bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neonatal Survival and Determinants of Mortality in Aroresa District, Southern Ethiopia: a Prospective cohort study
Authors: Limaso Alaka Adiso , Dangisso Mesay Hailu , Hibstu Desalegn Tsegaw 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: The first day, week and month of life are the most critical period for the survival of children. In Ethiopia, despite a significant reduction in under-five mortality during the last fifteen years, neonatal mortality remains a public health problem accounting for 47% of under-five mortality. Understanding neonatal survival and risk factors for neonatal mortality could help devising tailored interventions. The aim of this study was to determine the neonatal survival and risk factors for neonatal mortality in Aroresa district, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A community based prospective follow up study was conducted among a cohort of term pregnant mothers and neonates delivered from January 1/2018 to March 30/2018. A total of 586 term pregnant mothers were selected with a multistage sampling technique and 584 neonates were followed-up for a total of 28 days, with 12 twin pairs. Data were coded, entered cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Kaplan–Meier survival curve was used to show pattern of neonatal death in 28 days. Independent and adjusted relationships of different predictors with neonates’ survival were assessed with Cox regression model. The risk of mortality was explored and presented with hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval and P-value less than 0.05 were considered as significant. Result: The overall neonatal mortality was 41 per 1000 live births. Hazards of neonatal mortality was high for neonates with complications (AHR=3.643; 95% CI, 1.36-9.77), male neonates (AHR=2.71; 95% CI, 1.03-7.09), mother’s perception of being small baby’s size (AHR=3.46; 95% CI, 1.119-10.704), neonates who had initiated exclusive breast feeding (EBF) after one hour (AHR=3.572; 95% CI, 1.255-10.165) and mothers who had no postnatal care (AHR=3.07; 95% CI, 1.16-8.12). Conclusion: Neonatal mortality in the study area was 4.1% which was high and immediate action should be taken towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. To improve neonatal survival, high impact interventions such as promotion of maternal service utilization, essential newborn care and early initiation of exclusive breast feeding were recommended.
Screening and Socioeconomic Associations of Dyslipidemia in Young Adults
Authors: Hudson Stephen E , Feigenbaum Matthew S. , Patil Nirav , Ding Elan , Ewing Alex , Trilk Jennifer L. 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background and Objective
The Southern region of the United States is home to substantial populations with obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia, while also housing a large percentage of America’s minority, rural, and low socioeconomic status (SES) peoples. Adult-onset cardiovascular disease (CVD) research may be informed by investigating associations(s) between late adolescent demographic variables and lipid values. Our objective was to investigate lipid parameter associations with college-age socioeconomic status, which may improve age-specific screening algorithms for management or prevention of adult-onset CVD.

Methods
Using an Analysis of Variance test and a general linear model, associations between gender, race/ethnicity, SES, and athletic participation on lipid parameters (VLDL-C, LDL-C, TG, TC, and HDL-C) were analyzed in 4423 private liberal arts college students enrolled in freshman-level wellness courses at Furman University in Greenville, SC. Comparative data were collected from an age-matched sample (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: NHANES 2003-2016). Our main outcomes were statistically significant relationships between any lipid values (TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, TG) and any demographic variables (gender, SES, ethnicity, athlete status).

Results
Males demonstrated lower TC and LDL-C, and higher HDL-C values. HDL-C was highest in athletes. African-American students demonstrated healthier VLDL-C, TG, and HDL-C values. With similar distributions, the age-matched NHANES comparison group showed unhealthier values in nearly all categories.

Conclusions
College students may have better lipid health than the general population. African-Americans may have seemingly healthier lipid values than age-matched individuals independent of athletic or college enrollment which has already been demonstrated in other studies. Future research should include SES relationships in lipid screening paradigms along with other appropriate risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Based on our comparative data, pediatric health providers and researchers may consider education as a potential protective factor against poor lipid health when considering lipid screening protocols for students.

Keywords: lipid, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, socioeconomic status, cardiovascular disease.
Insight into Blood Pressure Targets for Universal Coverage of Hypertension Services in Iran: The 2017 ACC/AHA versus JNC 8 Hypertension Guidelines
Authors: Mahdavi Mahdi , Parsaeian Mahboubeh , Mohajer Bahram , Modirian Mitra , Ahmadi Naser , Yoosefi Moein , Mehdipour Parinaz , Djalalinia Shirin , Rezaei Nazila , Haghshenas Rosa , Pazhuheian Forough , Madadi Zahra , Sabooni Mahdi , Razi Farideh , Samiee Siamak Mirab , Farzadfar Farshad 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: We assessed and compared the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in Iran under two hypertension guidelines; the 2017 ACC/AHA with an aggressive blood pressure target 130/80 mm Hg and commonly used guideline JNC8 with 140/90 mm Hg. We shed light on the implications of 2017 ACC/AHA for population subgroups and high-risk individuals eligible for non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic therapies.
Methods: Data were obtained from the Iran national STEPS 2016 study. Participants included 27 738 adults ≥25 years as a representative sample of Iranians. The logistic regression models with a survey design were used to examine the determinants of prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension.
Results: The prevalence of hypertension based on JNC8 was 29.9% (95% CI: 29.2-30.6), which soared to 53.7% (52.9-54.4) by 2017 ACC/AHA. Awareness, treatment, and control were 59.2% (58.0-60.3), 80.2% (78.9-81.4), and 39.1% (37.4-40.7) based on JNC8, which dropped to 37.1% (36.2-38.0), 71.3% (69.9-72.7), and 19.6% (18.3-21.0) respectively by 2017 ACC/AHA. By new guideline, adults 25-34 years had the largest increase in prevalence (from 7.3% to 30.7%). They also had the lowest awareness and treatment rate but the highest control rate (36.5%) among age groups. Compared with JNC8, under 2017 ACC/AHA, 24%, 15%, 17%, and 11% more individuals with dyslipidaemia, high triglyceride, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) events respectively fell into the hypertensive category. Yet, based on 2017 ACC/AHA, 68.2% of individuals falling into a hypertensive group were supposed to receive medications (versus 95.7% in JNC8). LDL cholesterol, physical activity, and one unit of Body Mass Index were found to change blood pressure by -3.56 (-4.38, -2.74), -2.04 (-2.58, -1.50), and 0.48 (0.42, 0.53) mm Hg respectively.
Conclusions: Switching from JNC8 to 2017 ACC/AHA highlighted sharp increases in prevalence and drastic declines in awareness, treatment, and control in Iran. By the 2017 ACC/AHA, more young adults and those with chronic comorbidities fell into the hypertensive category, thus might benefit from earlier interventions such as lifestyle modifications. The low control rate among treated individuals calls for a critical review of hypertension services in Iran.
Population Genetic Structure and Habitat Connectivity for Jaguar (Panthera onca) Conservation in Central Belize.
Authors: Menchaca Angelica , Rossi Natalia , Froidevaux Jeremy , Dias-freedman Isabela , Caragiulo Anthony , Wultsch Claudia , Harmsen Bart , Foster Rebecca , Torre Antonio de la , Medellin Rodrigo , Rabinowitz Salisa , Amato George 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Connectivity among jaguar (Panthera onca) populations will ensure natural gene flow and the long-term survival of the species throughout its range. Jaguar conservation efforts have focused primarily on connecting suitable habitat in a broad-scale. Accelerated habitat reduction, human-wildlife conflict, limited funding, and the complexity of jaguar behaviour have proven challenging to maintain connectivity between populations effectively. Here, we used non-invasive genetic sampling and individual-based conservation genetic analyses to assess genetic diversity and levels of genetic connectivity between individuals in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Maya Forest Corridor. We used expert knowledge and scientific literature to develop models of landscape permeability based on circuit theory with fine-scale landscape features as ecosystem types, distance to human settlements and roads to predict the most probable jaguar movement across central Belize.

Results
We used 12 highly polymorphic microsatellite loci to identify 50 individual jaguars. We detected high levels of genetic diversity across loci (HE= 0.61, HO= 0.55, and NA=9.33). Using Bayesian clustering and multivariate models to assess gene flow and genetic structure, we identified one single group of jaguars (K = 1). We identified critical areas for jaguar movement that fall outside the boundaries of current protected areas in central Belize. We detected two main areas of high landscape permeability in a stretch of approximately 18 km between Sittee River Forest Reserve and Manatee Forest Reserve that may increase functional connectivity and facilitate jaguar dispersal from and to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Our analysis provides important insights on fine-scale genetic and landscape connectivity of jaguars in central Belize, an area of conservation concern.

Conclusions
The results of our study demonstrate high levels of relatively recent gene flow for jaguars between two study sites in central Belize. Our landscape analysis detected corridors of expected jaguar movement between the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Maya Forest Corridor. We highlight the importance of maintaining already established corridors and consolidating new areas that further promote jaguar movement across suitable habitat beyond the boundaries of currently protected areas. Continued conservation efforts within identified corridors will further maintain and increase genetic connectivity in central Belize.
Comparison of Cytokine Levels in the Aqueous Humor of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy and Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Patients
Authors: Zhou Huiying , Zhao Xinyu , Yuan Mingzhen , Chen Youxin 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background The concentrations of cytokines in the aqueous humor from neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) may vary. The study was conducted to compare various cytokine levels in the aqueous humor of eyes with PCV, nAMD and control. Methods The present case control study included 49 treatment-naïve eyes from 49 patients (PCV 24, nAMD 11, and cataract 14 eyes). Totally 34 angiogenic and inflammatory cytokines in the aqueous humor were measured by Luminex bead-based multiplex array. Results After adjusting for gender and age by multivariate logistic analysis, concentrations of IL-31, LIF, SDF1-α, VEGF-A, VEGF-D were significantly higher in eyes with nAMD or PCV compared with control eyes (all P<0.05, times in nAMD: 59.5, 6.0, 7.0, 4.5, 5.6, respectively, times in PCV: 51.9, 5.21, 6.6, 4.0, 5.1, respectively ), and concentrations of HGF, IP-10, MCP-1, IL-13 were significantly lower in eyes with nAMD or PCV than in control eyes (all P<0.05, times in nAMD: 2.6, 2.0, 4.5, 4.7, respectively, times in PCV: 1.9, 3.0, 3.0, 2.8, respectively), but none of the 34 cytokines, including VEGF and IL-8, showed significantly different between eyes with nAMD and PCV. Conclusions Various cytokines involved in inflammation and angiogenesis including elevated IL-31, LIF, SDF1-α, VEGF-A, VEGF-D might be involved in the pathogenesis of nAMD or PCV. None of the 34 cytokines may help to differentiate nAMD and PCV.
Reporting guideline for priority setting of health research (REPRISE)
Authors: Tong Allison , Synnot Anneliese , Crowe Sally , Hill Sophie , Matus Andrea , Scholes-Robertson Nicole , Oliver Sandy , Cowan Katherine , Nasser Mona , Bhaumik Soumyadeep , Gutman Talia , Baumgart Amanda , Craig Jonathan C 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background Research priority setting with stakeholders can help direct the limited resources for health research toward priority areas of need. Ensuring transparency of the priority setting process can strengthen legitimacy and credibility for influencing the research agenda. This study aims to develop a reporting guideline for priority setting of health research. Methods We searched electronic databases and relevant websites for sources (frameworks, guidelines, or models for conducting, appraising, reporting or evaluating health research priority setting, and reviews (including systematic reviews)), and primary studies of research priority setting to July 2019. We inductively developed a list of reporting items and piloted the preliminary guideline with a diverse range of 30 priority setting studies from the records retrieved. Results From 21556 records, we included 26 sources for the candidate REPRISE framework and 455 primary research studies. The REporting guideline for PRIority SEtting of health research(REPRISE) has 31 reporting items that cover 10 domains: context and scope, governance and team, framework for priority setting, stakeholders/participants, identification and collection of priorities, prioritization of research topics, output, evaluation and feedback, translation and implementation, and funding and conflict of interest. Each reporting item includes a descriptor and examples. Conclusions The REPRISE guideline can facilitate comprehensive reporting of studies of research priority setting. Improved transparency in research priority setting may strengthen the acceptability and implementation of the research priorities identified, so that efforts and funding are invested in generating evidence that is of importance to all stakeholders.
A maternal GOT1 novel variant associated with early-onset severe preeclampsia identified by whole-exome sequencing
Authors: Zhang Lin , Cao Zheng , Feng Fan , Xu Ya-Nan , LI LIN , Gao Hong 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Purpose This study wants to know the genetic cause of preeclampsia (PE) which is a leading cause of maternal and perinatal death, but the underlying molecular mechanisms that cause PE remain poorly understood. Many single nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified by genome-wide association studies and were found to be associated with PE; however, few studies have used whole-exome sequencing (WES) to identify PE mutations. Methods Five patients with severe early-onset preeclampsia (EOPE) were recruited, and WES was performed on each patient. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the potential causative genetic mutation. Results After a stringent bioinformatics analysis, a rare mutation in the GOT1 gene, c.44C>G:p.P15R, was found in one patient. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the mutation site is highly conserved across several species and was predicted to be a pathogenic mutation according to several online mutational function prediction software packages. Further structural biology homology modeling suggested that P15R would change the electric environment of enzymatic center, and might affect the binding affinity of substrate or product. Conclusion We demonstrated for the first time that the mutation in GOT1 may be associated with EOPE, the results of this study provide researchers and clinicians with a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie maternal severe EOPE.
The effects of protective lung ventilation on regional cerebral oxygen saturation in intracranial tumor operation during dura opening：study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Li Jinlu , Wu Xuemei , Liu Hairui , Huang Ying , Liu Yueqin , Xie Hong , Dong Jun 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effects of protective lung ventilation on regional cerebral oxygen saturation during dura opening, that is from Ta (after dura opening) to Tb (before dura closing), in patients undergoing intracranial tumor surgery. Methods: This is a randomized, controlled trial which will be carried out at the second affiliated hospital of Soochow University. Fifty-four patients undergoing intracranial tumor surgery will be randomly allocated to the control group (C group) or the protective lung ventilation group (P group). In the C group, tidal volume (VT) will be set at 8 ml/kg of predicted body weight, but positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and recruitment maneuvers will not be used. In the P group, VT will be set at 6 ml/kg of predicted body weight combined with individualized PEEP during dura opening, while in other periods of general anesthesia, VT will be set at 8 ml/kg of predicted body weight. Regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2), partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and carbon dioxide (PaCO2), oxygenation index (OI), lactic acid level (Lac) in arterial blood, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) will be compared before anesthesia (T0), before dura opening (T1), after dura closing (T2) and 24 h after surgery (T3). Lung ultrasound scores (LUS) will be performed at T0 and T3. The degree of brain relaxation at T1 and T2 will be evaluated by the surgeon using the brain relaxation scale. Amount of vasoactive drugs used and blood loss will be recorded during surgery. The duration of operation and reoperation rate will be recorded.The primary outcome of this study is the changes in rSO2 within 24 hours postoperatively. Discussion: This study aims to determine whether protective lung ventilation during dura opening can improve regional cerebral oxygen saturation and the state of pulmonary ventilation in patients undergoing intracranial tumor surgery, and to investigate whether this strategy does not affect the degree of brain tissue swelling and the reoperation rate after operation. If our results are positive, this study will show that protective lung ventilation during dura opening can be used effectively and safely in neurosurgical patients undergoing craniotomy for tumor resection. Trial registration: chictr.org.cn, ID: ChiCTR1900025632. Registered on 3 September 2019. Study protocol version3.0. Keywords: Randomized controlled trial, Regional cerebral oxygen saturation, Lung ultrasound, Brain relaxation, Craniotomy
BRAF mutant colorectal cancer: ErbB2 expression levels as predictive factor for the response to combined BRAFi/ErbB1 inhibitors
Authors: Miele Evelina , Abballe Luana , Spinelli Gian Paolo , Besharat Zein Mersini , Catanzaro Giuseppina , Chiacchiarini Martina , Vacca Alessandra , Po Agnese , Capalbo Carlo , Ferretti Elisabetta 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease with a complex biology and has a wide number of altered genes such as BRAF, KRAS and PIK3CA. Advances with new-targeted therapies have been achieved and available treating options have prolonged patient’s survival. However, BRAF-mutated CRC patients remain unresponsive to available therapies with RAF inhibitors (RAFi) alone or combined with ErbB inhibitors (ErbBi). These unmet needs require further exploitation of oncogenic signaling in order to set up individualized treatments. Methods: To this end, we tested the efficacy of single agent or combined treatments using the BRAFi, vemurafenib and two different ErbBi: panitumumab and afatinib in CRC cells characterized by different molecular phenotypes. Results: Combination strategies with BRAFi and ErbBi achieved a better response in BRAF V600E mutated cells expressing high levels of ErbB2. Conclusions: In conclusion our findings allow us to indicate that high ErbB2 expression levels is a positive predictor factor since those patients are responsive to BRAFi/ErbBi combination.
Progression of Endothelial Dysfunction, Atherosclerosis, and Arterial Stiffness in Stable Kidney Transplant Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Junarta Joey , Hojs Nina , Ramphul Robin , Lowe-Jones Racquel , Kaski Juan C , Banerjee Debasish 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Kidney transplant patients suffer from vascular abnormalities and high cardiovascular event rates, despite initial improvements post-transplantation. The nature of the progression of vascular abnormalities in the longer term is unknown. This pilot study investigated changes in vascular abnormalities over time in stable kidney transplant patients long after transplantation. Methods: Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), nitroglycerin-mediated dilation, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV), ankle-brachial pressure index, and common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT) were assessed in 18 kidney transplant patients and 17 controls at baseline and 3-6 months after. Results: There was no difference in age (51±13 vs. 46±11; P=0.19), body mass index (26±5 vs. 25±3; P=0.49), serum cholesterol (4.54±0.96 vs. 5.14±1.13; P=0.10), systolic blood pressure (BP) (132±12 vs. 126±12; P=0.13), diastolic BP (82±9 vs. 77±8; P=0.10), or diabetes status (3 vs. 0; P=0.08) between transplant patients and controls. No difference existed in vascular markers between patients and controls at baseline. In transplant patients, FMD decreased (-1.52±2.74; P=0.03), cf-PWV increased (0.62±1.06; P=0.03), and CCA-IMT increased (0.35±0.53; P=0.02). No changes were observed in controls. Conclusion: Markers of vascular structure and function worsen in the post-transplant period on long-term follow-up, which may explain the continued high cardiovascular event rates in this population. Key words: Endothelial function, arterial stiffness, atherosclerosis, kidney transplantation
Preferences for HIV testing services among young people in Nigeria
Authors: Nwaozuru Ucheoma , juliet iwelunmor , Ong Jason J. , Salah Sawsan , Obiezu-Umeh Chisom , Ezechi Oliver , Tucker Joseph D. 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background Despite high HIV incidence rates among young people in Nigeria, less than 24% of this population have ever tested for HIV. These low HIV testing rates suggest that current testing services may not align with their testing preferences. To address this gap, the objective of this study was to assess preferences for HIV testing options among young people in Nigeria.Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using survey to assess preferences for HIV testing options among 113 youth aged 14-24 years residing in Nigeria. The survey included a series of hypothetical HIV testing options, comprised of six characteristics centered around HIV testing service (i.e. location of testing, test administrator, mode of pre-test, mode of post-test counseling, type of HIV test, and cost of HIV test). For each characteristic, participants were asked to select one of the options that they prefer or indicate none of the above. A descriptive analysis of the preferences made by participants was conducted, summarizing proportions of participants who selected different options for HIV testing.Results The mean age of study participants was 19.5 years old (SD=2.7). Most youth (73, 64.6%) had at least a secondary school degree. There was pronounced heterogeneity in HIV testing preferences among young people. Although most youth preferred free HIV testing, 14 (16.7%) reported preferring paying a small amount compared to free testing. More youth preferred blood-based HIV self-testing 39(48.8%) compared to facility-based HIV testing and oral HIV self-testing.Conclusions Our finding suggest that young people have a range of HIV testing preferences in Nigeria. This suggests that a “one-size-fits-all” approach to delivering services to youth may be challenging in this context. HIV testing services can be optimized to reach young people if a variety options are provided to meet their unique preferences.