a sample of 84 adolescent patients from five psychiatric centres and 85 matched controls without psychiatric comorbidity completed the MSI-BPD, French version, and were interviewed with the Structured Interview for DSM-IV Personality (SIDP-IV), in order to assess the presence or absence of borderline personality disorder.Results: The MSI-BPD showed excellent internal consistency (α = 0.87 [0.84;0.90]). Compared to the semi-structured reference interview (SIDP-IV), the MSI-BPD showed substantial congruent validity (AUC = 0.93, CI 95%: 0.90 - 0.97). The optimal cut-off point in the present study was 5 or more, as it had relatively high sensitivity (0.87) and specificity (0.85). In our sample, the cut-off point (7 or more) proposed by the original developers of the MSI-BPD showed high specificity (0.95) but low sensitivity (0.63).Conclusions: The French version of the MSI-BPD is now available, and its psychometric properties are satisfactory. The French version of the MSI-PBD can be used as a screening tool for borderline personality disorder, for clinical purposes or in research studies.
Should we keep hope? Key 8 weeks - Spatiotemporal epidemic characteristics of COVID-19 in Sichuan Province and its comparative analysis with other provinces in China and global epidemic trend
Authors: Xu Xinyin , Zeng Jing , Liu Runyou , Liu Yang , Zhou Xiaobo , Zhou Lijun , Dong Ting , Cha Yuxin , Wang Zhuo , Deng Ying , Zhang Yu , Feng Liao , Pu Chen , Wu Xianping , Zhong Bo
Published: May 2020

Background: To compare the epidemiological characteristics of Sichuan Province, other provinces in China and the world epidemic trends by analyzing the prevalence and length of epidemic time. in order to provide a basis for responding to imported cases abroad and to formulate prevention and control strategies in areas that are still rapidly circulating.Methods: The number of confirmed cases, daily growth, incidence and the length of time from the first reported case to the end of local case(non-overseas imported cases) were compared by spatial and temporal (geographical, temporal) classification. Visualizing the development and changes of epidemic situation by layer through maps.Results: In the first wave, total of 539 cases were reported in Sichuan Province, with the incidence rate of 0.6462 / 100,000. The closer to Hubei, the heavier the epidemic. The peak of Sichuan Province came earlier and the value was lower. Eight weeks after Wuhan lockdown, all became better. The longest epidemic length in city level of China was 53 days, median 23 days. It was released quickly in the 1st month, and accelerated in the 2ed month (three times of 1st month). Most countries outside China began to rise rapidly 4 weeks after their first case. Some European countries was earlier than USA. Germany, Spain, Italy, and China cost 28, 29, 34, and 18 days to reached the peak of daily increment, after their daily increase up to 20 cases. Countries in African Region and South-East Asia Region were at the early stage, in Eastern Mediterranean Region and Region of the Americas were at rapid growth phase,in European presented an inflection point or at a plateau period but falling slowly.Conclusions: Adopting appropriate isolation and control measures is necessary to actively respond to the epidemic situation. If effective measures were implemented at the 8 key weeks, the peak value of the confirmed cases will be lower and decrease quickly. Some countries with improved epidemic situations also need to develop a continuous "local strategy at entry checkpoints" to respond to a possible second local epidemic.
Whole exome sequencing identifies novel DYT1 dystonia-associated genome variants as potential disease modifiers
Authors: Hu Chih-Fen , Luxton G. W. Gant , Lee Feng-Chin , Hsu Chih-Sin , Huang Shih-Ming , Hong Jau-Shyong , Wu San-Pin
Published: May 2020

Background：DYT1 dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by painful sustained muscle contractions resulting in abnormal twisting and postures. In a subset of patients, it is caused by a loss-of-function mutation (ΔE302/303; or ΔE) in the luminal ATPases associated with various cellular activities (AAA+) protein torsinA encoded by the TOR1A gene. The low penetrance of the ΔE mutation (~30-40%) suggests the existence of unknown genetic modifiers of DYT1 dystonia. Results：To identify these modifiers, we performed whole exome sequencing (WES) of blood leukocyte DNA isolated from two DYT1 dystonia patients, three asymptomatic carriers of the ΔE mutation, and an unaffected adult relative. A total of 264 DYT1 dystonia-associated variants (DYT1 variants) were identified in 195 genes. Consistent with the emerging view of torsinA as an important regulator of the cytoskeleton, endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis, and lipid metabolism, we found DYT1 variants in genes that encode proteins implicated in these processes. Moreover, 40 DYT1 variants were detected in 32 genes associated with neuromuscular and neuropsychiatric disorders. Conclusion： The DYT1 variants described in this work represent exciting new targets for future studies designed to increase our understanding of the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of DYT1 dystonia.
LncRNA CAIF Upregulates miR-16 Through Methylation to Suppress LPS-Induced Apoptosis of Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2020

Background: Both lncRNA CAIF and miR-16 can inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory response. It is known that LPS plays crucial roles in sepsis. This study was therefore carried out to investigate the interactions between CAIF and miR-16 in sepsis.Methods: Levels of CAIF (A) and miR-16 (B) in plasma samples from sepsis patients (n = 60) and healthy controls (n = 60) were measured by performing RT-qPCR. Correlations of levels of CAIF and miR-16 across plasma samples from sepsis patients (A) and healthy controls (B) were analyzed by linear regression.The effects of CAIF overexpression on miR-16 (B), and the effects of miR-16 overexpression on CAIF (C) were analyzed by RT-qPCR.Results: We found that CAIF and miR-16 were downregulated in plasma of sepsis patients and they were positively correlated. In cardiomyocytes, LPS treatment led to downregulated CAIF and miR-16. Moreover, CAIF overexpression led to upregulated miR-16 and increased methylation of miR-16. However, miR-16 overexpression failed to significantly affect CAIF expression. Cell apoptosis analysis showed that CAIF and miR-16 overexpression suppressed LPS-induced apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. The combination of CAIF and miR-16 overexpression showed stronger effect.Conclusion: CAIF may upregulate miR-16 through methylation to suppress LPS-induced apoptosis of cardiomyocytes.
Perceptions of Important Outcomes of Ethics Case Reflection Rounds: A Qualitative Study among Healthcare Professionals in Childhood Cancer Care
Authors: Weiner Charlotte , Pergert Pernilla , Molewijk Bert , Castor Anders , Bartholdson Cecilia
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND: In childhood cancer care, healthcare professionals mustdeal with several difficult moral situations in clinical practice. Previous studies show that morally difficult challenges are related to decisions on treatment limitations, infringing on the child's integrity and growing autonomy, and interprofessional conflicts. Research also shows that healthcare professionals want ethics support to help them deal with morally difficult situations.Ethics case reflection (ECR)roundsare one example of ethics support. However, there is little research intohealthcare professionals’ perceptions of important outcomes prior to participation in ethics case reflectionrounds in childhood cancer care. The aim was to explorehealthcare professionals’ perceptions of outcomes of ECR rounds important for handling moral challenges prior to participation in ECR rounds in childhood cancer care.METHODS: This study is based on qualitative data. Healthcare professionals, mostly representing registered nurses, nursing assistants and physicians,working at childhood cancer care centres in Sweden, were invited to respond to the translated and content-validated European Moral Case Deliberation questionnaire,before participating in regular ECR rounds. The main open-ended question included in the questionnaire was analysed according to systematic text condensation. RESULTS: Data was collected from 161 responses from the healthcare professionals who were invited to participate. The responses included healthcare professionals’ perceptions of which ethics case reflection round-related outcomes they found important for handling moral challenges. Three different themes of important outcomes emerged from the analysis of the data: Inter-professional wellbeing, Being in a professional comfort zone, and Improved quality of care. The themes are related to teams, individuals and care, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare professionals in childhood cancer care considered it important that ethics support could enhance the well-being of interprofessional teams, support healthcare professionals on an individual level and improve quality of care. To realize these perceived important outcomes, conditions for ECR rounds need to be improved. The results of this study can be used in future training for facilitators of ECR rounds, as well as providing information to healthcare managers wishing to implement this kind of ethics support.
A high-throughput drug combination screen identifies an anti-glioma synergism between MTH1 and PI3K inhibitors
Authors: Chen Zhen , Zhou Tingting , Chen Chao , Duan Chao , Wang Qianqian , Zhou Xiaohui , Zhang Xia , Wu Fangrong , Hua Yunfen , Lin Fan
Published: May 2020

Background
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and lethal type of primary brain tumor. More than half of GBMs contain mutation(s) of PTEN/PI3K/AKT, making inhibitors targeting the PI3K pathway very attractive for clinical investigation. However, so far, PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors have not achieved satisfactory therapeutic effects in clinical trials of GBM. In this study, we aimed to develop a high-throughput screening method for high-throughput identification of potential targeted agents that synergize with PI3K inhibitors in GBM.
Methods
A Sensitivity Index (SI)-based drug combination screening method was established to evaluate the interactions between BKM120, a pan-PI3K inhibitor, and compounds from a library of 606 target-selective inhibitors. Proliferation, colony and 3D spheroid formation assays, western blotting, comet assay, γ-H2AX staining were used to evaluate the anti-glioma effects of the top-ranked candidates. The drug combination effects were analyzed by the Chou-Talalay method.
Results
Six compounds were successfully identified from the drug screen, including three previously reported compounds that cause synergistic antitumor effects with PI3K/mTOR inhibitors. TH588, an MTH1 inhibitor exhibited significant synergy with BKM120 in suppressing the proliferation, colony formation and 3D spheroid formation of GBM cells. Further investigation revealed that both DNA damage and apoptosis were markedly enhanced upon combination treatment with TH588 and BKM120. Finally, activation of PI3K or overexpression of AKT compromised the anti-glioma efficacy of MTH1 inhibition.
Conclusions
The screening method developed in this study demonstrated its usefulness in the rapid identification of synergistic drug combinations of PI3K inhibitors and targeted agents.
Biological evaluation of [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU as a PET tracer for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lin Liping , Xiang Xianhong , Su Shu , Liu Shaoyu , Xiong Ying , Ma Hui , Yuan Gongjun , Nie Dahong , Tang Ganghua
Published: May 2020

Purpose 18F-labeled amino acids (AAs) as tumor-specific imaging agents play a critical role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) imaging. In this work, we evaluated the synthesis and biological properties of a simple 18F-labeled glutamate analogue, [18F]AIF-1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triacetic-acid-2-S-(4-isothiocyanatobenzyl))-l-glutamate ([18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU) for HCC imaging via one-step reaction sequence. Methods [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU was synthesized via the one-step reaction sequence from NOTA-NSC-GLU. In order to investigate the imaging value of [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU in HCC, we conducted PET/CT imaging and competitive binding of [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU in human Hep3B 2.1-7 tumor-bearing mice. The transport mechanism of [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU was determined by competitive inhibition and protein incorporation experiments in vitro. Results [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU was prepared with decay-corrected radiochemical yield of 29.3 ± 5.6% (n=10) within 20 min. In vitro competitive inhibition experiments demonstrated that Na+-dependent Systems XAG-, B0+, ASC and minor XC- were involved in the uptake of [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU, with Na+-dependent System XAG- possibly playing a more dominant role. Protein incorporation studies of the Hep3B 2.1-7 human hepatoma cell line found almost no protein incorporation. Micro-PET/CT imaging with [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU showed good tumor-to-background contrast in Hep3B 2.1-7 human hepatoma-bearing mouse models. After [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU injection, the tumor-to-liver uptake ratio of [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU reached the peak at 30 min post-injection (2.06 ± 0.17). In vivo competitive binding experiments exhibited that the tumor-to-liver uptake ratio decreased by the addition of the inhibitors to block the system XAG-. Conclusion We have successfully synthesized [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU as a novel PET tracer with good radiochemical yield and high radiochemical purity. Our findings indicate that [18F]AIF-NOTA-NSC-GLU might have good clinical potential as a PET tumor-detecting agent for HCC imaging.
Sleep Characteristics and Problems of 2-year-olds with Williams Syndrome: Relations with Language and Behavior
Authors: de Magalhães Caroline Greiner , O'Brien Louise M. , Mervis Carolyn B.
Published: May 2020

Background
Sleep problems have been shown to have a negative impact on language development and behavior for both typically developing children and children with a range of neurodevelopmental disorders. The relation of sleep characteristics and problems to language and behavior for children with Williams syndrome (WS) is unclear. The goal of this study was to address these relations for 2-year-olds with WS. Associations of nonverbal reasoning ability, nighttime sleep duration, and excessive daytime sleepiness with language ability and behavior problems were considered.
Method:
Ninety-six 2-year-olds with genetically confirmed classic-length WS deletions participated. Parents completed the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire, which includes a Sleep Related Breathing Disorder (SRBD) scale with a subscale measuring excessive daytime sleepiness, to assess sleep characteristics and problems. Parents also completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory: Words and Sentences to assess behavior problems and expressive vocabulary, respectively. Children completed the Mullen Scales of Early Learning to measure nonverbal reasoning and language abilities.
Results
Parents indicated that children slept an average of 10.36 hours per night (SD = 1.09, range: 7.3–13.3), not differing significantly from the mean reported by Bell and Zimmerman (2010) for typically developing toddlers (p = .787). Sixteen percent of participants screened positive for SRBD and 30% for excessive daytime sleepiness. Children who screened positive for SRBD had significantly more behavior problems on all CBCL scales than children who screened negative. Children with daytime sleepiness had significantly more attention/hyperactivity, stress, and externalizing problems than those who did not have daytime sleepiness. Individual differences in parent-reported nighttime sleep duration and directly measured nonverbal reasoning abilities accounted for unique variance in expressive language, receptive language, and internalizing problems. Individual differences in parent-reported daytime sleepiness accounted for unique variance in externalizing problems.
Conclusions
The relations of nighttime sleep duration, positive screens for SRBD, and excessive daytime sleepiness to language and behavior in toddlers with WS parallel prior findings for typically developing toddlers. These results highlight the importance of screening young children with WS for sleep problems. Studies investigating the efficacy of behavioral strategies for improving sleep in children with WS are warranted.
Detecting Melanoma Antigen Family A3 Expression in Solid/Non-Solid Human Tumor
Authors: Jiang Haoran , Zhao Lihao , Yang Han , Zhao Mengjing , Duan Yuxia , Li Gang
Published: May 2020

Background: MAGEA3 is a member of melanoma antigen family and has been recognized to express in many types of human cancers recently. In spite of the development of cancer vaccine, the prognostic value of MAGEA3 has not been well evaluated, due to the variability of clinical data and lack of clinical trials on the prognostic values.Method: Studies that evaluated MAGEA3 expression with a follow-up for at least 36 months were selected by searching in PubMed, WOS, Cochrane library, Embase. Published data was recorded and calculated into odds ratios (OR) for mortality in three or five years with Mantel-Haenszel random-effect model. Results: 11 studies were selected. The median positive rate was 45%. MAGEA3 always combines with worse survival on three or five years survival. The correlation between MAGEA3 and squamous carcinoma seemed stronger than adenocarcinoma on three-year OS while things got a reverse when it came to five-year OS. Most importantly, we found that all solid tumors originated from endoderm seemed to enjoy a strongest correlation among all the three germ layers.Conclusion: In this meta-analysis, we found that the expression of MAGEA3 can connect with worse outcome, and it probably can be a predictor for patients’ prognosis in clinical practice.
Seasonal Trends in Global Dieting Online: A Big Data Survey
Authors: Park Myung-Bae , Wang Jumee , Bulwer Bernard E. , Ranabhat Chhabi
Published: May 2020

Background

We aimed to explore whether the massive amounts of data generated during online search interest in dieting and weight loss could be harnessed, using big data analysis, with a view to its potential incorporation in global health obesity prevention efforts.
Methods

We applied big data analysis to the major global health practice of dieting for weight management. Data was collected from Google and Naver search engines from January 2004 to January 2018 using the search term ‘diet’, in: A) selected six Northern and Southern Hemisphere countries, B) five primarily Arab and Muslim countries grouped as (i) conservative, (ii) semi-conservative, and (iii) liberal, and C) South Korea.
Results

Using cosinor analysis to evaluate the periodic flow of time series data, we found that global searches and interest in dieting and weight loss appeared to be seasonal (seasonality amplitude = 6.94, CI = 5.33 ~ 8.56, P > 0.0000), highest in April and the lowest in October for both Northern and Southern Hemisphere countries (seasonality amplitude for Northern Hemisphere = 6.68, CI = 5.13 ~ 8.22, P > 0.0000), with a different seasonal dieting trend generally seen in the Arab and Muslim countries (monthly seasonal seasonality (amplitude = 4.07, CI = 2.20 ~ 5.95, P > 0.0000).
Conclusions

Our findings indicate that big data analysis of social media can be harnessed as an adjunct tool for addressing important public health issues related to diet, weight loss, and obesity management including the optimal timing for healthy public interventions, and the avoidance of food fads and quackery.
Magnitude and associated factors of disability in patients with schizophrenia attending Gondar, Felegehiwot and Debretabor hospitals Amhara North West Ethiopia 2019: Institutional based cross-sectional study.
Authors: Mihretie Getnet Beyene , Legas Getasew Molla , Asnakew Sintayehu Alemayehu , Azale Telake Bisetegn , Abera Mebrat Woldesenbet
Published: May 2020

Background Schizophrenia is a severe, chronic and disabling mental illness that places significant burden not only on the individuals, but also on their families and society. As per our knowledge there is no study conducted on prevalence and associated factors of disability in schizophrenic patients in Ethiopia. Their fore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of disability in patients with schizophrenia attending Gondar, Felegehiwot and Debretabor hospital, North West Ethiopia 2019Methods An Institutional -based cross-sectional study was conducted among schizophrenic patients attending Gondar, Felegehiwot and Debretabor hospitals Amhara Ethiopia. A total of 420 participants were included in the study. Data were collected by face to face interview using systematic random sampling method. Disability was measured using World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale 2.0. Coded variables were entered into Epi data V.4.4.2 and exported to SPSS V.24 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions with OR and 95% CI were employed. The level of significance of association was determined at p-value < 0.05.Result A total of 420 participants were interviewed, with a response rate of 99.3%. The magnitude of disability in this study was 41.7% (95%CI: 36.9, 46.4). Current use of alcohol (AOR = 2.47, 95CI;1.36,4.48), being jobless(AOR = 3.27, 95CI; 1.80, 5.93)., had negative symptoms (AOR = 13.05,95CI,7.58,22.45), had 5 and more years of illness(AOR = 2.75,95CI;1.29,5.86) and had 5 and more years of untreated psychosis (AOR = 3.78,95CI, 1.85,7.75) were predictors of disability.Conclusion and recommendation: The magnitude of disability in this study was high. Avoidance of alcohol usage, early initiation of treatment, creating job opportunity and giving special emphasis for patients having negative symptoms is recommended.
Prevalence of Middle Mesial Canal and Radix Entomolaris of Mandibular First Permanent Molars in a Western Chinese Population: An In Vivo Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Study
Authors: Qiao Xin , Zhu Hualing , Yan Yujia , Li Jinglin , Ren Jiayin , Gao Yuan , Zou Ling
Published: May 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of the middle mesial canal (MMC) and radix entomolaris (RE) in mandibular first permanent molars in a western Chinese population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: A total of 1174 CBCT images of the mandibular first molars were collected from West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University. The following information was recorded and evaluated: the detection rate and location of the MMC and RE, the curvature of the RE, the canal configuration and bilateral symmetry. Results: The detection rates of the MMC and RE were 3.41% and 25.04%, respectively, as calculated by individuals, and 1.79% and 22.15%, respectively, as calculated by total teeth. The average curvature in the buccolingual (BL) orientation (40.63±14.39°) was significantly larger than that in the mesiodistal (MD)orientation (17.64±7.82°) (p<0.05). Of 587 patients, 71.72% (421/587) had bilateral symmetry according to the root canal morphology. The incidence of three-rooted mandibular first molars was higher in males than in females, while the incidence of two-rooted mandibular first molars was higher in females than in males. Conclusions: Our results showed that the RE could be detected in almost 1/4 of the western Chinese population; thus, RE detection requires special attention and careful assessment in endodontic treatment.
A panel analysis on preventing and controlling efficiency of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Guan Ming
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND: Currently, the globe is making efforts to curb the spreading of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, only a few studies have examined the associations among spreading growth, treatment efficiency, and death increase. This study aimed to examine the associations of COVID-2019 dead cases, healed cases, and recovered cases.METHODS: Data from China Data Lab in Harvard Dataverse with the China (January 22, 2020 to March 18, 2020), United States of America (USA, March 17, 2020 to April 12, 2020), and the world (January 22, 2020 to April 4, 2020) were analyzed. The main variables included in the analysis were the numbers of COVID-2019 total confirmed cases (TC), total dead cases (TD), newly dead cases (ND), newly confirmed cases (NC), newly healed cases (NH), total healed cases (TH), and newly recovered cases (NR). Pooled, dynamic, and event study analyses were conducted to reflect the associations among them.RESULTS: Descriptive analyses showed that NH/NC ratio in China are bigger than NR/NC in USA and the world. Pooled analysis showed that various roles of regions in NH and NR in a specific sample. Dynamic analysis showed significant roles of lags and NC in NH and NR. Panel event study showed that key events influence ND and NH in China significantly and NR in the world rather than NR in USA.CONCLUSION: The findings in this study indirectly confirmed the relationship between spreading growth, treatment efficiency, and death increase. China’s control strategies of COVID-19 pandemic are worth of learning by the globe.
Transmission and drug-resistance of tuberculosis in Luodian revealed by whole genome sequencing based molecular epidemiology study
Authors: Liu Mei , Xu Peng , Liao Xingwei , Li Qing , Chen Wei , Gao Qian , Li Nana , Luo Tao , Chen Ling
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains a severe public health problem globally. Guizhou has the fourth highest TB report rate of pulmonary TB around China. Uncovering the current status of TB epidemic, and distinguishing disease caused by recent or remote infections are the key issue to formulate effective prevention and control strategy. However, these data are limited in Guizhou. In this study, we aimed to investigate the transmission and drug-resistance profiles of TB in Luodian, a highest TB incidence and resources limited area in Guizhou, China.
METHODS

During 22 May 2018 to 21 April 2019, individuals with positive MTB culture were enrolled, all of them accepted the standardized interview. MTB isolates were performed whole genome sequencing. The prevalence of MTB genotypes, the genomic cluster rate and drug-resistance conferring mutations were analyzed based on the sequencing data.
RESULTS

A total of 107 cases were enrolled, of which 64.5% were male, and the median age of the patients was 51 years old (interquartile range, 40–65 years old). 84% patient were new case while 16% were retreated cases. All cases excepted three came from nine towns, and 55.1% of cases were from Longping and Bianyang. The phylogeny tree showed that 53.3% of strains were Lineage 2 (Beijing genotype), while 46.7% were Lineage 4 (Euro-American genotype). Among Lineage 2 strains, 66.7% were modern Beijing. Seven clusters with genomic distance within 12 SNVs were identified. The clusters included 14 strains, accounting for a cluster rate of 13.1%. The distance of clustered cases was between 2.1 to 71 kilometers (Km), with a media distance of 14 Km (interquartile range, 2.8–38 Km). Cases of two clusters came from the same town. Based on the gene mutations associated to drug-resistance, we predicted that 4.8% was resistant to isoniazid, 3.7% to rifampicin, 3.7% to streptomycin, and only one strain (0.9%) was multidrug resistance (MDR).
CONLUSIONS:

The study found high transmission and low drug-resistance rate in Luodian, and sublineages of modern Beijing branch had recent expansion in Luodian. this work also may serve as a genomic baseline to study the evolution and spread of MTB in Guizhou.
Interactive Participatory Audit and Feedback (IPAF): Theory-based development and multi-site implementation outcomes with specialty clinic staff
Authors: Ramly Edmond , Lauver Diane , Gilmore-Bykovskyi Andrea , Bartels Christie M
Published: May 2020

Background: Theory-based implementation strategies, such as audit and feedback (A&F), can improve adoption of evidence-based practices. However, few strategies have been developed and tested to meet the needs of specialty clinics. In particular, frontline staff can execute CVD risk-reduction protocols, but A&F strategies to support them have not been well examined. The objective of this paper is to develop a novel A&F strategy, Interactive Participatory A&F (IPAF), and evaluate as an implementation strategy to support specialty clinic staff. Methods: We developed IPAF by combining theories to inform staff goals (Self-Regulation Theory) and address their psychological needs for relatedness, autonomy, and confidence (Self-Determination Theory). We facilitated IPAF fidelity by developing a theory-based facilitation tool: a semi-structured worksheet to guide flexible discussion of target behaviors, perceived barriers, goals, and action plans. We evaluated IPAF in the context of eight quasi-experimental implementations in specialty clinics across two health systems. Following a Hybrid Type 2 effectiveness-implementation design, we reported intervention outcomes for CVD risk-reduction elsewhere. This paper reports implementation outcomes associated with IPAF, focusing on feasibility, acceptability, fidelity, and adoption. We evaluated implementation outcomes using mixed-methods data including Electronic Health Records (EHR) data, team records, IPAF worksheets, and staff questionnaire responses. Results: Eighteen staff participated in 99 monthly, individual, synchronous (face-to-face or by phone) IPAF sessions during the first six months of implementation. Subsequently, we provided over 375 monthly feedback emails. Feasibility data revealed high staff attendance (90-93%) and engagement in IPAF sessions. Staff rated questionnaire items about acceptability of IPAF highly. IPAF records and staff responses demonstrated fidelity of delivery and receipt of IPAF. Adoption of target behaviors increased significantly (all P-values < 0.05) and was maintained for over 24 months. Conclusions: We developed and evaluated an interactive participatory A&F strategy to improve implementation of evidence-based interventions. The IPAF toolkit combines two complementary theories: Self-Regulation Theory and Self-Determination Theory. Findings support feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of IPAF, and staff adoption and maintenance of target behaviors. By evaluating multi-site implementation outcomes in specialty clinics with frontline staff, we have extended prior research on clinic protocols and A&F beyond primary care settings and providers.
Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of polysaccharides from the parasitic fungus Cordyceps kyushuensis
Authors: LING Jianya , Su Jinjuan , Zhang Guoying , Sun Jing
Published: May 2020

Ascomycete Cordyceps genus has been used as valued traditional Chinese medicines. Cordyceps kyushuensis is a unique species of Cordyceps, which parasitizes on the larvae of Clanis bilineata Walker, and its major component cordycepin and aqueous extract are known to have many pharmacological effects. However, the physiological function of water soluble polysaccharides has not been explored in detail. In this study, to resolve these doubts, we extracted and separated Cordyceps-derived polysaccharides, then evaluated the immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities. Four polysaccharide fractions were purified from Cordyceps cultured stroma by DEAE-cellulose 23 and Sephadex G-150 column chromatography. Basic structural information was elucidated on the basis of physicochemical property and spectroscopic evidences. The antioxidant activities were evaluated by DPPH radical method and protective effect of DNA damage. The qualified immunologic activities were also determined in vivo and in vitro. The polysaccharides could stimulate the proliferation of mouse splenocytes whether ConA and LPS existed or not, strengthen peritoneal macrophages to devour neutral red, and increase the content of IL-2 and TNF-α in serum. The research provides the corresponding evidence for Cordyceps polysaccharides as a potential candidate for functional foods and therapeutic agents.
Soil fertilization affects the abundance and distribution of carbon and nitrogen cycling genes in the maize rhizosphere
Authors: Enebe Matthew Chekwube , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: May 2020

Soil microbes performs important functions in nitrogen and carbon cycling in the biosphere. Microbial communities in the rhizosphere enhance plants’ health and promote nutrient turnover and cycling in the soil. In this experimental study, we evaluated the fundamental effects of soil fertilization with organic (compost manure) and inorganic fertilizer on the abundances and distribution of carbon and nitrogen cycling genes within the rhizospheric regions of maize plants. Our result showed that maize plants through rhizosphere effects selected and enriched the same functional genes glnA, gltB, gudB involved in nitrogen cycle as do higher compost and lower inorganic fertilizer treatments. This observation was significantly different from those of higher doses of inorganic fertilizer and lower compost manure treated soil. Only alpha amylase encoding genes were selectively enriched by lower compost and higher inorganic fertilized soil. The other treatments only selected peculiar carbon cycling genes in the rhizosphere of maize. Also Actinomycetales are selected by high compost, low inorganic fertilizer and control while Bacillales are promoted by low compost and higher inorganic fertilizer and this indicated that only microbes capable of tolerating the stress of higher dose of inorganic fertilizer will thrive under such condition. Therefore, soil fertilization lower nitrogen gas emission but increases carbon dioxide evolution in the agricultural soil.