bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Determinants of Delayed Newborn Bathing among Postnatal Mothers in a Rural Community of Northern Ghana
Authors: Alem John Ndebugri , Donkor Ernestina S. , Naab Florence
Published: July 2020

Globally, an estimated 2.7 million deaths, approximately 45% of under-five deaths occurred in the neonatal period in 2015. This trend led to the inability of many countries to achieve the Millennium Development Goal four (MDG 4) by 2015; hence the introduction of the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs). Many studies have concluded that poor newborn care including early newborn bathing accounts for high levels of newborn deaths in lowmiddle income countries. This study therefore investigated the prevalence and determinants of delayed newborn bathing among postnatal mothers in Bawku Municipality in the Upper East Region of Ghana. As a community based study, a cross sectional study design was employed using multistage sampling technique to select 407 respondents. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 now known as Predictive Analytics Software (PASW) was used for data analysis. Generally, knowledge on delayed bathing was low as more than half of the respondents, 55% (n = 224) did not know that newborns are not supposed to be bathed until after 24hours of delivery. With regard to delayed bathing practice, only 22.6% (n = 92) of mothers bathed their newborn babies after 24 hours of delivery whereas 74.4% (n = 303) bathed their newborn babies before 24 hours of delivery. In the final analysis, delayed newborn bathing was predicted by level of education, place of delivery, ethnicity and socioeconomic class. These findings suggest that a substantial number of newborns still receive harmful newborn care practice and these practices are determined by several factors as stated above. Rigorous efforts should therefore be made by the Ministry of Health through the Ghana Health Service and other stakeholders to improve the uptake of recommended newborn care practices at the community.
Prevalence and Practice of Self-Medication among Female
Authors: Gutierrez Jesusa V. , Al-Balawi Rawan , Al-Anazi Ghadah , Al-Rashidi Bashayer , Al-Homaidi Manal , Al-Atawi Shemah , Al-Harfy Maryam
Published: July 2020

Background: Self-medication is a prevalent practice among undergraduate nursing students in Saudi Arabia. This undertakes a great significance among nursing students as they are going to be future healthcare practitioners. Purpose: To determine the prevalence and practices of selfmedication among the female nursing students of the University of Tabuk. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design using a pre-constructed questionnaire. The respondents were 128 currently enrolled female nursing students through census sampling. Ethical considerations were done in the conduct of the study. Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of selfmedication with 79.7%. Most of the respondents were 19 years old (27.3%), second and the fourth year, 66 (51.6%) with family income of >8000 SAR per month, 84 (65.6%). Top reason for self-medication is to save time (51%) for the top three upper body diseases such as headache (76.6%), runny nose (37.3%) and dental pain (37.3%); for body diseases were nausea (16.7%) and fever (16.7%) and for Lower body diseases were wounds (25.5%). The commonly used medicines were Analgesic (90.2%), skin ointment (40.2%), cough syrup (23.5%) and the traditional medicines (62%). Brands selection depended on old prescription (37.3%). The main factor for the selection of the drug was the type of traditional (60.8%) due to price and pharmaceutical company. Such medicines for self-medication were obtained from pharmacy shop 89 (87.3.5%) where half (51%) of the respondents read prescription information before self-medicating. Finally, no association was found between the profile and prevalence of self-medication. Self-care is necessary but must be carried out in a safe and responsible actions of self-medicating. Recommendation: The Saudi government must bolster its laws and policies governing Food and drug administration. Though the participants are nursing students, they must be educated with a great emphasis on safe medications and be aware of the side effects, especially those who are not taking pharmacology subject yet as part of the Nursing course.
AVANÇOS RECENTES DO CLUSTER PORTUÁRIO DE ITAJAÍ: UM CLUSTER INOVATIVO?
Authors: Moser Elisa Maria , Filho Nelson Casarotto , Macedo Soares Teresia Diana Lewe van Aduard de
Published: July 2020

Este estudo tem o objetivo de identificar e analisar o estágio de desenvolvimento do cluster portuário da região de Itajaí em Santa Catarina. A partir do levantamento de informações com especialistas, busca-se caracterizar o grau de desenvolvimento desse cluster utilizando metodologia de Cunha (2002) própria para avaliação de clusters em economias em desenvolvimento. Em vista das recentes transformações, parte-se da suposição de que o cluster possa situar-se no mais alto estágio de desenvolvimento. Confirmamos a utilização do instrumento de coleta para obtenção de um diagnóstico sobre elementos essenciais do cluster, que o posicionou no limiar de um cluster em estágio inovativo.
Considerações sobre abelisauridae (Dinosauria: Theropoda) e o registro brasileiro
Authors: Ferreira Rafael Delcourt de Seixas , Brilhante Natan Santos , Ricardi-Branco Fresia
Published: July 2020

Abelisauridae é uma ampla família de dinossauros do grupo Theropoda, que inclui grandes animais carnívoros extintos bem como as aves dos dias atuais. Sua distribuição é majoritariamente sulista, mas alguns espécimes são oriundos da Europa. As relações filogenéticas dos abelissaurídeos têm se tornado refinadas, mas ainda existem discordâncias quanto ao posicionamento de grupos incluídos na família que merecem atenção. O plano corporal dos abelissaurídeos é conservador entre o grupo, mas apresenta uma grande disparidade morfológica no crânio. Eles também possuem uma tendência a desenvolver estruturas cranianas que variam entre chifres, espessamentos do crânio e coberturas córneas. A variedade de tecido mole craniano associado à estrutura esquelética sugerem que os abelissaurídeos poderiam apresentar comportamentos de marradas de baixo impacto. O registro brasileiro de abelissaurídeos ainda é escasso e são reconhecidas apenas duas espécies em diferentes unidades geológicas. Ainda assim, é possível verificar que a diversidade desse grupo no Brasil foi grande.
Estudo da escala do tempo geológico em livros didáticos de geografia do ensino médio
Authors: Souza Alexandre dos Santos , Furrier Max
Published: July 2020

Este trabalho tem por objetivo analisar como se apresenta o Tempo Geológico em livros didáticos de Geografia da 1ª série do Ensino Médio. A proposta é observar se a apresentação do tema nos livros é clara e isenta de equívocos, possibilitando abordagens interdisciplinares que fomentem a consolidação das habilidades e competências propostas nos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais para o Ensino Médio (PCNEM). Para tanto, foram 11 livros didáticos que o Programa Nacional do Livro e do Material Didático (PNLD) 2018 ofereceu às escolas públicas brasileiras no triênio 2018-2020. Os resultados mostraram a presença de erros conceituais, desatualizações e falta de aplicações práticas que comprometem o ensino de um tema relevante que permite estudar de forma interdisciplinar fatos do presente e do futuro do planeta. Dessa forma, busca-se incentivar, com esta pesquisa, trabalhos que observem detalhadamente as informações disponibilizadas nos materiais destinados aos professores e alunos na Educação Básica.
Atividade prática para aprendizagem geográfica
Authors: Rangel Luana de Almeida , Silva Ana Camila
Published: July 2020

O alunado do século XXI movido pelo imediatismo de uma sociedade cada vez mais conectada, desafia as práticas docentes escolares. Incluir atividades significativas, capazes de instiga-los a aprender o conteúdo de maneira inovadora, despertando seu interesse para o novo é de grande valia para a Geografia e sua reflexão sobre a diversidade da Natureza. Alguns conceitos, como a abordagem pedológica no 6º Ano do E.F.II, podem parecer abstratos para a faixa etária em questão e, em muitos livros didáticos, esse conteúdo é abordado de maneira descritiva e conteudista. A pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar a realização da atividade prática “produção de tinta de solos” em turmas do 6º Ano do E.F.II na rede pública e privada do município do Rio de Janeiro. Visando a aprendizagem significativa, o projeto se mostrou relevante para o maior envolvimento dos alunos com os conteúdos abordados, ressaltando a importância de atividades lúdicas e práticas.
Brumadinho
Authors: Petley Dave , Monticelli João Jeronimo
Published: July 2020

Dentro de alguns dias, será o primeiro aniversário do rompimento da barragem de rejeitos de Feijão em Brumadinho, no Brasil. No mês passado, o painel oficial de especialistas divulgou seu relatório sobre o desastre – existe um site dedicado às descobertas, que inclui o relatório completo em inglês e todos os apêndices.
The Emotion of Disgust among Medical and Psychology Students
Authors: Pehlivanidis Artemios , Pehlivanidi Niki , Papanikolaou Katerina , Mantas Vassileios , Bertou Elpida , Chalimourdas Theodoros , Sypsa Vana , Papageorgiou Charalambos
Published: July 2020

Disgust evolved as a way to protect one’s self from illness. DS-R measures disgust propensity of three kinds of disgust (Core, Animal Reminder and Contamination). Although the DS-R scale was refined mainly with young and largely female student population its impact on educational orientation has not been assessed. In the present study we examined the DS-R scoring and the choice of postgraduate studies in medical (n= 94) and psychology (n= 97) students. They responded to an anonymous web-based survey and completed the DS-R and a questionnaire on their demographics and plans for postgraduate studies. Female students outnumbered males (3:1) and scored higher in Total DS-R score (median: 59 vs. 50, p<0.05). Psychology students scored higher in all three kinds of disgust (p<0.05), indicating a higher level of disease avoidance. Medical students willing to follow Internal Medicine scored higher in Core Disgust (p<0.05) while psychology students willing to study Experimental Psychology scored lower in Animal Reminder subscale (p<0.001). Also, the higher the psychology students scored in Core Disgust scale the higher was the probability to choose Experimental Psychology. In conclusion, disgust propensity as rated by DS-R differentiates medical from psychology students and is also related to orientation preferences in postgraduate studies.
Compensatory Neuroprotective Response of Thioredoxin Reductase Against Oxidative-Nitrosative Stress Induced by Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Rats: Modulation by Theta Burst Stimulation
Authors: Stevanovic Ivana , Ninkovic Milica , Mancic Bojana , Milivojevic Marija , Stojanovic Ivana , Ilic Tihomir , Vujovic Maja , Djukic Mirjana
Published: July 2020

Cortical theta burst stimulation (TBS) structured as intermittent (iTBS) and continuous (cTBS) could prevent the progression of the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The interplay of brain antioxidant defense systems against overproduction of reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and thiol species induced by EAE has not been entirely investigated, just as the effect of iTBS or cTBS on oxidative-nitrogen stress (ONS) in EAE rats. Dark Agouti strain female rats were tested for the effects of EAE and TBS. The rats were randomly divided into the following groups: C - control, EAE - rats immunized for EAE, CFA - rats immunized with Complete Freund's adjuvant; iTBS and cTBS groups, and EAE+iTBS and EAE+cTBS - health and EAE rats exposed to iTBS and cTBS, respectively; EAE+iTBSsh and EAE+cTBSsh - sham stimulated EAE rats with the same noise artifacts of iTBS and cTBS, respectively. Superoxide dismutase activity, levels of superoxide anion (O2•-), lipid peroxidation, glutathione (GSH), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activity were analyzed in rat spinal cords homogenates. The severity of EAE clinical coincided with the climax of ONS, based on the increase of superoxide anion and lipid peroxidation; depletion of total thiols, GSH and NADPH; and decrease of SOD activity. The TrxR imposed the most sensitive response against the applied central nervous system (CNS) stressors to rats. We concluded that the TrxR upregulation meritoriously compensates decreased ROS sequestrating and GSH systems in EAE. Both iTBS and cTBS modulate the biochemical environment at a distance from the area of stimulation against ONS, accomplish a similar effect on TrxR activity to EAE and healthy rats, and alleviate symptoms of EAE.
Functional Assessment of Outer and Middle Macular Layers in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Ziccardi Lucia , Barbano Lucilla , Boffa Laura , Albanese Maria , Grzybowski Andrzej , Falsini Benedetto , Centonze Diego , Parisi Vincenzo
Published: July 2020

The involvement of macular function in its preganglionic elements, during the neurodegenerative process of multiple sclerosis (MS), is controversial. In this case-control observational and retrospective study, we assessed multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) responses from 41 healthy Controls, 41 relapsing-remitting MS patients without optic neuritis (ON) (MS-noON Group), 47 MS patients with ON: 27 with full recovery of high-contrast best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (MS-ON-G Group) and 20 with poor recovery of BCVA (MS-ON-P Group). MfERG N1 and P1 implicit times (ITs), and N1-P1 response amplitude densities (RADs) were measured from concentric rings (R) with increasing foveal eccentricity: 0-5° (R1), 5-10° (R2), 10-15° (R3), 15-20° (R4), 20- 25° (R5), and from retinal sectors [superior, nasal, inferior and temporal] between 0-15° and 0- 25°. In MS-ON-P Group, mean mfERG RADs detected from R1 (0-5°) and from the central nasal quadrant (0-15°) were significantly reduced (p<0.01) with respect to those of Control, MS-noON and MS-ON-G Groups. No other significant differences between Groups for any mfERG parameters were found. Our results suggest that in MS, exclusively after ON with poor recovery of BCVA, the neurodegenerative process can induce dysfunctional mechanisms involving photoreceptors and bipolar cells of the fovea and of the more central nasal macular area.
Optimalisasi Interpersonal Communication Account Officer Dalam Meningkatkan Volume Nasabah Pada Perbankan Syariah
Authors: Suparwi Suparwi
Published: July 2020

Competition of financial institutions is so tight, however the development of sharia banking the longer shows that the positive trend cann’t be separated from the role of account officers who are important marketing figures in providing information and education to the society. Banks as financial institutions that produce financial services desperately need account officers to introduce the advantages of Sharia Banks such as mudhorobah financing, salam, Istishna'and other products such as wadi'ah, ijarah, wakalah, kafalah, hawalah, rahn, as-sharf and qard.

The interpersonal ability of the communication account officer is a necessity that must always be improved considering that the spearhead of banking is in the hands of the account officer. An Account Officer (AO) must be able to attract prospective customers by optimizing interpersonal communication skills with good so that customers are interested in using Sharia Bankproducts. By optimizing the interpersonal communication capabilities possessed by account officers, of course, it will be able to influence customers and create demand to for Shariah Bank products.
Penerapan Bagi Hasil Maro Perspektif Akad Mukhabarah
Authors: Wahyuningrum Ana Liana , Darwanto Darwanto
Published: July 2020

Mukhabarah is a profit sharing partnership between the land owner and the sharecropper, where the land owner surrenders his land to the sharecropper and the capital is fully borned by the sharecropper. Mukhabarah which are take a place in Brakas Village, people are more familiar with "maro". The profit sharing collaboration was based on verbal agreements based on trust without witnesses and it is not determined how long the collaboration will be. The study aims to analyse what the agricultural system are used, what are the reasons for profit sharing, and how  "maro" system is compatible with the Mukhabarah. The research is used qualitative method with a descriptive approach, data collection methods through observation, interviews, and document review. The results found that smallholders and landowners preferred to profit sharing rather than rent. Furthermore, the implementation of profit sharing cooperation in Brakas Village was a mukhabarah agreement in Islamic law, but in practice was not fully in accordance with the existing Islamic concept, because there were some things that were not appropriate.
Service Excellent Berdasarkan Prespektif Islam di Bank Syariah
Authors: Kurniawan Danang
Published: July 2020

The effort of Islamic banks in creating and maintaining customers to remain satisfied and loyal is to implement service excellence. Descriptive qualitative research methods by reviewing the literature, books, journals and other references related to the research discussion. The results obtained, that the concept of Islamic banking service excellence consists of three aspects, namely aqidah, morals and muamalah. Al-Qur'an has become a guide in conducting Islamic banking services. Employees must also be able to imitate the Prophet in serving customers when trading (Surat al-Ahzab verse 21). Employees must serve customers with a gentle, forgiving, and a strong determination (Surat Ali Imran verse 159). The bank must also apply the method of propaganda Rasulullah SAW in attracting interest, and fostering customers namely Al-hikmah, Al-Mau'idzah bil Hasanah and Al-Mujadalah Bil Hasanah.
Frequency of HPV detection in chagasic megaesophagus associated or not with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Munari Fernanda Franco , Sichero Laura , Cruvinel-Carloni Adriana , Lacerda Croider Franco , Nunes Emily Montosa , Oliveira Antônio Talvane Torres de , Scapulatempo-Neto Cristovam , Silva Sandra Regina Morini da , Crema Eduardo , Adad Sheila Jorge , Rodrigues Maria Aparecida Marchesan , Henry Maria Aparecida Coelho Arruda , Guimarães Denise Peixoto , Reis Rui Manuel , Villa Luisa Lina , Longatto-Filho Adhemar
Published: July 2020

Background: Chagasic megaesophagus (clinical manifestation of chagasic disease) has been reported as an etiological factor for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus, as well as the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV). Objective: We accessed the prevalence of HPV DNA in a series of squamous cell carcinomas of the esophagus associated or not with the chagasic megaesophagus, and within samples of chagasic megaesophagus without cancer. Data obtained was further correlated to the pathological clinical data of affected individuals. Methods: Retrospective study that used a total 92 samples tissue/biopsy specimens of formalin fixed and paraffin embedded tissues were retrospectively collected from the southeast region of Brazil from patients treated in three hospitals: Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo; Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais; and São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo. Cases were divided in three groups: i) 24 patients with chagasic megaesophagus associated with esophageal ESCC (CM/ESCC); ii) 37 patients with esophageal ESCC without chagasic megaesophagus (ESCC); iii) 31 patients with chagasic megaesophagus without esophageal ESCC (CM). Results: We detected a higher prevalence of high-risk HPVs in patients from both CM (12/31, 38.8%) and CM/ESCC groups (8/24, 33.3%), as compared to individuals of the ESCC group (6/37, 16.3%), although data was not statistically significant. We further observed that HPV-16 was more prevalent in patients of the ESCC (4/9, 44.5%) and CM/ESCC groups (2/8, 25.0%). In addition, some of these samples presented infection by multiple HPV types. High-risk HPVs detected were HPV-31, 45, 51, 53, 56, 66, and 73, of which the majority was identified in patients from the CM group. Furthermore, low-risk HPV-11 and HPV70 were identified in individuals from both ESCC and CM groups. Conclusion: This is the first report regarding the presence of HPV DNA in megaesophagus associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. In the present study, HPV infection appears to be directly related to the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in patients with chagasic megaesophagus. Further studies are warrantee to confirm and better understand the role of oncogenic HPV persistent infection in these patients.
Detecting the optimal condition of Zeolite utilization in industrial wastewater treatment by using the fuzzy simulation model
Authors: Abolpour Behrouz , Sheibani Sahar , Eskandari Amir
Published: July 2020

To define optimal condition of Zeolite utilization was used the maximum industrial pollution load from the industrial wastewater discharged to treatment plant lied on the industrial town of Shiraz, Fars, Iran. In this study, chemical oxygen demand (COD) load and electrical conductivity (EC) load from this wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) along with the parameters of received industrial effluents, e.g., temperature, total suspended solid (TSS), total dissolved solid (TDS) and PH were monitored. Using the several mathematical models that defined on their relationships was resulted the correlation coefficients of 83% and 90% for COD with TDS, and COD with TSS, respectively, thus the best regression coefficient was 0.5 under linear and nonlinear forms. Autoregressive integrated moving average model (ARIMA) was also used for obtaining the better results, such that the exceeded values of TSS and TDS at before day were defined as input variables. In this log-time of bioreactor process, curve fitting approach and clustering analysis with and without normalized data had not improved the regression coefficient of linear and nonlinear functions. The simulation model based on fuzzy inference system (FIS) has been good corresponding with the distribution of estimated and observed data of COD, so that comparing such distribution of COD with line of 1:1 resulting the regression coefficient is 0.764. This study indicated that fixed value of the soluble solids concentration on industrial wastewater discharged into treatment plant has the important role in effectiveness of Zeolite filtration, i.e., it's threshold is occurred in 1746 ppm in this case study.
Genome Sequences of Brucella Melitensis Strains QH2019001 and QH2019005 Provides Insight Into Different Evolutionary Origins Within Qinghai Province, China
Authors: Zhao Zhijun , Li Jiquan , Ma Li , Xue Hongmei , Yang Xuxin , Zhao Yuanbo , Qin Yumin , Yang Xiaowen , Piao Dongri , Zhao Hongyan , Tian Guozhong , Li Qiang , Tian Guang , Wang Jianling , Jiang Hai , Xu Liqing
Published: July 2020

Background

Brucellosis, which is cause by Brucella, is one of the most important zoonoses and is considered a “forgotten, neglected zoonosis” by the WHO.
Methods

Blood samples were isolated from two brucellosis males that were confirmed B. melitensis positive following multiple loci variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) and strains QH2019001 and QH2019005 were identified. Genomic DNA was extracted from these samples and whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed. Next, SNP-based phylogenetic analysis was performed to compare the two strains to 94 B. melitensis strains (complete genome and draft genome) retrieved from online databases.
Results

The QH2019001 and QH2019005 strains were found to have differences in their variable-number tandem repeats. Phylogenetic examination of the 96 strains assigned them to 5 genotype groups, with QH2019001 and QH2019005 assigned to the same group, but to different subgroups; with the QH2019005 strain assigned to a new subgenotype, IIj. These findings were then combined to determine strain origin.
Conclusions

Utilizing a whole genome SNP-based approach highlights the diversity between B. melitensis strains, and it can facilitate the elucidation of different evolutionary histories. This approach also revealed that the QH2019005 is part of a new subgenotype with an ancient origin in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
Human atlas of cardiac promoters and enhancers reveals important role of regulatory elements in heritable diseases
Authors: Deviatiiarov Ruslan , Gams Anna , Syunyaev Roman , Tatarinova Tatiana , Gusev Oleg , Efimov Igor
Published: July 2020

Genome regulatory elements play a critical role during cardiac development and maintenance of normal physiological homeostasis, and genome-wide association studies identified a large number of SNPs associated with cardiovascular diseases localized in intergenic zones. We used cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) to identify transcription start sites (TSS) with one nucleotide resolution that effectively maps genome regulatory elements in a representative collection of human heart tissues. Here we present a comprehensive and fully annotated CAGE atlas of human promoters and enhancers from four chambers of the non-diseased human donor hearts, including both atria and ventricles. We have identified 10,528 novel regulatory elements, where 2,750 are classified as TSS and 4,258 novel enhancers, which were validated with ChIP-seq libraries and motif enrichment analysis. We found that heart-region specific expression patterns are primarily based on the alternative promoter and specific enhancer activity. Our study significantly increased evidence of the association of regulatory elements-located variants with heart morphology and pathologies. The precise location of cardiac disease-related SNPs within the regulatory regions and their correlation with a specific cell type offers a new understanding of genetic heart diseases.
Acupuncture as a complementary therapy for cancer care: acceptability and preferences of patients and informal caregivers
Authors: Lefebvre Tessa , Tack Laura , Blieck Virginie , Cool Lieselot , Pottel Hans , Eygen Koen Van , Derijcke Sofie , Vergauwe Philippe , Schofield Patricia , Chandler Rebecca , Lane Pauline , Boterberg Tom , Debruyne Philip
Published: July 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Dynamic Alterations on Synthesis and Transportation of Vitamin C and Deposition Status in Produced Eggs Induced by Dietary Vitamin C Supplementation in Hy-Line Brown Layer Model
Authors: Zhu Yufei , Zhao Jianfei , Guo Wei , Qin Kailong , Yan Jiakun , Huang Xinhuo , Ren Zhouzheng , Yang Xin , Yang Xiaojun
Published: July 2020

Background: Some previous studies have indicated that in ovo feeding (IOF) of vitamin C (VC) had positive effects on the performance in poultry. In order to realize embryonic VC supplementation, an idea about hen’s dietary VC supplementation to achieve VC enrichment in produced eggs was proposed. And this study was executed to investigate the effects of dietary VC supplementation on synthesis and transportation of VC in layers and VC deposition status in produced eggs.Results: Compared with Arbor Acres breeder eggs, egg VC content was lower in Isa Brown breeder eggs and Hy-Line Brown layer eggs (P < 0.05). Sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter 1 (SVCT1) and SVCT2 expression was higher in ileum than in duodenum and jejunum (P < 0.05). SVCT1 expression was extremely higher in magnum than in ovary, while SVCT2 expression was lower (P < 0.05). L-gulonolactone oxidase (GLO) expression was extremely higher and SVCT1 expression was higher in kidney than in liver, while SVCT2 was lower (P < 0.05). 400 mg/kg VC supplementation increased SVCT1 expression in duodenum, ovary and magnum, while decreased GLO and SVCT1 expression in liver (P < 0.05). 200 and 400 mg/kg VC supplementation increased SVCT2 expression in duodenum, while decreased GLO and SVCT1 expression in kidney and SVCT2 expression in liver (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Hy-Line Brown layer was a useful model for investigating effects of dietary VC supplementation on VC deposition in produced eggs. Dietary VC supplementation promoted VC absorption in duodenum and jejunum, but reduced endogenous VC synthesis in liver and kidney. Although dietary VC supplementation enhanced VC transportation in ovary and magnum, it finally failed to increase VC deposition in produced eggs.
A Cross-sectional Study: Association Between sarcopenia and Osteoporosis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients With a High Glycated Hemoglobin Level
Authors: Lingna Fang , Zhong Shao , Ma Dan , Lu Bing , Shen Liwen , Zhang Li , Tang Fengyan , Sun Heping
Published: July 2020

Background: Sarcopenia and osteoporosisare commonly observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Thus, this study investigated the association between sarcopenia and osteoporosis in T2DM patients with a highglycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)level.Methods: This study recruited 98 Chinese patients with T2DM who were aged ≥ 50 years, and their body compositions were evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Moreover, the fFasting blood glucose, HbA1c, B collagen-specific sequences (B-CTX), osteocalcin(OC), propeptide of type 1 procollagen(P1NP), 25-hydroxy vitamin Dlevels were evaluated.Sarcopenia was defined as skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) <7.0 kg/m2 for men and < 5.4 kg/m2 for women.Results: There were 42 men and 56 women, with an average age of 65.86 ± 8.32 years and HbA1c level of 8.59% ± 1.87%. The prevalence rates ofsarcopenia, osteopenia, and osteoporosis were48.0%, 37.8%, and 33.6%, respectively.Moreover, the prevalence of osteoporosis was significantly higher in women than in men (50% vs. 11.9%, P = 0.000).The prevalence of sarcopenia was significantly higher in patients with HbA1c levels> 9.0% than in those with HbA1c levels < 9.0% (62.2% vs. 39.3%, P = 0.037). However, the prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis in patients with HbA1c levels > 9.0% differed from those with HbA1c levels < 9.0%(29.5% vs.51.4% for osteopenia, 32.8% vs.35.1% for osteoporosis; P = 0.022). The height and weight of the osteoporosis group significantly decreased compared with those of the normal bone mineral density (BMD), whereas the serum BCTX, OC, and PINP levels significantly increased.The SMI, trunk muscles, skeletal muscle parameters, lumbar spine bone mineral content (BMC), lumbar spine BMD, femoral BMC, and femoral BMD decreased significantly in T2DM patients with osteoporosis.Sarcopeniawas associated with a higher height (odds ratio [OR] = 1.524, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.196-1.698, P = 0.000), lower body weight (OR = 0.735, 95% CI = 0.640-0.844, P = 0.000), and higher body fat content (OR = 1.211, 95% CI = 1.046-1.402, P = 0.011). Meanwhile, osteoporosis was correlated to a lower SMI (OR = 0.178, 95% CI = 0.044-0.817, P = 0.015).Conclusions: Ahigh HbA1c level was associated with a higher prevalence of sarcopenia and osteoporosis in T2DM patients, and low muscle masswas considered a risk factor for osteoporosis inthis group of patients.
Ellagic Acid Attenuates BLM-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via Inhibiting Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Xiaohe , huang kai , Liu Xiaowei , Ruan Hao , Ma Ling , Cui Yunyao , Wang Yanhua , Wu Shuyang , Li Hailong , Wei Yuli , Liang Jingjing , Li Zeping , Gao Jingjing , Yang Bo , Li Xiaoping , Zhou Honggang , Yang Cheng
Published: July 2020

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disease with high mortality, which characterized by epithelial cell damage and fibroblasts activation. Ellagic acid (EA) is a natural polyphenol compound widely found in fruits and nuts which has demonstrated multiple pharmacological activities. Herein we showed that Ellagic acid significantly alleviated bleomycin(BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice, and also inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signal in primary pulmonary fibroblasts. In vitro experiments indicated that Ellagic acid apparently suppressed Wnt3a-induced myofibroblasts activation and ECM accumulation mainly via inhibiting the phosphorylation of Erk2 and Akt. Further studies showed that Ellagic acid could induce autophagy formation of myofibroblasts mainly by suppressing mTOR signaling and promote apoptosis of myofibroblasts. In vivo experiments reveled that Ellagic acid significantly inhibited myofibroblasts activation and promoted autophagy formation. Taken together, our results showed that Ellagic acid effectively attenuated BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice by suppressing myofibroblasts activation, promoting autophagy and apoptosis of myofibroblasts mainly via inhibiting Wnt signaling pathway.
Interannual and Intra-seasonal Oscillations in the Length of Day, Atmospheric Angular Momentum and Atmospheric Surface Pressure Time Series Observed at Chosen Meteorological Stations Near the Equator
Authors: Ma Lihua , Kosek Wieslaw , Han Yanben
Published: July 2020

The atmospheric surface pressure time series of Madras, Darwin, and Tahiti together with non-tidal length-of-day (LODR) variations and axial component of atmospheric angular momentum (AAM) were analyzed by wavelet transform as well as the combination of the Fourier transform band pass filter with the Hilbert transform (FTBPF + HT) to detect interannual and intra-seasonal oscillations in them. It was found that annual oscillations in the atmospheric surface pressure variations of Darwin and Tahiti stations are in phase and are about 180o out of phase in the atmospheric surface pressure variations of Madras station. The phase of the annual oscillation in atmospheric surface pressure variations of Madras station is slightly greater (~ 20o) than the phase of the annual oscillation in the LODR time series. The amplitude and phase variations of the annual and semi-annual oscillations computed by the FTBPF + HT combination in LODR and the axial component of AAM are very similar. The mean amplitudes of the semi-annual oscillation in the atmospheric surface pressure variations of Madras and Tahiti are of the order of 0.4 hPa, the phases of these oscillations are stable and the amplitude of the semi-annual oscillation in the atmospheric surface pressure variations of Darwin is negligible due to unstable phase of this oscillation. The atmospheric surface pressure variations of Madras, Darwin, and Tahiti stations show similar amplitude wideband signals with a central period of ~ 4 years (cutoff periods ranging from about 2.2 to 20 years) related to El Niño phenomenon. The amplitude maxima of this signal corresponding to the strongest El Niño events in 1982-83, 1997-98, and 2014-15 are also present in amplitude variations of this signal in the LODR and AAM χ3 time series.
The identification of a potential prognostic model of colon cancer using integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Fang Zhengyu , Xu Sumei , Xie Yiwen , Yan Wenxi
Published: July 2020

Background

This study aimed to construct prognostic model by screening prognostic gene signature of colon cancer.
Methods

The gene expression profile data of colon cancer were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and gene expression omnibus (GEO) and differently expressed genes (DEGs) between tumor and control samples were identified. Prognosis-associated genes were then identified and used for the construction of prognostic model. The independent factors that associated with the prognosis of colon in the TCGA cohort was identified.
Results

Totally, 1153 consistent DEGs were screened out between tumor and normal tissues in the TCGA cohort, GSE44861 and GSE44076 datasets. Among these genes, 12 DEGs were related to the prognosis of colon cancer and were used for constructing the prognostic model. This model presented a high predictive power for the prognosis of colon cancer both in the training dataset and in the validation datasets (AUC > 0.8). Statistical analysis showed that age, pathological T, tumor recurrence, and model status were the independent factors for prognosis of patients with colon cancer in TCGA.
Conclusions

The 12-gene signature prognostic model had a high predictive power for colon cancer prognosis.
CARE: An Observational Study of Adherence to Home Nebulizer Therapy Among Children with Asthma
Authors: Zhao Deyu , Chen Dehui , Li Ling , Zou YingXue , Shang Yunxiao , Zhang Chonglin , Zhang Li , Pan Jiahua , Chen Qiang , Ai Tao , Ni Qian
Published: July 2020

Background The prevalence of pediatric asthma in China is approximately 3%, and asthma remains poorly controlled in many of these patients. This study assessed the rate of adherence to home nebulizer treatment in pediatric patients in China.Methods The CARE study was a 12-week, multicentre, prospective, observational study across 12 tertiary hospitals in China. Patients were aged 0–14 years, clinically diagnosed with asthma and prescribed home nebulizer inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy for ³ 3 months. The primary endpoint was electronically monitored treatment adherence. Patients attended onsite visits at 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks to assess asthma control, severity and treatment adherence (recorded by electronic monitoring devices and caregivers).Results The full analysis set included 510 patients. Median treatment adherence reported by electronic monitoring devices was 69.9%, and median caregiver-reported adherence was 77.9%. The proportion of patients with well-controlled asthma increased from 12.0% at baseline to 77.5% at Visit 4. Increased time between asthma diagnosis and study enrolment was a significant predictor for better adherence (coefficient: 0.01 [p = 0.0138, 95% confidence interval: 0.00, 0.01]) and asthma control (odds ratio = 1.001, p = 0.0498, 95% CI: 1.000, 1.002). Negative attitude to treatment by the caregiver was associated with poorer asthma control.ConclusionsAdherence to home nebulization, a widely-used treatment for asthma, was high among Chinese pediatric patients. Asthma control improved with increasing treatment duration. These results suggest that home nebulization of ICS is an effective and recommendable long-term treatment for pediatric patients with asthma. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03156998.
Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoa Infections and Associated Risk Factors Among Preschool Aged Children in Mkuranga District, Tanzania: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mustafa Ummul-Khair , Zacharia Abdallah , Mushi Vivian
Published: July 2020

Background: Intestinal protozoa infections are among the serous public health problems in preschool aged children (PSAC) and can lead to considerable health problems such as growth retardation, anemia, nutrition deficiency, physical weakness and mental health problems. In Tanzania, there is a paucity of data on intestinal protozoa infections though the evidence shows that PSAC can be infected. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoa infections among PSAC and their associated risk factors in Mkuranga district, Tanzania.Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2019 to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoa. A total of 525 stool samples were collected from PSAC and processed using formal-ether concentration method. Risk factors were identified using questionnaire interview conducted among parents/guardians. All participants were randomly selected from two villages (one located in rural and another in suburban settings). Data were entered and analysed by using SPSS version 23.Results: A total of 20 (3.8%) out of 525 PSAC were infected with intestinal protozoa (Entamoeba coli or Giardia lamblia). Among the assessed risk factors the following were significantly associated with intestinal protozoa: age of PSAC (AOR = 1.05, p = 0.048), age group of parents/guardians (AOR 30-39 years/50 -59years = 0.16, p = 0.031), household population (AOR 1-5/11+ = 0.15, P = 0.018 and AOR 6-10/11+ = 0.10, P = 0.010) and source of water ((AOR tape within household/spring = 0.004, p = 0.015), (AOR protected well/spring = 0.006, p = 0.023), (AOR bore hole/spring/spring = 0.006, p = 0.012), (AOR tape away of home/spring = 0.009, p = 0.020) and (ARO tape at home/spring = 0.004, p = 0.015)).Conclusion: There was a low prevalence of intestinal protozoa infection among PSAC in the two communities studied. Despite low prevalence of intestinal protozoa, the transmission is present hence the need to initiate control measures. Health education should be provided to parents/guardians of PSAC on protecting water sources, treatment of drinking water and supervision of latrine usage by PSAC and introduction of hand washing facilities are crucial.
Quality of Life and HIV Adherence Self-efficacy of Adolescents and Young Adults Living With Perinatal HIV in Chiang Mai, Thailand: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Aurpibul Linda , Pradsarakee Chanidapa , Sintupat Kamolrawee , Wongnum Nongyow , Chotecharoentanan Tawalchaya , Sudjaritruk Tavitiya
Published: July 2020

Background:Currently there are many children with perinatal HIV infection (PHIV) in Thailand who have survived on effective treatment, and grown up into adolescents and young adults (AYA). We determined their quality of life and HIV adherence self-efficacy.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Thailand in 2018. Inclusion criteria were: 1) aged between 15-25 years, 2) living with perinatal HIV infection, and 3) receiving ART. Those with mental, physical, or communication problems and could not provide responses independently were excluded. The WHO-quality of life-BREF questionnaire and the HIV Treatment Adherence Self-Efficacy Scale (HIV-ASES) were usedin collecting data by self-administered questionnaires on mobile device.Results: A hundred and eleven AYA-PHIV were included; 52 (47%) were female. Their median age, and duration on ART were 20.2 (IQR 18.2-22.6), and 14.1 (IQR 10.4-14.8) years, respectively. Approximately half (59.4%) of AYA-PHIV rated their overall QOL as favorable (41.4% good,and 18.0% very good), whereas 35.1%rated as neither poor nor good. The mean ± SD domain-wise scores were 54.71 ± 10.80, 59.79 ± 13.17, 63.19 ± 20.56, and 65.32 ± 16.74inthe physical health, psychological health,social relationship, and environmental health, respectively. The overall mean HIV–ASES score was 7.79 ±1.95, with a trend towards higher scores in female than male AYA-PHIV. A positive correlation between HIV-ASES and QOL was observed (r=0.268, p=0.005).Conclusion: Most of AYA-PHIVin Thailand had a favorable QOL and optimal HIV-adherence self-efficacy.Attention should be paid on strengthen their physical and psychological health, with continuous social support. Intervention to boost their HIV-adherence self-efficacy when entering adult life is warranted.
Arthritis and Health Related Quality of Life in Adult Outpatients in Trinidad: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Motilal Shastri , Dawar Akshita , Mankee Anil , Goberdhan Nirupa , Goberdhan Vishram , Greene Ayesha , Greenslade Nicolette , Guerra Theana , Hassan Nuha , Hassett Brandon , Hillhouse Andrille , Hosein Tawfeeq
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Arthritis is a public health concern because of the high prevalence reported in various settings as well as its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of self-reported joint pain, arthritis and its associations with quality of life in a Trinidadian primary care population.
METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on adult outpatients from 16 randomly selected primary care centres. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data on arthritis and HRQOL domains. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 21) using Fisher’s exact, Chi-square testing, correlation and t-tests. Regression analysis was also done for predictors of HRQOL.
RESULTS

Of 421 subjects approached, 392 (93%) completed this survey. The average age was 46 ± 17.8 years with 60.5% of respondents being female and 75% being of either East Indian or African descent. Joint pain in the past 6 months, reported by 57.9% of participants, was associated with female gender (P = 0.016), East Indian descent (P = 0.001), unemployment (P < 0.001) and primary school education level (P < 0.001). There was significant (P < 0.005) upset in all domains of quality of life in those with joint pain. Severity and duration of joint pain was also positively correlated with worse HRQOL scores (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION

This study highlighted the high prevalence of self-reported joint pain in Trinidad and its negative effects on HRQOL. There is an urgent need to address arthritis and the resulting morbidity in this setting.
Severity of Anxiety During COVID-19 Outbreak and Its Relationship with self-related skills of Executive Functions in Children
Authors: soltani sakineh , bordbar maryam , Zarenejhad Somayeh , arabi Seyedeh Manizheh
Published: July 2020

Background: Some children experience a greater deal of anxiety during the outbreak of COVID-19. Behavioral dimensions of executive function appear to be linked to situational anxiety experience. Therefore, the primary aim of the present study is to investigate the relationship between self-related skills of executive functions before the outbreak of COVID-19 and the level of physical and mental anxiety in children during this pandemic. Also, the secondary goal of this study is to predict the level of anxiety based on self-related skills of executive functions. Methods: Information were obtained from Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale (BDEFS), which was collected from 300 healthy children over two months before the COVID-19 outbreak. The children anxiety was measured based on parent’s reposes to an online anxiety scale when the disease outbreak. Results: The results showed that the total score of self-related skills of executive functions was negatively and significantly related to the anxiety level (r =- .53). In general, the results also demonstrated that self-related skills of executive functions can predict 28% of anxiety. The subscales of self-management (p<0.015, t= 5.56), self-regulation (p<0.011, t= 6.37), self-restraint (p<0.035, t = 4.29) and emotional self-organization (p <0.042, p=0.222) predicted coronavirus anxiety, except self-motivation (p<0.05, p = 0.894). Conclusions: Given that most subscales of executive function predict anxiety tied to critical situations such as the prevalence of coronavirus, it seems that greater attentions should be allocated to the fostering and development of children's executive functions by teaching such skills via playing.