bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive 5-P framework for active ageing through ecological approach: an iterative systematic review
Authors: Lak Azadeh , Rashidghalam Parichehr , Myint Phyo K , Bradaran Hamid R
Published: October 2019

Background

"Active Ageing" is an inclusive term thus has been defined from a variety of aspects in different domains throughout the literature. The aim of this review is to identify the aspects which play significant roles in building this concept in an ecological approach.Methods

We searched seven online database s, JSTOR, Pub-Med, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ProQuest, EBSCO, and Scopus, from 2002 to 2018 (from introducing this concept by WHO) for both qualitative and quantitative articles in only English language. Two reviewers independently found the related articles using the search terms “active ageing” and “built environment” and included both “ageing” and “aging”.Results

Of 1337 records which passed the screening, 86 were eligible for the inclusion for the review purpose. A total of 15 themes were derived: Personal characteristic, Behavioral attitude, Land- use, Access, Physical form, Cityscape/City Image, Public open spaces, Housing, Social Environment, Cultural Environment, Economic Environment, Good Governance, Physical Health, Mental Health, and Social Health. Ecological themes of active ageing can be defined as the 5P model: Person, Processes, Place and Policy- Making based on the Prime aspect of health.Conclusions

This study sheds light on the aspects of "Active Ageing" through ecological model while offering the significance of the multidimensional nature of active ageing micro (person), meso-(process) and macro-system (place and policy-making) based on health (prime) environments according to the relationships between person and environment at the individual, interpersonal and environmental levels for the future research and population ageing policies.
Associations of mental disorders and neurotropic parasitic diseases: a meta-analysis in developing and emerging countries.
Authors: Daré Labanté Outcha , Bruand Pierre-Emile , Gérard Daniel , Marin Benoît , Lameyre Valérie , Boumédiène Farid , Preux Pierre-Marie
Published: October 2019

Background

Although they are declining worlwide, neurotropic parasitic diseases are still common in developing and emerging countries. The aim of this study was to estimate the pooled prevalence and pooled association measures of comorbidities between mental disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia) and neurotropic parasitic diseases (malaria, cysticercosis, toxoplasmosis, human African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease, and human toxocariasis) in developing and emerging countries.Methods

As the first meta-analysis on this topic, this study was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (N°CRD42017056521). The Medline, Embase, Lilacs, and Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology databases were used to search for articles without any restriction in language or date. We evaluated the quality of studies independently by two investigators using the Downs and Black assessment grid and pooled estimates using the random-effects method from CMA (Comprehensive Meta Analysis) Version 3.0..Results

In total, 18 studies studies published between 1997 and 2016 met our inclusion criteria. We found that the prevalence of anxiety and depression in people suffering from Chagas disease and/or neurocysticercosis was 44.9% (95% CI, 34.4 – 55.9). In 16 pooled studies that included 1,782 people with mental disorders and 1,776 controls, toxoplasmosis and/or toxocariasis were associated with increased risk of schizophrenia and/or bipolar disorders (odds ratio = 2.3; 95% CI, 1.7 – 3.2). Finally, toxocariasis and/or toxoplasmosis were associated with an increased risk of the onset of schizophrenia (odds ratio = 2.4; 95% CI, 1.7 – 3.4).Conclusion

Our pooled estimates show that the associations between diseases studied are relatively high in developing and emerging countries. This meta-analysis supports the hypothesis that toxoplasmosis could be the cause of schizophrenia. These findings could prove useful to researchers who want to further explore and understand the associations studied.
Community and health staff perceptions on non-communicable disease management in primary care in El Salvador: a qualitative study
Authors: Vidal Nicole , León Montserrat , Jiménez Marta , Bermúdez Keven , De Vos Pol
Published: October 2019

Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of global mortality and disability, with a rising burdenin low- and middle-income countries. Their multifactorial aetiology, and their requirement of long-term care, imply the need for comprehensive approaches. From 2009, the Ministry of Health (MoH) in El Salvador has developed a national public health system based on comprehensive primary health care. This analysis explores community perceptions related to the management of NCDs in this health system.
During three fieldwork periods in 2018, three complementary qualitative data collection methods were deployed. First, we used illness narrative methodology to document the life histories of people living with a chronic disease and being treated in second and third level health facilities. Second, through social mapping, we analysed support-resources that NCD patients used throughout the process of their illness. Third, semi-structured interviews were conducted with both chronic patients and health personnel working at different levels of the primary health care setting. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling, and a deductive approach was implemented for coding during the analysis phase. After grouping codes into potential themes, a thematic framework was elaborated for each method through a reflexive approach and triangulation of the data.
This innovative approach of combining three well-defined qualitative analysis frameworks identified key implications for the implementation of a comprehensive first line approach to NCDs management in resource-poor settings. Following dimensionsare identified: social risk factors, barriers to care, patient resources and pathways to care, trust in community social connections, and strategies for community health promotion and prevention of NCDs.
The Salvadoran public health system has been able to strengthen its comprehensive approach to NCDs, combining a clinical approach – including long term follow-up – with a preventive community-based strategy. The structural collaboration between the health system and the (self)organized community has been key to identify failings, discuss tensions and work out adapted solutions.
Screening Practices among First Degree Relatives of Breast Cancer Patients in Nepal
Authors: Mulmi Rashmi , Shrestha Gambhir , Niraula Surya Raj , Yadav Deepak Kumar , Pokharel Paras Kumar
Published: October 2019

Background Family history is a significant risk factor for development of breast cancer, particularly for women of first-degree relatives. For women at high risk for breast cancer, regular screening is the mainstay of risk management. This study aims to find out the breast cancer screening practices among first degree relatives of breast cancer patient and determine factors associated with their screening practices.Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out among 150 purposively selected first-degree female relatives of breast cancer patients undergoing treatment at B.P Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, aged between 20 and 60 years. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data by face to face interview. Screening practices were characterized as regular screening practices performed by the respondents, which include any of these screening methods: monthly breast self-examination or clinical examination yearly at least once in 3 years or regular mammogram 1 or 2 yearly. Level of awareness was categorized into two categories ‘high level’ and ‘low level’ taking median score as the cut-off value. Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression were used to test the association between screening practices and related factors.Results The mean age of the participants was 37.6 years (SD 10.9). A total of 38.7% had practiced regular breast screening methods. Only two-fifth of them had a high level of awareness on risk factors and warning signs of breast cancer. In multiple logistic regression, literate (OR 7.13, 95% CI 2.32-21.10), economic status above poverty line (OR 2.62, 95% CI 1.01-6.80), presence of benign breast disease (OR 5.10, 95% CI 1.31-19.84) and high perceived risk of breast cancer (OR 14.17, 95% CI 5.10-39.41) were found to be significant positive predictors of regular screening practices.Conclusions This study showed a low rate of regular screening practices among the first degree relatives of breast cancer patients. There is a need to provide comprehensive, updated, and inclusive information and support and interventions aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of healthy behaviors in cancer prevention among these high-risk groups.
Obesity measures in the Kiribati population: a need to reclassify body mass index cut-points.
Authors: Eme Paul Eze , Burlingame Barbara , Kim Nick , Sunia Foliaki , Wham Carol , Douwes Jeroen
Published: October 2019

Objective To assess obesity, the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (BF%) among adults, and determine the appropriate BMI cut-points in Kiribati.Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken among 483 adults randomly selected from South Tarawa (urban) and Butaritari (rural). Weight, height, BF% and physical activity level (PAL) was measured using standard methods. Linear and quadratic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between BF% and BMI whilst controlling for age and gender. ROC curve analyses were used to assess whether for the Kiribati population alternative BMI cut-off points for obesity are needed.Results Approximately 75% of participants were obese using standard BMI and BIA cut-offs, with the highest prevalence observed in South Tarawa. BF% was significantly (p<0.001) and positively associated with age (males, r=0.78; females, r=0.67; p<0.000) and BMI. Based on ROC-curve analyses the BMI cut-offs for predicting high BF% among I-Kiribati people were 24.5kg/m 2 for males and 32.9 kg/m 2 for femalesConclusion In conclusion, the majority of adults in Kiribati were either obese or overweight and had high BF%. We suggest that ethnic-specific BMI cut-points to define obesity for the population of Kiribati may be more appropriate than the currently used international cut-points.
Nasogastric tube feeding versus assisted hand feeding in-home health care older adults with severe dementia in Taiwan: a prognosis comparison
Authors: Chou Hsiao-Hui , Tsou Meng-Ting , Hwang Lee-Ching
Published: October 2019

Backgrounds/Objectives All individuals with severe dementia should be offered careful hand feeding. However, under certain circumstances, people with severe dementia have a feeding tube placed. In Taiwan, tube feeding rate in demented elderly home care residents is increasing, yet the tube feeding’s benefit in these groups is still unknown. We compared the clinical prognosis and mortality rate of demented elderly patients who received nasogastric tube feeding (NGF) or assisted hand feeding (AHF).Methods This retrospective observational study enrolled 202 participants aged over 60 years in the setting of home health care between January 1 and December 31, 2017. All subjects with documented severe dementia suffered from difficulty in oral intake and needed either AHF or NGF. Data were collected from both groups to analyze pneumonia, hospitalization, and mortality rates.Results A total of 202 subjects (61 males and 141 females, aged 85.7 ± 7.7 years) were analyzed. Of note, 61 had AHF, and 141 had NGF. Most subjects were in a bed-ridden status, with 83.7% on Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale 4 and 66.3% with a Barthel index less than score 10. Pneumonia risk was higher in NGF (46.8%) than in AHF (24.6%, p = 0.0031). Despite adjusting for multiple factors in the regression model, a higher incidence of pneumonia risk was still observed in the NGF group (aOR = 2.15, 95% CI 1.01–4.56). The one-year mortality rates in AHF and NGF were 8.3% and 14.2%, respectively, and no significant difference was observed after adjustment with logistic regression (aOR = 1.20, 95% CI 0.37–3.90). No significant differences were observed in hospitalization rate and duration.Conclusions For in-home health care elderly demented patients, NGF is associated with a significantly higher pneumonia rate compared with AHF. Additionally, neither the mortality nor the hospitalization rates decreased in the NGF group. Therefore, on the basis of these findings, we should question the benefits of NGF for in-home health care elderly demented subjects. Continued careful hand feeding could be an alternative to tube feeding in severe dementia. Furthermore, we should consider the quality of life and make individualized decisions before deciding to use tube feeding.
Effect of mycophenolate mofetil on blood pressure: a meta-analysis
Authors: Cao Guilan , Fan Qianqian , Li Xiaoguang , Liu Kun , Zhang Fengxiao
Published: October 2019

Background: Long-term treatment of immunosuppressive agent have been proved to induce hypertension. The relative efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) on blood pressure (BP) is not well known. Identifying the performance of this drug will help to reduce the incidence of the adverse reactions. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published up to December, 2017. We compared blood pressure levels before and after the MMF treatment including systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. We used the Newcastle Ottawa scale for the assessment of the quality of studies. Analysis was performed using the statistical software Review Manager Version 5.0 and STATA 14.0. Result: We retrieved 6 studies with 208 patients. The data extracted were systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP). Study quality was assessed using the method of Jadad, and data were synthesized using a random-effects model and weight mean difference. MMF caused a small reduce in DBP (0.79mmHg, 95% CI, 0.03 to 1.55, P=0.043), with no obvious effect on SBP (0.12mmHg, 95%CI -0.41 to 0.64). In meta-regression, country (china vs. other country), duration of follow-up, percentage of men, and mean age of study participants were proved to be not the contributing factors. Conclusion: The MMF treatment can slightly reduce DBP, but not affect the SBP, which indicated the cardiovascular safety of this immunosuppressive agent.
Prognostic and diagnostic value of circRNAs expression in colorectal carcinoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Jinpeng , Guo Dongming , Li Xinxin , Chen Juntian
Published: October 2019

Background: Circular RNA (circRNAs) is a new star in the network of noncoding RNA, regarded as a key control factor in numerous tumors. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the clinical, prognostic and diagnostic role of circRNAs in colorectal cancer. And all the articles were qualified by the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Methods: An online search of electronic databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science online databases, was conducted to identify as many relevant papers as possible. Nineteen relevant studies were enrolled in this meta-analysis, with seven on diagnosis, eight on prognosis and 11 on clinicopathological features. Results: Diagnostic value of pooled results showed that the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.82, from the control group to identify the sensitivity of the patients with colorectal cancer was 83%, specificity of 72%. In terms of prognostic role, carcinogenic circRNAs has a negative effect on overall survival (OS: HR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.50-3.52), tumor suppressor circRNAs expression increase associated with longer survival (OS: HR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.22-0.64). On the clinical characteristics, highly carcinogenic circular RNA expression and abnormal adverse clinical outcomes. The consequences of the tumor suppressor circular RNA, however, are completely opposite.Conclusions: These results suggested that circRNAs may be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer.Keywords: circular RNA, colorectal cancer, diagnosis, prognosis
Sunlight Exposed Body Surface Area is Associated With Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) Level in Pregnant Minangkabau Women, Indonesia
Authors: Ilmiawati Cimi , Oviana Athica , Friadi Andi
Published: October 2019

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in women, while living in a tropical country with year-round abundance of sunlight as the main source of vitamin D does not seem to guarantee adequate serum 25(OH)D. While living in the tropics, Minangkabau women are known to dress specifically according to their culture. This study was aimed to elucidate the association of sunlight exposed body surface area with serum 25(OH)D in pregnant Minangkabau women of Indonesia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 88 Minangkabau women in late pregnancy. Data were collected by using questionnaire and 24-hour food recall, skin pigmentation was determined by Fitzpatrick scale, body surface area exposed to sunlight was assessed and serum 25(OH)D was quantified by ELISA method. Results: Nearly half of the subjects (n=40; 45.5%) were deficient in vitamin D (<20 ng/ml) with serum 25(OH)D level23.0±10.0 ng/ml (mean±SD) and estimated daily intake of vitamin D 5.6±3.9 µg/1000 kcal/day (mean±SD). Median percentage of body area exposed to sunlight was 15.8%. There were no differences in serum 25(OH)D levels according to sunlight exposure time, skin pigmentation type, and sunscreen use. Percentage of body area exposed to sunlight was positively correlated with serum 25(OH)D level (Spearman’s ρ =0.403; p<0.001). Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in pregnant Minangkabau women and they need to consider increasing their body area exposure to sunlight. Keywords: body surface area, pregnant, sunlight exposure, vitamin D
Age-specific risk factors for adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in Xiamen, China: A population-based retrospective study
Authors: Chen Yin-ling , Han Li-li , Su Wei-juan , Lv Fu-ping , Chen Zheng , Huang Bing-kun , Wang Li-ying , Song Hai-qu , Li Xuejun
Published: October 2019

Background: Elderly mothers are increasingly in China. We are aims to explore whether association between pregnancy to delivery interval and adverse pregnancy outcomes is affected by maternal age. Methods: A population-based retrospective study was performed in Xiamen, China. Data were derived from the Medical Birth Registry of Xiamen from 2011 to 2018. Multivariable logistic regression was used to conduct multivariable analyses based on adjusting the factors to evaluate the effect of maternal age on pregnancy outcomes. Results: Among 77,859 pregnant women with specific age, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk were increased for women aged 40 years or older (42.9%; aRR, 3.84 (3.26-4.51); P < 0.001), but not for pregnant women aged less than 25 years (9.2%; aRR, 0.60 (0.54-0.68)). Increased cesarean, preterm birth, large-for-gestational age (LGA), and low birth weight risks were more pronounced for pregnant women aged 40 years or older (66.5%, 8.4%, 26.5%, and 6.7%, respectively; aRR, 3.77 (3.14-4.52), 1.26 (0.90-1.79), 1.31 (1.08-1.60), and 1.10 (0.74-1.65), respectively; all P < 0.001). Risk of Apgar < 7 at 5 minutes were increased for women < 25 years old compared with women 35 to 39 years old (0.2% vs. 0.1%; aRR, 2.05 (0.85-4.93) vs. 0.63 (0.14-2.86)). Conclusion: Advanced maternal age increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The risk ratio of GDM, cesarean, preterm birth, LGA, and low birth weight is higher, which suggests pregnant women should guard against related risk factors and choose an appropriate mode of production. Furthermore, pregnant women should choose an ideal age for pregnancy to make themselves and child healthy.
Characterization and clinical evaluation of microsatellite instability and loss of heterozygosity within tumor-related genes in colorectal cancer
Authors: Huo Xueyun , Feng Dandan , Zhang Shuangyue , Li Zhenkun , Li Xiaohong , Li Changlong , Guo Meng , Wang Jin , Zhang Zhongtao , Lu Qingxian , Du Xiaoyan , Bai Zhigang , Chen Zhenwen
Published: October 2019

Background: Microsatellite instability (MSI) has been known as a biomarker for better outcome in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the conclusion is controversy. In addition, MS can also be a useful marker for loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of genes but it has not been well studied yet. Here, aimed to clarify the predictive value of MSI/LOH within tumor-related genes in CRCs, we detected MSI/LOH of MSs in tumor-related genes and the Bethesda (B5) panel and further analyzed the relationship between MSI/LOH and clinical features or outcomes. Results: As expected, the MSI rate of B5 loci were all very high, suggesting that B5 panel criterion is powerful for MSI status determining of CRCs. Interestingly, MSI/LOH of 2 loci in the B5 panel and 12 loci in tumor-related genes were associated with poorer outcome while MSI/LOH of B5 panel was failed to predict outcomes of CRCs. MSI of BAT25, MSI/LOH of BAT26 and MSI of B5 panel showed closer relationship with mucinous carcinoma. In addition, LOH-H of B5 panel associated with more lymphatic metastasis. Conclusions: In summary, MSI/LOH of certain loci or whole panel of B5 were related to the clinical features, and several loci within tumor-related genes showed a prognostic value in outcomes of CRCs.
Integrative analyses of gene expression profile reveal potential crucial roles of mitotic cell cycle and microtubule cytoskeleton in pulmonary artery hypertension
Authors: Luo Jing , Liu Zhenwei , Li Chenlu , Wang Ruochen , Fang Jinxia , Lu Saisai , Guo Jing , Zhu Xiaochun , Wang Xiaobing
Published: October 2019

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life-threatening condition that gets worse over time. Despite advances in the development of strategies for treating PAH, prognosis of the disease remains unsatisfactory, especially for advanced PAH. The aim of this study was to explore potential crucial genes and pathways associated with PAH that can be used as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis.Results: Gene expression profile of pulmonary tissues from 27 PAH patients and 22 normal controls were downloaded from public database (GSE53408 and GSE113439). A total of 521 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 432 up-regulated DEGs and 89 down-regulated DEGs were identified using “limma” package in R. Functional enrichment analysis showed that these DEGs were mainly enriched in mitotic cell cycle process, mitotic cell cycle and microtubule cytoskeleton organization. Moreover, five key genes (CDK1, SMC2, SMC4, KIF23, and CENPE) were identified based on the comprehensive evaluation of PPI analysis, modular analysis and cytohubba’s analysis, then further validated in another transcriptomic data set associated with PAH from public database (GSE33463). Furthermore, these hub genes were mainly enriched in promoting mitotic cell cycle process, which may be closely associated with the pathogenesis of PAH. We also found that the predicted miRNAs targeting these hub genes were found to be enriched in TGF-β and Hippo signaling pathway.Conclusion: These findings are expected to gain a further insight into the development of PAH and provide a promising index for the detection of PAH.
Multistability in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition network
Authors: Xin Ying , Cummins Breshine , Gedeon Tomas
Published: October 2019

Background: The transitions between epithelial (E) and mesenchymal (M) cellphenotypes are essential in many biological processes like tissue development andcancer metastasis. Previous studies, both modeling and experimental, suggestedthat in addition to E and M states, the network responsible for these phenotypesexhibits intermediate phenotypes between E and M states. The number andimportance of such states is subject to intense discussion in the EMT community.Results: Previous modeling eorts used traditional bifurcation analysis to explorethe number of the steady states that correspond to E, M and intermediate statesby varying one or two parameters at a time. Since the system has dozens ofparameters that are largely unknown, it remains a challenging problem to fullydescribe the potential set of states and their relationship across all parameters.We use the computational tool DSGRN (Dynamic Signatures Generated byRegulatory Networks) to explore the intermediate states of an EMT modelnetwork by computing summaries of the dynamics across all of parameter space.We nd that the only attractors in the system are equilibria, that E and M statesdominate across parameter space, but that bistability and multistability arecommon. Even at extreme levels of some of the known inducers of the transition,there is a certain proportion of the parameter space at which an E or an M stateco-exists with other stable steady states.Conclusions: Our results suggests that the multistability is broadly present inEMT network across parameters and thus response of cells to signals maystrongly depend on their history and genetic background.Keywords: Epithelial-Mesenchymal transition; multistability; network models
The pattern of life events preceding suicide among the elderly in rural China: a national case-control psychological autopsy study
Authors: Mo Qiqing , Wang Guojun , Jia Cunxian , Niu Lu , Zhou Liang , Ma Zhenyu
Published: October 2019

Background Life events associated with an increased risk of suicide and prior to the suicide in China different from those in Western countries. But there is a lack of summary of the elderly life event patterns on Chinese suicide. The aim of this study was to identify the pattern of life events which precede suicide among the elderly in a Chinese culture context.Methods A two-stage stratified cluster sampling method was used in order to select research sites and 12 counties were randomly selected to recruit cases within three provinces. A case-control psychological autopsy study was then adopted. The study population consisted of 242 suicide cases each with an age of 60 and above, and 242 age-, sex-, and location-matched community living controls. During face-to-face interviews, the information from subjects and proxy informants was obtained by standardized trained investigators. Life events were measured using a 46-item Life Event Scale for the Elderly (LESE).Results About 99.6% of suicides and 88.4% of controls resulted from the experience of at least one life event. The elderly who had committed suicide experienced more long-term life events. The top three most frequent life events were being diagnosed with chronic disease, hospitalization, and being diagnosed with terminal illness. Women more often experienced the death of spouse, while men experienced more hospitalization, and were more likely to be diagnosed with terminal illness and suffer family poverty. The risk of suicide among the elderly who experience life events was 12.8 times higher than that in people who did not experience life events. The elderly who were having unstable marital status, suffering from physical diseases and diagnosed with mental disorders, are more likely to commit suicide.Conclusions Understanding the pattern of life events which precede suicides among the elderly in rural China plays an important role in the prevention of suicide. Several different long-term life events can lead to suicidal behavior, and the effect of life events on suicide is cumulative. Being diagnosed with a serious disease may be one of the risk signals for suicide among the elderly.
Impact of GTF2H1 and RAD54L2 gene polymorphisms on the non-small cell lung cancer with Platinum chemotherapy in high altitude areas
Authors: Li Miao , Chen Rong , Ji Baoyan , Fan Chunmei , Wang Guanying , Yue Chenli , Jin Guoquan
Published: October 2019

Background Repair pathway genes are closely related to the sensitivity of tumor patients to drugs. It is particularly important to study the correlation between non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and DNA repair gene ( GTF2H1 and RAD54L2 ) in high altitude areas.Materials and methods Four SNPs on RAD54L2 and five SNPs on GTF2H1 were genotyped via the Agena MassARRAY in 506 age-and gender-matched patients with NSCLC and 510 healthy controls. The influence of GTF2H1 and RAD54L2 on lung cancer was assessed by logistic regression analysis. The effects of polymorphisms of these two genes on the efficacy and side effects of NSCLC patients with platinum-based chemotherapy were further evaluated.Results RAD54L2 rs9864693 GC heterozygote genotype was increased the risk of NSCLC (OR = 1.33, 95%CI: 1.01 – 1.77, p = 0.045). Stratified analysis found that GTF2H1 rs4150667 promoted the risk of lung cancer in individuals younger than 59 years group (OR = 1.32, 95%CI: 1.00 – 1.75, p = 0.048). However, the individuals with GTF2H1 rs3802967 CT-TT reduced the risk of the lung squamous cell carcinoma by 32% (OR = 0.68, 95%CI: 0.46 – 0.99, p = 0.045). The patients with GTF2H1 rs3802967 TT genotypes showed a significantly higher curative effect (OR = 2.65, 95%CI: 1.14 - 6.15, p = 0.023); patients with GTF2H1 rs3802967 TT genotypes showed a significantly lower risk of side effects (OR = 0.32, 95%CI: 0.10 - 0.98, p = 0.047).Conclusion Our study indicated that RAD54L2 and GTF2H1 gene was associated with NSCLC susceptibility.
A meta-analysis of the endothelial protein C receptor rs867186 genotype in malaria
Authors: Yang Lin , Xin Ruilian , Guo Shanchun , Liu Mingli
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND : During P. falciparum infection, the binding of P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) to endothelial cells (EC) results in the sequestration of pRBC. Several receptors located on the endothelial cells, including intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), CD36, and endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR), contribute to PfEMP1 adhesion to the microvasculature. PfEMP1, expressed on the surface of parasitized red blood cells (pRBC), is composed of cysteine-rich interdomain regions (CIDR) and Duffy binding-like (DBL) domains. CIDRα1 competitively binds to EPCR with activated protein C (APC) and impairs cytoprotective and anticoagulant effects by APC, which plays important roles in severe malaria (SM) pathogenesis such as cerebral malaria (CM) and severe malaria anemia (SMA). The strategy to inhibit EPCR binding to pRBC while concomitantly strengthen its binding to APC may be crucial in restoring disrupted protein C (PC) system’s function. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between malaria severity and the EPCR genotypes as well as with soluble EPCR (sEPCR), and the study also addresses the physiological relevance of EPCR genetic polymorphism.
RESULTS : In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis on the eligible studies by comparing the frequency of EPCR rs867186-GG versus rs867186-GA and -AA genotype in SM, mild malaria (MM) or uncomplicated malaria (UM) patients and healthy individuals from Thailand, Uganda, Benin, Tanzania, and Ghana. We also determined the relationship between rs867186 genotype and sEPCR levels. Our results showed that the genotype rs867186-GG is higher in MM/UM than in SM patients. SM patients carrying the rs867186-GG genotype have higher plasma soluble EPCR (sEPCR) levels than in rs867186-AG and rs867186-AA carriers. MM/UM patients carrying the rs867186-AG genotype have significantly higher level of sEPCR compared to those carrying rs867186-AA. Similarly, the rs867186-GG is associated with high sEPCR level in healthy individuals.
CONCLUSIONS : This meta-analysis demonstrates that pRBCs and EPCR interactions are associated with malaria severity, and treatments that block their binding via PfEMP1 CIDRα1 could be a potential therapy for SM.
Ekoteologi Fungsi Hutan Oenaek: Penyimpangan Paradigma Ekologis Menuju Perilaku Eksploitatif
Authors: Awang Nirwasui Arsita , Setyawan Yusak B , Timo Ebenhaizer L Nuban
Published: October 2019

This study aims at describing and analyzing the change of Camplong residents’ perspective towards the function of forest which brings an impact on the damage of Oenaek Forest. In addition, the purpose of this study is also to conduct an ecotheological observation about this viewpoint shift. There is a Natural Tourism Park in Camplong with various kinds of flora and fauna. In Timorese belief, this forest functions as a palace for Usi (the highest god) and a shelter for the spirits of passed away ancestors. The shift of the forest status fromnatural forest (restricted forest) to productive forest has caused the change of residents’ perspective towards the function of the forest. In the past they used to perceive the forest as a subject, but now it has been seen as an object of economic enterprise. The change of this standpoint has influenced the behavior of Camplong  people who live around the forest area: the forest is no longer served as a place for celebrating traditional rituals, but merely as a tourist destination. The method applied in this research is qualitative descriptive whichis carried out through observation and in-depth interview.
An intelligent bearing fault diagnosis method based on the AFEEMD and 1D CNNs
Authors: Wang Zhaoyang , Sun Hongchun
Published: October 2019

To process the non-stationary vibration signals and improve accuracy of bearing fault diagnosis, this paper presents a novel intelligent fault diagnosis method based on the adaptive fast ensemble empirical mode decomposition (AFEEMD) and one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D CNNs). First, the AFEEMD algorithm is utilized to decompose the raw signals into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Then, the time and frequency statistic features of the first several IMFs are analyzed to form feature vector, which are used as the input of 1D CNNs to identify the bearing fault. The performance of the proposed method is validated using the dataset from the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). Compared with the traditional back propagation neural network (BPNN), the results show that the proposed AFEEMD-1D CNNs method not only can obtain higher accuracy and achieve more reliable performance, but also can improve the generalization performance. Due to the end-to-end feature learning capacity, it can be extended to other machinery for fault diagnosis.
Electromagnetic buffering considering PM eddy current loss under intensive impact load
Authors: Li Zi-Xuan , Yang Guo-Lai , Li Lei
Published: October 2019

The intensive impact load will generate a huge acceleration in the primary part of the Electromagnetic buffers (EMBs), resulting in an instantaneous increase in the eddy current loss of the permanent magnet (PM). In this paper, the PM eddy current loss is taken into account in the electromagnetic buffering under intensive impact load. The reason why the eddy current damping force differs between two different buffer stages is analyzed. The experimental results signify that the model considering the PM eddy current loss is more accurate.
Fault identification technology for gear tooth surface wear based on MPE method by MI and improved FNN algorithm
Authors: Zhou Xintao , Cui Yahui , Liu Xiayi , Li Longlong , Wang Lihua
Published: October 2019

Multiscale Permutation Entropy (MPE) is a presented nonlinear dynamic technology for measuring the randomness and detecting the nonlinear dynamic change of time sequences and can be used effectively to extract the nonlinear dynamic wear fault feature of gear tooth surface from vibration signals of gear set. To solve the subjectivity drawback of threshold parameter selection process in MPE method, a joint calculation method based on the Mutual Information (MI) and improved False Nearest Neighbor (FNN) principle for calculating threshold parameters for MPE method was presented in this article. Then, the influence of threshold parameters on the identification accuracy of fault features with the MPE was studied by analyzing simulation data. Through the simulation analysis, the effectiveness of the proposed MPE method is validated. Finally, the wear failure test of spur gear was carried out, and the proposed method was applied to analyze the experimental data of fault signal. Meanwhile, the vibration characteristics of the fault signal are acquired. The analysis results show that the proposed method can effectively realize the fault diagnosis of gear box and has higher fault identification accuracy than the existing methods.
Magneto-thermal coupling analysis of the permanent magnet eddy current brake under intensive impact load
Authors: Li Lei , Yang Guo-Lai , Li Zi-Xuan
Published: October 2019

To more realistically describe the operation of an eddy current brake under intensive impact load, a magnetic-thermal bidirectional coupling model of the eddy current brake is established considering the existence of temperature. The variation of material and convective heat transfer coefficient with temperature are considered in the model. The iterative method is used to decouple the model. Through the analysis of the numerical simulation results, the temperature distribution and transmission of the brake during operation are obtained. By comparison, it is found that the calculated braking force of the magneto-thermal coupling model is lower than the calculated value without considering the temperature field due to the influence of temperature. And the higher the temperature, the greater the decrease.
Development of test bench with airflow for resonator acoustic performance measurement
Authors: Guo Rong , Mi Tiantian
Published: October 2019

Acoustic properties of resonators installed in vehicle intake system are influenced by the high-speed airflow passing through, which causes errors between practical application and bench tests. In this paper, a test bench with airflow for measuring the resonator transmission loss is developed based on the principle of two-load method. Equipment types are selected and parameters calculation is presented. Effects of sound source protection devices on the performance of sound source are studied experimentally. A resistance resonator and several dissipative mufflers are mounted at the outlet of the vortex air pump to reduce airflow noise and verified to be effective. Finally, the transmission loss of a multi-chamber perforated resonator is measured with the developed test bench and effects of airflow on resonator acoustic properties are analyzed.
Design of vibration standard device based on random comparison method
Authors: Gao Tao , Lu Chen , Chen Pu , Li Meng , Han Mei
Published: October 2019

In order to meet the needs for aircraft vibration transducer and measurement equipment to be calibrated at the job site, it is necessary to design a compact, dynamic and functional vibration standard device. This paper introduces a vibration standard device based on random comparison method. The structure and working principle of software and hardware are described in detail. Unlike the calibration requirements under laboratory conditions, on-site calibration requires that the calibration process be more consistent with the actual operating conditions. A random vibration comparison calibration method using random signals as excitation sources is designed. The vibration standard device can be maneuvered from the laboratory environment to the aircraft maintenance site. It has been proved measurement uncertainty of the system is 1.0 % (k= 2) by the method of control accuracy.
Effects of the wide-body suspension bridge auxiliary structure on flutter characteristics by CFD
Authors: Ni Zhijun , Zhang Cong , Zhang Liangliang , Liu Lianjie
Published: October 2019

This paper is focused on the CFD numerical simulation of flutter characteristics of the wide-body flat steel box girder of Chongqing Cuntan Yangtze Bridge. The specific influence on the aerodynamic performance and flutter critical wind velocity have been studied by setting different railing ventilation rates. The results show that: the subsidiary structures of the main beam have an adverse effect on the stability of bridge flutter. The ventilation rate of the railings affects the flutter derivatives and the critical wind speed of the flutter.
"Día sin Carne” en la ciudad de Medellín: aspectos constitucionales
Authors: Correa C Héctor Jairo
Published: October 2019

Con el objetivo de vincularse a la campaña internacional “Lunes sin Carne”,el Consejo de la ciudad de Medellín aprobó una norma (Acuerdo 076 de 2017)que en su Artículo 1 restringe el suministro de carne un día a la semana en los colegios oficiales, comedores comunitarios, jardines y restaurantes de las entidades municipales. Dicha restricción se basa en el supuesto que promoverá una alimentación verde y sustentable, en el Municipio de Medellín. Sin embargo, este Artículo vulnera claramente derechos fundamentales de los colombianos, en especial de niños y adolescentes, consignados en la Constitución Política de este país. En este documento se explican las normas vulneradas y los fundamentos de dicha vulneración. Se concluye que los derechos fundamentales de los niños y adolescentes no pueden ser vulnerados y, menos aún, con argumentos que llevan tras de sí una enorme carga política y económica, como lo es el desarrollo sostenible, como lo sostiene la norma del “Día sin Carne” en la ciudad de Medellín.
Determinación de Rinotraqueítis Infecciona Bovina (BHV-1) en el municipio de Toca, Boyacá
Authors: Ortiz González Aura Daniela , Díaz Anaya Adriana María , Pulido Medellín Martín Orlando
Published: October 2019

Introducción. La Rinotraqueítis Infecciosa Bovina (RIB) es una enfermedad infectocontagiosa que afecta principalmente a bovinos y bufalinos, encontrándose ampliamente distribuida a nivel mundial, siendo una de las principales causas de perdidas económica y físicas en las producciones. Objetivo. determinar la prevalencia de la Rinotraqueítis Infecciosa Bovina (BHV-1) en el municipio de Toca, Boyacá. Materiales y métodos. Se recolectaron 350 muestras de sangre Bovina, las cuales fueron procesadas en el laboratorio de la Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia, mediante un kit comercial de ELISA. Resultados. La prevalencia para IBR, en el municipio de Toca, Boyacá, fue de 65,5%. No se encontró relación significativa con las variables estudiadas como abortos, distocias, no gestantes, repetición de celos, entre otras. Conclusión. La Rinotraqueítis Infecciosa Bovina es una de las principales causas de pérdidas económicas y físicas en las diversas producciones, sin embargo, no siempre es la principal causa de alteraciones reproductivas presentes en los bovinos.
Accuracy evaluation of GPM multi-satellite precipitation products in the hydrological application over alpine and gorge regions with sparse rain gauge network
Authors: Chen Jiachao , Wang Zhaoli , Wu Xushu , Chen Xiaohong , Lai Chengguang , Zeng Zhaoyang , Li Jun
Published: October 2019

With the release of Global Precipitation Measurement Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for GPM products, hydrologists can obtain precipitation data with higher resolution and wider coverage. However, great uncertainties still exist in the accuracy and hydrological utility of these data in alpine and gorge regions with sparse gauge stations. In this study, the Lancang River Basin in China was used as an example, and near real-time products (IMERG-E and IMERG-L) and post-processed products (IMERG-F and TMPA 3B42-V7) were evaluated. Different indexes and methods were applied to evaluate the accuracy of these products. The variable infiltration capacity hydrological model was adopted to evaluate their hydrological utility. The following findings were obtained. (1) Compared with observed precipitation data, the near real-time products tend to underestimate, while the post-processed products tend to overestimate precipitation. The performance of the four products in winter is poor. (2) IMERG products offer improvements in two aspects: first, the near real-time products achieve good accuracy and second, the detectability and the accuracy in gorge areas have been greatly improved. (3) The near real-time products have the potential for hydrological applications. The best simulation result was obtained based on IMERG-F, followed by 3B42-V7, IMERG-E, and IMERG-L. (4) The four products can provide reliable precipitation data for the hydrological application over the Lancang River Basin.
Switching from Conventional to Nano-natural Phytochemicals to Prevent and Treat Cancers: Special Emphasis on Resveratrol
Authors: Salman Ul Islam  , Ahmed Muhammad B. , Mazhar Ul-Islam  , Shehzad Adeeb , Lee Young S.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Natural phytochemicals and their derivatives have been used in medicine since prehistoric
times. Natural phytochemicals have potential uses against various disorders, including cancers. However,
due to low bioavailability, their success in clinical trials has not been reproduced. Nanotechnology has played a
vital role in providing new directions for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of different disorders, and of cancer
in particular. Nanotechnology has demonstrated the capability to deliver conventional natural products with poor
solubility or a short half-life to target specific sites in the body and regulate the release of drugs. Among the natural
products, the phytoalexin resveratrol has demonstrated therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, antiinflammatory,
and anti-proliferative effects, as well as the potential to inhibit the initiation and promotion of
cancer. However, low water solubility and extensive first-pass metabolism lead to poor bioavailability of resveratrol,
hindering its potential. Conventional dosage forms of resveratrol, such as tablets, capsules, dry powder, and
injections, have met with limited success. Nanoformulations are now being investigated to improve the pharmacokinetic
characteristics, as well as to enhance the bioavailability and targetability of resveratrol.

Objectives:

This review details the therapeutic effectiveness, mode of action, and pharmacokinetic limitations of
resveratrol, as well as discusses the successes and challenges of resveratrol nanoformulations. Modern nanotechnology
techniques to enhance the encapsulation of resveratrol within nanoparticles and thereby enhance its therapeutic
effects are emphasized.

Conclusion:

To date, no resveratrol-based nanosystems are in clinical use, and this review would provide a new
direction for further investigations on innovative nanodevices that could consolidate the anticancer potential of
resveratrol.