bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of Cadmium Detoxification Potential and Plant Growth Promotion by Bacterial Endophytes
Authors: Ullah Ihsan
Published: August 2019

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that suppresses plant growth; however, application of endophytic bacteria can increase resistance of plants against Cd, as well as improve plant growth. Two bacterial endophytic strains were isolated from Solanum nigrum and were identified as Serratia sp. AI001 and Enterobacter sp. AI002 by 16S DNA sequencing. Strains AI001 and AI002, tolerated up to 25 mg/mL Cd in broth culture and showed phosphate solubilization potential in Pikovskaya agar medium. AI001 and AI002 produced indole-3-acetic acid, which was confirmed by gas spectrometry-mass chromatography. Brassica plants stressed with 0, 5, 15, and 25 mg/L Cd showed significant decrease in plant growth, chlorophyll content and biomass, and significant increase in Cd dose-dependent electrolyte leakage. Inoculation of strain AI001 or AI002 significantly enhanced the plant growth attributes of shoot length, root length, chlorophyll content, and biomass as compared to those in uninoculated plants. Reduced glutathione contents in plants stressed with different concentrations of Cd also increased with inoculation of AI001 and AI002. The reason of Cd resistance enhancement in plants by inocula could be due to their greater plant growth promoting activities as well as their antioxidative response.
Trends in the Regulation of Hate Speech and Fake News: A Threat to Free Speech?
Authors: Santuraki Suleiman Usman
Published: August 2019

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) revolution heralding the emergence and dominance of social media has always been viewed as a turning point in free speech and communication. Indeed, the social media ordinarily represents the freedom of all people to speech and information. But then, there is also the side of the social media that has been often ignored; that it serves as platform for all and sundry to express themselves with little, if any regulation or legal consequences. This as a result has led to global explosion of hate speech and fake news. Hate speech normally lead to tension and holds in it, the potential for national or even international crisis of untold proportions. It also has the likelihood to scare people away from expressing themselves for fear of hate-filled responses and becoming a source of fake news. Using doctrinal as well as comparative methodologies, this paper appraises the trend between states of passing laws or proposing laws to regulate hate speech and fake news; it also appraises the contents of such laws from different countries with the aim of identifying how they may be used to suppress free speech under the guise of regulating hate speech and fake news. It argues that the alarming trend of hate speech and fake news presented an opportunity for leaders across the globe to curb free speech. The paper concludes that the advancement in ICT helped in a great deal to advance free speech; it may as well, because of the spread of hate speech and fake news, lead to a reverse of that success story.
The Role of Indonesian Constitutional Court in Resolving Disputes among the State Organs
Authors: Satriawan Iwan , Mokhtar Khairil Azmin
Published: August 2019

The paper attempts to assess the role of the Constitutional Court of Indonesia in the process of consolidating democracy in the country. Examinations are made on the court’s decisions regarding dispute concerning jurisdiction among state organs. This paper argues that the Constitutional Court has not made a significant impact on the promotion of democracy. It is believed that the failure of the Court to consolidate democracy through its decisions regarding dispute concerning jurisdiction among state organs could be attributed to two main reasons. The first is due to the unclear concept of subjectum litis of the petitioners to have legal standing in the Constitutional Court, and the second is the lack of understanding of the subject matter jurisdiction of the Court. Due to uncertainties only, small numbers cases registered and heard by the Constitutional Court. Furthermore, most of the cases registered in the Court either been rejected or not been accepted by the judges. Despite the misgivings, the Court is still relevant and have certain contributions towards democracy. It has to a certain extent that enhances the working of checks and balances mechanisms among state organs. It is believed that the court could be more reliable and enhance its function in promoting democracy in the country by defining clearly classification of the subjectum litis as well as the objectum litis of the dispute that it may hear.
Early detection of odontoma in patients with clinical features of periodontal disease: a case report
Authors: Tetelepta Febri EN , Adam Andi M.
Published: August 2019

Objective: Chronic periodontitis is an infection of the gingiva that causes damage to the soft tissues and tooth-supporting bones. Chronic periodontitis is usually a slowly progressive disease that does not cause the affected individual to feel pain. For most patients, gingival bleeding during oral cleansing procedures is a sign of reported disease. Odontoma is an odontogenic tumor, characterized by slow growth. The tumor consists of enamel, dentin, cementum and sometimes pulp tissue.Methods: A 38-year-old male patient complaints swollen gums on the right upper back region. Clinical examination showed the presence of gingiva swelling, fistula, and grade 3 teeth mobility. In the systemic condition of the patient, malaise, fever and lymphadenopathy were not found. The treatment plan includes subgingival scaling treatment as well as antibiotic therapy as initial therapy. Advanced treatment is then continued with curative therapy with surgical extirpation, periodontal surgery and bone graft.Results: The success of treatment is shown by controlled inflammatory as well as probing depth. The condition of the teeth and the dental-jaw relationship has been restored after treatment.Conclusions: Chronic periodontitis with odontoma indicates treatment options according to the severity of the disease, access to mechanical care, and the patient's systemic condition.Keywords: Bone grafting, Gingival overgrowth, Odontoma, Surgical flap.
Transcriptomic evidence connecting low aggression to disease risk in honey bees
Authors: Rittschof Clare C , Rubin Benjamin E.R. , Palmer Joseph H.
Published: August 2019

Background: Many organisms display a generalized suite of behaviors that indicate infection or predict infection susceptibility. We apply this concept to honey bee aggression, a behavior that has been associated with positive health outcomes in previous studies. We sequenced the transcriptomes of the brain, fat body, and midgut of adult sibling worker bees who developed as pre-adults in relatively high versus low aggression colonies. Previous studies showed that this pre-adult experience impacted both aggressive behavior and resilience to pesticides. We performed enrichment analyses on differentially expressed genes to determine whether variation in aggression resembles the molecular response to infection. We further assessed whether the transcriptomic signature of aggression in the brain overlapped with that observed following acute predator threat, exposure to a high-aggression environment as an adult, or changes associated with adult behavioral maturation.
Results: Across all three tissues assessed, genes that are differentially expressed as a function of aggression significantly overlap with genes whose expression is modulated by a variety of pathogens. In the fat body, and to a lesser degree the midgut, we find evidence of directional concordance consistent with the hypothesis that low aggression resembles a diseased or parasitized state. However, we find little evidence of acute infection in low aggression individuals. Furthermore, we find little evidence that the brain molecular signature of aggression in the current study is enriched for genes modulated by either ephemeral or stable social cues that induce aggression in adults. However, we do find evidence that genes associated with adult behavioral maturation are enriched in our brain samples, with no clear directional bias.
Conclusions: Results support the hypothesis that low aggression resembles a molecular state associated with infection. This pattern is most robust in the peripheral fat body, an immune responsive tissue in the honey bee. Although these results are correlative, we find no evidence of acute infection in low aggression bees, suggesting the physiological state associated with low aggression may predispose bees to negative health outcomes. The similarity of molecular signatures associated with the seemingly disparate traits of aggression and disease suggests that these characteristics may, in fact, be intimately tied.
Linkage Mapping and Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals Conservative QTLs and Candidate Genes for Fusarium Rot Resistance in Maize
Authors: Wu Yabin , Zhou Zijian , Dong Chaopei , Chen Jiafa , Ding Junqiang , Zhang Xuecai , Mu Cong , Chen Yuna , Li Xiaopeng , Li Huimin , Han Yanan , Wang Ruixia , Sun Xiaodong , Li Jingjing , Dai Xiaodong , Song Weibin , Chen Wei , Wu Jianyu
Published: August 2019

Fusarium ear rot (FER) caused by Fusarium verticillioides is a major disease of maize that reduces grain yield and quality globally. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of natural variation in FER resistance, a recombinant inbred lines (RIL) population and one panel of inbred lines were used to map quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance. As a result, a total of 10 QTL were identified by linkage mapping under four environments, which were located on six chromosomes and explained 1.0%-7.1% of the phenotypic variation. Epistatic mapping detected four pairs of QTL that showed significant epistasis effects, explaining 2.1%-3.0% of the phenotypic variation. Additionally, 18 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified across the whole genome by genome-wide association study (GWAS) under five environments. Compared linkage and association mapping revealed five common intervals located on chromosomes 3, 4, and 5 associated with FER resistance, four of which were verified in different near-isogenic lines (NILs) populations. GWAS identified three candidate genes in these consistent intervals, which belonged to the Glutaredoxin protein family, actin-depolymerizing factors (ADFs), and AMP-binding proteins. In addition, two verified FER QTL regions were found consistent with Fusarium cob rot (FCR) and Fusarium seed rot (FSR). These results revealed that multi pathways were involved in FER resistance, which was a complex trait that was controlled by multiple genes with minor effects, and provided important QTL and genes, which could be used in molecular breeding for resistance.
Comparative Genomics and Association Analysis Identifies Virulence Genes of Cercospora sojina on Soybean
Authors: Gu Xin , Ding Junjie , Liu Wei , Yang Xiaohe , Yao Liang liang , Gao Xuedong , Zhang Maoming , Yang Shuai , Wen Jingzhi
Published: August 2019

Recently, a new strain of Cercospora sojina (Race 15) has been identified, which has caused the breakdown of resistance in most soybean cultivars in China. Despite this serious yield reduction, little is known about why this strain is more virulent than others. Therefore, we sequenced the Race 15 genome and compared it to the Race 1 genome sequence, as its virulence is significantly lower. We then re-sequenced 30 isolates of C. sojina from different regions to identifying differential virulence genes using genome-wide association analysis (GWAS). The 40.12-Mb Race 15 genome encodes 12,607 predicated genes and contains large numbers of gene clusters that have annotations in 11 different common databases. Comparative genomics revealed that although these two genomes had a large number of homologous genes, their genome structures have evolved to introduce 245 specific genes. The most important 5 candidate virulence genes were located on Contig 3 and Contig 1 and were mainly related to the regulation of metabolic mechanisms and the biosynthesis of bioactive metabolites, thereby putatively affecting fungi self-toxicity and reducing host resistance. Our study provides insight into the genomic basis of C. sojina pathogenicity and its infection mechanism, enabling future studies of this disease.
1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 targeting of NF-κB suppresses TNF-α induced adhesion molecules expression in human endothelial cells
Authors: Zhang Qingyan , Feng Yuan , Zhou Yishan , Sun Cheng , Zhu Wei , Cao Dongwei , Liu Jing , Jin Bo , Shao Qiuyuan , Tang Tianfeng , Zhang Miao , Jiang Chunming
Published: August 2019

Background Vitamin D and its analogues have been documented to be associated with endothelial dysfunction in various diseases. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we conducted an in vitro study to evaluate the effect of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D, on adhesion molecules expression in human endothelial cells. The possible mechanism involved in this process was also explored.Methods Human umbilical vein cells (HUVECs) were cultured and treated according to the experiment requirement. Western Blot and RT-PCR were used to evaluate the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and E-selectin. ChIP assay, immunofluorescence, Western Blot and co-immunoprecipitation were used to assess the effect of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on NF-κB signaling.Results 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 inhibited VCAM-1 and E-selectin mRNA and protein expression after TNF-α stimulation. ChIP assay showed that TNF-α increased the p65 binding to the promoter of VCAM-1 and E-selectin, which was suppressed by 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 affected TNF-α induced IκBα phosphorylation and p65 NF-κB activation, leading to an inhibition of p65 nuclear translocation. These effects were reversed by a specific vitamin D receptor siRNA (VDR-siRNA). Co-immunoprecipitation revealed that 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 induced an increased binding of VDR to p65, which inhibited the ability of p65 binding to target gene promoters.Conclusions 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 suppresses TNF-α induced adhesion molecules expression in human endothelial cells by blocking the NF-κB pathway, and this was VDR dependent.
A concept analysis of children with complex health conditions: implications for research and practice
Authors: Azar Rima , Doucet Shelley , Horsman Amanda Rose , Charlton Patricia , Luke Alison , Nagel Daniel A , Hyndman Nicky , Montelpare William J.
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND: This concept analysis aimed to clarify the meaning of “children with complex health conditions” and endorse a definition to inform future research, policy, and practice. METHODS: Using Walker and Avant’s (2011)’s approach, we refined the search strategy with input from our team, including family representatives. We reviewed the published and grey literature. We also interviewed 84 health, social, and educational stakeholders involved in the care of children with complex health conditions about their use/understanding of the concept. RESULTS: We provided model, borderline, related, and contrary cases for clarification purposes. We identified defining attributes that nuance the concept: (1) conditions and needs’ breadth; (2) uniqueness of each child/condition; (3) varying extent of severity over time; 4) developmental age; and (5) uniqueness of each family/context. Antecedents were chronic physical, mental, developmental, and/or behavioural condition(s). There were individual, family, and system consequences, including fragmented services. CONCLUSIONS: Building on previous definitions, we proposed an iteration that acknowledges the conditions’ changing trajectories as involving one or more chronic condition(s), regardless of type(s), whose trajectories can change over time, requiring services across sectors/settings, oftentimes resulting in a lower quality of life. A strength of this paper is the integration of the stakeholders’/family’s voices into the development of the definition.
Notification and Communication Technology: An Observational Study of Call Light Systems in Nursing Homes
Authors: Ali Haneen , Li Huiyang
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives: The call light system is one of the major communication technologies that links the nursing home staff to the needs of the residents. By providing residents with the ability to request assistance, the system becomes an indispensable resource for patient-focused healthcare. However, there is little known about how the call light systems are being used in nursing homes and how the system contributes to the safety and the quality of care for seniors. Therefore, the aims of this study are to understand the nursing home staff experience while using the call light systems and to uncover the usability issues associated with the implemented systems.
Method: A mix of 150 hours of hypothetic-deductive (unstructured) and 90 hours of standard-procedure (structured) observational study were conducted in four different nursing homes. The data collected includes insights into the nursing homes work system and the process of locating and responding to call lights.
Results: The data shows that the highest alarm rate is before and after meal times. The nursing staff exceeded the allotted time set by administration 50% of the time. Additionally, the staff canceled 10% of the call lights and did not immediately assist residents due to high workloads. Further, the staff forgot to come back to assist residents over 3% of the time. Usability issues such as broken parts, lack of feedback, lack of prioritization, and low/no discriminability are contributing to the long response time. More than 8% of the time, residents notified the staff about call lights after they waited for a long time, as these residents were left unattended.
Conclusion: Nursing homes that are still using old call light systems risk the continuation of usability issues that can affect performance of the staff and contribute to a decline in staff and resident outcomes. While the healthcare industry has been at the forefront of technological advancements and implementation, it is important to recognize the influence of technology in the quality of service delivery for the elderly population in nursing homes and to the nursing homes staff working conditions.
Identification of circular RNAs hsa-circ-000696 as a novel biomarker for breast cancer
Authors: WANG Libin , LI Xiaohan , WANG Danni , FENG Huimin , MA Fang , CAO Jia , TIAN Jinhai , YU Jingjing , HUANG Qi , MA Rong , WANG Jia , Zhang Xu
Published: August 2019

Background : To investigate the characteristic expression of circular RNAs between breast cancer and para-carcinoma tissue, identified hsa-circ-000696 as a novel biomarker for breast cancer.
Methods: 136 patients were recruited in General Hospital of NingXia Medical Universit. Of which 3 patients tissue for microarray analysis, 20 and 113 patients for circRNA expression in tissue and peripheral blood, respectively. The candidate circRNAs was verified by qPCR in BC patients’ tissue and peripheral blood. GeneSpring 13.0(Agilent) software were used for analysis the circRNA array data. CircRNA structure were performed by circPrimer1.2 software. MiRanda v3.3,RNAhybrid 2.1 and Cytoscape 3.6.0 were utilized as tools to predict the circRNA-miRNA networks. T-test, Curve regression analysis and ROC analysis were performed to determine the diagnostic values of candidate circRNAs. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS23.0 software.
Results: 2021 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified, of which 546 were upregulated and 1475 were downregulated. Four circRNAs were selected with filter criteria for further verify in BC tissues. Hsa-circ-0006969 was significantly downregulated both in breast cancer tissues and peripheral blood. Hsa-circ-0006969 proved a highest diagnostic value in breast cancer tissues(AUC=0.889), peripheral blood(AUC=0.823) for Grade 1(AUC=0.672), Grade 3(AUC=0.675), ER positive(AUC=0.648), TNM Ⅰ(AUC=0.687) and TNM Ⅱ(AUC=0.769), TNM Ⅲ(AUC=0.757), TNM early stage(Ⅰ, Ⅱ) (AUC=0.751). Hsa-circ-0006969 show more effective diagnostic values of for tumor metastasis (AUC=0.742) compared with CA153 (AUC=0.712).
Conclusion: Has-circ-0006969 could be a novel predictive biomarker for diagnostic and treatment of breast cancer.
BCR/ABL preleukemic fusion gene in subpopulations of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells from human UCB
Authors: Jakl Lukas , Škorvaga Milan , Durdík Matúš , Košík Pavol , Bérešová Katarína , Jakubíková Jana , Kubeš Miroslav , Holop Marek , Marková Eva , Belyaev Igor
Published: August 2019

Background BCR/ABL preleukemic fusion gene (PFG) is one of the most frequent fusion genes in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and was also detected in hematopoietic cells from umbilical cord blood (UCB) of healthy newborns. Since hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPC) are considered to be a critical cellular target for origination of leukemia, we have studied the presence of BCR/ABL PFG in expanded subpopulations of HSPC and differentiated cells from UCB of those healthy newborns, who have previously been tested positive for BCR/ABL by screening of their UCB mononuclear cells using RT-qPCR and FISH methods. Methods: We isolated cells from human UCB samples positive for BCR/ABL and negative controls. The isolated cells were sorted into 5 hematopoietic and progenitor cell subpopulations. Sorted cells were expanded and analyzed for the presence of BCR/ABL chromosomal translocation and fusion transcripts by FISH and RT-qPCR, respectively. We analyzed BCR/ABL in sorted and expanded subpopulations of UCB using FISH and RT-qPCR Results: We found that the number of BCR/ABL positive cells was similar in each studied subpopulation and the same as in differentiated lymphocytes. Conclusions: Our data showed that there is no specific subpopulation of hematopoietic and progenitor stem cells with an increased leukemogenic potential due to the presence of higher copies of BCR/ABL.
Caveolin-1 promotes tumor cell proliferation and vasculogenic mimicry formation in human glioma
Authors: Chen Wenli , Cheng Xing , Wang Xiaobo , Hu Wenjie , Wang Jinshan , Liao Chuangxin
Published: August 2019

Background: Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) plays an important role in human glioma progression and resistance to antiangiogenic therapy as a compensatory neovascularization mechanism in malignant tumors. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) has been found to contribute to VM formation. However, it remains largely unknown whether Cav-1 expression correlates with VM in glioma.
Methods: In this study, by performing immnunohistochemical staining of Cav-1 and CD31/Periodic acid–Schiff co-staining, we found that Cav-1 expression and VM formation were positively correlated with each other and both are closely associated with glioma development and progression as evidenced by the presence of cystic tumor, the shortened survival time and advanced-stage glioma in glioma patients with Cav-1 overexpression/increased VM formation, suggesting Cav-1 as a prognostic indicator in glioma.

Results: Gain- and loss-of-function analyses showed that Cav-1 promoted U251 glioma cell proliferation and VM formation in a Matrigel-based 3D culture model. Mechanistically, overexpression of Cav-1 upregulated while knockdown of Cav-1 downregulated the mRNA/protein expression of VM-associated genes including Akt and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), respectively, suggesting that the Akt signaling and HIF-1α may be involved in Cav-1-induced glioma cell proliferation and VM formation.

Conclusion: Collectively, our study identifies Cav-1 as an important regulator of glioma cell proliferation and VM formation, contributing to glioma development and progression.
Risk of multi-drug resistant Campylobacter spp. and residual antimicrobials at poultry farms and live bird markets in Bangladesh
Authors: Neogi Sucharit Basu , Islam Md. Mehedul , Islam SK Shaheenur , Akhter A.H.M. Taslima , Sikder Md. Mahmudul Hasan , Yamasaki Shinji , Kabir S. M. Lutful
Published: August 2019

[EXSCINDED]
Abstract

Background
Understanding potential risks of multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens from the booming poultry sector is a crucial public health concern, particularly for developing countries. Campylobacter spp. are among the most important zoonotic pathogens associated with MDR infections in poultry and human. This study systematically examined potential risks and associated socio-environmental factors of MDR Campylobacter spp. in poultry farms and live bird markets (LBMs) of Bangladesh.Methods

Microbial culture and PCR-based methods were applied to examine the occurrence and MDR patterns of Campylobacter spp. at hatcheries, broiler farms and LBMs. Antimicrobial residues in broiler meat and liver samples were detected by advanced chromatogrhaphic techniques. A questionnaire based cross-sectional survey was conducted on socio-environmental factors.Results

In poultry farms, Campylobacter spp. was primarily found in broiler cloacal swabs (21/49, 43%), followed by water (8/24, 33%) and broiler meat (8/28, 29%). Remarkably, in live bird markets, Campylobacter spp. was detected in higher prevalence in broiler meat (14/26, 54%), which could have an association with bacterial contamination in water sources (11/21, 52%) and floor (9/21, 43%). Majority isolates of the predominant species, i.e., Campylobacter jejuni (33/47, 70%) and Campylobacter coli (14/24, 58%), were observed to be MDR, showing resistance to amoxycilin, tetracycline and erythromycin, and additionally ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, streptomycin, and azithromycin. Residual antimicrobials, including oxytetracycline, ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin, were detected in majority of broiler liver (79%) and meat (62%) samples; and alarmingly, 33% and 19%, respectively, with concentration above acceptable limit. Inadequate personal and environmental hygiene, unscrupulously use of antimicrobials, improper waste disposal, and lack of health surveillance and quarantine facilities of diseased birds were distinguishable anthropogenic risk factors, with local diversity and compound influences on MDR pathogens.Conclusion

The observed large-scale occurrence of MDR C. jejuni and C. coli and residual antimicrobials in poultry value chain reflects an alarming situation for public health in Bangladesh. Potential contamination sources of MDR Campylobacter and the combined influences of diverse socio-environmental risk factors, noted in this study, would aid in developing interventions to minimize the increasing risks of poultry-associated MDR pathogens under ‘One Health’ banner that includes poultry, human and environment perspectives.
Barriers of Antenatal Care Service Utilization in Somali Regional State Using Socio Ecological Model Framework, Eastern Ethiopia, Ethiopia: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Mohammed Abdurehman , Teklu Alula , Beyene Senait , Hashi Abdiwahab , Abebe Zerihun , Gezahegn Wondimagegn , Mulugeta Mengestie , Metaferia Gesit , Shekabdulahi Muktar , Tolera Moti , Gebru Teklemichael
Published: August 2019

Background

A good Antenatal Care during pregnancy is important to ensure the health of the mother and the healthy development of the fetus. In 2016, at Ethiopian Somali region (43.6%) of pregnant mothers had an Antenatal Care (ANC) visit at least once during their last pregnancy and only (11.8%) had a history of Four or more visits for Antenatal Care, which are the lowest rates among all regions in Ethiopia.Objective

The objective of the study was to explore the barriers and determine enabling factors affecting Antenatal Care service utilization in Somali Regional state.Methods

A qualitative exploration was conducted from February 18 to March 11, 2017. A pre-tested semi-structured interview guides, and facility abstractions with checklists were used to collect the data. A total of 31 individual interviews, 12 focus group discussions, and 21 facility abstractions were collected. The population of the region were stratified into three areas based on their settlement characteristics as agro-pastoralist, pastoralist, and urban. Two districts were selected from each category based on their performance. The data was entered, coded, categorized, and analyzed by utilizing Nvivo version 11software. A thematic analysis was conducted using themes that were developed based on the constructs of the socio-ecological model.Results

According to the study, economic constraints, place of residence, mothers’ being lack of awareness, preference of female health care provider, husband’s disapproval, lack of acceptance by the community, absence of full ANC services packages related with shortage of manpower, medical supply in majority of the health facilities and lack of perceived benefits from ANC service were the main barriers of ANC service utilization.Conclusion

Individual, interpersonal, and organizational level factors were the most dominant barriers for ANC service utilization. Therefore, FMOH, regional, zonal and district level health administrators and other stakeholders should design effective IEC, community mobilization and work on supply-related problems to .increase ANC utilization in the region.
Pregnancy outcomes among 31 patients with tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Wang Kana , Xin Junguo , Wang Xiaodong , Yu Haiyan , Liu Xinghui
Published: August 2019

Background Ttralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a severe type of congenital heart disease (CHD) and confers substantial risk to mother and fetus. However, the outcomes of pregnant women with TOF have not been well studied.Methods Women with TOF who has been seen and/or delivered at our tertiary-care hospital between April 2008 and January 2018 were retrospective reviewed.Results A total of 31 TOF patients with pregnancies were identified in ten-year period. Among these patients, cardiac defects were surgically repaired in 19 cases and remained uncorrected in 12 women. The frequency of miscarriages and preterm birth was greater in the uncorrected group (16.67% vs one, and 50% vs 5.26%, respectively). The percentage of babies who were small for gestational age (SGA) was 41.67% and 10.53% in two groups. The neonatal mortality and fetal mortality were observed in women without correction for TOF, which were 3.23% (1/31) and 6.45(2/31), respectively. Maternal and neonatal risk appeared to be associated with heart functional classifications, pulmonary hypertension and histories of cardiac events such as serious cardiac arrhythmias.Conclusions Obstetric and cardiac complications are more frequently present in the pregnant women with uncorrected TOF. Surgical correction is associated with improved maternal and perinatal outcome.
Digital Postpartum Hemorrhage Management Device (DPHMD)
Authors: Dereje Derartu , Getachew Abeba , Meskelu Birhan , Adamu Christian , Dejene Kidst , Daba Hundessa , Simegn Gizeaddis Lamesgin
Published: August 2019

Baclground

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is an obstetric emergency caused by excessive blood loss that occurs most commonly after the placenta is delivered. PPH can lead to volume depletion, hypovolemic shock, anemia, which is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Maternal mortality rate in Ethiopia is among the highest in the world with 470 deaths per 100,000 live births. 94% of births in Ethiopia are estimated to occur at home and ten percent of maternal deaths are attributed to PPH. Now a days, physicians use visual estimation to calculate blood loss and provide fluid during delivery. This traditional method is subjective and generally inaccurate.Method

In this project, after delivery blood loss measurement system integrated with fluid delivery and vital sign monitoring method is proposed. The collection and measurement system collects blood loss after delivery and measure the amount of blood loss. The management system continuously monitors the mother’s heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure, and integrates the measured blood loss to make decision for providing appropriate fluid and medication necessary for the mothers. The fluid provided for mothers is also controlled automatically.Results

The prototype was built and undergone through different tests and iterations. The proposed device was tested for accuracy, cost effectiveness and ease to use. 91.28% accuracy has been achieved and the prototype was built only with less than 210 USD.Conclusion

The proposed design allows physicinas, especially those in low resource setting, to estimate blood loss and delver fluid accurately. This helps to reduce maternal mortality rate that may occur due to postpartum hemorrhage.
Evolution of comorbidities in people living with HIV between 2004 and 2014: Cross-sectional analyses from ANRS CO3 Aquitaine Cohort
Authors: Bonnet Fabrice , Marec Fabien Le , Leleux Olivier , Gerard Yann , Neau Didier , Lazaro Estibaliz , Duffau Pierre , Caubet Olivier , Vandenhende Marrie-Anne , Mercie Patrick , Cazanave Charles , Dabis Francois
Published: August 2019

Objective The objective of the present study was to describe the evolution of chronic non-AIDS related diseases and their risk factors, in patients living with HIV (PLHIV) included in the French ANRS CO3 Aquitaine prospective cohort, observed both in 2004 and in 2014 in order to improve long-term healthcare management. Patients and Methods The ANRS CO3 Aquitaine cohort prospectively collects epidemiological, clinical, biological and therapeutic data on PLHIV in the French Aquitaine region. Two cross sectional analyses were performed in 2004 and 2014, regarding patient characteristics, HIVRNA and CD4 counts and prevalence of some of the common comorbidities and treatment. Results 2,138 PLHIV (71% male, median age 52.2 years in 2014), who had at least one visit registered in the cohort both in 2004 and 2014 were included in the study. We have observed a significant increase in the prevalence of diagnosed chronic kidney disease (CKD), bone fractures, cardiovascular events (CVE), hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia as well as an increase in treatment or prevention for these conditions (statins, clopidogrel, aspirin). This is also reflected in an increase in the proportion of patients in the high or very high risk groups in the different disease risk scores for CKD, CVE and bone fracture score. Conclusions Between 2004 and 2014, the population aged and experienced an overall higher prevalence of non-HIV related comorbidities, including CKD and CVD. Careful HIV management according to current recommendations, and optimal selection of antiretrovirals, in addition to a good control of risk factors for these comorbidities, through lifestyle improvements and preventative measures, could lead to an early management of these comorbidities and to a continuous improvement of PLHIV health status.
The globe transcriptome analysis reveals hybrid effects and regulatory divergence between (Acanthopagrus schlegelii ♂× Pagrus major ♀) hybrid F1 and parents
Authors: Chen Shuyin , Zhang Zhiyong , Ji Hongjiu , Xu Shixia , Yang Yunxia , Jia Chaofeng , Zhu Fei , Meng Qian , Sun Ruijian , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhao Yongchao
Published: August 2019

Background: Hybridization in two related homoploid species can mix the genotypes which have the potential for good environmental adaptation conditions or rapid growth condition. Since hybridization technique has been used in other animals to produce more rapidly growing individuals, it may be useful in commercial fish culture. The nutritional composition and rapid growth rate of P. major, A. schlegelii and hybrid F1 had been researched. However, gene expressions of these fish are less well studied. de novo assembly RNA-Seq is a better approach to understanding transcriptomes of animals and can offer much data with better coverage and sufficient sequence depth for transcriptomes. Results: In order to facilitate molecular research in parents and hybrids F1, we characterized the whole body transcriptome for identifcation of transcripts involved in growth, metabolism and immune since several attributes were coming from different samples (Acanthopagrus schlegelii, Pagrus major and hybrid F1 Acanthopagrus schlegelii ♂× Pagrus major ♀). We analyzed the transcriptome of As, Pm and hybrid F1 AP using Illumina high throughput sequencing platform. Our results suggested that physiological index of organism development we observed is consistent to the gene express in transcriptome. We have also compared the expression levels of transcripts in parents and hybrids F1. The results showed that AP had a quickly growth and strong resistant than parents Pm and As. Conclusion: This is the first research on transcriptome of As, Pm and hybrid F1 at one month age. And it will provide an important basic molecular data for studying molecular mechanisms involved in different sample.
Validation of an equine serum amyloid A assay with an unusually broad working range
Authors: Jacobsen Stine , Vinther Anne Mette , Kjelgaard-Hansen Mads , Nielsen Lise Nikolic
Published: August 2019

Background

Serum amyloid A (SAA) is a major equine acute phase protein and of great value in detection and monitoring of inflammation. A new immunoturbidometric assay based on monoclonal antibodies (VET-SAA, Eiken Chemical Co., Japan) may be useful for SAA measurements in routine diagnostic laboratories. The aim of the study was to validate the VET-SAA immunoturbidometric assay and use it to measure serum SAA concentrations in a variety of clinical cases. Precision was assessed by intra- and interassay coefficients of variation of repeated measurements of serum pools (low, intermediate, high concentrations of SAA). Accuracy was estimated by linearity under dilution. Detection limit was determined by replicate determinations of ionized water. Measurements were compared to measurements performed in a previously validated SAA assay (LZSAA assay, Eiken Chemical Co., Japan). Subsequently, the VET-SAA assay was used for measuring serum SAA concentrations in horses with and without inflammation.

Results

Detection limit was 1.2 mg/L. Without modifications, the assay measured SAA concentrations with acceptable reliability in a broad concentration range (0 to > 6000 mg/L). In the 0-3000 mg/L range, the assay demonstrated good precision and accuracy, and concentrations correlated well with those obtained in the LZSAA assay, albeit with a slight systematic bias. Concentrations of SAA assessed in horses with and without inflammation followed the expected pattern, with significantly higher concentrations in horses with systemic inflammation than in healthy horses and horses with non-inflammatory disease.

Conclusions

The assay was unique in its ability to measure SAA concentrations with acceptable reliability over an extreme concentration range. This is relevant in the equine species, where SAA concentrations may reach very high concentrations.
Clinical characteristics and post-discharge follow-up analysis of 10 cases of congenital tuberculosis: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Du Juan , Dong Shixiao , Jia Shengnan , Zhang Qiaoru , Hei Mingyan
Published: August 2019

Background
Congenital tuberculosis (TB) is a rare disease with a high mortality. In this study, we reviewed patients with congenital TB that were promptly treated with an anti-TB regimen, including linezolid, based on new clinical diagnosis criteria. We described the clinical manifestations, treatment, and long-term prognosis of this disease in these patients.
Methods
This was a retrospective observational study that enrolled patients with congenital TB that were admitted to Beijing Children’s Hospital between 2009 and 2018.
Results
A total of 10 congenital TB patients were enrolled. Ninety-percentage of the mothers were diagnosed at postpartum; however, none of the mothers received anti-TB treatment during pregnancy. The onset age of congenital TB ranged from 1 to 53 days. Chest computed tomography scans demonstrated pulmonary nodules in 100% of the patients and mediastinal adenopathy in 40% of the patients. Abdominal ultrasonography showed hypoechoic nodules in the liver and spleen in 40% of the patients. The positive rate of GeneXpert and T-spot were relatively high—80% and 78%, respectively. Anti-TB treatment was started when congenital TB was confirmed for 1 patient based on TB-specific tests or clinically diagnosed for the other 9 patients based on confirmed maternal TB history and typical radiological findings. Beside isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide, linezolid was also administrated in 70% of the patients for a period of 2–6 months. One patient was reported to present with spontaneously resolved thrombocytopenia. The survival rate was 100%, and 33% of the patients have thrived and reached normal developmental milestones since the last documented follow-up.
Conclusion
Congenital TB is a potentially fatal disease, but early diagnosis based on maternal history, typical imaging results, and timely treatment can improve the outcome. Linezolid is safe and might be effective in reducing the mortality of congenital TB.
Post-Discharge survival status and predictors of mortality among severely acute malnourished children <5 years of age admitted to Minia University Maternity and Children Hospital
Authors: Ghazawy Eman , Bebars Gihan , Eshak Ehab Salah
Published: August 2019

Background: Though effective treatment programs for severely malnourished children are available, but little is known about long-term outcomes and potential predictors of post-discharge mortality. The aim of this study was to assess the post-discharge survival status and predictors for post-discharge mortality in severely malnourished children admitted to Minia University Maternity and Children Hospital Methods: A retrospective cohort study which included 135 children under five years of age who were admitted to the nutrition rehabilitation ward with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) during the period from January to December 2018. Data were collected from the inpatients hospital records and children’s parents/guardians were interviewed using a detailed structured questionnaire that inquired about demographic and socioeconomic variables. Results: A total of 135 children were enrolled into the study. Death rate during hospitalization was 9.6%. The cumulative probability of survival beyond eight weeks and at least for 24 weeks after discharge was 89.3% with a cumulative probability of post-discharge mortality of 10.7% and all deaths occurred within eight weeks after discharge. The main predictors for post-discharge mortality were illiteracy of mothers and the presence of edema at admission; the multivariable HRs (95%CIs) were 7.10 (1.58-31.93; p=0.01) and 6.96 (0.84-357.85; p=0.07), respectively. Conclusions: Mothers’ education and edema at admission are independent predictors for post-discharge mortality in under-five children with SAM. The identification of predictors for post-discharge mortality is an important preliminary step for interventions aiming to reduce morbidity and mortality following discharge.
Cerebrovascular events in hemodialysis patients; 3-year observational study
Authors: Ozelsancak Ruya , Micozkadioglu Hasan , Torun Dilek , Tekkarismaz Nihan
Published: August 2019

Purpose

This study reports findings in subjects who underwent brain imaging for any reason, and examined factors influencing cerebrovascular events (CVEs) in hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods

A total of 432 patients who underwent HD for at least 5 months were included in the study; 264 had been examined by cerebral computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging examination within the previous 3 years. Cerebrovascular pathology was detected in 139 of 264 patients.

Results

Of the 139 patients, 65 (24.62%) had ischemic lesions, 25 (9.47%) had hemorrhagic lesions, and 49 (18.56%) had cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). We compared recorded data and later clinical findings between patients with and those without CVEs. The cause of end-stage renal disease was diabetes in 58.5% of patients with ischemic lesions, 52% in those with hemorrhagic lesions, and 55% in those with CSVD (P < 0.05). Patients with cerebrovascular ischemia were older (P = 0.0001) and had lower serum creatinine (sCr) (P = 0.0001) and higher serum C-reactive protein (CRP) (P = 0.002) levels than normal subjects. Hemorrhagic patients were older (P = 0.003) and had lower sCr (P = 0.003) and serum predialysis potassium (P = 0.003) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) (P = 0.004) levels than normal subjects. Patients with CSVD were older (P < 0.0001) and had lower sCr (P < 0.0001), phosphorus (P < 0.007), and PTH (P < 0.013) and higher CRP (P < 0.002) levels than normal subjects.

Conclusion

HD patients with CVEs are older and typically have diabetes mellitus and lower sCr levels.
Multiple chronic conditions and associated health care expenses in US adults with cancer: A 2010-2015 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey study
Authors: Davis-Ajami Mary Lynn , Lu Zhiqiang K , Wu Jun
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Background: We know cancer increases the risk of developing one or more chronic conditions, yet little research describes the associations between health care costs, utilization patterns, and chronic conditions in adults with cancer. The objective of this study was to examine the treated prevalence of chronic conditions and the effect of chronic conditions on health care expenses in US adults with cancer.
Methods: This retrospective observational study used US Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) Household Component (2010-2015) data sampling adults diagnosed with cancer and one or more of 18 select chronic conditions. The measures used were treated prevalence of chronic conditions, and total and chronic condition-specific health expenses (per-person, per-year). Generalized linear models assessed chronic condition-specific expenses in adults with cancer vs. without cancer and the effect of chronic conditions on total health expenses in adults with cancer, respectively, by controlling for demographic and health characteristics. Accounting for the complex survey design in MEPS, all data analyses and statistical procedures applied longitudinal weights for national estimates.
Results: Among 3,657 eligible adults with cancer, 83.9% (n = 3,040; representing 16 million US individuals per-year) had at least one chronic condition, and 29.7% reported four or more conditions. Among those with cancer, hypertension (59.7%), hyperlipidemia (53.6%), arthritis (25.6%), diabetes (22.2%), and coronary artery disease (18.2%) were the five most prevalent chronic conditions. Chronic conditions accounted for 30% of total health expenses. Total health expenses were $6,388 higher for those with chronic conditions vs. those without (p<0.001). Health expenses associated with chronic conditions increased by 34% in adults with cancer vs. those without cancer after adjustment.
Conclusions: In US adults with cancer, the treated prevalence of common chronic conditions was high and health expenses associated with chronic conditions were higher than those without cancer. A holistic treatment plan is needed to improve cost outcomes.
Keywords: cancer, multiple chronic conditions, health expenses, health utilization