bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respiratory physiology of COVID-19 and Influenza associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Kronibus Niklas , Seiler Frederik , Danziger Guy , Muellenbach Ralf M. , Reyher Christian , Becker André , Kamphorst Maren , Rixecker Torben , Metz Carlos , Lepper Philipp M. , Bals Robert , Mang Sebastian
Published: May 2021

Background: There is ongoing debate whether lung physiology of COVID-19 associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) differs from ARDS of other origin.Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze and compare how critically ill patients with COVID-19 and Influenza A or B were ventilated in our tertiary care center with or without extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). We ask if acute lung failure due to COVID-19 requires different intensive care management compared to conventional ARDS. Methods: 25 patients with COVID-19 associated ARDS were matched to a cohort of 25 Influenza patients treated in our center from 2011 to 2021. Subgroup analysis addressed whether patients on ECMO received different mechanical ventilation than patients without extracorporeal support.Results: Compared to Influenza-associated ARDS, COVID-19 patients had higher ventilatory system compliance (40.7 ml/mbar [31.8 – 46.7 ml/mbar] vs. 31.4 ml/mbar [13.7 – 42.8 ml/mbar], p = 0.198), higher ventilatory ratio (1.57 [1.31 – 1.84] vs. 0.91 [0.44 – 1.38], p = 0.006) and higher minute ventilation at the time of intubation (mean minute ventilation 10.7 l/min [7.2 – 12.2 l/min] for COVID-19 vs. 6.0 l/min [2.5 – 10.1 l/min] for Influenza, p = 0.013). There were no measurable differences in P/F ratio, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and driving pressures (ΔP). Respiratory system compliance deteriorated considerably in COVID-19 patients on ECMO during 2 weeks of mechanical ventilation (Crs, mean decrease over 2 weeks -23.87 ml/mbar ± 32.94 ml/mbar, p = 0.037), but not in ventilated Influenza patients on ECMO and less so in ventilated COVID-19 patients without ECMO. For COVID-19 patients, low driving pressures on ECMO were strongly correlated to a decline in compliance after 2 weeks (Pearson’s R 0.80, p = 0.058). Overall mortality was insignificantly lower for COVID-19 patients compared to Influenza patients (40% vs. 48%, p = 0.31). Outcome was insignificantly worse for patients requiring veno-venous ECMO in both groups (50% mortality for COVID-19 on ECMO vs. 27% without ECMO, p = 0.30 / 56% vs 34% mortality for Influenza A/B with and without ECMO, p = 0.31)Conclusion: The pathophysiology of early COVID-19-associated ARDS differs from Influenza-associated acute lung failure by sustained respiratory mechanics during the early phase of ventilation. We question whether intubated COVID-19 patients on ECMO benefit from extremely low driving pressures, as this appears to accelerate derecruitment and consecutive loss of ventilatory system compliance.
Gut Micobiota Alteration by Lactobacillus Rhamnosus Reduces Pro-inflammatory Cytokines and Glucose Level in the Adult Model of Zebrafish
Authors: Bootorabi Fatemeh , Saadat Farshid , Falak Reza , Manouchehri Hamed , Changizi Reza , Mohammadi Hasan , Safavifar Farnaz , Khorramizadeh M.Reza
Published: May 2021

Objective: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is still a challenge for physicians to manage patient’s circumstances. It is assumed that alterations in the normal flora may be involved in the pathogenesis of T2DM through inducing chronic inflammation. To investigate the effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus as a common probiotic on T2DM, we induced an experimental model of T2DM in adult male Zebrafish by gradient hyper-glucose accumulation methodology.Results: In this trial three-month old mail adult Zebrafish were divided in to four groups including two control groups and T2DM induced groups with or without probiotic treatment. After five days of acclimation, T2DM was induced by a gradient hyper-glucose accumulation methodology. Diabetic fishes had statistically abnormal blood glucose and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels compared to control group (p=0.0001). This results suggest that probiotic intervention hindered the blood glucose level in the T2DM group by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines responsible for signaling in T2DM therapeutic modalities.
Contribution of Contraceptive Use on Fertility Reduction in Rwanda
Authors: Muremyi Roger , Mutabazi David
Published: May 2021

Objectives: In this study, the contribution of contraceptive use on fertility rate reduction in Rwanda was assessed using the data from RDHS 2014/2015 and the sample was constituted with 5,954 household respondents where the targeted population were male between 15-59 years and female between 15-49 years of age, multinomial logistic regression was used to prove the full contribution of contraceptive use to the fertility reduction in the country in order to improve Rwandan’s welfare.Results: Compared to the traditional method and modern method it was found that 48.54% of male use modern method, while 5.39% uses traditional method; otherwise, 33.70% of female use modern method while 1.24% of female use traditional method, finally sexual and reproductive health programs should be encouraged and the parents must teach their children about the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) which will reduce the adolescent fertility which is rising day to day.
Parents View About Oral Health Status, Oral Hygiene Behaviors, and Dental Services Utilization of Their Children With Hearing Impairment Attending Special Schools
Authors: Rajabloo Soofia , Pakkhesal Mina , Alhosseini AliAkbar Naghavi , Ghorbani Zahra , Rajabi Abdolhalim
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Parents are the principal decision-makers regarding their child’s health. Awareness of parents’ views regarding their children's health, particularly with special health care needs, is essential for health care providers. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the parents' view about oral health status, oral hygiene practices, and dental services utilization of their children with hearing impairment attending special schools.Results: 57.4% of the parents rated their children's oral health status as very good or good, 27.9% as moderate, and 9.0% as poor. About half of the parents (49.2%) stated that their children used toothbrush once daily, and 15% use dental floss. Also, 54% of the children visited the dentist before this survey's conduct. The twice brush or more a day was significantly associated with the oral health status (OR: 22.16; CI 95%), and other factors did not show a significant association.
The Relationship Between Moral Courage and the Perception of Ethical Climate in Hospital Nurses
Authors: Hakimi Hamideh , mousazadeh noushin , Nia Hamid Sharif , Nazari Roghieh , Dehghani Maryam
Published: May 2021

ObjectivesThis study is conducted with the aim of the relationship between moral courage and the perception of ethical climate in hospital nurses.ResultsThe study was carried out as descriptive-correlation study in 2019. The subjects were 267 nurses working in hospitals who were selected through simple random sampling. Questionnaire was used to collect data. The mean scores of moral courage and ethical climate in nurses were 87.07±15.52 and 96.12±17.17 respectively. The findings showed that 16% of moral courage score in nurses was attributed to ethical climate and overtime work hours per month. Although, ethical climate and overtime work hours were the main factors in moral courage, not a notable percentage of the variance of moral courage was attributed to them. Therefore, there is a need to determine other factors in moral courage.
An Analysis of Contributing Mining Factors in Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis Prevalence in the United States Coal Mines, 1986-2018
Authors: Shekarian Younes , Rahimi Elham , Shekarian Naser , Rezaee Mohammad , Roghanchi Pedram
Published: May 2021

In the United States, an unexpected and severe increase in coal miners’ lung diseases in the late 1990s prompted researchers to investigate the causes of the disease resurgence. This study aims to scrutinize the effects of various mining parameters, including coal rank, mine size, mining method, coal seam height, and geographical location on the prevalence of CWP in surface and underground coal mines. A comprehensive dataset was created using the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) Employment and Accident/Injury databases. The information was merged based on the mine ID by utilizing SQL data management software. A total number of 123,643 mine-year observations were included in the statistical analysis. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) model was used to conduct a statistical analysis on a total of 29,707, and 32,643 mine-year observations for underground and surface coal mines, respectively. The results of the econometrics approach revealed that coal workers in underground coal mines are at a greater risk of CWP comparing to those of surface coal operations. Furthermore, underground coal mines in the Appalachia and Interior regions are at a higher risk of CWP prevalence than the Western region. Surface coal mines in the Appalachian coal region are more susceptible to CWP than miners in the Western region. The analysis also indicated that coal workers working in smaller mines are more vulnerable to CWP than those in large mine sizes. Furthermore, coal workers in thin-seam underground mine operations are more likely to develop CWP.
Modulation of Tight Junctions and the Permeability Barrier in Betaine-Treated Keratinocyte Cultures
Authors: Anglenius Heli , Toriseva Mervi , Rauhala Leena , Hakkarainen Jenni J. , Siljamäki Elina , Peltonen Sirkku , Peltonen Juha , Tammi Raija , Tiihonen Kirsti , Kähäri Veli-Matti
Published: May 2021

BackgroundTight junctions (TJs) between keratinocytes are important for regulating the inside-out and outside-in permeability barriers. Betaine is a natural intracellular osmolyte utilized for instance in cosmetics. We determined by liquid chromatography that betaine content in human skin samples was higher in the epidermis than in the dermis. This led us to further investigate the effect of betaine on TJs by utilizing different in vitro models: topical application of betaine on normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) differentiated for 5-days, freshly isolated NHEKs differentiated for 3 days and betaine applied during the differentiation process of organotypic rat epidermal keratinocytes (REKs) differentiated for 12-15 days. ResultsTopical betaine in amount range of 100 to 500 µM increased transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) in 5-day-differentiated NHEKs, and downregulated occludin mRNA in concentrations 100-250 µM, but not claudin-4 (CLDN4) or zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). In REKs, betaine applied during differentiation process had no effect on mannitol permeation or the expression of occludin, ZO-1, transforming growth factor beta 2 (TGF-β2), or cluster of differentiation (CD147). However, in freshly isolated differentiating human epidermal keratinocytes, betaine treatment increased TJ protein ZO-1 and the differentiation marker involucrin at protein level. By indirect immunofluorescence, prominent staining and co-localization for TJ proteins ZO-1 and claudin-1 was detected in freshly isolated differentiating keratinocytes treated with betaine. ConclusionsTaken together, the results provide evidence that betaine modulates TJ proteins in differentiating epidermal keratinocytes and promotes formation of TJs. These results suggest a role for betaine in the regulation of the epidermal barrier and as a natural ingredient in topical cosmetics.
Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation In Patients With Paraesophageal Hernia Vs. Large Sliding Hiatal Hernia: Comparison of Clinical Outcome And Complexity Of The Surgery
Authors: Schwameis Katrin , Ayazi Shahin , Zheng Ping , Grubic Andrew , Zaidi Ali , Alleyne Adam , Jobe Blair
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Recent studies encourage the use of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) in patients with large sliding hiatal hernia (LHH). However, the utility of MSA in patients with paraesophageal hernia (PEH) is poorly studied. The aim of this study is to compare the outcome and complexity of surgery in patients with PEH to those with LHH. Methods: A total of 37 (65% female) patients underwent PEH repair with MSA in our institution between 2013 and 2019. A group of 37, age/sex matched patients with LHH (≥ 4 cm) who underwent MSA formed the control group. The clinical outcome and the complexity of the surgery were then compared between groups. Results: At a median follow-up of 25.3 (17–35) months, there was significant improvement in the GERD-HRQL total-scores for PEH (18 vs. 3, p < 0.001) and LHH (26 vs. 4, p < 0.0001) patients when compared to preoperative values. The PEH group was similar to LHH group in regard to pH-normalization (71% vs. 64%, p = 0.76) and freedom from PPI (94.4% vs. 91.9%, p = 1.00). Small asymptomatic hernia recurrence was seen in 19% and 18% of LHH and PEH patients, respectively (p = 0.546). One patient (3%) required surgical intervention for symptomatic recurrence in each group. The rate of dysphagia and need for dilation were similar between the groups. No significant differences in operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay were detected between patients with PEH and those with LHH. However, there was a trend toward higher necessity for additional operative maneuvers (40.5% vs 13.5%, p = 00.17) and longer hospital stay in PEH. Conclusion: Despite the inherent differences between LHH and PEH, repair of hernia and MSA results in high rate of favorable outcome and low rate of recurrence in both groups. GERD symptom control, freedom from PPI and improvement in quality of life are comparable. However, the greater need for additional surgical maneuvers and longer hospital stay reflect the greater complexity of procedures for repair of PEH with MSA.
Caveolin 1 Reduces High Glucose-Induced Hypertrophy and Inflammatory Fibrosis of H9C2 Cardiomyocytes By Inhibiting NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Gong Wenyan , Yuan Jinghua , Luo Hui , Liu Yingying , Wang Mingwei , Xu Xiaoling , Cong Yusheng , Zhang Xingwei
Published: May 2021

Background: Cardiac hypertrophy and inflammatory fibrosis are the basic pathological changes of the prevalent microvascular diabetes complication known as diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Previous studies of the Caveolin 1 protein and the lipid raft structures known as caveolae—small invaginations of the plasma membranes of certain cell types (including cardiomyocytes)—have linked this protein to fat metabolism disorders, inflammation, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. However, there are no reports linking Caveolin 1 to DCM. Here, we show that Caveolin 1 plays a vital role in the hypertrophy and inflammatory fibrosis of H9C2 cardiomyocytes induced by high glucose (HG) via inhibiting the NF-κB signaling.Methods: The H9C2 cardiomyocytes induced by HG were used as the experimental model in this study to explicit the effect of Caveolin 1 on DCM and the underlying mechanisms involved. Unpaired Student’s t test was used for comparison between two groups. For multiple comparisons, data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc test multiple comparisons.Results: (1) Exposure of H9C2 cardiomyocytes to HG activated NF-κB signaling and induced the expression of downstream NF-κB target genes including both hypertrophic factors and inflammatory fibrosis factors; (2) Intriguingly, exposure of cardiomyocytes to HG led to decreased Caveolin 1 levels, and this decrease occurred in an HG-exposure-time-dependent manner; (3) Overexpression of Caveolin 1 reduces phosphorylation of p65 and blocks the nuclear accumulation of this NF-κB component in HG-exposed cardiomyocytes, and inhibits transcriptional activation of NF-κB target genes; (4) Knocking down Caveolin 1 exacerbates the HG-induced promotion of the aforementioned NF-κB hypertrophic factors and inflammatory fibrosis factors, all of which have been linked to DCM pathogenesis. Conclusions: Our study supports that Caveolin 1 can protect against hypertrophy and inflammatory fibrosis induced by HG, specifically by suppressing NF-κB signaling activity. Accordingly, some medical implications of our study include that i) Caveolin 1 may protect against the development of DCM and ii) may represent a target for developing therapeutics to protect against this highly prevalent and dangerous microvascular complications of diabetes.
Manufacturing large shafts by a novel flexible skew rolling process
Authors: Lin Longfei , Wang Baoyu , Zhou Jing , Shen Jinxia
Published: May 2021

When manufacturing large shafts with multi-specification and small-batch production, both the conventional forging and rolling process bring a high tooling cost due to heavy forging press or large-size specialized roller. In this study, a novel flexible skew rolling (FSR) process is proposed by adding degrees of freedom to the rollers as compared to the typical skew rolling process. Since each of the FSR rollers has three degrees of freedom (circle rotating, radial rotating and radial feeding), the FSR process can be divided into four stages: radial rolling, rollers inclining, skew rolling and rollers levelling. Therefore, the FSR process can produce various shafts with same rollers via programming different movements. To verify the feasibility of FSR process, a physical investigation corresponding with a numerical simulation for a single-step shaft is undertaken with a Φ80×390 mm C45 steel billet. According to the results from physical experiments and numerical simulations, the FSR formed shaft has a maximum deviation of 0.99 mm, and its microstructure and properties have been improved obviously. Moreover, although there is a tendency of center crack in FSR products as predicted by numerical results, both the transverse and longitudinal section of the physical shaft are free from central cracking. The major forming defects existed on the rolled shaft are knurled pockmarks, surface threads and side cavity, which are the typical defects of the conventional skew rolling and cross-wedge rolling and can be removed by machining. To the authors’ knowledge, this novel process has a good combination of flexible production and less loading, which will be of great engineering significance to reduce the tooling cost in large shafts manufacturing.
Notoginsenoside R1 Alleviates Spinal Cord Injury by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Neuronal Apoptosis, and Inflammation via Activating the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Luo Hongbo , Bao Zhangli , Zhou Mingjian , Chen Yuxin , Huang Zhaoxi
Published: May 2021

Background

The secondary injury plays a vital role in the development of Spinal cord injury (SCI), which characterized by the occurrence of oxidative stress, neuronal apoptosis, and inflammatory response. Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) has been involved in the modulation of anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory response. However, its roles in SCI-induced injury are still unknown.
Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to SCI through a weight-drop method. the therapeutic effect of NGR1 and its underlying mechanism after SCI were explored by using behavioral, biochemical, and immunohistochemical techniques.
Results

The administration of NGR1 after SCI enhanced the neurological function, mitigated tissue damage, and motor neuron loss than those in SCI + vehicle group. Meanwhile, significantly increased expression of Nrf2 protein and HO-1 protein was found in the SCI + NGR1 group compared with those in the SCI + vehicle group. In addition, the inhibitory effects of oxidative stress, apoptotic neuron ratio, and neuronal inflammation in the SCI + NGR1 group can be partially reversed when the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway was inhibited by ML385.
Conclusions

The administration of NGR1 after SCI can attenuate oxidative stress, neuronal apoptosis, and inflammation by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway after SCI, thereby improving neurological function.
Differences Between Surviving and Non-surviving Venous Thromboembolism COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Castillo-Perez Mauricio , Jerjes-Sanchez Carlos , Castro-Varela Alejandra , Paredes-Vazquez Jose Gildardo , Vazquez-Garza Eduardo , Ramos-Cazares Ray Erick , Salinas-Casanova Jose Alfredo , Molina-Rodriguez Abigail Montserrat , Martinez-Ibarra Arturo Adrian , Fabiani Mario Alejandro , Flores-Sayavedra Yoezer Z , Guajardo-Lozano Jaime Alberto , Garza Hector Lopez-de la , Campo Hector Betancourt-del , Martinez-Magallanes Daniela , Panneflek Jathniel
Published: May 2021

Background: Systematic reviews of venous thromboembolism COVID-19 patients focus on the incidence, primary and secondary venous thromboembolism prevention, bleeding complications, and the association of D-dimer with mortality. We analyzed therapeutic approaches, outcomes, clinical presentation, risk stratification, and patient characteristics that survived and did not survive.Methods: We searched for systematic reviews, cohorts, case series, case reports, editor letters, and venous thromboembolism COVID-19 patients' abstracts following PRISMA and PROSPERO statements. The objective was to assess therapeutic trends and clinical outcomes of venous thromboembolism COVID-19 patients. Inclusion: COVID-19 patients with venous thromboembolism confirmed by an imaging method (venous doppler ultrasound, ventilation-perfusion lung scan, computed tomography pulmonary angiogram, pulmonary angiography). We assessed the original Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index in two groups, survivors and those who died. We defined major bleedings according to the International Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis criteria.Results: We performed a systematic review from August 9 to August 30, 2020. We collected 1,535 papers from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Wiley, and Opengrey. We extracted data from 89 studies. Unfractionated and low-molecular-weight heparin drove parenteral anticoagulation. The Food and Drug Administration-approved alteplase regimen guided the advanced treatment in both groups. The mortality was high (21.6%), with a low incidence of bleeding complications in those who survived: Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index class II and III identified patients who lived. Patients who experienced venous thromboembolism events at home were more likely to live than in-hospital events. Patients who died had a higher D dimer expression and right ventricular dysfunction.Conclusions: We determined a high mortality incidence of pulmonary embolism (21.6%) related to hypertension, an increased inflammatory response, prothrombotic state, severe COVID-19, massive pulmonary embolism, intensive care unit admission, low venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, and bleeding complications. The original Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index could be helpful in the risk stratification. Overlapping severe COVID-19 pneumonia and pulmonary embolism is a challenge.
Challenging Problems of Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) of Meteorological Time Series Data
Authors: Faybishenko Boris , Versteeg Roelof , Pastorello Gilberto , Dwivedi Dipankar , Varadharajan Charuleka , Agarwal Deborah
Published: May 2021

Representativeness and quality of collected meteorological data impact accuracy and precision of climate, hydrological, and biogeochemical analyses and predictions. We developed a comprehensive Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) statistical framework, consisting of three major steps: Step 1—Preliminary data exploration, i.e., processing of raw datasets, with the challenging problems of time formatting and combining datasets of different lengths and different time intervals; Step 2—QA of the datasets, including detecting and flagging of duplicates, outliers, and extreme data; and Step 3—the development of time series of a desired frequency, imputation of missing values, visualization and a final statistical summary. The paper includes two use cases based on the time series data collected at the Billy Barr meteorological station (East River Watershed, Colorado), and the Barro Colorado Island (BCI, Panama) meteorological station. The developed statistical methods are suitable for both real-time and post-data-collection QA/QC analysis of meteorological datasets.
Challenges of Health Care Reforms (HCRS) in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: FardAzar Farbod Ebadi , Choopani Azam , Teymourlouy Seyed Ahmad Ahmadi , Arkian Seyed Hasan
Published: May 2021

Background: Healthcare reforms (HCRs) are performed by many resource-limited countries to improve the quality of health care. However, reforms do not always lead to the expected benefits and implementation problems are not fully considered due to lack of a systematic analysis of HCRs in these countries. Thus, the present study aimed to review the challenges of health care reforms in low and middle-income countries systematically.Method: A systematic review of qualitative studies was used in the present study. Data were searched in five databases. The references related to the selected articles were searched for any relevant study irrespective of gray literature. The articles were screened based on PRISMA. The duplicates were removed, others were screened based on the title and abstract, and the eligible ones were selected for full-text reading and those matched with inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for review. Framework analyses were used for data analysis, and the quality of the studies was evaluated by the CASP checklist for qualitative studies.Results: 702 articles were found, among which 149 were duplicated, 553 were selected to primary screening, 390 were excluded, and 163 were selected for full text reading. Finally, 151 articles were excluded, and 12 matched with the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study.Conclusion:Health reforms in low and middle-income countries have faced different challenges in financing, human resources, drugs and medicine, infrastructures, and governance, which can be influenced the delivery of qualified services. Thus, in order to design and implement any health care reforms in these countries, it is recommended for policymakers to take appropriate decisions about agenda setting, regulations and guidelines, sustainability of financing resources, collaborations, accountabilities and responsibilities, as well as the way of providing human resources, infrastructures, needed drugs, and medicine. In addition, the way of accessing services in rural and remote areas should be clarified. Finally, the reforms should be made very intelligently to direct the funds for the right needs and priorities in the countries where the donors’ interests may be affected.
Assessment of Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Lanot Nicolas , Vincenti Marie , Abassi Hamouda , Bredy Charlene , Agullo Audrey , Gamon Lucie , Mura Thibault , Lavastre Kathleen , Villeon Gregoire De La , Barrea Catherine , Meyer Pierre , Rivier François , Melli Albano , Fauconnier Jeremy , Cazorla Olivier , Lacampagne Alain , AMEDRO Pascal
Published: May 2021

Purpose-Prognosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is related to cardiac dysfunction. Two dimensional-speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) has recently emerged as a non-invasive functional biomarker for early detection of DMD-related cardiomyopathy. This study aimed to determine, in DMD children, the existence of a left ventricle (LV) dyssynchrony using 2D-STE analysis.Methods-This prospective controlled study enrolled 25 boys with DMD (mean age 11.0±3.5 years) with normal LV ejection fraction and 50 age-matched controls. Three measures were performed to assess LV mechanical dyssynchrony: the opposing-wall delays (longitudinal and radial analyses), the modified Yu index, and the time-to-peak delays of each segment. Feasibility and reproducibility of 2D-STE dyssynchrony were evaluated. Results-All three mechanical dyssynchrony criteria were significantly higher in the DMD group than in healthy subjects: (1) opposing-wall delays in basal inferoseptal to basal anterolateral segments (61.4±45.3 msec vs. 18.3±50.4 msec, P<0.001, respectively) and in mid inferoseptal to mid anterolateral segments (58.6±35.3 msec vs. 42.4±36.4 msec, P<0.05, respectively), (2) modified Yu index (33.3±10.1 msec vs. 28.5±8.1 msec, P<0.05, respectively), and (3) most of time-to-peak values, especially in basal and mid anterolateral segments. Feasibility was excellent and reliability was moderate to excellent, with ICC values ranging from 0.49 to 0.97.Conclusion-Detection of LV mechanical dyssynchrony using 2D-STE analysis is an easily and reproducible method in pediatrics. The existence of an early LV mechanical dyssynchrony visualized using 2D-STE analysis in children with DMD before the onset of cardiomyopathy represents a perspective for future pediatric drug trials in the DMD-related cardiomyopathy prevention. Clinical Trial Registration-Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02418338. Post-hoc study, registered on April 16, 2015.
Urinary Concentrations of Neonicotinoid Insecticides in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients, Their Family Members and Others in Dry-Zone of Sri Lanka
Authors: Kumiko TAIRA , Tomonori KAWAKAMI , Weragoda Sujithra Kaushaliya , Herath H.M.Ayala S. , Yoshinori IKENAKA , Kazutoshi FUJIOKA , HAMACHANDRA Madhubhani , Pallewatta Nirmalie , Yoshiko AOYAMA , Mayumi ISHIZUKA , Jean-Marc BONMATIN , Makiko KOMORI
Published: May 2021

The growing worldwide prevalence of chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) has been reported since the 1990’s. Neonicotinoids are systemic insecticides used since 1990’s, which may cause renal dysfunction, but the effect on the urinary concentration was unknown. We conducted a field-based case-control study in the North Central Dry-zone of Sri Lanka where CKDu was prevailing. We collected spot urine samples from15 CKD patients, 15 CKD family members, and 62 neighbors in May and December 2015, analyzed seven neonicotinoids and a metabolite by LC-ESI/MS/MS, in addition to two biomarkers of renal tubule activity, Cystatin-C and L-FABP. We also investigated their symptoms using a questionnaire. In CKD patients, urine Cystatin-C and L-FABP were significantly higher compared to non-CKD participants; and they complained of finger tremor, fever, and abnormal behavior more. Among neonicotinoids, N-desmethyl-acetamiprid was detected at the highest rate in 92.4 %, followed by thiamethoxam in 17.4%. Dinotefuran and thiacloprid that was not registered since 2015 in Sri Lanka were detected in 17.4%, 3.3%, respectively. In the participants whose urine Cystatin-C was in higher half, N-desmethyl-acetamiprid was significantly less than others. The urine neonicotinoid levels in CKD patients with compromised tubular function doesn’t seem to reflect their level of exposure.
Strategies to maximise study retention and limit attrition bias in a prospective cohort study of men reporting a history of injecting drug use released from prison: The Prison and Transition Health study
Authors: Stewart Ashleigh Cara , Cossar Reece , Walker Shelley , Wilkinson Anna Lee , Quinn Brendan , Dietze Paul , Winter Rebecca , Kirwan Amy , Curtis Michael , Ogloff James R. P. , Kinner Stuart , Aitken Campbell , Butler Tony , Woods Emma , Stoové Mark
Published: May 2021

Background There are significant challenges associated with studies of people released from custodial settings, including loss to follow-up in the community. Interpretation of findings with consideration of differences between those followed up and those not followed up is critical in the development of evidence-informed policies and practices. We describe attrition bias in the Prison and Transition Health (PATH) prospective cohort study, and strategies employed to minimise attrition.Methods PATH involves 400 men with a history of injecting drug use recruited from three prisons in Victoria, Australia. Four interviews were conducted: one pre-release (‘baseline’) and three interviews at approximately 3, 12, and 24 months post-release (‘follow-up’). We assessed differences in baseline characteristics between those retained and not retained in the study, using two-sample tests of proportions and t-tests.Results Most participants (85%) completed at least one follow-up interview and 162 (42%) completed all three follow-up interviews. Retained participants were younger than those lost to follow-up (mean diff − 3.1 years, 95% CI -5.3, -0.9). There were no other statistically significant differences observed in baseline characteristics.Conclusion The high proportion of participants retained in the PATH cohort study via comprehensive follow-up procedures, coupled with extensive record linkage to a range of administrative datasets, is a considerable strength of the study. Our findings highlight how strategic and comprehensive follow-up procedures, frequent contact with participants and secondary contacts, and established working relationships with the relevant government departments can improve study retention and potentially minimise attrition bias.
Augmented Rehabilitation Program for Young Patients Following Total Hip Arthroplasty- Feasibility Study
Authors: Negm Ahmed M. , Yavarai Milad , Jhangri Gian S. , Haennel Robert , Jones C. Allyson
Published: May 2021

Background: The increase rate seen in total hip arthroplasty (THA) for younger patients (< 60) has implications for future rehabilitation demands for primary and revision THA surgery. The primary objective is to examine the feasibility of a study comparing a 6-week post-operative rehabilitation program to usual care in patients ≤ 60 years undergoing elective unilateral THA. The secondary objectives are: 1) to explore the effect of a 6-week post-operative rehabilitation program designed for THA patients ≤ 60 years on physical activity (PA), function and participants’ satisfaction compared to age- and sex-matched control group received usual postoperative care at 12-week post-THA. 2) to examine the correlation between physical activity and self-reported pain and function.Methods: In this study, a cohort of THA candidates were recruited during their 6-week postoperative visit to their surgeons at a central intake clinic. The out-patient rehabilitation program, which was designed to improve function and increase activity, consisted of 12 structured exercise classes (2 hrs/class) on land and water over 6 weeks. Physical activity was assessed using Sense Wear Pro ArmbandTM [SWA]. Participants completed the Hip Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), and THA satisfaction questionnaire before and immediately after the intervention.Results: Of the 24 participants recruited, 14 participants received the augmented rehabilitation, and 10 participants were in the control group. All the study participants in the control and intervention groups completed the baseline and follow-up assessments without adverse events. Thirteen out of the fourteen intervention group participants completed at least 80% of the intervention sessions. The intervention group took significantly more steps/day (mean difference = 2,440 steps/day, 95% CI= 1678, 4712) (p<0.05), at the follow-up compared to baseline. The intervention group had a higher mean change of number of weekly PA bouts than the control group. Within the intervention group, all HOOS subscales were significantly higher at the follow-up compared to baseline. However, the ADL subscale was the only significant difference seen with the control group.Conclusion: The study intervention and assessments were feasible and safe in patients ≤ 60 years undergoing elective unilateral THA.
Perceived Stress and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Among Intensive Care Unit Staff Caring for Severely Ill Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients During the Pandemic: A National Study
Authors: Kader Nisha , Elhusein Bushra , Chandrappa Nirvana , Nashwan Abdulqadir J , Chandra Prem , Khan Abdul Waheed , Alabdulla Majid
Published: May 2021

Background: Intensive care unit (ICU) staff have faced unprecedented challenges during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which could significantly affect their mental health and well-being. The present study aimed to investigate perceived stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms reported by ICU staff working directly with COVID-19 patients. Methods: The Perceived Stress Scale was used to assess perceived stress, the PTSD Diagnostic Scale for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) was used to determine PTSD symptoms, and a sociodemographic questionnaire was used to record different sociodemographic variables. Results: Altogether, 124 participants (57.2% of whom were men) were included in the analysis. The majority of participants perceived working in the ICU with COVID-19 patients as moderately to severely stressful. Moreover, 71.4% of doctors and 74.4% of nurses experienced moderate to severe perceived stress. The staff with previous ICU experience were less likely to have a probable diagnosis of PTSD than those without previous ICU experience. Conclusions: Assessing perceived stress levels and PTSD among ICU staff may enhance our understanding of COVID-19-induced mental health challenges. Specific strategies to enhance ICU staff’s mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic should be employed and monitored regularly. Interventions aimed at alleviating sources of anxiety in a high-stress environment may reduce the likelihood of developing PTSD.
Development of a Compensation-aware Virtual Rehabilitation System for Upper Extremity Rehabilitation in Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Stroke
Authors: Luo Zhiqiang , Lim Audrey Ei-Ping , Durairaj Ponraj , Tan Kim Kiow , Verawaty Verawaty
Published: May 2021

Background: Compensatory movements are commonly observed in older adults with stroke when they take motor practice for rehabilitation, which could limit their motor recovery.Aim: This study aims to develop one virtual rehabilitation system (VRS) that can detect and reduce compensatory movements to improve the quality of upper extremity (UE) movements and hence the outcome of rehabilitation in community-dwelling older adults with stroke. Method: To design and validate the algorithm of compensation detection equipped in VRS, a study was first conducted to recruit 17 healthy and 6 stroke participants to identify and quantify compensatory movements when they played rehabilitation games provided by the VRS. Then a pilot study was conducted to test the feasibility and efficacy of the VRS deployed in community, where 18 stroke participants were assigned to either virtual reality (VR) group or conventional treatment (CT) group, and each participant underwent 10 sessions of an additional 6 minutes of VR games or CT respectively, on top of their usual rehabilitation programme. Participants were assessed before and after interventions using Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Test(WMFT), Stroke Rehabilitation Motivation Scale (SRMS), Range of Motion (ROM) measurements and the number of compensatory movements.Results: VR group demonstrated a trend in reduction of trunk and upper-extremity compensations, increased intrinsic motivation scores, and statistically significant improvements in FMA-UE (p=0.045) and WMFT (p=0.009, p=0.0355) scores. There was, however, no significant difference in all outcome measures between two groups. Conclusion: The compensation-aware VRS demonstrates a trend towards reduced compensation and higher motivation level, which could be an effective adjunct to the conventional therapy with less supervision from a therapist as well as be potentially deployed in a community center or at an elder adult’s home.
BCl3 Adsorption on Pristine, S-Doped, and Cr-Doped Graphynes: A DFT Study
Authors: Derakhshandeh Maryam
Published: May 2021

The adsorption of boron trichloride (BCl3) was explored onto pristine, S-doped, and Cr-doped graphyne through density functional theory computations. The interaction of BCl3 with pristine graphyne was weak and, thus, this sheet cannot be used as a sensor. Although S-doping strengthens the interaction, the S-doped sheet cannot still be used as a sensor. However, the reactivity and sensitivity of the sheet are significantly increased toward BCl3 by replacing the C atom of graphyne with the transition metal Cr. The HOMO-LUMO gap of Cr-doped graphyne reduces from 2.18 to 1.38 eV following the adsorption of BCl3, which significantly increases the electrical conductivity. Thus, the great change in the conductivity can be converted into an electronic signal, indicating that Cr-doped graphyne may be a promising sensor for BCl3. Also, its work function is considerably decreased by the adsorption process, indicating that it can also work as a work function-type sensor for BCl3 detection.
Changing the Sensitivity and Operating Range of the Ba2MgWO6 : Eu3+ Optical Thermometer by Applying the Distinct Synthesis Routes
Authors: Vu T. H. Quan , Bondzior Bartosz , Stefańska Dagmara , Miniajluk-Gaweł Natalia , Winiarski Maciej J. , Dereń Przemysław J.
Published: May 2021

The suitability of Ba2MgWO6 (BMW) double perovskite doped with Eu3+ for the construction of an optical thermometer was tested. It has been shown that by controlling the conditions of BMW synthesis, the sensitivity of the optical thermometer and the useful range of its work can be changed. Pure BMW and doped with Eu3+ samples were prepared using the mechano-chemical (MC) and co-precipitation (CP) methods. Both the absolute sensitivity and the relative sensitivity in relation to the synthesis route are estimated. The findings proved that the relative sensitivity can be modulated from 1.17 %K− 1 at 248 K, to 1.5%K− 1 at 120 K for the co-precipitation and the mechanochemical samples, respectively. These spectacular results confirm the applicability of the Ba2MgWO6: Eu3+ for the novel luminescent sensors in high-precision temperature detection devices. Density-functional theory (DFT) was applied to elucidate the origin of the host emission.
Title: Significance of D-dimer in acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion accompanied by active cancer
Authors: Pan Kwang Hyun , Kim Jaeyoun , Chung Jong-Won , Kim Keon Ha , Bang Oh Young , Jeon Pyoung , Kim Gyeong-Moon , Seo Woo-Keun
Published: May 2021

Background: This study aimed to investigate clinical outcome predictors of acute stroke patients with large vessel occlusion and active cancer and validate the significance of d-dimer levels for endovascular thrombectomy decisions.Methods: We analyzed a prospectively collected hospital-based stroke registry to determine clinical EVT outcomes of acute stroke patients within 24 hours with following criteria: age≥18 years, NIHSS≥6, and internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery lesion. All patients were classified into EVT and non-EVT groups. Patients were divided into two groups by initial d-dimer level. We explored variables potentially associated with successful recanalization as well as 3-month functional outcomes and mortality rates. Results: Among 68 patients, 36 were treated with EVT, with successful recanalization in 55.6%. The low d-dimer group showed a higher rate of successful recanalization and favorable outcome than the high d-dimer group. The mortality rate was higher in the high d-dimer group. EVT and high d-dimer level were independent predictors of mortality, whereas lesion volume and low d-dimer level were independently associated with favorable outcomes.Conclusions: d-dimer level is a prognostic factor in acute LVO stroke patients with active cancer, and its high value for EVT decisions provisionally supports its testing in this patient population.
Vegetation Phenology and Its Response to Climate Change in Extremely Arid Area: A Case Study of Populus Euphratica in The Upper Tarim River Basin, NW China
Authors: Li Hualin , Feng Jianzhong , bai Linyan , Zhang Jianjun
Published: May 2021

Quantifying the phenological variations of Populus euphratica (P. euphratica) resulting from climate change is vital for desert ecosystems in extremely arid regions. P. euphratica phenology and its response to climate change are lacking in extremely arid area. In this study, a modified method was proposed to explore P. euphratica phenology and its response to climate change using 15-year Global LAnd Surface Satellite (GLASS) leaf area index (LAI) time-series data (2002–2016) in the upper Tarim River basin. The start of the growing season (SOS), length of the growing season (LOS), and end of the growing season (EOS) were obtained with the dynamic threshold method from the reconstructed growth time series curve by using the Savitzky-Golay filtering method. The grey relational analysis (GRA) method was utilized to analyze the correlation between the phenological features of P. euphratica and climatic factors. Importantly, we also revealed the positive and negative effects between interannual climate factors and P. euphratica phenology using the canonical correlation analysis (CCA) method, and the interaction between the SOS in spring and EOS in autumn. The results revealed that the SOS of P. euphratica was delayed by about 5.3 days/10a, while EOS was advanced by about 3.1 days/10a. The phenology of P. euphratica was extensively changed, with high spatial heterogeneity. Spring sunshine duration (SD) and average air temperature (AT) controlled the SOS and EOS, although the impacts of average relative humidity (RH) and precipitation (PR) on phenology cannot be overlooked. The SOS was positively correlated with the EOS, implying a later SOS may generally be accompanied by a later EOS. Global warming may lead to SOS advance and EOS delay, and the increase of SD may lead to later SOS and earlier EOS. Groundwater was found to be a key factor for controlling P. euphratica phenology than runoff in this region.
Reduced frequency of migraine attacks following COVID-19 disease
Authors: Houben Roland
Published: May 2021

Introduction:SARS-CoV-2 is a virus affecting different organs and causing a wide variety and severity of symptoms. Case Presentation:Here we report on a 57-year old male patient with chronic migraine and medication overuse headache who fell ill with COVID-19. For many years prior to his Sars-Cov2 infection he suffered from very frequent migraine attacks and for control of headache he had been taking triptans almost daily. In the 16-month period before outbreak of COVID-19 on 98% of the days triptans were taken with only a 21-day prednisolone-supported triptan holiday, which, however, had no longer-lasting consequences on migraine frequency. Upon Sars-Cov2 infection, the patient developed only mild symptoms including fever, fatigue and headache. Directly following recovery from COVID-19 the patient surprisingly experienced a period with largely reduced frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Indeed, during 80 days following COVID-19, migraine as well as triptan usage were restricted to only 25% of the days no more fulfilling criteria of chronic migraine and medication overuse headache.Conclusion:SARS-CoV-2 infection might be capable of triggering mitigation of migraine.