bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haemato-immunological responses and effectiveness of feed-based bivalent vaccine against Streptococcus iniae and Aeromonas hydrophila infections in hybrid red tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus × O. niloticus)
Authors: Monir Md. Shirajum , Yusoff Md Sabri bin Mohd , Zulperi Zarirah binti Mohamed , Hassim Hasliza binti Abu , Mohamad Aslah , Sofie Mohd Hafiz Ngoo Muhamad , Ina-Salwany Md Yasin
Published: June 2020

Background: Streptococcosis and Motile Aeromonad Septicemia (MAS) are important diseases of tilapia, Oreochromis spp. and causes huge economic losses in aquaculture globally. The feed-based vaccination may be an alternative to minimize major infectious diseases in tilapia. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the haemato-immunological responses and effectiveness of a newly developed feed-based killed bivalent vaccine against Streptococcus iniae and Aeromonas hydrophila in hybrid red tilapia. A total of 495 hybrid red tilapia of 61.23±4.95 g were distributed into 5 groups (each with triplicate). The fish were immunized orally through bivalent (combined S. iniae and A. hydrophila) spray vaccine (BS group), bivalent formulate vaccine (BF group), monovalent S. iniae vaccine (MS group), monovalent A. hydrophila vaccine (MA group) and unvaccinated as a control group. The vaccine was orally administered on days 0, 14 and 42 applied feed-based bacterin at 5% body weight. The blood and spleen samples were collected from all groups on 7, 21 and 49 days post-vaccination, and also 96 hours post-infection to assess their haemato-immune responses. Results: Compared with the unvaccinated group, leukocyte, lymphocytes, monocytes, granulocytes counts in vaccinated groups were significantly (P < 0.05) increased on 21, 49 days post-vaccination and also 96 hours post-infection, while erythrocytes, haemoglobin and haematocrit in vaccinated groups were significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced only 96 hours post-infection. Additionally, the lysozyme and phagocytic activity and, serum antibody (IgM) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) against S. iniae and A. hydrophila in vaccinated groups compared to the unvaccinated group in the pre- and post-infection. Results from the challenge through co-infection with S. iniae and A. hydrophila showed the relative percent survival (RPS) in BF group was 76.67±4.71%, which had the capacity to induce significant protection (P < 0.05) compared to others groups. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the bivalent formulate (BF) group could elicit significant non-specific and specific immunological responses with higher protection in hybrid red tilapia. In addition, this newly developed feed-based bivalent vaccination can be a promising technique for effective and large scale fish immunization in the aquaculture industry.
Barriers to accessing health care services: A qualitative study of migrant construction workers in a Southwestern Indian city
Authors: Santalahti Maija , Sumit Kumar , Perkiö Mikko
Published: June 2020

Background: This study examined access to health care in an occupational context in an urban city of India. Many people migrate from rural areas to cities, often across Indian states, for employment prospects. The purpose of the study is to explore the barriers to accessing health care among a vulnerable group – internal migrants working in the construction sector in Manipal, Karnataka. Understanding the lay workers’ accounts of access to health service can help to comprehend the diversity of factors that hinder access to health care. Methods: Individual semi-structured interviews involving 15 migrant construction workers were conducted. The study applied theory-guided content analysis to investigate access to health services among the construction workers. The adductive analysis combined deductive and inductive approaches with the aim of verifying the existing barrier theory in a vulnerable context and further developing the health care access barrier theory. Results: This study’s result is a revised version of the health care access barriers model, including the dimension of trust. Three known health care access barriers – financial, cognitive and structural, as well as the new barrier (distrust in public health care services), were identified among migrant construction workers in a city context in Karnataka, India. Conclusions: Further qualitative research on vulnerable groups would produce a more comprehensive account of access to health care. The socioeconomic status behind access to health care, as well as distrust in public health services, forms focal challenges for any policymaker hoping to improve health services to match people’s needs.
Virtual Reality Experience In Long Term Care Resident Older Adults With Dementia: A Case Series
Authors: Sultana Munira , Campbell Karen , Jennings Morgan , Montero-Odasso Manuel , Orange Joseph. B. , Knowlton Jill , George Armin St. , Bryant Dianne
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND: Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) worsens as dementia progresses, intensifies caregiver distress and consequent institutionalization. We wanted to evaluate feasibility of Virtual Reality (VR) as non-pharmacologic intervention for BPSD in a Long-Term Care (LTC) home. METHODS: A single site (Henley Place at London, Ontario) case series with a convenience sample (24 older adult residents with moderate to severe dementia). Intervention was 30 minutes of VR experience with Broomx©, five days a week for two weeks. BPSD was measured with Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD), Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) scale, Dementia Observation System (DOS) scale, and proportion of night-time sleep. We validated selected tools with Global Rating of Change (GRC) scale. RESULTS: Implementing VR experience was possible at Henley Place (recruitment rate=40%, the adherence rate=21%, and the attrition=0%) and participants could tolerate it. No emergency transfers or one-to-one staff use were recorded during the intervention period. BPSD measuring instruments also were sensitive to change. CONCLUSION: VR experience can be implemented in a LTC home. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was not registered as clinical trial. We obtained ethics approval from ADVARRA Canada Ethics Board before recruiting participants for the study.
Pathological progress and prognosis of traumatic femur head necrosis after femoral neck fracture in children and adolescent: a retrospective case series of 64 patients
Authors: Yang Fan , Tu Yonggang , Hong Zhinan , Pang Fengxiang , He Wei , Wei Qiushi , Li Ziqi
Published: June 2020

Background: The pathological progression and prognosis of traumatic femur head necrosis (TFHN) after femoral neck fracture (FNF) in children and adolescent is relatively unknown and has never been specifically characterized. As we speculated, the prognosis in such population would be poor and characterized as the high risk of femoral head collapse, hip deformity and degeneration in a short term.Methods: This retrospective case series enrolled 64 children and adolescent with TFHN who treated with observational treatment from 2000.1 to 2018.1. The primary outcomes, such as the progression of femoral head collapse, hip deformity (Stulberg classification) and hip degeneration (Tönnis grade), and their prognostic factors were analysed.Results: 42 males and 22 females with a mean age of 13 years (6-16 years), were included. A total of 28 hips (44%) showed unsatisfactory outcome and Twenty-five (39%) hips collapsed progressively during a mean follow-up of 48 months (24-203 months). Finally, 38 hips (59%) experienced hip deformity, 20 of them were class IV/V. 34 hips (53%) generally progressed to osteoarthritis, 14 of them were classified as grades II/III. The location of the lesion and the presence of lateral subluxation were found to be independently related to progression of femoral head collapse; however, the presence of lateral subluxation was the only independent risk factor of severe hip deformity and degeneration.Conclusion: TFHN in children and adolescent is a rapidly progressing disease with a poor prognosis characterized by a high risk of femoral head collapse progression. If the lateral subluxation emerged, collapsed cases showed increasingly tendency towards severe hip deformity and degeneration.
Eating disorders among patients with borderline personality disorder: understanding the prevalence and psychopathology
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen
Published: June 2020

Background: Treatment protocols can be bolstered and etiological and maintenance factors can be recognized more easily by a superior understanding of emotions and emotion regulation in the comorbidity of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and feeding and eating disorders (FEDs). Therefore, the present study aimed at investigating the prevalence and psychopathology of FEDs in patients with BPD.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 220 participants were examined in three groups, namely BPD (n = 38), BPD + FEDs (n = 72), and the healthy control (n = 110), from August 2018 to November 2019. The participants were selected by systematic random sampling among the patients who referred to Baharan psychiatric hospital in Zahedan, Iran, with the sampling interval of 3. The subjects were evaluated by 28-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Borderline Personality Inventory (BPI), Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Personality Disorders (SCID-5-PD), Structured Clinical Interviews for DSM-5: Research Version (SCID-5-RV), the 26-item Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Results: The results showed a 65.4% (n = 72) prevalence of FEDs in patients with BPD. Also, the highest and lowest prevalence rates were reported for other specified feeding and eating disorders (51.3%) and bulimia nervosa (6.9%), respectively. Although the highest mean score of TAS-20 was related to anorexia nervosa, there was no significant difference between the scores of various types of FEDs. The mediation analysis showed that anxiety and depression would play a mediating role in the relationship between alexithymia and eating-disordered behaviors. Conclusions: The results have suggested that alexithymia, anxiety, and depression should receive clinical attention as potential therapeutic targets in the comorbidity of BPD and FEDs. The clinical implications of the research have been conducted to date, and directions for future research have been discussed.
Osteocyte-derived exosomes induced by mechanical strain promote human periodontal ligament stem cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation via the miR-181b-5p/PTEN/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Lv Peiying , Gao Pengfei , Tian Guangjie , Yang Yanyan , Mo Feifei , Wang Zihui , Sun Lu , Kuang Mingjie , Wang Yonglan
Published: June 2020

Background: The oral cavity is a complex environment in which periodontal tissue is constantly stimulated by external microorganisms and mechanical forces. Proper mechanical force helps maintain periodontal tissue homeostasis and improper inflammatory response can break the balance. Periodontal ligament (PDL) cells plays crucial roles in responding these challenges and maintaining the homeostasis of periodontal tissue. However, the mechanisms underlying PDL cell property changes induced by inflammatory and mechanical force microenvironments are still unclear. Recent studies have shown that exosomes function as a mean of cell-cell and cell-matrix communication in biological processes. Methods: Human periodontal ligament stem cells (HPDLSCs) were tested by the CCK8 assay, EdU, alizarin red and ALP staining to evaluate the functions of exosomes induced by mechanical strain. MicroRNA sequencing was used to find the discrepancy miRNA in exosomes. In addition, RT-PCR, FISH, luciferase reporter assay and western blotting assay were used to investigated the mechanism of miR-181b-5p regulating proliferation and osteogenic differentiation through the PTEN/AKT pathway. Results: In this study, the exosomes secreted by MLO-Y4 cells exposed to mechanical strain (Exosome-MS) contributed to human periodontal ligament stem cell (HPDLSC) proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. High-throughput miRNA sequencing showed that miR181b-5p was upregulated in Exosome-MS compared to the exosomes derived from MLO-Y4 cells lacking MS. The luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR-181b-5p may target Phosphatase tension homolog deletion (PTEN). In addition, PTEN was negatively regulated by overexpressing miR-181b-5p. PCR and western blot analyses verified that miR‐181b-5p enhanced the protein kinase B (AKT) activity and improved downstream factor transcription. Furthermore, miR-181b-5p effectively ameliorated the inhibition of HPDLSC proliferation and osteogenesis induced by inflammation. Conclusions: This study concluded that exosomes induced by mechanical strain promote HPDLSC proliferation and osteogenic differentiation via the miR-181b-5p/PTEN/AKT signaling pathway, suggesting a potential mechanism for maintaining periodontal homeostasis.
Percutaneous intramedullary screw fixation in lateral malleolar ankle fractures
Authors: Abulsoud Mohamed Ibrahim , Sebaie Adnan Al , Darwish Ahmed , Moawad Mohamed , Elzahed Ehab , El-Ghaffar Tarek M Abd , Elmarghany Mohammed , Elgeushy Ahmed
Published: June 2020

Objectives: To evaluate the outcome of percutaneous fixation of lateral malleolar ankle fractures by intramedullary screw.Methods: Twenty-five patients with Weber A and Weber B displaced lateral malleolus fractures were retrospectively reviewed after they had done closed reduction and percutaneous internal fixation with an intramedullary fully threaded screw with a washer. A 3.5-mm, fully threaded, self- tapping bone screw. The length of the screw varies between 90 mm and 110 mm, depending on the fracture location and pattern.Results: All fractures united within an average time to union of 5.86 ± 1.74 weeks. There were no deep wound infections or complaints of painful hardware. At the latest follow-up, functional results were excellent in 16 patients (64%) good in 8 patients (32 %), fair in one patient (4%).Conclusion Percutaneous intramedullary screw fixation is a good technique in the management of lateral malleolar fracture that provides good clinical and radiological results as it is rapid, minimally invasive, and without prominent hardware.
Production and verification of the first Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) clonal lines
Authors: hansen tom , Penman David , Glover Kevin Alan , Fraser Thomas , Vågseth Tone , Thorsen Anders , Sørvik Anne Grete Eide , Fjelldal Per Gunnar
Published: June 2020

Background: In several fish species homozygous and heterozygous clonal lines have been produced using gynogenetic and androgenetic techniques. These lines are standardized and can be reproduced over generations. In rainbow trout such lines have existed for decades and has become important research tools in genome studies as well as in studies of commercially important traits. The Atlantic salmon is one of the best studied fish species globally, but all experiments are done on fish of wild or domesticated origin and access to standardized immortal fish lines would be of great benefit. Here, we describe the protocols developed to produce mitotic gynogenes, and from these the first clonal lines in Atlantic salmon.Results: Atlantic salmon eggs fertilized with UV irradiated sperm combined with a pressure shock applied at 4700 - 4800 minC at 8 oC gave all homozygous (doubled haploid) gynogenetic progeny with high survival. From the six first maturing females, five all homozygous clonal lines were produced by meiotic gynogenesis and were verified as clonal and identical to their mother with microsatellite markers.Conclusions: We have now produced the first documented cloned Atlantic salmon lines. This work demonstrates the potential for production of further Atlantic salmon clonal lines, potentially with distinct characteristics. Such lines will provide an important resource for further elucidation of phenotypic and genetic traits in this globally important species.
Linc00473 potentiates cholangiocarcinoma progression by modulation of DDX5 expression via miR-506 regulation
Authors: Huang Lining , Jiang Xingming , Li Zhenglong , Li Jinglin , Lin Xuan , Hu Zengtao , Cui Yunfu
Published: June 2020

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a mortal cancer with high mortality, whereas the function and mechanism of occurrence and progression of CCA are still mysterious. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) could function as important regulators in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Growing evidences have indicated that the novel lncRNA linc00473 plays an important role in cancer progression and metastasis. However, its function and molecular mechanism in CCA remain unknown. Methods: The linc00473 expression in CCA tissues and cell lines was analyzed using qRT-PCR. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were conducted to investigate the biological functions of linc00473 both in vitro and in vivo. Insights into the underlying mechanisms of competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) were determined by bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assays, qRT-PCR arrays, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and rescue experiments. Results: Linc00473 was highly expressed in CCA tissues and cell lines. Linc00473 knockdown inhibited CCA growth and metastasis. Furthermore, linc00473 acted as miR-506 sponge and regulated its target gene DDX5 expression. Rescue assays verified that linc00473 modulated the tumorigenesis of CCA by regulating miR-506. Conclusions: The data indicated that linc00473 played an oncogenic role in CCA growth and metastasis, and could serve as a novel molecular target for treating CCA.
A single-arm feasibility study of community-delivered Baduanjin (Qigong practice of the eight Brocades) training for frail older adults
Authors: Liu Xiao , Seah Jean Wei Ting , Pang Benedict Wei Jun , Tsao Mary Ann , Gu Falong , Ng Wai Chong , Tay Junie Ying Ru , Ng Tze Pin , Wee Shiou Liang
Published: June 2020

Background: Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome, characterized by reduced physiologic reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors, due to cumulative decline in multiple physiological systems. We studied the feasibility of a community-delivered Baduanjin (BDJ) training program among pre-frail/frail community-dwelling older people. We examined 1) safety (adverse events), physical and psychological effects; and 2) feasibility of recruitment, retention, adherence; recruitment efforts and any program challenges, so as to inform future studies.Methods: Our study was a single arm pre-post study in a community setting. Sixteen week group BDJ training (2x/week in the first 4 weeks, and 3x/week thereafter) co-designed and implemented by community-based providers in Singapore. Recruitment, attendance and adverse events were recorded throughout the training. A participants’ survey was also administered after the training program. Effects of the intervention on physical and functional outcomes (hand grip strength, knee extension strength, Time Up and Go (TUG), Physiological Profile Assessment (PPA), 30-second Sit-to-Stand test, 6-meter fast gait speed test), frailty outcomes (frailty score and status), and other outcomes (Maastricht Questionnaire (MQ), Fall Efficacy Scale (FES), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and EQ-5D-5L) were examined before and after the program.Results: Of 31 older adults screened to be frail, 15 met inclusion criteria and 3 refused participation, resulting in 12 older adults (9 women) enrolled into the program. During the program, one participant was hospitalized (unrelated to BDJ training) and the other 11 (aged 77±6 years; 2 frail, 9 prefrail at baseline) completed the program with average overall attendance of 89%. Most (89%) of the 44 training sessions had attendance >80%. The program received positive feedback with no training-related adverse events. Participants either reversed (n=2) or maintained (n=9) their frailty statuses. There post-training outcomes in hand grip strength, knee extension strength, TUG , MQ , FES , MoCA , GDS and EQ-5D-5L index score appeared to be better. The reduction of frailty and PPA fall risk scores were of moderate-to-large effect size. Conclusions: Community-delivered BDJ training program was safe and feasible for prefrail/frail older adults with the potential to improve physical and cognitive function, reduce fall risk, improve psychological well-being, and reverse frailty status.
LRH1 promotes tumor cell proliferation and migration, and is correlated with poor prognosis in ovarian cancer
Authors: Sun Wenzhou , Shi Qingtao , Li Jiaxin , Li Jinmeng , Yu Libo
Published: June 2020

Background Liver receptor homolog 1 (LRH1) plays a vital role in several human cancers, but its role in ovarian cancer (OC) remains unclear. We aimed to explore the functions of LRH1 and its clinical relevance. Methods LRH1 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The effects of LRH1 on tumor cell proliferation, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were evaluated in vitro. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis was applied to predict the functions of LRH1. Results RT-qPCR showed that LRH1 mRNA expression was intense in the invasive lesions (P < 0.05). LRH1 overexpression was extremely related with elevated International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage (P = 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.011), and peritoneal metastasis (P = 0.001). Furthermore, LRH1 expression was an independent prognostic index for disease-free survival in patients with OC (P = 0.041). LRH1 overexpression (P=0.011), FIGO stage (P<0.001), and ascites (P=0.015) independently affected peritoneal metastasis in patients with OC. LRH1 knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and EMT of human OC cells (P < 0.05). Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the functions of LRH1 were associated with the PRC1 complex, nuclear ubiquitin ligase complex, and Polycomb-group (PcG) proteins. Conclusions This study provides evidence of the predictive value of LRH1 on peritoneal metastasis and poor outcome and highlights the potential role of LRH1 as a biomarker for the targeted therapy of OC. Furthermore, LRH1 promotes OC cell proliferation, migration, and EMT in vitro, and its functions may be associated with PRC1 complex, nuclear ubiquitin ligase complex, and PcG proteins.
Multiple circulating alkaloids and saponins from intravenous Kang-Ai injection inhibit human cytochrome P450 and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase isozymes: potential drug-drug interactions
Authors: Qin Zifei , Jia Mengmeng , Yang Jing , Xing Han , Yin Zhao , Yao Zhihong , Zhang Xiaojian , Yao Xinsheng
Published: June 2020

Background: Kang-Ai injection is widely used as an adjuvant therapy drug for many cancers, leukopenia, and chronic hepatitis B. Circulating alkaloids and saponins are believed to be responsible for therapeutic effects. However, their pharmacokinetics (PK) and excretion in vivo and the risk of drug-drug interactions (DDI) through inhibiting human cytochrome P450 (CYP) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes remain unclear. Methods: PK and excretion of circulating compounds were investigated in rats using a validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) method. Further, the inhibitory effects of nine major compounds against eleven CYP and UGT isozymes were assayed using well-accepted specific substrate for each enzyme. Results: After dosing, 9 alkaloids were found with Cmax and t1/2 values of 0.17-422.70 μmol/L and 1.78-4.33 h, respectively. Additionally, 28 saponins exhibited considerable systemic exposure with t1/2 values of 0.63-7.22 h, whereas other trace saponins could be negligible or undetected. Besides, over 90% of alkaloids were excreted through hepatobiliary and renal excretion. Likewise, astragalosides and protopanaxatriol (PPT) type ginsenosides also involved in hepatobiliary and/or renal excretion. Protopanaxadiol (PPD) type ginsenosides were mainly excreted to urine. Furthermore, PPD-type ginsenosides were extensively bound (fu-plasma approximately 1%), whereas astragalosides and PPT-type ginsenosides displayed fu-plasma values of 12.35% and 60.23-87.36%, respectively. Moreover, matrine, oxymatrine, astragaloside IV, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Re, ginsenoside Rd, ginsenoside Rc, and ginsenoside Rb1 exhibited no inhibition or weak inhibition against several common CYP and UGT enzymes IC50 values between 8.81 and 92.21 μM. Through kinetic modeling, their inhibition mechanisms towards those CYP and UGT isozymes were explored with obtained Ki values. In vitro-in vivo extrapolation showed the inhibition of systemic clearance for CYP or UGT substrates seemed impossible due to [I]/Ki no more than 0.1.Conclusions: We summarized the PK behaviors, excretion characteristics and protein binding rates of circulating alkaloids, astragalosides and ginsenosides after intravenous Kang-Ai injection. Furthermore, weak inhibition or no inhibition towards these CYP and UGT activities could not trigger harmful DDI when Kang-Ai injection is co-administered with clinical drugs primarily cleared by these CYP or UGT isozymes.
N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide as a Prognostic Indicator for 30-Day Mortality Following Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A prospective observational study.
Authors: Aarsetøy Reidun , Omland Torbjørn , Røsjø Helge , Strand Heidi , Lindner Thomas Werner , Aarsetøy Hildegunn , Staines Harold , Nilsen Dennis Winston Trygve
Published: June 2020

Background: Early risk stratification applying cardiac biomarkers may prove useful in sudden cardiac arrest patients. We investigated the prognostic utility of early-on levels of high sensitivity cardiac troponin-T (hs-cTnT), copeptin and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).Methods: We conducted a prospective observational unicenter study, including patients with OHCA of assumed cardiac origin from the Southwestern part of Norway from 2007 until 2010. Blood samples for later measurements were drawn during cardiopulmonary resuscitation or at hospital admission. Results: A total of 114 patients were included, 37 patients with asystole and 77 patients with VF as first recorded heart rhythm. Forty-four patients (38.6%) survived 30-day follow-up. Neither hs-cTnT (p = 0.49), nor copeptin (p = 0.39) differed between non-survivors and survivors, whereas NT-proBNP was higher in non-survivors and significantly associated with time to death, with a hazard ratio (HR) for patients in the highest compared to the lowest quartile of 4.6 (95% CI 2.1 – 10.1), p < 0.001. This association was attenuated in the multivariable analysis [HR 2.18 (95% CI 0.83 – 5.72)], p = 0.11. NT-proBNP was significantly higher in asystole- as compared to VF-patients, p < 0.001.Conclusions: In OHCA, NT-proBNP was significantly associated with 30-day survival in univariate analysis, but associations were attenuated after multivariable adjustment. Hs-cTnT and copeptin did not provide prognostic information following OHCA.Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials. gov, NCT02886273.
Factors Influencing the Physical Activity Behaviours of Nigerian Adolescents: Qualitative Views of School Principals and Teachers
Authors: Oluwasanu Mojisola , Oladepo Oladimeji , Ibitoye Segun Emmanuel
Published: June 2020

Background: Insufficient physical activity is a growing public health challenge among Nigerian adolescents. Significant information gap exists on the drivers of the physical activity behaviours of in-school adolescents in Nigeria. This study was conducted to identify the factors influencing the physical activity behaviours of in-school adolescents within the school settings. Methods: This was a qualitative study conducted in 12 public and private schools in two local government areas of Oyo state, Nigeria. Two key sources of data were used: six key informant interviews with school principals and six focus group discussions with classroom teachers using pre-tested guides. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Several factors influence the physical activity behaviours of adolescents. Personal characteristics such as adolescents’ sex and age and social factors such as norms associated with gender participation in sports, cultural and religious views influenced the physical activity behaviours of the adolescents. The negative attitudinal dispositions of parents and teachers and low prioritisation of physical education were identified as critical barriers to physical activity participation. Other school-related factors such as increasing demand for classroom academic time, inadequate funding for schools which limits the recruitment of physical health education teachers, provision of facilities and equipment as well as security threats and brawling associated with competitive school-based sporting events were identified also as limiting opportunities for the effective implementation of policies and programmes for physical activity in schools.Conclusions: Drivers of insufficient physical activity among in-school adolescents are multifactorial. Implementation of holistic, multi-component interventions which address the individual, parental, social and school-level factors and limit students’ participation and opportunities for physical activity in schools are recommended.
Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding practice in Ethiopia and its association with maternal employment: a systematic review and meta-analysis, 2019.
Authors: Wake Getu Engida , Mittiku Yohannes Moges
Published: June 2020

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding defined as the practice of providing only breast-milk for an infant for the first 6 months of life without the addition of any other food or water, which recommends initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of life and continued breastfeeding for up to 2 years of age or more. Maternal employment is the most important factor contributing to the low practice of exclusive breastfeeding. However; the effect of maternal employment on exclusive breastfeeding is not investigated in Ethiopia. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline was used in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The databases used were; PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane library were systematically searched. Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI) was used for critical appraisal of studies. Results: thirty-six studies were included in the final analysis after reviewing 541 studies in this meta-analysis yielding the pooled prevalence of EBF 59.76% (95% CI: 54.84, 64.68) in Ethiopia.Those employed mothers were 57% less likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding in comparison to unemployed mothers in Ethiopia [OR] 0.43; 95% CI (0.3, 0.62).Conclusions: The overall prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding in this meta-analysis is low in comparison to the global recommendation of the practice of exclusive breastfeeding. Maternal employment was significantly associated with the practice of exclusive breastfeeding in comparison to their counterparts. Based On our review findings, we recommended that the Ethiopian government should increase legislated paid maternity leave after delivery beyond current paid maternity leave and implement policies that empower women and create a conducive environment for mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding at the workplace.
Biomass loss in village ecosystem due to human-wildlife interaction in Western Himalayan region: A case study
Authors: Rawat Sushma , Nagar Bhuvnesh , Adhikari Bhupendra Singh , Pandey Rajiv , Alatalo Juha M
Published: June 2020

Conservation faces the challenge of reconciling human activities with the simultaneous presence of wildlife in cultivated landscapes. In attempt to estimate biomass and associated carbon loss due to the removal of agroforestry trees species the present study was carried out in two villages of Pauri Garhwal. The results revealed that due to human-animal interaction caused substantial biomass loss (7.4 and 2.46 t ha-1) and carbon loss (3.4 and 15.2 t ha-1) in the two studied villages Manjgaon and Mald Bada, respectively. The estimates of the present study demands protecting existing forests and planting trees through reforestation and afforestation as a measure to enhance carbon sequestration capacity. The success of these management practices will depend on the potential to minimise human-animal interactions especially in the fringes of the village community and agricultural landscapes.
Risk Factors and Maternal-Fetal Outcomes of Pregnant with Preeclampsia Who Converted to Cesarean Section After A Trial Vaginal Birth
Authors: Xu Xia , YAN Jian Ying , Chen Lichun
Published: June 2020

Background: At present, most pregnant with preeclampsia choose direct cesarean section. Whether cesarean section after vaginal trial affects the outcome of mother and child and its related risk factorsIt are still unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the risk factors and maternal-neonatal outcomes in severe preeclampsia patients who undergo transfer-cesarean section during vaginal labor. Methods: For this retrospective study, patient with severe preeclampsia data from 2015 to 2019 was collected. Study participants were women with severe preeclampsia having a cesarean section during week 34 and 41 of gestation.The population was classified into three groups: patients with severe preeclampsia had cesarean section directly, patients with severe preeclampsia had vaginal deliveries and patients with severe preeclampsia who sufferred from transfer-cesarean section in the vaginal labor. The demographic variables and maternal-fetal outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results: (1) 34%(553/1626) severe preeclampsia had labor induction or natural labor and the ratio of transfer-cesarean section after trial of labor was 39% (216/553) . (2)There was a greater incidence of postpartum haemorrhage (7.7% versus 4.5%),the need for blood transfusion (2.4% versus 0.6%) and more than 7 days of hospitalization (10.4% versus 0.6%) in patients submitted to direct caesarean section compared with vaginal delivery.Apgar score at 5 min <7score and admission of NICU (7.5% versus 2.7%;26.0% versus 18.4%) in the neonates were significantly higher in the direct cesarean section group compared with vaginal delivery,but no difference between direct cesarean section group and transfer cesarean section.(3)When multiple logistic regression analysis was performed,the variables that remained significantly associated with transfer cesarean section were cephalopelvic disproportion (OR ¼ 2.13; 95% CI: 1.43–8.13) and fetal distress (OR ¼ 2.42; 95% CI: 1.76–6.65). Conclusion: Vaginal delivery can be recommended to pregnants with severe preeclampsia as long as there are no contraindications for vaginal delivery. Attempting but failing vaginal delivery would not increase the complications of mother and neonates,but fetal monitoring and labor evaluation should be strengthen during the process of labor.
Older Age and Frailty are the Chief Predictors of Mortality in COVID-19 Patients Admitted to an Acute Medical Unit in a Secondary Care Setting- A Cohort Study
Authors: Chinnadurai Rajkumar , Ogedengbe Onesi , Agarwal Priya , Money-Coomes Sally , Abdurrahman Ahmad Z , Mohammed Sajeel , Kalra Philip A , Rothwell Nicola , Pradhan Sweta
Published: June 2020

Background There is a need for more observational studies across different clinical settings to better understand the epidemiology of the novel COVID-19 infection. Evidence on clinical characteristics of COVID-19 infection is scarce in secondary care settings in Western populations.MethodsWe describe the clinical characteristics of all consecutive COVID-19 positive patients (n=215) admitted to the acute medical unit at Fairfield General Hospital (secondary care setting) between 23 March 2020 and 30 April 2020 based on the outcome at discharge (alive or deceased). We investigated the risk factors that were associated with mortality using binary logistic regression analysis. Kaplan-Meir (KM) charts were generated by following the outcome in all patients until 12 May 2020. ResultsThe median age of our cohort was 74 years with a predominance of Caucasians (87.4%) and males (62%). Of the 215 patients, 86 (40%) died. A higher proportion of patients who died were frail (63 vs 37%, p<0.001), with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (50 vs 33%, p<0.001) and respiratory diseases (38 vs 25 %, p=0.034). In the multivariate logistic regression models, older age (odds ratio (OR) 1.03; p=0.03), frailty (OR 5.1; p<0.001) and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on admission (OR 0.98; p=0.01) were strong and independent predictors of inpatient mortality. KM charts showed a clear difference in survival outcome in the frail older patients. ConclusionOlder age and frailty are strong and independent risk factors associated with mortality in COVID-19 patients hospitalised to an acute medical unit at secondary care level. A holistic approach by incorporating these factors is warranted in the management of patients with COVID-19 infection.
Health and Ecological Risk Assessment of Exposure to Toxic Heavy Metals Found in Settled Dust in the City of Kerman, Southeast of Iran
Authors: Rajabi Azam , Roudbari Aliakbar , aghasi majid
Published: June 2020

Background: Heavy metals are toxic elements and can cause serious complications for human health. The aim of the study was to biological monitoring of heavy metals in blood of Kerman residents and its effective parameters. Methods: This research is a cross-sectional descriptive study with the aim of bio monitoring of heavy metals found in blood of residents in Kerman. Sampling was conducted by random sampling at 8 sites on a total of 80 people (10 per site). The samples were examined by acid digestion using ICP-OES to measure the heavy metals. Results: The results of the present study confirmed a concentration of toxic heavy metals in the blood of residents of Kerman. The maximum concentration of heavy metals were observed in the blood of the residents of Moshtagh and Azadi districts, which were the heavy-traffic areas of the city. A statistically significant relationship was seen between the concentration of some of the above elements and occupation, education and smoking. Statistical tests showed a significant relationship between lead concentration and age. Conclusions: The results suggested that exposure to lead elements can cause some degrees of depression in humans. The presence of toxic heavy metals in the blood of residents can affect their health and also cause some complications.
Evaluation of a protocol to detect malnutrition and provide nutritional care for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: SANZ ELENA ÁLVARO , ABILÉS JIMENA , SILES MARGARITA GARRIDO , RUÍZ FRANCISCO RIVAS , GOITIA BEGOÑA TORTAJADA , DOMÍNGUEZ ANTONIO RUEDA
Published: June 2020

Background

Patients with cancer frequently experience malnutrition, which is associated with higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the implementation of strategies for its early detection and for intervention should improve the evolution of these patients. Our study aim is to design and implement a protocol for outpatients starting chemotherapy, by means of which any malnutrition can be identified and treated at an early stage.
Methods

Before starting chemotherapy for patients with cancer, a complete assessment was made of their nutritional status, using the Nutriscore screening tool. When nutritional risk was detected, an interventional protocol was applied.
Results

Of 234 patients included in the study group, 84 (36%) required an individualised nutritional approach: 27 (32.1%) presented high nutritional risk, 12 had a Nutriscore result ≥ 5 and 45 experienced weight loss during chemotherapy. Among this population, the mean weight loss (with respect to normal weight) on inclusion in the study was − 3.6% ±8.2. By the end of the chemotherapy, the mean weight gain was 0% ±7.3 (p < 0.001) and 71.0% of the patients had experienced weight gain or maintenance, with respect to the initial weight.
Conclusion

More than a third of cancer patients who start chemotherapy are candidates for early nutritional intervention. This finding highlights the importance of early identification of patients at risk in order to improve the efficacy of nutritional interventions, regardless of the stage of the disease.
Long-term Effects of Mixed Management on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Community of Root and Soil in Juglans mandshurica Plantation
Authors: Ji Li , Zhang Yan , Yang Yuchun , Yang Lixue , Yang Na , Zhang Depeng
Published: June 2020

Background: The establishment of mixed plantations is an effective way to improve soil fertility and increase forest productivity. Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) fungi are a kind of obligated symbiotic fungi, which can promote plants absorption of mineral nutrients and regulate intraspecific and interspecific competition. However, the effects of mixture on the community structure and abundance of AM fungi are still unclear. The Illumina MiSeq sequencing technique was used to determine the AM fungal community in the roots and soils of pure and mixed plantations (Juglans mandshurica × Larix gmelinii). The objective is to compare the response from root and rhizosphere soil AM fungal communities of Juglans mandshurica to long-term mixed plantation management. Results: Glomus and Paraglomus were the dominant genus in root samples, which accounted for more than 80% of the sequences. Compared with the pure plantation, the relative abundance of Glomus was higher in mixed plantation. Glomus, Diversispora and Paraglomus accounted for more than 85% of the sequences in soil samples. The relative abundance of Diversispora and Unclassified_c__Glomeromycetes were higher and lower in pure plantation, respectively. Samples of the Root_P (roots in pure plantation) had the highest number of unique OTUs (Operational Taxonomic Units), which were mainly composed of sequences belonging to unclassified_c__Glomeromycetes, Paraglomus, Glomus and Acaulospora. The amount of unique OTU detected in soil in pure and mixed plantation was relatively close. In the same types of sample (whether root or soil), the forest type did not have significant effect on AM fungal diversity, but the Sobs, Shannon, Chao1 and Ace indices of AM fungi in the roots were significantly higher than those in the soil. Conclusions: The mixed forest management had little effect on the AM fungal community in the root of Juglans mandshurica, but significantly changed the community composition of the soil AM fungi rather than diversity.
The Potential of Hematopoietic Stem Cells (Hsc) Against Sars-Cov-2 (Covid-19) With Virus Isolates From Indonesia (In Vitro Study)
Authors: Sumorejo Purwati , Purnama Disca Sandyakala , Miatmoko Andang , Nasronudin Nasronudin , Dinaryanti Aristika , Karsari Deya , Hendrianto Eryk , Ihsan Igo Saiful , Ertanti Nora , Asmarawati Tri Pudy , Marfiani Erika , Izzah Zamrotul , Rosyid Alfian Nur , Wulaningrum Prastuti Asta , Setiawan Herley Windo
Published: June 2020

Background: The prevalence of COVID-19 cases in Indonesia until June 9th 2020, Government has confirmed the number of 32.076 positive cases from 34 provinces in Indonesia with 1.923 fatalities. Along with the development of technology, stem cell-based biological medical therapy, and stem cell-based immunotherapy were developed to find out its potential in the case of COVID-19 treatment besides using chemical drugs as a therapy.Methods: In this study, in vitro research will be conducted to determine the potential of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) viruses with virus isolates from Indonesia. The SARS-CoV-2 virus was planted in rat kidney cells and Vero cells, then cells that had been planted with the virus were given HSC cells and then evaluated at 24, 48, and 72 hours. The evaluation is done by collecting cells and supernatant from the cell plate and then evaluating the viral load using a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machine.Results: The results showed that the addition of HSC on cells that had been infected by SARS-CoV-2 decrease in viral load within 24 to 72 hours in all variations of Multiples of Infection (MoI) values.Conclusions: The administration of HSC cells has the potential to eliminate SARS-CoV-2 virus. Although this research is an in vitro study, this study could be the basis for the development of alternative stem cell-based therapies to handle COVID-19 cases in Indonesia.
Experiences of Telemental Health Providers and Support Staff Serving Indigenous Patients of Northern Canada
Authors: Shang Zhida , Arnaert Antonia , Hindle Yvonne , Debe Zoumanan , Côté-Leblanc Geneviève , Saadi Amine
Published: June 2020

Background: It is known that there is a high mental health burden among Indigenous communities in Northern Quebec. The use of telemental health (TMH) may be a potential solution in addressing this burden, but its use in the Northern Quebec context has never been studied. Methods: A purposive sample of eight healthcare providers and support staff comprising of an entire TMH clinic serving Indigenous patients in Northern Quebec was recruited. A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted, and semi-structured interviews were conducted, concurrent with thematic data analysis.Results: Overall, the TMH staff have a very strong sense of communication, which allows them to diligently serve the Indigenous communities, and reflect upon their own practice. On the other hand, Northern patient care at the inpatient unit is seen as a work in progress, as there exists further potential for culturally sensitive Indigenous patient care. Both the TMH clinic and the inpatient unit address the mental health gap in Northern Quebec, where local staff turnover is adversely affecting patient care. As for the delivery of the mental health care, the in-person and videoconferencing consultations have a synergistic effect, since they allow for the TMH psychiatrists to maintain both an insider and outsider identity. Finally, a comprehensive electronic medical record and further administrative reforms are desperately needed, which would increase the efficiency of all components of the TMH clinic. Conclusions: TMH is an indispensable component of Northern patient care, but there is room for further improvements, especially with regards to the inpatient unit and documentation methods. This study may have implications towards the development and improvement of telemental health in Northern Quebec.