bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult-onset IgE-mediated food allergy at a Winnipeg allergy clinic – a case series
Authors: Walter Graham , Kalicinsky Chrystyna
Published: September 2020

Background It is a putatively understood phenomenon that the overall prevalence of allergic disease has been increasing in recent decades – particularly in industrialized nations. Despite this, there is a relative scarcity of data concerning the development of food-related allergic disease in the adult population. In addition, the paucity of data as it pertains to the Canadian population is particularly marked when compared to other nations. We sought to determine common culprit foods and the reactions they elicited in a series of 14 patients seen in the Winnipeg allergy and immunology clinic.Methods We conducted a retrospective review of patients identified by academic allergists in Winnipeg, Manitoba as fitting criteria for adult-onset IgE-mediated food allergy from May 2018 – July 2020. We included patients with IgE-mediated symptoms, including the pollen-food syndrome which developed at the age of 16 or later. We collected data regarding the food which induced the reaction, what the reaction was, and any concomitant atopic disease.ResultsThe most common culprit food identified was shellfish, followed by finfish, pollen-food syndrome, and wheat/flour. The most common reaction experienced was anaphylaxis, followed by food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis and isolated (muco)cutaneous symptoms. With regard to concomitant atopic disease, allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis stood out as the most prevalent.Conclusions Adult-onset food allergy – particularly with resultant anaphylaxis – is an important phenomenon to recognize, even when patients have previously tolerated the food in question.
The Immediate Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Nissen Judith Becker , Højgaard David , Thomsen Per Hove
Published: September 2020

Background: Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a distressing psychiatric disorder. Traumas may trigger or aggravate OCD symptoms. COVID-19 pandemic has coursed a global crisis and has been associated with onset of psychiatric disorders in adults. Little is known about children/adolescents with OCD. The present study aimed to examine how children/adolescents with OCD react towards COVID-19 crisis. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to two separate groups of children/adolescents. One group was a clinical group newly diagnosed at a specialized OCD clinic. All the children/adolescents had a current close contact to a therapist or doctor. The other group was a survey group identified through the Danish OCD Association. Most of these children/adolescents were diagnosed years ago, and their primary treatment was completed. For the clinical group, data from patient files was available. Results: In both groups, but most pronounced in the survey group, participants experienced a worsening of their OCD, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The aggravation of OCD correlated with the worsening of anxiety, depressive symptoms, and the extent of avoidance behavior. For both groups, OCD aggressive symptoms predicted a significant worsening. Poor baseline insight showed a trend to predict a symptom worsening. The worsening was most pronounced in children with early age of onset and a family history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is one of the first studies examining the effect of COVID-19 in children/adolescents with OCD. The effect was examined in two separate populations strengthening the findings. The study points towards an influence of the OCD phenotype, baseline insight suggesting a continued vulnerability, and a family history of psychiatric disorders. Trial registration: The study is approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency (1-16-02-147-20) registered 1st of April 2020. Oral and written information was given to parents and patients and written consent from patients over 15 years and parents were received.
Association of higher arterial ketone body ratio (acetoacetate/β-hydroxybutyrate) with relevant nutritional marker in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Inaba Masaaki , Kumeda Yasuro , Yamada Shinsuke , Toi Norikazu , Hamai Chie , Noguchi Koichi , Yasuda Eikichi , Furumitsu Yutaka , Emoto Masanori , Ohno Yoshiteru
Published: September 2020

Background: An association of higher levels of β-hydroxybutyrate (β-HB) in serum with greater mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients has been reported. This study examined the significance of arterial ketone body ratio (AcAc/β-HB), a relevant marker of energy state, in HD patients. Methods: The levels of arterial AcAc and β-HB, and AcAc/β-HB ratio were determined in 49 HD patients just before undergoing an HD session. Additionally, changes in those levels during the session were examined to investigate their associations with clinical nutritional markers. Results: Arterial β-HB, but not AcAc, was significantly higher at the baseline in 25 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) as compared to 24 non-DM patients, with a significant reduction in arterial AcAc/β-HB ratio seen in those with DM. Although the arterial AcAc/β-HB ratio before the HD session was significantly higher in the non-DM group, it did not differ significantly after the session between the groups, indicating a faster rate of β-HB disappearance from circulation in non-DM HD patients during the interdialytic period. Multiple regression analysis, which included age, gender, presence/absence of DM, log HD duration, log β-HB, and log AcAc/β-HB ratio as independent variables, revealed an independent and significant association of log AcAc/β-HB ratio, but not log β-HB, with serum albumin and uric acid. Conclusion: We found that a decreased AcAc/β-HB ratio resulting from increased β-HB, but not increased b-HB itself, was a significant factor independently associated with decreased levels of serum albumin and uric acid, known to be related to higher mortality in HD patients. Furthermore, it is possible that higher mortality in DM HD patients can be explained by reduced arterial AcAc/β-HB ratio.
A contact-independent T6SS killing pathway mediated by a microcin-like nuclease effector possesses intrinsic cell-entry mechanisms
Authors: Song Li , Pan Junfeng , Yang Yantao , Zhang Zhenxing , Cui Rui , Jia Shuangkai , Wang Zhuo , Yang Changxing , Xu Lei , Dong Tao , Wang Yao , Shen Xihui
Published: September 2020

The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is generally considered as a contact-dependent, receptor-independent bacterial weapon that injects toxic effectors into eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells to cause cellular damage. Herein, we report a non-canonical contact-independent T6SS killing pathway in Yersinia pseudotuberculosis (Yptb) that secretes an unusual microcin-like nuclease effector Tce1. The 67 amino acid Tce1 functions as a Ca2+, Mg2+-dependent DNase toxin and its toxicity is inhibited by the cognate immunity protein Tci1. Yptb T6SS-3 can mediate either contact-dependent competition by directly injecting Tce1 into neighboring cells as canonical T6SSs, or contact-independent competition by secreting Tce1 into the extracellular milieu. The entry of secreted Tce1 into target cells requires OmpF and BtuB in the outer membrane and TolB in the periplasm of target cells. This dual mode property of T6SS-3 enabling effector delivery confers Yptb competitive advantages not only on solid surfaces, but also in liquid culture. The Tce1-mediated T6SS antibacterial pathway is also required for optimal colonization of the mouse gut by Yptb, whereby it eliminates competing commensals and enteric pathogens. The discovery of a contact-independent, receptor-dependent long-range T6SS delivery mechanism provides a new perspective for understanding the physiological roles of T6SS in competition.
Malpractice Claimed Calls within the Swedish Healthcare Direct: A Descriptive – Comparative Case Study
Authors: Bjorkman Annica , Engström Maria , Winblad Ulrika , Holmström Inger K
Published: September 2020

Background: Medical errors are reported as a malpractice claim, and it is of uttermost importance to learn from the errors to enhance patient safety. The Swedish national telephone helpline SHD is staffed by registered nurses; its aim is to provide qualified healthcare advice for all residents of Sweden; it handles about 5 million calls annually. The aim of the present study was twofold: to describe all malpractice claims and healthcare providers’ reported measures regarding calls to Swedish Healthcare Direct (SHD) during the period January 2011-December 2018 and to compare these findings with results from a previous study covering the period 2003-2010.Methods: The study used a descriptive and comparative design. A total sample of all reported malpractice claims regarding calls to SHD (n=35) made during the period 2011-2018 was retrieved. Data were analysed and compared with all reported medical errors during the period 2003-2010 (n=33). Results: Telephone nurses’ failure to follow the computerized decision support system (CDSS) (n=18) was identified as the main reason for error during the period 2011-2018, while failure to listen to the caller (n=12) was the main reason during the period 2003-2010. Staff education (n=21) and listening to one’s own calls (n=16) were the most common measures taken within the organization during the period 2011-2018, compared to discussion in work groups (n=13) during the period 2003-2010.Conclusion: The proportion of malpractice claims in relation to all patient contacts to SHD is still very low; it seems that only the most severe patient injuries are reported. The fact that telephone nurses’ failure to follow the CDSS is the most common reason for error is notable, as SHD and healthcare organizations stress the importance of using the CDSS to enhance patient safety. The healthcare organizations seem to have adopted a more systematic approach to handling malpractice claims regarding calls, e.g., allowing telephone nurses to listen to their own calls instead of having discussions in work groups in response to events. This enables nurses to understand the latent factors contributing to error and provides a learning opportunity.
Is the Whole Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts? The Implementation and Outcomes of a Whole Blood Program in Ecuador
Authors: Himmler Amber Nicole , Armijos Monica Eulalia Galarza , Naranjo Jeovanni Reinoso , Patiño Sandra Gioconda Peña , Altamirano Doris Sarmiento , Lazo Nube Flores , Andrade Raúl Pino , Aguilar Hernán Sacoto , de Córdova Lenin Fernández , Agurto Cecibel Cevallos , Raykar Nakul , Puyana Juan Carlos , Molina Juan Carlos Salamea
Published: September 2020

Background: Hemorrhagic shock is a major cause of mortality in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Many institutions in LMICs lack the resources to adequately prescribe balanced resuscitation. This study aims to describe the implementation of a whole blood program in Latin America and discuss the outcomes of the patients that received whole blood (WB). Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients resuscitated with WB from 2013-2019. Five units of O+ WB were made available on a consistent basis for patients presenting in hemorrhagic shock. Variables collected included: sex, age, service treating the patient, units of WB administered, units of components administered, admission vital signs, admission hemoglobin, Shock Index, intraoperative crystalloid and colloid administration, symptoms of transfusion reaction, length-of-stay and in-hospital mortality.Results: The sample includes a total of 101 patients, 57 of whom were trauma and acute care surgery (TACS) patients and 44 of whom were obstetrics and gynecology patients. No patients developed symptoms consistent with a transfusion reaction. Average shock index was 1.16 (±0.55). On average, patients received 1.66 (±0.80) units of whole blood. Overall mortality was 14/101 (13.86%) in the first 24 hours and 6/101 (5.94%) after 24 hours.Conclusion: Implementing a WB protocol is achievable in LMICs. Whole blood allows for more efficient delivery of hemostatic resuscitation and is ideal for resource-restrained settings. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a whole blood program implemented in a civilian hospital in Latin America.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: Planning implications for public health pandemics
Authors: Almalki Mohammed J.
Published: September 2020

BackgroundSaudi Arabian authorities have implemented a number of preventive measures to confront COVID-19, including complete public lockdown, limitations on many services and a public awareness campaign. The success of these preventive measures is highly dependent on individuals’ compliance, which is influenced by their knowledge, attitudes and practices towards this disease. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 among the population of Saudi Arabia.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional design study conducted between May 4 and May 21, 2020, using an online survey of 1135 participants. The survey instrument consisted of demographic characteristics, 19 items on knowledge, 4 items on attitudes and 6 items on practices. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, analysis of variance, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, standard multiple regression analysis and ordinal logistic regression analysis were conducted. ResultsThe majority of the study participants were knowledgeable about COVID-19, with an overall correct rate of 77%. Most participants were worried of contracting COVID-19 (96.3%), and they held positive attitudes towards the intent to use a vaccine for COVID-19 if it was available (81%), informing health authorities if they developed symptoms of COVID-19 (98.1%) and confidence in the government efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic (90%). Most participants were also taking precautions such as keeping social distancing (99.2%), avoiding leaving the house (98.6%) and wearing face masks in public (92.2%). Nearly all of the respondents stated that they were avoiding shaking hands (96.8%), avoiding touching their face with unwashed hands (96.7%) and washing/rubbing hands as recommended (96.6%). Male participants with higher education level and high income who had attended a health education activity were more likely to have more COVID-19 knowledge.ConclusionsThe findings of this research suggest that the Saudi population are generally knowledgeable and have good attitudes and practices regarding COVID-19. Health authorities in Saudi Arabia may benefit from the findings of this research, as the results could be used to improve planning for COVID-19-related efforts and to plan for future health crises. Such planning will help local authorities react promptly to prevent any health threats to the Saudi population and to those who visit Islamic holy places in Saudi Arabia.
Paediatric Intensive Care Staff Experiences of Debriefing Post Critical Incident; a Qualitative Study of the Leeds ‘time Out’ Method
Authors: Winton Mark , Cooper Sian , Latchford Gary
Published: September 2020

BackgroundHow intensive care teams respond to critical incidents is important for maintaining effective patient care, staff education and morale(1). We investigated Paediatric Intensive Care (PIC) staff experiences of participating in novel 20 minute group ‘time outs’ held after critical incidents.MethodA qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with staff attendees of ‘time outs’. Interviews transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Results shared with interviewees for participant validation. Ethical approval granted by the University of Leeds School of Medicine Research Ethics Committee (approval number SOMREC17-020).Results8 semi-structured interviews lasted on average 45 minutes each. Participant roles; 1 Consultant, 1 PIC grid trainee, ST3 Paediatrician, 1 Advanced Nurse Practitioner, 2 Band 6 Nurses and 2 Band 7 Nurses. Thematic analysis generated 1,060 initial codes, subsequently revised until a thematic map emerged, containing five main themes: 1. Context and culture in which critical incidents and ‘time outs’ are embedded, including hierarchy and local politics.2. Pragmatics of organising and evaluating ‘time outs’.3. Position of valued clinical psychologists, who were removed from the ‘time outs’.4. Reflections on coping and resilience, notably blame and fear.5. Process of attending a time out and its impact – both positive (clinical knowledge and the ability to cope) and negative (damaging if inappropriately run).ConclusionThe data contextualised the time outs within the complex PIC environment, with politics, communication challenges and hierarchies affecting how staff respond and how they are supported following critical incidents. Though practical challenges of time outs were noted, this intervention has potential to improve the understanding and well-being of PIC staff after critical incidents.
Prognostic impact of atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Ma Xiaoteng , Sun Yan , Cheng Yujing , Shen Hua , Gao Fei , Qi Jing , Yang Lixia , Wang Zhijian , Shi Dongmei , Liu Yuyang , Liu Xiaoli , Zhou Yujie
Published: September 2020

Background and purposesThe association of atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), an emerging lipid index which can predict risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease, with adverse outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been undetermined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether AIP could independently predict adverse CV events in T2DM patients with ACS undergoing PCI.MethodsThis study was a retrospective analysis of a single centre prospective registry involving 826 consecutive T2DM patients who underwent coronary angiography for ACS and were treated with primary or elective PCI at our CV center from June 2016 to November 2017. This study eventually included 798 patients (age, 61 ± 10 years, male, 72.7%). AIP was calculated as the base 10 logarithm of the ratio of plasma concentration of triglycerides to high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). All patients were divided into 4 groups based on the AIP quartiles. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death, non-fatal ischemic stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), or unplanned repeat revascularization. The key secondary endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal ischemic stroke, or non-fatal MI.ResultsDuring a median follow-up period of 927 days, 198 patients developed at least one event. Unadjusted Kaplan–Meier analysis showed the incidence of the primary endpoint increased gradually with rising AIP quartiles (log-rank test, P = 0.001). Adjusted multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses revealed that compared with the lowest AIP quartile, the top AIP quartile was associated with significantly increased risk for the primary and key secondary endpoints (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.153; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.355 to 3.421; P = 0.001, and HR: 2.613; 95% CI: 1.024 to 6.666; P = 0.044, respectively). Inclusion of AIP quartiles in a baseline prediction model for the primary endpoint increased the Harrell’s C statistic from 0.697 to 0.707. More importantly, addition of AIP quartiles to the above model significantly improved the continuous net reclassification improvement (continuous NRI = 19.1%, P < 0.001).ConclusionA higher AIP value on admission was independently and strongly associated with adverse CV events in T2DM patients with ACS undergoing PCI.
Identifying Risk Factors for a High Lymph Node Ratio (over 0.8) in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Liu Yuewu , Zhang LY , li xiaoyi , liu hongfeng
Published: September 2020

Background Despite the majority of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients has an excellent prognosis, central lymph node metastases (CLNM) are common. The relationship between CLNM and prognosis is still controversial, however, a certain lymph node ratio (LNR) has been reported to show significantly worse prognosis for PTC patients. Therefore, the extent of CLNM seems to play an important role in predicting the recurrence and survival of PTC. The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors for a high LNR (over 0.8) in central compartment in PTC patients. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted on PTC patients who underwent total thyroidectomy or lobectomy plus central lymph node dissection (CLND) between January 2011 and December 2015. Patients with an LNR over 0.8 was defined as Group A, and patients with an LNR 0 was defined as group B. The clinical and pathological factors such as gender, age, tumor size, tumor number, extracapsular spread (ECS), MACIS score, and co-existence of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis （CLT）were compared between different LNR groups.Results Univariate analysis found high LNR to be associated with male gender, young age(<40 years) ,larger tumor (≥1 cm), ECS and absence of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Multivariate logistic regression showed male gender (p = 0.007, OR = 3.79), young age(<40 years) (p = 0.000, OR = 0.159), larger tumor (≥1 cm) (p =0.033, OR = 2.530), and absence of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (p = 0.036, OR = 0.321) to be independent predictors for high LNR in PTC patients Conclusions Male gender, younger age (<40 years), larger tumor (≥1 cm) and absence of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis were risk factors of high LNR. We recommend a prophylactic CLND should be considered in PTC patients with such risk factors.
Rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection by multicapillary column coupled ion mobility spectrometry (MCC-IMS) of breath. A proof of concept study
Authors: Steppert Claus , Steppert Isabel , Sterlacci William , Bollinger Thomas
Published: September 2020

There is an urgent need for screening of patients having a communicable viral disease to cut infection chains. We could recently demonstrate that MCC-IMS of breath is able to identify Influenza-A infected patients. With decreasing Influenza epidemic and upcoming SARS-CoV-2 infections we went on and also analysed patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infections.75 patients, 34m, 41f, aged 64.4 ± 15.4 years, 14 positive for Influenza-A, 16 positive for SARS-CoV-2, the remaining 44 patients were used as controls. In one patient RT-PCR was highly suspicious of SARS-CoV-2 but initially inconclusiveBesides RT-PCR analysis of nasopharyngeal swabs all patients underwent MCC-IMS analysis of breath. There was no difference in gender or age according to the groups.97.3% of the patients could be correctly classified to the respective group by discriminant analysis. Even the inconclusive patient could be mapped to the SARS-CoV-2 group applying the discrimination function.ConclusionMCC-IMS is able to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection and Influenza-A infection in breath. As this method provides exact, fast non-invasive diagnosis it should be further developed for screening of communicable viral diseases.Trial registrationClinicalTrial.gov, NCT04282135 Registered 20 February 2020 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04282135?term=IMS&draw=2&rank=1
Effect of Probiotic Supplementation Along With Calorie Restriction on Metabolic Endotoxemia, and Mega Inflammation in Coronary Artery Disease Patients: A Double Blind Placebo Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: moludi jalal , Kafil Hossein Samadi , Gholizadeh Pourya , Alizadeh Mohammad , Vayghyan Hamed Jafari
Published: September 2020

Purpose: Dysbiosis has been associated with increased microbial translocation, leading to chronic inflammation in cardiovascular diseases (CVD). It has been proposed that modulation of gut microbiota by probiotic might modify metabolic endotoxemia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) on metabolic endotoxemia, and marker of inflammation in CVD subjects. Methods: This study was a 12-weeks randomized, double-blind, and intervention on 44 patients with CVD. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either one LGG capsule 1.6 ×109 colony-forming unit (CFU) or the placebo capsules for 12 weeks. Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: A significant decrease in IL1-Beta concentration (-1.88 ± 2.25, vs. 0.56 ± 1.58 mmol/L, P=0.027), and LPS levels (-5.20 ±2.70 vs. 2.96+ 5.27 mg/L, P=0.016), was observed after the probiotic supplementation compared with the placebo. Subjects who had ≥2.5 kg weight loss showed signiﬁcantly improved in some variables, compared to patients with <2.5 kg weight reduction, regardless of the supplement they receive.Conclusion: These data provide preliminary evidence that probiotic supplementation has beneficial effects on metabolic endotoxemia, and mega inflammation in subjects with CVD.
Detecting Land Use Modification and Its Influence on Resident Communities
Authors: Endalew Tesfahun
Published: September 2020

The study intended to detecting the land use land cover changes, trends and their magnitude between 1986 and 2019 years by using GIS and remote sensing in Fagita Lekoma District, Amhara region, Ethiopia. Three satellite data set of Landsat Thematic Mapper for 1986, Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus for 2002 and Operational Land Imager for 2019 were used generate land use and land cover maps of the study area. Post classification comparison changed detection method was employed to identify gains and losses between Land Use Land Cover classes. Socioeconomic survey, key informant interview and field observation were also used conclude the encouragement of land use /land cover change in the study area. The result shows that cultivated land and wetland similarly decline in the entire study periods. In the 33 years, forest lands expanded by upon 200% of the original forest cover what was existed on the base year. Whereas, a result of the socioeconomic analysis the expansion of Acacia decurrens tree plantations and agricultural land are main causes of land use land cover change in the study area. The impact of this land use land cover change is more significant on the livelihood condition and status of the study area. The land use system of the study area highly converted cultivation land into forest/tree plantation. Mainly, the expansion of Acacia decurrens tree plantation on farmland is increasing the income of local residence when compare with the previous living condition in the study area.
Dapsone Attenuates the Severity of Gastric Erosion Induced by Ethanol; Stress; and Indomethacin in Rats: A Pharmacological Approach
Authors: Sheibani Mohammad , Nezamoleslami Sadaf , Rahimi Nastaran , Abbasi Ata , dehpour ahmad reza
Published: September 2020

Background: Dapsone, as an antimicrobial compound, has shown strong anti-inflammatory properties in clinical and experimental studies. Inflammation in stomach mocusa produce gastric erosion. Several factors contribute to the development of gastric erosions, including corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), alcohol, and stress. The aim of this study, therefore, was to evaluate the effects of dapsone against gastric erosions-induced by alcohol, stress, or indomethacin in rat.Methods: Gastric damage was induced in male rats in different three experimental models including ethanol (5 ml/kg, p.o.)-, water-immersion stress-, and indomethacin (30 mg/kg, p.o.)- induced gastric injury. Macroscopic lesion scores (the J- score), inflammatory cytokines levels, NF-κB protein expression, MPO activity, and histopathological evaluation were assessed. Results: Induction of erosion in gastric mocusal led to a significant increase in J-score as an index of macroscopic parameter, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) as biochemical markers, NF-κB and myeloperoxidase (a marker of neutrophil activation, as well microscopic deterioration. Dapsone reduced the tissue injuries and erosion area, serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, the expression of NF-κB and tissue concentration of myeloperoxidase (a marker of neutrophil activation) in all three experimental groups. Furthermore, the histopathological studies revealed the reduction of damages in dapsone treated animals.Conclusions: To conclude, dapsone exhibits significant gastro-protective effects against the development of experimental gastric erosions in rats which seems to be related to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Incidence and Risk Factors for High-level BK Viruria -A Single Center Study in China
Authors: Xiong Rui , Ye Haimin , Liu Zhujing , Li Xinchang
Published: September 2020

Background BK Virus Allograft Nephropathy (BKVAN) is a serious complication after kidney transplantation, and the effect of pre-emptive intervention for high-level BK viruria has been verified, but the protocols after kidney transplantation for early identification of high-level viruria is lacking.Methods This was a single-center respectively study. The clinical data of the kidney transplant recipients and their donors in our center from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2018 were collected. According to the qPCR results of BK virus DNA loads in urine samples, the patients were divided into high-level BK Viruria Group (Group A) and none high-level BK Viruria Group (Group B). Significant variables were screened out by univariate analysis, and then the results were incorporated into multivariate logistic regression model to analyze the independent risk factors of high-level BK viruria.Results A total of 262 recipients were included in the study. The incidence of high-level BK viruria was 13.4% (n=35), and the median time of detection was 181(range 91~1119) days. Univariate analysis showed that the donor type ( =21.770, P < 0.001), history of ATG/ATG-F application ( =4.543, P=0.033), Acute Rejection (AR) ( =8.313, P=0.004) and Delayed Graft Function (DGF) ( =21.170, P < 0.001) were related with high-level BK viruria. After the inclusion of multivariate logistic regression model, the results showed that brain and cardiac deceased donors (P=0.032,OR=3.927, 95%CI:1.122~13.746), AR (P=0.022,OR=4.709, 95%CI:1.253~17.697) and DGF (P=0.001,OR=6.682, 95%CI:2.288~19.518).Conclusions Donation of Brain and Cardiac Deceased, history of AR, DGF were independent risk factors for high-level BK viruria after kidney transplantation.
Can Primary Healthcare be Protected as a Public Good in Lebanon Today?
Authors: Hamadeh Randa Sami , Kdouh Ola Ali , Hammoud Rawan , Leresche Enrica , Leaning Jennifer
Published: September 2020

When Lebanon’s primary healthcare network meets Covid-19 in the midst of an economic collapse and a disaster, what are the crucial questions? In this commentary we look at the impact of three profound shocks (the Lebanese civil war, the Syrian refugee crisis, and the current economic breakdown) which the Lebanese primary healthcare network (PHCN) has met in the last half century. We examine the past and current constraints that these events have imposed on the capacity of the PHCN to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the context of impending economic collapse, rising social and political tensions–and now the devastating explosion in the capital on 4 August 2020–we identify the broader and deeper issues at stake as the Lebanese primary health care network struggles to fulfil its mandate to support the delivery of essential primary health care to Lebanon’s most vulnerable populations. Our finding is that in a protracted conflict, such as the one defining the circumstances of Lebanon now, access to health care persists for the people as one safeguard in which social and moral continuity can be anchored and protected.
Escherichia coli virulence factors iutA, an iron acquisition factor, and ibeA, an invasion factor, are related to severity of bacteremic acute biliary tract infections
Authors: Ikeda Mahoko , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Fujimoto Fumie , Okada Yuta , Higurashi Yoshimi , Tatsuno Keita , Okugawa Shu , Moriya Kyoji
Published: September 2020

BackgroundAlthough Escherichia coli is the most frequently isolated organism in acute biliary tract infections with bacteremia, data regarding its virulence are limited.ResultsBacteremic acute biliary tract infection cases in a retrospective study were collected from 2013 to 2015 at a tertiary care hospital in Japan. Factors related to the severity of infection were investigated, including patient background, phylogenetic typing, and virulence factors of E. coli, such as adhesion, invasion, toxins, and iron acquisition. In total, 72 E. coli strains were identified in 71 cases, most of which primarily belonged to the phylogenetic B2 group (68%). The presence of IutA (77.3% in the non-severe group, 46.4% in the severe group, P = 0.011) and ibeA (9.1% in the non-severe group, and 35.7% in the severe group, P = 0.012) were significantly associated with severity of infection, whereas patient characteristics did not relate to the severity of infection.ConclusionsWe showed that bacteremic E. coli strains from acute biliary tract infections belonged to a virulent (B2) group. The severity of biliary tract infection depended on iutA and ibeA.
Diagnostic Performance of Intraoperative Assessment in Grade 2 Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Bandala-Jacques Antonio , Cantú-de-León David , Montiel Delia Pérez , Salcedo-Hernández Rosa A. , Prada Diddier , González-Enciso Aarón , González-Valdez Arely , Barquet-Munoz Salim Abraham
Published: September 2020

Background: Endometrial carcinoma is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries. Grade 2 carcinoma is associated with pelvic lymph-node metastasis, depending on selected risk factors. Intraoperative assessment (IOA) can identifiy patients at risk for lymph node metastasis who should undergo staging surgery. Our objective was to establish the diagnostic precision of IOA in determining the need for surgical staging in grade 2 endometrioid endometrial carcinoma. Methods: 222 patients underwent IOA. Results were compared to the final pathology report. The accuracy of the IOA parameters was calculated. Variables were evaluated in patients with positive versus negative IOA. Overall and disease-free survivals were calculated according to IOA, lymphadenectomy, and nodal metastasis.Results: IOA was positive in 80 patients. It showed an accuracy of 76.13% when compared with the postoperative assessment. The best individual parameter was myometrial invasion. Nodal metastasis was observed in 16 patients in the positive IOA group and 7 patients in the negative group. Patients with lymph node metastasis had a 5-year overall survival rate of 80.9%, whereas patients without metastasis had a 5-year overall survival rate of 97.9%. Conclusions: IOA is an adequate tool to identify high-risk patients in grade 2 endometrial carcinoma. Myometrial invasion is the individual parameter that yields the highest diagnostic precision.
A Polishing-free Etching Method for Microstructure Observation of Fine-grained Ceramics
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Shimai Shunzo , Zhao Jin , Zhang Jian , Chen Han , Chen Hetuo , Han Dan , Liu Juan , Wang Shiwei
Published: September 2020

Microstructural studies are very important because of their decisive role in the properties of advanced ceramics. During the sample preparation process, it is critical to grind, polish, and etch the fracture surface of the ceramic for effective microstructure observation. Here, a sample preparation process is proposed by directly etching the fracture surface of the ceramic without the time-consuming grinding and polishing. We used this method to create micrographs for MgAl2O4, Al2O3, and ZrO2 ceramics with an average grain size less than 1 μm; these were clearly resolved by SEM. More importantly, the damage resulting from grinding or polishing is minimized and SEM images taken from samples prepared via this new method are closer to the original morphology of the microstructures. This method also greatly simplifies the sample preparation process and is especially suitable for fine-grained ceramics.
Early detection and Successful Management of Acute Mesenteric Ischaemia in symptomatic COVID 19 patient
Authors: Balani Prashant , Bhuiyan Aniruddha , Dalal Vijay N. , Maheshwari Govardhan S.
Published: September 2020

Newer evidence states that COVID 19 pneumonia induces a hypercoagulable state leading to vascular and microvascular thrombotic events. Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a potentially fatal vascular emergency with overall mortality of 60% to 80%. [1] However till date, only few cases of SMA thrombosis in COVID-19 positive patients are reported and most have succumbed to COVID-19 or mesenteric ischaemia. [2-4] Physicians treating COVID 19 usually treat respiratory symptoms and may completely overlook any other uncommon pathology. This case report emphasises that a patient with early detection and management of acute mesenteric ischaemia being symptomatic for COVID 19 can avoid major bowel surgery and negate any morbidity or mortality associated with the same.
The Vision of Paradise for People in Difficulties: The Solution Shown by a Russian Architect
Authors: Ikeda Michel-Masafumi
Published: September 2020

The Eastern Orthodox is a minority in Japan. However, it played an important role in the modernization of architecture. This paper aims to review their early architectural activities, and further to uncover the influences they received from the Russian architect whose name was Mikhail Aref'evich Shchurupov.The architecture of Orthodox Church in Japan began from the conversion of existing private houses to chapels. The eclectic chapels followed them. The Resurrection Cathedral in Tokyo, designed by Shchurupov, made an epoch in the history of architecture in Japan. Needless to say, its greatest impact was on the Orthodox Church itself. The believers opened their eyes to the authentic western architecture. The churches at each stage can be seen in Kashiwa, Ishinomaki, and Odate.Shchurupov left a number of churches in Russia. Three of them, still existing around St. Petersburg, show the trajectory on which he explored the lightweight and inexpensive structure to build churches for the economically challenged parishes facing difficult geological conditions. At first, he showed a structural rationalism. Then, he tried to build a dome with wood. At last, he reached to the steel structure.At the Orthodox Churches, the division of interior space is emphasized and visualized. Each space symbolically plays various roles during the liturgy, and gives the believers the pseudo experience of the visit of heaven, which enables them to pass the faith across generations. The fact that the early believers in Japan projected the vision of paradise to the nave of their chapel means that they had reached the essence of church architecture.Shchurupov's architectural features were suitable to the Orthodox Church in Japan in various difficulties as a religious minority. His idea and concept reflected in the Resurrection Cathedral enabled the believers in Japan to maintain their worship facilities for a long time.
Proposta de expansão da classe Espiritismo na Classificação Decimal de Dewey
Authors: Miranda Marcos Luiz Cavalcanti de , Caban Fernanda de Moura
Published: September 2020

Propõe a expansão da classe Espiritismo na Classificação Decimal de Dewey. Justifica a proposta devido ao grande número de adeptos e à produção literária espírita. Evidencia que o Espiritismo é a oitava religião com mais praticantes no mundo e a terceira no Brasil. Apresenta a importância da doutrina espírita ao redor do mundo e no Brasil. Utiliza a teoria proposta por Vanda Brougthon para religião e acrescenta as facetas ciência, filosofia, religião e aspectos gerais da Doutrina Espírita. Analisa propostas de expansão de classes existentes e elabora uma revisão de literatura acerca da história do espiritismo. Utiliza a metodologia de Barité para modificação de esquemas de classificação. Os termos foram coletados a partir do tesauro espírita e da obra de referência da Federação Espírita Brasileira e sistematiza os conceitos hierarquicamente. Propõe a expansão da classe 202 – Doutrina a partir da identificação e sistematização dos conceitos, colocando-os de forma notacional. Conclui que uma doutrina com tantos adeptos e com uma grande produção literária deve ser representada adequadamente na Classificação Decimal de Dewey e a que a mesma oferece pouco espaço de representação na classe 200 para as diversas religiões praticadas no mundo.
Algumas consequências da abordagem evolutiva para o campo de estudos do comportamento informacional
Authors: Matos José Claudio Morelli , Jacintho Eliana Maria Santos Bahia
Published: September 2020

Este artigo tem como objetico examinar a abordagem evolutiva do comportamento informacional e refletir acerca de algumas consequências trazidas por esta abordagem para as bases epistemológicas da biblioteconomia e ciência da informação (BCI) nos trabalhos de Amanda Spink e Armando Malheiro da Silva. Incorpora uma crítica de modelos de busca de conhecimento como o de Nicholas Belkin, por causa de seu resíduo tecnicista. Metodologia: Pesquisa bibliográfica e posterior análise das fontes recuperadas. Análise realizada através do exame argumentativo e conceitual de textos considerados referenciais para cada parte do argumento. Resultados: Ressalta a distinção entre interpretações divergentes do termo “evolução”. Reconhece a exigência inevitável de uma atitude holística ou interdisciplinar para a compreensão do comportamento informacional. Destaca a valorização dos comportamentos humanos de caráter informal e lúdico em relação à informação.
Factors associated with transcendental meditation practice in older people
Authors: Oliveira Daniel Vicentini de , Bertolini Sônia Maria Marques Gomes , Chatalov Ellis Gilson , Franco Maura Fernandes , Correia de Lima Maria do Carmo , Morais Freire Gabriel Lucas , Oliveira Rogéria Vicentini de , Nascimento Júnior José Roberto Andrade do
Published: September 2020

Aims: To evaluate factors associated with the practice of transcendental meditation (TM) in the elderly. Methods: Cross-sectional study, with the inclusion of 113 older adults and women, 60 of them practitioners and 53 non-MT practitioners. A semi-structured questionnaire was used as an instrument, composed of sociodemographic, health and TM practice data. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test and binary logistic regression. Results: The average age of practitioners was lower than that of non-practitioners (63.7 ± 4.0 vs. 69.1 ± 6.6 years). Most of the sample had completed higher education (f = 45; 75%; p = 0.001) and received more than three minimum wages (f = 40; 67.8%; p = 0.001). In the group of TM practitioners there was a greater proportion of individuals with excellent / good self-perceived health (91.7% vs 77.4%; p = 0.034), and less hospitalization in the last semester (5% vs 24.5 %; p = 0.003). Older adults who denied hospitalization or the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) presented, respectively, 5.7 (95% CI OR 1.1 - 28.9) and 4.9 (95% CI OR 1.3 - 19.2) times chance to practice MT. The practice of TM is 80% more likely to be practiced by older adults with better self-perceived health (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.03 - 0.96). Conclusion: The practice of a holistic activity such as TM is associated with better self-perceived health than older adults of the same age, and less chance of hospitalization in the last semester and the presence of DM.
Large-Scale Light Field Capture and Reconstruction
Authors: Gao Yuan
Published: September 2020

This thesis discusses approaches and techniques to convert Sparsely-
Sampled Light Fields (SSLFs) into Densely-Sampled Light Fields (DSLFs),
which can be used for visualization on 3DTV and Virtual Reality (VR) de-
vices. Exemplarily, a movable 1D large-scale light ﬁeld acquisition system
for capturing SSLFs in real-world environments is evaluated. This system
consists of 24 sparsely placed RGB cameras and two Kinect V2 sensors.
The real-world SSLF data captured with this setup can be leveraged to
reconstruct real-world DSLFs. To this end, three challenging problems
require to be solved for this system: (i) how to estimate the rigid trans-
formation from the coordinate system of a Kinect V2 to the coordinate
system of an RGB camera; (ii) how to register the two Kinect V2 sensors
with a large displacement; (iii) how to reconstruct a DSLF from a SSLF
with moderate and large disparity ranges.
To overcome these three challenges, we propose: (i) a novel self-
calibration method, which takes advantage of the geometric constraints
from the scene and the cameras, for estimating the rigid transformations
from the camera coordinate frame of one Kinect V2 to the camera coordi-
nate frames of 12-nearest RGB cameras; (ii) a novel coarse-to-ﬁne approach
for recovering the rigid transformation from the coordinate system of one
Kinect to the coordinate system of the other by means of local color and
geometry information; (iii) several novel algorithms that can be categorized
into two groups for reconstructing a DSLF from an input SSLF, including
novel view synthesis methods, which are inspired by the state-of-the-art
video frame interpolation algorithms, and Epipolar-Plane Image (EPI) in-
painting methods, which are inspired by the Shearlet Transform (ST)-based
DSLF reconstruction approaches.
Technological, Organizational, and Environmental Factors Influencing Social Media Adoption by Hospitals in Switzerland: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Beier Michael , Früh Sebastian
Published: September 2020

Background

Social media platforms are important tools for hospitals. These platforms offer many potential benefits in various areas of application for hospitals to connect and interact with their stakeholders. However, hospitals differ immensely in their social media adoption. There are studies that provide initial findings on individual factors influencing social media adoption by hospitals, but there is no comprehensive and integrated model.

Objective

This study aimed to develop a comprehensive model of social media adoption by hospitals in the context of the Swiss health care system and to test the model with empirical data from Switzerland.

Methods

To develop our model, we applied the general technology-organization-environment framework of organizational technology adoption and adapted it to the specific context of social media adoption by hospitals in Switzerland. To test our model, we collected empirical data on all 283 hospitals in Switzerland and identified the accounts they operate on 7 different social media platforms (Facebook, Google+, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, XING, and YouTube). We tested the hypotheses of our model by means of binary logistic regression (dependent variable: platform adoption) and negative binomial regression (dependent variable: number of different platforms adopted).

Results

Our general model on social media adoption received broad support. Overall, hospitals in Switzerland are more likely to adopt social media if they have a higher share of patients with voluntary health insurance or have a higher patient volume. In contrast, they are less likely to operate their own social media accounts if they are associated with a hospital network. However, some hypotheses of our model received only partial support for specific social media platforms; for instance, hospitals in Switzerland are more likely to adopt XING if they provide an educational program and are more likely to adopt LinkedIn if they are located in regions with higher competition intensity.

Conclusions

Our study provides a comprehensive model of social media adoption by hospitals in Switzerland. This model shows, in detail, the factors that influence hospitals in Switzerland in their social media adoption. In addition, it provides a basic framework that might be helpful in systematically developing and testing comprehensive models of social media adoption by hospitals in other countries.