Correlation Between the Prevalence of HHcy，Blood Lipids and Uric Acid in the Tibetan Population in Northwest Xizang / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectivesTo understand the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia （HHcy） in the Tibetan population in Northwest Xizang， and its association with lipids and blood uric acid， and to explore the prevention and treatment strategies for chronic diseases such as HHcy in Northwest Xizang. MethodsIn this survey， questionnaires， physical examinations， and biochemical tests were conducted on 3432 Tibetan residents aged 18 years and older who had resided in Northwest Xizang （Ngari Prefecture， Nagqu City） for more than 6 months using a multistage stratified whole cluster random sampling method. ResultsThe prevalence of HHcy among Tibetan residents in Northwest Xizang was 75.7%， much higher than that of the average population in China （37.2%）. Blood uric acid、high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were risk factors for HHcy. ConclusionThe prevalence of HHcy is higher in the Tibetan population in northwest Xizang. Therefore， the local governments should urge people to establish a healthy lifestyle and enhance early intervention for HHcy by improving diet and lifestyle， thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular， cerebrovascular and other related diseases.

Validación de la Escala de Hostilidad (HO) de Cook y Medley en Población Adulta del Noroeste de México / Validation of the Cook and Medley Hostility Scale in Adult Population from Northwestern Mexico

Resumen Desde la descripción del Patrón de Conducta Tipo A (PCTA) como factor de riesgo de la enfermedad cardiovascular y la posterior confirmación de la hostilidad como uno de los principales predictores del padecimiento, se han empleado distintas escalas de medida para su evaluación. Una de las mayormente citadas es la Escala de Hostilidad (HO) de Cook y Medley (1954). El objetivo del presente fue determinar la confiabilidad y validez de la escala para población adulta del noroeste de México. Se empleó en una muestra de 1669 participantes con un rango de edad de entre 30 a 85 años, una media de 38 y una desviación estándar de 10.16. Esta muestra presenta un rango de edad superior a los de otros estudios que tienden a utilizar estudiantes. Un análisis factorial confirmatorio mostró una estructura factorial con cinco factores, siguiendo el modelo de Barefoot et al. (1989, 1991), con una varianza explicada de 29.67% y un índice de consistencia interna de 0.86, obteniendo además que los indicadores de bondad del ajuste de los datos fueron óptimos. Se concluye que la escala de hostilidad, posee una fiabilidad y validez apropiada, lo que permitirá su uso para la medida del constructo en población adulta.

Abstract Based on the description of the Type A Behavior Pattern (PCTA) as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and the subsequent confirmation of hostility as one of the main predictors of the condition, different measurement scales have been used for its evaluation. One of the most cited is the Cook and Medley Hostility Scale (HO) (1954), which was initially created with English-speaking teachers, and later used with cardiovascular patients to identify the presence of the risk factor. The objective of this work was to determinate the reliability and validity of the hostility scale for the population of northwestern Mexico. It was used in a sample of 1669 participants with an age range between 30 and 85 years, a mean of 38 and a standard deviation of 10.16. This sample has a higher age range than other studies that tend to use students. A confirmatory factor analysis showed a factor structure with five factors, following the model of Barefoot et al. (1989, 1991), with an explained variance of 29.67% and an internal consistency index of 0.86, also obtaining that the indicators of goodness of fit of the data were optimal. We conclude that the hostility scale has appropriate reliability and validity, which will allow its use to measure the construct in the adult population, which allows its use in cardiovascular patients to measure the hostility that is shown as a risk factor for these diseases.

Prevalencia sérica de Neospora caninum y factores de riesgo asociados a su transmisión en tambos de la provincia de Salta, Argentina / Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Neospora caninum in dairy farms from the Province of Salta, Argentina

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue conocer la seroprevalencia de Neospora caninum en los bovinos de los tambos del Valle del Lerma (Salta, Argentina) y los factores de riesgo asociados a la transmisión de este parásito en esta región. Se tomaron muestras de suero de aproximadamente 40 vacas en cada tambo, que fueron analizadas por ELISA indirecto para detectar anticuerpos contra N. caninum. También se discriminó entre infecciones crónicas y agudas midiendo la avidez de dichos anticuerpos. Todos los tambos presentaron al menos un bovino seropositivoy la media fue de 35,3 ± 14,9% de animales positivos. También se detectaron anticuerpos específicos en caninos presentes en 9 de los 16 tambos, con un valor de seropositi- vidad del 71,7 ± 19,9%. El 56,3% de los bovinos seropositivos cursaban infecciones agudas. Se halló una asociación negativa entre la seroprevalencia y el índice de avidez de los anticuerpos específicos, lo que indica que la presencia de animales con infecciones agudas se asocia a mayor seroprevalencia. Los campos con pastoreo presentaron mayor cantidad de infecciones recien tes. Estos resultados revelan por primera vez la importancia de este parásito en los tambos de la región y la necesidad de propiciar el desarrollo de programas de control considerando los distintos factores de riesgo que afectan la situación epidemiológica de la enfermedad.

Abstract The objective of this work was to determine the seroprevalence of Neospora caninum in cattle in Valle de Lerma, province of Salta, Argentina, and the risk factors associated with the disease. Serum samples were taken from 40 cows in each dairy herd, which were analyzed by indirect ELISA to detect antibodies against N. caninum. Chronic and acute infections were discriminated by measuring the avidity of these antibodies. All the herds exhibited at least one seropositive animal, the mean being 35.3 ± 14.9% of positive animals. Specific antibodies were also detected in dogs present in 9of the herds, which showed a seropositivity value of 71.7% ± 19.9%. Among the seropositive animals, 56.3% showed acute infections. A negative association was found between seroprevalence and the avidity index of specific antibodies, indicating that the presence of animals with acute infections is associated with higher seroprevalence. Fields with grazing showed more recent infections. These results show for the first time the importance of this parasite in this particular region and the need to promote the development of control programs considering the different risk factors that affect the epidemiological situation of the disease.

Epidemiological features and causation of COVID-19 in Northwest China / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To describe the epidemiological features of COVID-19 confirmed cases in Northwest China and discuss the causation of these features in order to provide reference for taking preventive measures in the future. 【Methods】 We collected the data of all confirmed COVID-19 cases from January 23, 2020 to March 17, 2020 released on the official website of the Health Commission of Northwest China (Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, Qinghai and Xinjiang). We analyzed the characteristics in time and space distribution, age and gender. 【Results】 Totally 548 cases of COVID-19 were reported in Northwest China. The cumulative incidence rate was 0.53 per 100 000 people. The curative rate was 97.4% and the case fatality rate was 1.5%. Capital cities of each province had a higher incidence rate than that of other regions. The proportion of local transmission increased with time. The male-to-female ratio in the confirmed cases was 1.11∶1. Most patients were aged 20 to 60 years old. At the early stage most cases were imported from Hubei Province and later the pattern became local transmission. The average time interval between disease onset and hospital visit was (2.6±3.2)d. The average time interval between hospital visit and case confirmation was (4.8±3.1)d. The average time interval between centralized isolation and case confirmation was (6.1±4.0)d. 【Conclusion】 The epidemiological features of COVID-19 cases, including the basic situation, gender and age distribution and patient behaviors, were reviewed and analyzed. COVID-19 was well controlled in Northwest China, which indicates that the current preventive measures were effective. They will provide reference for future prevention.

Brechas en la mortalidad infantil según el nivel de instrucción de las madres. Provincias del Noroeste Argentino. Estimación indirecta a partir de los datos censales de 2010 / Gaps in the infant mortality rate according to the mothers' education level in the provinces along the Argentinean Northwest. Indirect estimation from 2010 data census

Resumen Introducción: En este trabajo se propone identificar las brechas en la tasa de mortalidad infantil (TMI), según el nivel de instrucción de las madres en las seis provincias del noroeste argentino (NOA), una región que se caracteriza por poseer indicadores sociodemográficos rezagados respecto al total del país. Metodología: Para estimar las TMI según nivel de instrucción de las madres se emplea el método de Brass con la variante propuesta por Hill. Se utilizan los datos del censo argentino de 2010. Además, se simula el nivel actual de la mortalidad infantil de acuerdo con los indicadores obtenidos. Resultados: La brecha entre la TMI de las mujeres con bajo y alto nivel de instrucción es entre dos y tres veces mayor, mientras que es entre una y dos veces al comparar las de nivel medio con las de alto. Si estas brechas se aplican a las TMI oficiales del año 2017, más de 10 defunciones infantiles por cada mil nacidos vivos corresponderían a mujeres de nivel medio o bajo. Conclusiones: Existe una desigualdad en la mortalidad infantil en el NOA, de acuerdo con la educación de las madres. De esta realidad se no escapan otras regiones del país ni del mundo. Si bien las estadísticas vitales intentan relevar algunos determinantes sociales de la salud, particularmente el nivel educativo de las personas, esta fuente aún no permite su aprovechamiento en el diagnóstico y seguimiento de desigualdades. Los métodos indirectos pueden complementar, cuando no suplir estas deficiencias, aun considerando sus propias limitaciones.

Abstract Introduction: This paper aims at identifying the gap in the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) according to the mothers' education level in six provinces of the Argentinean Northwest (NOA). This is a region that is characterized by having sociodemographic indicators that lag behind the rest of the country. Methodology: In order to estimate the IMR according to the mothers' education level, the Brass method with Hill's variant is applied using data from the 2010 census. Moreover, the current infant mortality rate is simulated according to the obtained indicators. Results: The gap between the IMR of women with a lower education level and those with a higher education level is twice or three times higher, whereas the gap considering women of a middle education level and those of the highest level varies between one and two. If these gaps were applied to the official IMR from 2017, more than 10 infant deaths per one thousand of children born alive would correspond to women with middle or low education level. Conclusions: There is inequality in the infant mortality in the NOA region according to the education level of mothers, which is far from other regions in the country or the world. Even if vital statistics attempt at revealing some social determinants of health, especially the education level, this source cannot yet be fully used in the diagnostic and follow-up of said inequalities. Indirect methods, considering their own limitations, can complement these deficiencies.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used for the treatment of Diabetes mellitus in Sidi Bel Abbes region (North-west Algeria) / Estudio etnobotánico de plantas medicinales utilizadas para el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus en la región de Sidi Bel Abbes (noroeste de Argelia)

An ethnobotanical study was conducted with the aim to identify the medicinal plants used for the treatment of Diabetes mellitus (DM) in Sidi Bel Abbes region (Northwest Algeria). Sidi Bel Abbes, known for its diverse ecological habitats, such as mountains, steppe, lake, and fertile plains with diverse medicinal plants. The data was collected through questionnaire and interviews with inhabitants and traditional healers. The results obtained revealed that 33 plant species distributed in 20 genera belonging to 21 families for the treatment of DM were used. The most represented families were Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Fabaceae and Lauraceae. Medicinal plants commonly used were Trigonella foenum-graecum, Olea europaea, Cinamomum cassia, Artemisia herba-alba, Lupinus albus, Juniperus communis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Prunus dulcis and Berberis vulgaris. The study revealed that, leaves, followed by seeds and stem bark were mostly used parts. Also, decoction and infusion were the most frequently used method of preparation. This study confirms that most people with Diabetes mellitus in the study areas rely on traditional medicine for their primary health care needs.

Se realizó un estudio etnobotánico con el objetivo de identificar las plantas medicinales utilizadas para el tratamiento de la Diabetes mellitus (DM) en la región de Sidi Bel Abbes (noroeste de Algeria). Sidi Bel Abbes, conocida por sus diversos hábitats ecológicos, como montañas, estepas, lagos y fértiles llanuras con plantas medicinales. Los datos se recopilaron mediante cuestionarios y entrevistas con habitantes y curanderos tradicionales. Los resultados obtenidos revelaron que 33 especies vegetales distribuidas en 20 géneros pertenecientes à 21 familias fueron utilizadas para el tratamiento de DM. Las familias más representadas fueron Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Fabaceae y Lauraceae. Las plantas medicinales comúnmente utilizadas fueron Trigonella foenum-graecum, Olea europaea, Cinamomum cassia, Artemisia herba-alba, Lupinus albus, Juniperus communis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Prunus amygdalus y Berberis vulgaris. El estudio reveló que las hojas, seguidas de las semillas y la corteza de tallo, eran en su mayoría partes usadas. Sin embargo, la infusión y la decocción son el método de preparación más utilizado. El estudio reveló que las hojas, seguidas de las semillas y las partes del área, eran en su mayoría partes utilizadas. Tambien, la decocción y la infusión fueron los métodos de preparación más utilizado. Este estudio confirma que la mayoría de las personas con Diabetes mellitus en las áreas d'estudio dependen de la medicina tradicional para sus necesidades d'atenciónn primaria de la salud.

Distribution and larval breeding habitats of Aedes mosquito species in residential areas of northwest Ethiopia / 한국역학회지

OBJECTIVES: The Aedes mosquito is a vector for transmitting many arboviruses. Knowledge of the breeding habitat of this vector is vital for implementing appropriate interventions. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the breeding habitats and presence of Aedes mosquito species in the study areas. METHODS: A house-to-house cross-sectional survey of Aedes mosquito breeding habitats was carried out in Metema and Humera, Ethiopia, in August 2017. All available water-holding containers present in and around houses were inspected for the presence of immature stages of Aedes mosquitoes, and they were collected and reared to the adult stage for species identification. In the larval survey, the house index, container index, and Breteau index were computed as risk indices. RESULTS: Of the 384 houses surveyed for the presence of Aedes mosquito larval breeding, 98 were found to be positive for larvae. During the survey, a total of 566 containers were inspected, of which 186 were found to be infested with Aedes mosquito larvae, with a container index of 32.9, a house index of 25.5, and a Breteau index of 48.4. The most common Aedes mosquito breeding habitats were discarded tires (57.5%), followed by mud pots (30.0%). Of the 1,077 larvae and pupae collected and reared, Aedes aegypti (49.3%), Ae. vittatus (6.5%), and Culex species (44.2%) were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Discarded tires were the most preferred breeding habitats for Aedes mosquitoes. Moreover, Ae. aegypti, the main vector of dengue and other arboviruses, was identified for the first time in this region, suggesting a high potential for arbovirus transmission in the study areas.

Distribution and larval breeding habitats of Aedes mosquito species in residential areas of northwest Ethiopia / 한국역학회지

OBJECTIVES: The Aedes mosquito is a vector for transmitting many arboviruses. Knowledge of the breeding habitat of this vector is vital for implementing appropriate interventions. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the breeding habitats and presence of Aedes mosquito species in the study areas.METHODS: A house-to-house cross-sectional survey of Aedes mosquito breeding habitats was carried out in Metema and Humera, Ethiopia, in August 2017. All available water-holding containers present in and around houses were inspected for the presence of immature stages of Aedes mosquitoes, and they were collected and reared to the adult stage for species identification. In the larval survey, the house index, container index, and Breteau index were computed as risk indices.RESULTS: Of the 384 houses surveyed for the presence of Aedes mosquito larval breeding, 98 were found to be positive for larvae. During the survey, a total of 566 containers were inspected, of which 186 were found to be infested with Aedes mosquito larvae, with a container index of 32.9, a house index of 25.5, and a Breteau index of 48.4. The most common Aedes mosquito breeding habitats were discarded tires (57.5%), followed by mud pots (30.0%). Of the 1,077 larvae and pupae collected and reared, Aedes aegypti (49.3%), Ae. vittatus (6.5%), and Culex species (44.2%) were identified.CONCLUSIONS: Discarded tires were the most preferred breeding habitats for Aedes mosquitoes. Moreover, Ae. aegypti, the main vector of dengue and other arboviruses, was identified for the first time in this region, suggesting a high potential for arbovirus transmission in the study areas.

Diagnosis and treatment of colorectal polyps in pediatric patients in a northwest area of China / 中国内镜杂志

Objective To investigate the characteristics of the colon polyp in a northwest district of China. Methods 112 cases of patients from 1~18 years old, diagnosed with polyps by means of colonoscopies reference centers were followed-up from January 2015 to December 2016. The clinical variables evaluated in this study included: gender, age, symptoms, age at onset of symptoms, age at identification of the polyp, interval of time between the onset of symptoms and the endoscopic diagnosis of colonic polyps, and family history of colon polyp and/or colorectal cancer. The characteristics of the polyps also included: number, morphological type, diameter, histology, and distribution. The case records of these patients were reviewed. The demographics, clinical course, laboratory results, endoscopic and histopathological features, treatments, and outcomes were analyzed. Results In the 112 patients, the median age was 6.9 years, of which 64.3% (72/112) were male. All the patient had the symptom of hematochezia and just a little of the patients have the symptoms of abdominal pain, prolapse of anal polyp and diarrhea. 9.8% (11/112) was mild anemia and the anemia patient all had the symptom of hematochezia of more than 6 months and have no connection with the polyp location. Juvenile polyps were identified in 91.9% (103/112) patients, inflammatory polyp were identified in 7.1% (8/112) and 0.9% (1/112) were identified with adenoma. 1.8% (2/112) of the patient had the family history of colorectal polyp. Conclusions The morbidity of colorectal polyp in children and adolescents in our region is high. The male was significantly more common seen than female. A little proportion of the patient had the family history of colorectal polyp. The hematochezia could be seen in all patients A little proportion of the patient was mild anemia and the anemia patient all had the symptom of hematochezia of more than 6 months. Mainly the polyp was located in the rectum and sigmoid. Juvenile polyps were the major pathologic type and then the inflammatory polyp and adenoma. The adenoma may located in other place than rectum and sigmoid.

Genetic Diversity of Echinococcus granulosus Genotype G1 in Xinjiang, Northwest of China

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) caused by E. granulosus is a serious helminthic zoonosis in humans, livestock and wildlife. Xinjiang is one of high endemic province for CE in China. A total of 55 sheep and cattle livers containing echinococcal cysts were collected from slaughterhouses in Changji and Yining City, northern region of Xinjiang. PCR was employed for cloning 2 gene fragments, 12S rRNA and CO1 for analysis of phylogenetic diversity of E. granulosus. The results showed that all the samples collected were identified as G1 genotype of E. granulosus. Interestingly, YL5 and CJ75 strains were the older branches compared to those strains from France, Argentina, Australia. CO1 gene fragment showed 20 new genotype haploids and 5 new genotype haplogroups (H1-H5) by the analysis of Network 5.0 software, and the YLY17 strain was identified as the most ancestral haplotype. The major haplotypes, such as CJ75 and YL5 strains, showed identical to the isolates from Middle East. The international and domestic trade of livestock might contribute to the dispersal of different haplotypes for E. granulosus evolution.

Variaciones espaciales y ontogenéticas en la dieta de un plecóptero de amplia distribución Claudioperla tigrina (Plecoptera: Gripopterygidae) / Spatial and ontogenetic variations in the diet of a widely distributed stonefly Claudioperla tigrina (Plecoptera: Gripopterygidae)

Resumen: La determinación de los hábitos alimentarios permite la comprensión de muchos procesos ecológicos que se dan en los ecosistemas lóticos. El objetivo de este trabajo es: 1) conocer los hábitos alimentarios de ninfas de Claudioperla tigrina en un amplio gradiente altitudinal y latitudinal en Argentina; 2) asignar el grupo funcional trófico (GFT) de C. tigrina; 3) evaluar diferencias entre dietas de los sitios estudiados. Las ninfas estudiadas fueron recolectadas a lo largo de un amplio rango espacial en el noroeste de Argentina e incluyen diferentes estados del desarrollo (cuatro clases de tamaño). El material ingerido fue extraído de la parte anterior del tubo digestivo mediante disección ventral del tórax. Los perfiles dietarios fueron analizados a través de la estimación de parámetros de la distribución multinomial de Dirichlet. Se efectuaron ANOVA's para cada rubro alimentario en función de los sitios. Se utilizó la técnica Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) para identificar los sitios con perfiles alimentarios promedios similares. Se realizó un análisis de amplitud de nicho trófico para evaluar la diversificación de los recursos consumidos en cada sitio. El aparato bucal no muestra variaciones a lo largo del desarrollo ninfal, excepto una mayor esclerotización con la edad. Poseen palpos mandibulares y maxilares relativamente cortos y mandíbulas y maxilas fuertes, esclerozadas y dentadas. Las ninfas ingirieron más de un ítem alimentario, sugiriendo que se trata de una especie flexible en su alimentación. El ítem dominante en la dieta fue la MOPG, los signos de haber sido masticado indican hábitos trituradores. Se encontraron diferencias entre sitios para los ítems MOPF, invertebrados, algas y sedimento, pero no para MOPG. Se obtuvieron las correlaciones para cada eje del análisis MDS. Con el eje 1 se correlacionaron negativamente los sitios AP, LT, LI, C y M (Selva de Yungas y Pastizal de neblina) asociados a un mayor consumo de MOPF, en el lado positivo del eje se encontró el sitio P (Altos Andes) asociado a los ítems invertebrados y sedimento. Para el eje 2 se relacionaron positivamente IN (Pastizal neblina) y LR (Monte de Sierras y Bolsones) con la presencia de algas. Los resultados del análisis de amplitud de nicho revelaron diferencias en el uso de los recursos secundarios de la dieta en los sitios estudiados que puede deberse a la oferta ambiental en las ecorregiones consideradas. El GFT de C. tigrina es triturador/ recolector en Selva de Yungas y Pastizales de Neblina y triturador/ depredador en Altos Andes. La definición del GFT de C. tigrina y el establecimiento de su rol como procesador primario de materia orgánica representa un paso importante para futuros estudios de redes tróficas y otras metodologías basadas en los grupos funcionales.

Abstract: Dietary information gives insight into several ecological processes acting in lotic ecosystems. This work aimed: 1) to identify the dietary habits of Claudioperla tigrina immature stages along a wide altitudinal as well as latitudinal gradient in North Argentina; 2) to define the functional feeding group (FFG) of C. tigrina; 3) to evaluate differences in diet in the studied sites. Studied nymphs were collected from localities widely scattered in Northwestern Argentina and they fell into different developmental stages (four size classes). The ingested material was extracted from the foregut and midgut by using thorax ventral dissection. Dietary profiles were analyzed through the estimation of parameters associated with a Dirichletmultinomial distribution. ANOVA's were performed for each food item using sites as factor. Multidimensional Scaling was used to identify sites with similar dietary profiles. An analysis of food-niche breadth was also performed to evaluate the degree of dietary diversification for the resources consumed in each site. Mouthparts are similar across the different size classes, excepting the increasing sclerotization recorded with age. Mouthparts retained most of the typical chewing groundplan, showing relatively short labial and maxillar palps, and strong, sclerotized and denticulated mandibles and maxillae. Our results pointed out that the nymphs of C. tigrina always ingest two or more food items (CPOM, FPOM, invertebrates and algae), suggesting thus a flexible diet. The diet changed in relation to body size, while finer particles were consumed in the early stages, larger particles were ingested in final stages. Coarse particulate organic matter was the dominant food item, with signals of shredding during ingestion. Differences between sites for FPOM, invertebrates, algae and sediment were detected, but not for MOPG. Correlations were obtained for the first two axis of the MDS analysis. Sites AP, LT, LI, C and M (Yungas Rainforest and Humid Grassland) were negatively correlated with the axis 1 which was associated with increased consumption of FPOM. On the positive side of the axis the site P (High Andes) is associated with a greater proportion of invertebrates and sediment. The sites IN (Humid Grassland) and LR (Argentine Northwest Monte and Thistle of the Prepuna) were located at the positive domain of axis 2 which is in turn associated with a greater count of algae in the dietary contents. We found significant differences in the quantity of secondary items, and this is likely related with the resources environmental availability. The FFG of Claudioperla tigrina is primarily shredder/collector-gatherer in Yungas Rainforest and Humid Grassland shredder/predator in High Andes. FFG classification of C. tigrina and the definition of their role for organic matter processing is an important step for future studies based on functional groups such as analysis of food webs. Rev. Biol. Trop. 65 (3): 1174-1184. Epub 2017 September 01.

A study on the etiology and epidemiological characteristics of fever and rash syndrome among children under the age of five years in Northwest China from 2009 to 2015 / 中华疾病控制杂志

Objective To explore the etiology and epidemiological characteristics of fever and rash syndrome a mong children under the age of five years in Northwest China from 2009 to 2015.Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted based on the monitoring data in sentinel hospitals,which was from the information management system of national infectious disease monitoring from 2009 to 2015 in Gansu,Qinghai,Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang.Results The results showed that the major pathogens of fever and rash syndrome among children under the age of five years were enterovirus,measles virus,varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and rubella virus.The major pathogens among children in the age group of 0-years and in the age group of 1-5 years were measles virus and enteroviruses,respectively.Among the positive cases of enterovirus,the positive detectable rates of human enterovirus 71 (EV71) and coxsackie A16 (CA16) were 47.18％ and 45.59％,respectively.The incidences of enterovirus and measles virus infection were mainly concentrated on May to July and March to May,respectively.Conclusions The major pathogens of fever and rash syndrome among children under the age of five years in Northwest china were enterovirus and measles virus with seasonal epidemic characteristics.Therefore,the prevention and control of measles and hand-foot-mouth disease should be strengthened.

Oxigenoterapia Crónica Domiciliaria en el Noroeste Argentino, situación actual y propuestas de solución / Chronic Domiciliary Oxygen Therapy in Argentina's Northwest, Current Situation and Possible Solutions

Introducción: La Oxigenoterapia Crónica Domiciliaria (OCD) es una modalidad terapéutica con efectos beneficiosos conocidos y avalados por evidencia científica en pacientes con insuficiencia respiratoria crónica en estado estable. En nuestro medio existen controversias relacionadas con su "uso incorrecto" atribuible quizás a la falta de un marco regulatorio actualizado y un sistema de registro nacional, tal como fue recomendado por el consenso argentino de OCD. Se consideró hacer un diagnóstico de situación en la Región Noroeste Argentino (NOA) de la AAMR para elaborar propuestas concretas a futuro. Material y Métodos: Se realizó una investigación descriptiva en la Región NOA. Se determinó como población de referencia los tres sectores involucrados en la prestación de OCD: neumonólogos de la Región, delegados locales de las principales empresas proveedoras de oxígeno medicinal y representantes de los tres subsistemas de salud. Se aplicaron encuestas y entrevistas especialmente diseñadas. Resultados: 65 neumonólogos del NOA respondieron la encuesta, un 71% del total de los especialistas registrados en la AAMR. 91% prescribe OCD con un promedio de 11 pacientes por cada profesional, siendo la insuficiencia respiratoria por EPOC el diagnóstico más frecuente como indicación de oxigenoterapia. 54% considera que el equipo adjudicado al paciente no se ajusta al que prescribió. En una de las provincias se autoriza la prescripción a médicos no neumonólogos. Los representantes de las empresas proveedoras de oxígeno respondieron que trabajan según normativas de ANMAT y acorde a legislación nacional vigente. Se entrevistó a 52 obras sociales y prepagas y a tres sistemas de gestión estatal. En los subsistemas de salud la posición ante la cobertura de OCD es desigual y no poseen base de datos de pacientes con oxigenoterapia. Todos coincidieron en la necesidad de unificar las normativas y proponer un marco regulatorio único. Conclusión: El diagnóstico de situación sobre la prescripción y prestación de la oxigenoterapia en el NOA señala la falta de un marco regulatorio que contemple todos los aspectos de la OCD. Las normativas existentes no son suficientes para la correcta utilización de la terapéutica y la implementación de las recomendaciones del consenso argentino no fueron las esperadas. El grupo de trabajo elaboró propuestas como actualización del Consenso Nacional de OCD, creación de un Sistema Nacional de Registro y confección de un "Instrumento Legal" que respalde el tratamiento con oxígeno, medidas destinadas a una distribución más equitativa de los gastos en Salud.

Introduction: Chronic Domiciliary Oxygen Therapy (OCD) is a therapeutic modality with beneficial effects known and supported by scientifc evidence in patients with chronic respiratory failure in stable condition. In our area there are controversies related to their "misuse" perhaps attributable to the lack of an updated regulatory framework and a national registration system, as was recommended by the Argentine consensus of OCD. It was performed a diagnosis of the current situation in Northwest Argentina (NOA)-AAMR Region to develop concrete future proposals. Material and Methods: A descriptive research was carried out in the NOA Region. The reference population was determined by the three sectors involved in the provision of OCD: pulmonologists in the region, the main suppliers of medical oxygen and the three health subsystems. Surveys and interviews especially designed were applied. Results: 65 pulmonologists of NOA responded (71% of the overall of specialists in NOA): 91% prescribed OCD, with an average of 11 patients per professional. Respiratory failure due to COPD was the most common indication of oxygen therapy. 54% believe that the equipment awarded to the patient does not conform to that prescribe. In one of the provinces, not pulmonologists physicians were authorized to prescribing OCD. Representatives of oxygen suppliers responded working under the ANMAT regulations and national legislation. Data of 52 Social Work and Private Medicine and also information of three system of state management were obtained. Health subsystems coverage is uneven and reported not having database. All agreed on the need to unify regulations and propose a single regulatory framework. Conclusion: The diagnosis of the situation on the prescription and delivery of oxygen therapy in the NOA notes the lack of a regulatory framework in Argentina that covers all aspects of OCD. Existing regulations are not sufficient for the proper use of the OCD and the implementations of the recommendations of the Argentine consensus were not expected. The working group developed proposals as updating the National OCD Consensus, the creation of a National Registration System and the construction of a "legal instrument" to support oxygen treatment, all measures aimed at a more equitable distribution of expenses Health.

The construction of a design of northwest region army pilot health management based on modularization / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective To construct a design of northwest region army pilot health management based on modularization, which will provide basis for the management of army pilot health management. Methods Using Delphi method, three rounds of questionnaires were done within 30 experts, to build the design of northwest region army pilot health management based on modularization, which contained information module, management module, implementation module, update module and system flow module. Results The experts′ authority coefficient was 0.850, coefficient of determination was 0.865, and familiar coefficient was 0.870. The design of northwest region army pilot health management was determined to contain 5 first-level indicators, 19 secondary indexes. The coordination coefficients of the three level indicators were 0.624 and 0.543,respectively, and the contrast of coordination coefficients had statistical significance (P < 0.01). Conclusions The design of northwest region army pilot health management based on modularization constructed by Delphi method is proved to be scientific, reliable and practical, which can provide the basis for the health management of northwest region army pilot.

Comparison of Menarche Age between Two Generations.

Background: During the past century, the mean age at menarche among the North West Iranian girls has decreased. The aim of this study was to compare the age of menarche between two generations and to determine the effect of BMI on the menarche age. Materials and Methods: This cross –sectional study was carried out on 2029 girls of 9-17 years of age during September 2012 to May 2014 in North-West of Iran. Participants were selected by multistage random cluster sampling from school students in urban and rural areas. After measuring their height and weight, relevant data were collected through a questionnaire. Data were analyzed by chi-square, independent-t test and Pearson bivariate correlation Coefficients, using SPSS 16. Results: Out of 2029 girls’ age 9-17 years, the 1600 who were menstruating included in the study. The mean age of menarche in daughters and their mothers were 12.58±1.3 and 13.22±1.22 years, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between mothers’ and daughters’ menarche age (r = 0.33, P= 0.001). However, a negative significant relation was observed between menarche age and BMI (r= 0.24 P< 0.001). Conclusion: We found that the mean age of menarche was different in comparison with the previous generations. The age at menarche of obese girls is significantly earlier normal weight.

Space-time variation in the composition, richness and abundance of social wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae) in a forest-agriculture mosaic in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Variação espaço-temporal da composição, riqueza e abundância de vespas sociais (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae) em mosaico de floresta-agricultura no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Wasps, important agents for the control of insect population, have been scantily studied in the Brazilian State of Rio Grande do Sul. Current study investigates monthly variations of social wasps in microhabitats within a forest-agriculture mosaic. Samples were collected between February 2013 and February 2014, through active search and baited traps made from 2 L transparent PET bottles, in five microhabitats, namely, forest, monoculture, polyculture and the edges between the forest fragment and monoculture and polyculture, in the municipality of Doutor Maurício Cardoso. Statistical tests, similarity indices, dominance and constancy as well as PCoA were used for data analysis to group the collection. A total of 953 specimens were collected, distributed across 15 species and seven genera. Abundance differed between microhabitats and the monoculture cultivation was least similar to the other microhabitats. PCoA identified three different groups. Abundance was positively correlated with temperature, negatively correlated with air humidity and was not correlated with wind velocity. Social wasps are able to utilize resources outside the forest fragments, but monocultures may create barriers for their dispersal.

Vespas são importantes agentes controladores populacionais de outros insetos e são pouco estudadas no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Este estudo investigou a variação mensal de vespas sociais em micro-habitats em mosaico floresta-agricultura. As coletas foram realizadas entre fevereiro de 2013 e 2014, por meio de busca ativa e armadilhas atrativas do tipo PET, em cinco micro-habitats no município de Doutor Maurício Cardoso: floresta, monocultura, policultura e suas bordas com o fragmento. Para análise dos dados foram usados testes estatísticos e índices de similaridade, dominância e constância, assim como PCoA para agrupar os meses de coleta. Ao todo, 953 indivíduos foram coletados, distribuídos em 15 espécies e sete gêneros. A abundância diferiu entre micro-habitats, e a monocultura foi menos similar aos demais. A PCoA identificou três grupos diferentes. Abundância foi positivamente correlacionada com a temperatura, negativamente correlacionada com a umidade do ar e não se correlacionou com a velocidade do vento. Vespas sociais são capazes de utilizar recursos fora dos fragmentos florestais, porém monoculturas podem criar barreiras à sua dispersão.

Logistic Regression Analysis on Risk Factors of Northwest Dryness Syndrome Among Patients of Metabolic Syndrome in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To analyze risk factors of northwest dryness syndrome (NDS) among the patients of metabolic syndrome in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.Methods Totally 321 cases of metabolic syndrome in Kashgar, Hami and Urumqi were collected to filter 15 variables to calculate OR value and 95% CI, and evaluated by single factor and multi-factor analysis by applying conditional Logistic regression analysis.Results Single factor conditional Logistic regression analysis showed that high fat diet, addiction to hot diet, salty diet, smoking history and hypertension were the risk factors of NDS. The OR values of them were 0.387, 0.071, 0.033, 2.614 and 0.440, respectively (P<0.05). Multi-factor conditional Logistic regression analysis showed that smoking history, alcohol drinking history, high fat diet and hypertension were all entered into regression model. The OR values of them were 3.945, 4.334, 0.370 and 2.142, respectively (P<0.01).Conclusion Patients of metabolic syndrome with a high fat, salty and hot diet are suggested to adjust their diet habit by adding sour food, giving up smoking and drinking, and controlling their blood pressure. It will be helpful for them to adapt local climate and living environment, and reduce the attack rate of NDS.

Correlation Study on Uyghur Metabolic Syndrome and Northwest Dryness Syndrome in / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To analyze the correlation between Uyghur metabolic syndrome and northwest dryness syndrome in Kashgar prefecture, Xinjiang. Methods Case-control design was used to include a total of 120 cases from the First People’s Hospital of Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang. They were selected as the case group, and 120 cases without diseases of Western medicine were as the control group. The northwest dryness syndrome was statistically analyzed. Results The total integral of northwest dryness syndrome in case group was (11.49±0.89) and that in control group was (5.84±0.81), and the case group was higher than the control group with statistical significance (P<0.01). By comparing various accompanied symptoms, except for the fire & wind dryness syndrome of lung&heart&spleen as well as lung&stomach yin deficiency syndrome, all the other syndromes in case group were higher than those in control group (P<0.01). The attack rate of northwest dryness syndrome in case group was 24.17% (29/120), higher than that in control group (7.50%, 9/120), with significant difference (P<0.01). In the correlation analysis between the state of TCM syndrome and northwest dryness syndrome in case group, spleen yin deficiency syndrome of metabolic syndrome had the strongest correlation with damp accumulation syndrome of northwest dryness syndrome (P<0.01), followed by liver-qi stasis syndrome and heart&kidney yin deficiency syndrome (P<0.01). Conclusion Metabolic syndrome is often concomitant with northwest dryness syndrome in Kashgar prefecture, Xinjiang. Moreover, the severity of clinical symptoms of metabolic syndrome was associated with the state of northwest dryness syndrome, which provides clinical epidemiology basis for developing prevention and cure strategy of metabolic syndrome in Xinjiang from the perspective of“treating the different diseases with the same therapy”.

Investigation of serum total bilirubin reference range of healthy population in Northwest area of China / 国际检验医学杂志

0bjective To investigate the serum total bilirubin level of healthy population in northwest area of China.Methods According to the guiding principle and the screening standard of C28-P3,722 individuals conforming to the screening standard from October 2011 to January 2012 were collected.Serum total bilirubin was determined with diazo reagent method(Roche)on the P module of Hitachi 7600 automatic biochemistry analyzer,and the vanadate reagent method(WAKO)on the D module of the Hitachi 7600 automatic biochemistry analyzer,respectively.The detection results were analyzed between different analysis systems,between country and city and among different age groups by SPSS13.0.The top and bottom limitations of 95% reference interval recommen-ded by the C28-P3 file were calculated by the non-parametric method.Results Serum total bilirubin detection results had no statis-tically significant differences between the two kinds of detection methods,between rural and urban populations,among all ages and genders (P >0.05).The ultimate reference interval of serum total bilirubin in the northwest area was 2.19 -29.29 μmol/L.Con-clusion The differences of serum total bilirubin reference interval exist between the healthy population in the Northwest area of China and the current reference interval used in domestic and foreign population.Establishing the reference intervals of new bio-chemical test item suitable for China′s population will provide the scientific basis for the evaluation of disease diagnosis,treatment, prognosis judgment and health assessment in the Chinese population.

The prevalence of glucose metabolism disturbances in Chinese Muslims and possible risk factors: a study from northwest China / Prevalência e possíveis fatores de risco de distúrbios no metabolismo da glicose em chineses muçulmanos: um estudo no noroeste da China

Objective To survey the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and pre-diabetes mellitus (PDM) in the Muslim population in northwest China, and discuss the risk factor. Materials and methods According to the income and the population, we randomly selected 3 villages with stratified and cluster sampling. The subjects were residents ≥ 20 years of age, and were from families which have been local for > 3 generations. The questionnaire and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) were completed and analyzed for 660 subjects. Results The prevalence of DM and PDM between the Han and Muslim populations were different (P = 0.041). And the prevalence were also different with respect to age in the Han (P < 0.001) and Muslim population (P < 0.001) respectively. Except for the 20-year-old age group the prevalence of DM and PDM within the Muslim population was higher than the Han (P = 0.013), we did not find any significant difference for other age groups (P > 0.05). The intake of salt (P < 0.001) and edible oil (P < 0.001) in the Muslim population was higher than the Han, while cigarette smoking (P < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (P < 0.001) was lower. BMI (P < 0.001), age (P = 0.025), and smoking cigarettes (P = 0.011) were risk factors for DM and PDM, but alcohol consumption (P < 0.001) was a protective factor. Conclusions In northwest China, the prevalence of DM was higher in the Muslim population, and it was special higher on the 20-year-old age compared to the Han. This might be explained by the potential genetic differences and poor dietary habits. .

Objetivo Avaliar a prevalência de diabetes melito (DM) e pré-diabetes melito (PDM) na população muçulmana no noroeste da China e discutir os fatores de risco. Materiais e métodos Selecionamos três vilarejos de acordo com a renda e a população, usando uma amostra estratificada e por cluster. Os sujeitos eram residentes com ≥ 20 anos de idade e de famílias que estavam no local há mais de três gerações. Foram feitos e analisados um questionário e o teste de tolerância oral à glicose (TTOG) para 660 sujeitos. Resultados A prevalência do DM e PDM entre as populações Han e muçulmana foi diferente (P = 0,041), e as prevalências também foram diferentes com relação à idade na população Han (P < 0,001) e muçulmana (P < 0,001), respectivamente. Exceto pela faixa etária de 20 anos de idade, a prevalência do DM e PDM na população muçulmana foi maior do que na população Han (P = 0,013), não havendo diferenças significativas para as outras faixas etárias (P > 0,05). A ingestão de sal (P < 0,001) e óleos comestíveis (P < 0,001) na população muçulmana foi mais alta do que na população Han, enquanto o tabagismo (P < 0,001) e consumo de álcool (P < 0,001) foram mais baixos. O IMC (P < 0,001), a idade (P = 0,025) e o tabagismo (P = 0,011) foram fatores de risco para o DM e PDM, mas o consumo de álcool (P < 0,001) foi um fator protetor. Conclusões No noroeste da China, a prevalência de DM é maior na população muçulmana e é especialmente mais alta na faixa etária de 20 anos de idade, quando comparada com a população Han. Isso pode ser explicado por diferenças genéticas potenciais e hábitos alimentares ruins. .