bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine Zhi Shi Xiao Pi Wan on adult diabetic gastroparesis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jia Wei Chin , Phairoh Krittapat , Kuang Baoping , Kongart Chomlak , Thanavachirasin Pawat , Taniguchi Raksuda , Liao Tingting , Nayak Badavath Vishnu , Hurst Cameron , Abe Shuichi , Charuluxananan Somrat , Noiprasert Sulakkana , Hongsing Parichart , Wannigama Dhammika Leshan
Published: July 2022

Chinese herbal medicine formula Zhi Shi Xiao Pi Wan (ZSXPW) is commonly used for gastrointestinal diseases. Previous research showed ZSXPW also suggested for diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ZSXPW in treating adult DGP. Six databases, including Pubmed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, China Network Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and Chinese Scientific Journals were searched from their inceptions to November 2021. Only randomized control trials (RCTs) evaluating ZSXPW for adult DGP were included in this review. Two investigators independently evaluated and extracted the data. Total 11 RCTs and 802 participants were included in the review. In these studies, ZSXPW was compared with oral cisapride, domperidone, and mosapride citrate tablets. The outcomes of effective rate, stomach emptying time, stomach emptying rate, motilin, gastrin, somatostatin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, and adverse events were analyzed. The effective rate of ZSXPW is higher than other pharmacotherapies (RR:1.24, 95% CI [1.16,1.32]). The results showed intervention group has better effect on gastric emptying time used (MD: -0.51, 95% CI [-0.81, -0.21]) and gastric emptying rate (MD: 19.32, 95% CI [12.82, 25.83]) than the comparison group. The meta-analysis results showed ZSXPW is effective on adult DGP.
Effect of Aloe vera extract in post-burn skin repair in rats
Authors: Aulia Lusiana , Pane Yunita Sari
Published: July 2022

Background: Burn injury is a global health problem that is most often caused by heat. A burn injury can cause high morbidity and mortality and requires high cost. Therefore, the use of plants as an herbal medicine has the potential to be developed in Indonesia. Aloe vera contains various active ingredients that help the wound healing process, such as glucomannan and acemannan which have the effects on the proliferation of macrophages, fibroblasts, and re-epithelialization. This study aimed to determine the effect of Aloe vera extract in repairing post-burn skin in rats that were analyzed from the number of macrophages, fibroblasts, and epidermal thickness.

Methods: This is an experimental study with a posttest-only control group design using 54 Rattus norvegicus Wistar strain rats. The sampling method was simple random sampling consisting of 3 groups, i.e., I. standard group, which were normal rats; II. negative control group, which were given second-degree burns and treated with gel base (without Aloe vera extract); III. treatment groups, which were given second-degree burns and treated with Aloe vera extract gel. Each group was subdivided into three smaller groups (n = 6) according to the time the lesions were evaluated. Skin tissue samplings were carried out on days 3, 14, and 21 after injury to observe the number of macrophages, fibroblasts, and epidermal thickness.

Results: There were significant differences in the mean number of macrophages, number of fibroblasts, and epidermal thickness in all groups (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Aloe vera extract could accelerate the healing process of burns in rats.
Artificial intelligence to improve antimicrobial prescribing: A protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Amin Doaa , Garzón-Orjuela Nathaly , Garcia Pereira Agustin , Parveen Sana , Vornhagen Heike , Vellinga Akke
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The inappropriate use of antimicrobials is a threat to their effectiveness and often results in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and difficult to treat infections. Different methods have been implemented to control AMR, and in recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has been used to improve antimicrobial prescribing. However, there is insufficient information about the contribution of AI in improving antimicrobial prescribing. This systematic review aims to determine whether the use of AI can improve antimicrobial prescribing for human patients.

Methods: Observational studies that examine the potential or actual use of AI in improving antimicrobial prescribing cited in IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, OVID, EMBASE and ACM will be included in this systematic review. There will be no restriction on language, nor the setting (i.e.: primary care or hospital) nor the time when the studies included were conducted. The primary outcome of this systematic review is the relative reduction in prescribed antimicrobials, while the secondary outcome is the relative reduction in patients’ consultations, whether for infection recurrence or worsening of symptoms. Data will be meta-analyzed with a Random Effects Model. The I2 statistic for heterogeneity will be calculated and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale Tool will be used to assess risk of bias.

Dissemination: The results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication and scientific sessions.

PROSPERO Registration: This protocol has been registered in PROSPERO online database (CRD42022329049; 14 May 2022).
English: textbook for the second year students of the pharmaceutical faculty
Authors: Kolotnina E. V. , Olshvang O. U.
Published: July 2022

Данное электронное учебное пособие предназначено для студентов 2 курса фармацевтического факультета. Пособие состоит из 4 разделов: категории препаратов и лекарственные формы, патентованные и непатентованные лекарственные средства, упаковка и маркировка лекарственных средств, производство препаратов, фармацевтические компании. В каждый раздел включены аутентичные тексты по специальности, сопровождающиеся предтекстовыми и послетекстовыми лексико-грамматическими упражнениями, которые позволяют закрепить материал занятия. В каждом разделе есть задания творческого характера (написание эссе). В пособие включены ссылки на внешние источники и видеоролики, к которым даны задания. В конце пособия приведены задания для самопроверки по каждому из разделов. Целью данного ученого пособия является формирование коммуникативных навыков будущих провизоров в профессиональной сфере.
When Do Security Markets Aggregate Dispersed Information?
Authors: Corgnet Brice , Deck Cary , DeSantis Mark , Hampton Kyle , Kimbrough Erik O.
Published: July 2022

We attempt to replicate a seminal paper that offered support for the rational expectations hypothesis and reported evidence that markets with certain features aggregate dispersed information. The original results are based on only a few observations, and our attempt to replicate the key findings with an appropriately powered experiment largely fails. The resulting poststudy probability that market performance is better described by rational expectations than the prior information (Walrasian) model under the conditions specified in the original paper is very low. As a result of our failure to replicate, we investigate an alternate set of market features that combines aspects of the original experimental design. For these markets, which include both contingent claims and homogeneous dividend payments (as in many prediction markets), we do find robust evidence of information aggregation in support of the rational expectations model. In total, our results indicate that information aggregation in asset markets is fragile and should only be expected in limited circumstances.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Biais, finance.

Supplemental Material: The data and online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4463 .
Differential rater function over time (DRIFT) during student simulations
Authors: Diebel Sebastian , Boissonneault Eve , Perreault Luc , Lapierre René
Published: July 2022

Background:

The field of paramedicine continues to advance in scope. Simulation training is frequently used to teach and evaluate students. Simulation examinations are often evaluated using a standardised global rating scale (GRS) that is reliable and valid. However, differential rater function over time (DRIFT) has not been evaluated when using the GRS during simulations.

Aims:

This study aimed to assess if DRIFT arises when applying the GRS.

Methods:

Data were collected at six simulation evaluations. Raters were randomly assigned to evaluate several students at the same station. Each station lasted 12 minutes and there was a total of 11 stations. A model to test DRIFT scores was created and was tested against both a leniency and perceptual model.

Findings:

Of the models explored, one that included students, the rater, and the dimensions had the greatest evidence (−3151 Bayes factors). This model was then tested against leniency (K=−9.1 dHart) and perceptual models (K=−7.1 dHart). This suggests a substantial finding against DRIFT; however, the tested models used a wide parameter so the possibility of a minor effect is not fully excluded.

Conclusion:

DRIFT was not found; however, further studies with multiple centres and longer evaluations should be conducted.
Okuduğunu Anlamayı Etkileyen Etmenlere Yönelik Bir İnceleme
Authors: HAMZADAYI Ergün , BATMAZ Özlem
Published: July 2022

Okuduğunu anlamayı etkileyen etmenlerin çeşitli açılardan incelendiği bu çalışma, bir alanyazın derlemesi niteliği taşımaktadır. Buna göre Google Akademik, ULAKBİM, YÖK Akademik, Web of Science, ERIC, Proquest veri tabanı üzerinde bulunan okuduğunu anlama becerisi, okuduğunu anlamayı etkileyen etmenler, okuduğunu anlama engelleri konulu araştırma ve derleme makaleleri taranarak okuduğunu anlama becerisini etkileyen değişkenler belirlenmiş ve bu değişkenlerin okuduğunu anlama sürecindeki etkileri açıklanmaya çalışılmıştır. Alanyazın derlemesinin sonucuna göre; okuduğunu anlama stratejileri, sözcük bilgisi, akıcı okuma, metin türü ve metin türü farkındalığı, okumanın duyuşsal nitelikleri, üstbilişsel okuma stratejileri olmak üzere okuduğunu anlamayı etkileyen altı etmen belirlenmiş ve bu etmenler çeşitli boyutlarıyla açıklanmıştır. Çalışmadan elde edilen sonuçlardan biri, yetkin okurları zayıf okurlardan ayıran temel farkın bu altı etmeni bilinçli bir biçimde kullanabilme, okuma sürecini buna göre düzenleyebilme ve okuma sürecinde bu etmenleri zamanında ve etkili bir biçimde kullanabilme becerileri olduğu yönündedir. Öte yandan belirlenen altı etmenin okuduğunu anlama becerisi üzerinde doğrudan etkili olduğu, birbirleriyle ilişkili nitelikte olduğu ve her bir etmenin öğretilebilir, öğrencilere kazandırılabilir özellikler taşıdığı sonucuna varılmıştır.
Pancreatoduodenectomy for suspected malignancy: nonmalignant histology confers increased risk of serious morbidity
Authors: Mavroeidis VK , Russell TB , Clark J , Adebayo D , Bowles M , Briggs C , Denson J , Aroori S
Published: July 2022

Background/Aims

A tissue diagnosis is not always obtained prior to pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and a proportion of patients are found to have noncancerous histology postoperatively. It is unknown if these patients have different outcomes when compared with those who have malignancy confirmed.

Methods

A retrospective paired case matched control study was undertaken. Patients who underwent PD for suspected malignancy but ultimately had nonmalignant histology were identified. Each was matched to a confirmed malignant control using the following criteria: age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, neoadjuvant treatment, preoperative serum bilirubin, preoperative biliary stenting and type of pancreatic anastomosis. Matching was blinded to the measured outcomes, which included perioperative morbidity and mortality.

Results

Forty-five cases were compared with 45 well-matched controls. There was no difference in 30- or 90-day mortality, or length of stay. While overall morbidity rates were the same, patients with nonmalignant disease were more likely to experience major (Clavien–Dindo grade III–IV) morbidity (40.0% versus 17.8%, p = 0.0352). Independently, rates of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) were higher in the nonmalignant group (22.2% versus 4.44%, p = 0.0131).

Conclusions

In our study, PD patients with nonmalignant histology had significantly higher incidence of major morbidity and CR-POPF when compared with those who had malignancy confirmed. This should be considered when planning the management of patients with known or presumed benign/premalignant disease.
Spinal infections in the north-east of Scotland: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Veljanoski D , Tonna I , Barlas R , Abdel-Fattah AR , Almoosawy SA , Bhatt P
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Spinal infection (SI) is uncommon and patients present with varied clinical features. In this review, the presentation, investigation, treatment and outcome of patients with SI in the north-east of Scotland were assessed.

Methods

Electronic medical records of adult patients with SI hospitalised at a health board in the north-east of Scotland between 2014 and 2018 were analysed retrospectively. Collected variables included demographics, presenting clinical features, risk factors, comorbidities, admission blood results, microbiological investigations, imaging, treatment and outcomes.

Results

Seventy-two patients were included. Mean age (±sd) was 63.3 years (±14.5). The lumbar spine was the most commonly involved region (51.4%). Back pain (84.7%), altered mobility (33.3%) and fever (29.2%) were the most frequent presenting features. Thoracic spine involvement (p = 0.041), urinary symptoms (p = 0.033), cauda equina syndrome (CES) (p = 0.027) and limb weakness (p = 0.026) were associated with poorer outcome. A better outcome was associated with back pain at presentation (p = 0.03) and underlying malignancy (p = 0.045). Diabetes (15.3%), recent falls (15.3%) and immunosuppression (12.5%) were common. A likely causative organism was found in 54 patients (75.0%) and Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 41.7% of patients. Penicillins were used in 56.3% of patients and 20.8% underwent surgery. Outcomes were full recovery (38.2%), residual symptoms or neurological deficits (50.0%), paraplegia (4.4%) and death (7.4%).

Conclusions

Poorer outcomes occurred in patients with thoracic disease, limb weakness, urinary symptoms or CES, whereas better outcomes were associated with the presence of back pain on presentation and malignancy. This analysis highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of SI, alerting clinicians to key factors associated with prognosis.
Hybrid algorithm for predicting the temperature-variation-induced wavelength drift of DBR semiconductor lasers
Authors: Yuan Ziqi , Shi Yanpei , Lin Shudong , Yue Ziqian , Fang Xiujie , Hu Dong , Zhai Yueyang
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a hybrid algorithm to predict the wavelength drift induced by ambient temperature variation in distributed Bragg reflector semiconductor lasers is proposed. This algorithm combines the global search capability of a genetic algorithm (GA) and the supermapping ability of an extreme learning machine (ELM), which not only avoids the randomness of ELM but also improves its generalization performance. In addition, a tenfold cross-validation method is employed to determine the optimal activation function and the number of hidden layer nodes for ELM to construct the most suitable model. After applying multiple sets of test data, the results demonstrate that GA-ELM can quickly and accurately predict the wavelength drift, with an average rms error of

4.09
×

10

−
4

n
m

and average mean absolute percentage error of 0.21 %. This model is expected to combine the temperature and current tuning models for a wavelength in follow-up research to achieve rapid tuning and high stability of a wavelength without additional devices.
Experimental study on the aero-optical effects of a supersonic mixing
layer controlled by the ramp vortex generator array
Authors: Xia Zihao , Ding Haolin , Xu Xiwang , Yi Shihe
Published: July 2022

As the main
structure that induces
aero-optical effects, the supersonic mixing layer is an essential
structure in hypersonic flight vehicles with optical windows. The
aero-optical effects of a

M
c
=

0.17

supersonic mixing layer controlled by
the ramp vortex generator array (RVGA) were investigated in detail
using the nano-tracer-based planar laser scattering technique and ray
tracing method. The incident locations and angles of the beam, and the
mounting position of the RVGA, act as variables. In different cases,
the optical path difference (OPD), Strehl ratio (SR), imaging
displacement (ID), and bore sight error (BSE) are taken as evaluation
parameters. Surprisingly, the length of the laminar section of the
supersonic mixing layer varies little when the RVGA is applied. To
reduce the aero-optical effects under our experimental conditions, the
best incident angle is between 90º and 100º, and the position of the
aperture should be carefully chosen to avoid the region of transition.
A 10.75%–25.22% reduction of the average

O
P
D

r
m
s

and a 15.30%–33.99% reduction of the
standard deviation of the

O
P
D

r
m
s

are achieved when the RVGA is
applied, as well as an overall improvement of the SR, ID, and BSE. In
our experimental circumstances, the supersonic mixing layer’s
aero-optical effects are suppressed to the full extent if the RVGA is
mounted right at the trailing edge of the splitter.
Semantic speckle: an auto-located speckle pattern for DIC measurement
Authors: Ren Xiangyun , Xu Xiangyang , Yuan Fang , Yin Zhuoyi , He Xiaoyuan
Published: July 2022

Digital image correlation (DIC) has been widely used in both
experimental mechanics and engineering fields. The matching algorithm
of the DIC method usually requires surfaces containing a random
speckle pattern as a deformation information carrier. The speckle
pattern plays an irreplaceable role in DIC, which has led to extensive
research on it. However, most previous research had always focused on
the fabrication and computational performance of the speckle, ignoring
the value of intentionally defining the meaning of speckle in design.
In this study, we describe a novel, to the best of our knowledge,
speckle pattern named semantic speckle. It is a digital speckle
composed of several different speckle patterns with similar
characteristics. Based on the deep-learning method and matching
algorithm, the central location of the semantic part in the overall
speckle image can be obtained automatically. Through the intentional
definition of the semantic part, it can be possible to calibrate the
camera parameters and correct the external parameters of the DIC
systems.
Spontaneous parametric down-conversion in bottom-up grown lithium niobate microcubes
Authors: Hanh Duong Ngoc My , Saerens Grégoire , Timpu Flavia , Buscaglia Maria Teresa , Buscaglia Vincenzo , Morandi Andrea , Müller Jolanda S. , Maeder Andreas , Kaufmann Fabian , Solntsev Alexander S. , Grange Rachel
Published: July 2022

Nonclassical light sources are highly sought-after as they are an integral part of quantum communication and quantum computation devices. Typical sources use bulk nonlinear crystals that rely on stringent phase-matching conditions, limiting the operating wavelength and bandwidth. In this work, we demonstrate the generation of photon pairs from a free-standing lithium niobate microcube at the telecommunication wavelength of 1.56 µm through the spontaneous parametric down-conversion process. The maximum photon pair generation rate obtained from a single microcube with the size of 3.6 µm is 490 Hz, resulting in an efficiency of 20.6 GHz/Wm, which is three orders of magnitude larger than the efficiency of biphoton generation in bulk nonlinear crystals. The microcubes are synthesized through a solvothermal method, offering the possibility for scalable devices via bottom-up assembly on any substrates. Our work constitutes an important step forward in the realization of compact nonclassical light sources with a wide bandwidth for various quantum applications.
The RNA-binding protein Puf5 and the HMGB protein Ixr1 contribute to cell cycle progression through the regulation of cell cycle-specific expression of CLB1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Sato Megumi , Irie Kaoru , Suda Yasuyuki , Mizuno Tomoaki , Irie Kenji
Published: July 2022

Puf5, a Puf-family RNA-binding protein, binds to 3´ untranslated region of target mRNAs and negatively regulates their expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The puf5Δ mutant shows pleiotropic phenotypes including a weakened cell wall, a temperature-sensitive growth, and a shorter lifespan. To further analyze a role of Puf5 in cell growth, we searched for a multicopy suppressor of the temperature-sensitive growth of the puf5Δ mutant in this study. We found that overexpression of CLB2 encoding B-type cyclin suppressed the temperature-sensitive growth of the puf5Δ mutant. The puf5Δ clb2Δ double mutant displayed a severe growth defect, suggesting that Puf5 positively regulates the expression of a redundant factor with Clb2 in cell cycle progression. We found that expression of CLB1 encoding a redundant B-type cyclin was decreased in the puf5Δ mutant, and that this decrease of the CLB1 expression contributed to the growth defect of the puf5Δ clb2Δ double mutant. Since Puf5 is a negative regulator of the gene expression, we hypothesized that Puf5 negatively regulates the expression of a factor that represses CLB1 expression. We found such a repressor, Ixr1, which is an HMGB (High Mobility Group box B) protein. Deletion of IXR1 restored the decreased expression of CLB1 caused by the puf5Δ mutation and suppressed the growth defect of the puf5Δ clb2Δ double mutant. The expression of IXR1 was negatively regulated by Puf5 in an IXR1 3´ UTR-dependent manner. Our results suggest that IXR1 mRNA is a physiologically important target of Puf5, and that Puf5 and Ixr1 contribute to the cell cycle progression through the regulation of the cell cycle-specific expression of CLB1.
Performance of HIV rapid testing algorithm in Nigeria: Findings from a household-based Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS)
Authors: Patel Hetal K. , Ikpe Sunday , Bronson Megan , Birhanu Sehin , Abimiku Alash’le , Jahun Ibrahim , Detorio Mervi , Lupoli Kathryn , Yavo Daniel , Bassey Orji O. , Jelpe Tapdiyel D. , Kagurusi Brian , Iriemenam Nnaemeka C. , Patel Divya , Okoye McPaul I. , Dalhatu Ibrahim T. , Ohakanu Stephen , Voetsch Andrew C. , Aliyu Sani , Ashefor Gregory , Gambo Aliyu , Ikwulono Gabriel O. , Nzelu Charles , Adewole Isaac F. , Swaminathan Mahesh , Parekh Bharat
Published: July 2022

Background

The Nigeria AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS), a cross-sectional household survey, was conducted in 2018 with primary objectives to estimate HIV prevalence, HIV-1 incidence, and status of UNAIDS 90-90-90 cascade. We conducted retrospective analysis of the performance of HIV rapid tests and the national HIV testing algorithm used in Nigeria.

Methods

The national algorithm included Determine HIV-1/2 as test 1 (T1), Unigold HIV-1/2 as test 2 (T2), and StatPak HIV-1/2 as the tie-breaker test (T3). Individuals reactive with T1 and either T2 or T3 were considered HIV-positive. HIV-positive specimens from the algorithm were further confirmed for the survey using supplemental test Geenius HIV-1/2. If Geenius did not confirm HIV-positive status, HIV-1 Western blot was performed. We calculated the concordance between tests and positive predictive value (PPV) of the algorithm on unweighted data.

Results

Of 204,930 participants (ages ≥18 months) 5,103 (2.5%) were reactive on T1. Serial testing of T1 reactive specimens with T2 or if needed by tiebreaker T3 identified 2958 (1.44%) persons as HIV-positive. Supplemental testing confirmed 2,800 (95%) as HIV-positive (HIV-1 = 2,767 [98.8%]; HIV-2 = 5 [0.2%]; dual infections = 22 [0.8%]). Concordance between T1 and T2 was 56.6% while PPV of the national algorithm was 94.5%.

Conclusions

Our results show high discordant rates and poor PPV of the national algorithm with a false-positive rate of about 5.5% in the NAIIS survey. Considering our findings have major implications for HIV diagnosis in routine HIV testing services, additional evaluation of testing algorithm is warranted in Nigeria.
Knowledge and experience of physicians during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A global cross-sectional study
Authors: Mansour Rania , Rallapalli Smrithi , Baidwan Hamreet Kaur , Razai Mohammad S. , Abou-Abbas Linda
Published: July 2022

Physicians are on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic with responsibility to manage the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, perceptions and experiences, as well as preventative practices regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and COVID-19 vaccinations. Further, we explore physicians’ recommendations for future pandemics. A mixed-methods online survey was disseminated to physicians globally. The survey was distributed via social media from August 9–30, 2021. Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards COVID-19, concerns regarding vaccinations, and perspectives on policies implemented. Descriptive statistics were reported, and qualitative data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. A total of 399 physicians from 62 countries completed the survey, with similar participation from High Income Countries and Low- or Middle-Income Countries. Most physicians (87%) revealed a good level of knowledge while only half (54%) reported adhering to adequate preventative measures. More than half of participants (56%) indicated that the policies implemented to handle COVID-19 by their public health agencies were insufficient or disorganised. While most physicians reported increased mental stress (61%) and described their experience with COVID-19 using negative terminology (63%), most physicians (87%) indicated they are willing to continue working in healthcare. Physicians globally possessed good knowledge of COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccinations; yet improvements in ensuring compliance with preventative measures is warranted. Findings from this study have important implications. As recommended by physicians, efforts to manage pandemics should involve (1) strengthening health systems, (2) minimising adverse effects of infodemics, (3) delegating decision-making roles appropriately, and (4) acknowledging global responsibility.
Mortality rate and cause among people with intellectual disabilities in South Korea: A nationwide representative cross-sectional study from 2015 to 2019
Authors: Kim Ye-Soon , Kim Joo-Hee , Kwon Sooyoung , Ho Seunghee
Published: July 2022

People with intellectual disabilities (ID) age faster and have a higher prevalence of degenerative diseases. The aim of this study was to identify the patterns/ causes of death among people with ID. We conducted a nationwide, retrospective, cross-sectional study of people with ID in South Korea. The database was compiled by merging data of people registered with ID, based on the 2015–2019 Standards from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, with the cause of death data published by the Korea National Statistical Office. The International Classification of Diseases-10 (ICD-10) was used to categorize causes of death. The mortality and standardized mortality rates were calculated and major causes of death were analyzed. As of 2019, the mortality rate of people with ID in South Korea was 784.6. The rate showed an irregular pattern, increasing or decreasing year by year (increasing from 725 in 2015 to 834 in 2018). The mortality rate of people with ID was approximately 1.4 times higher than the general population; the standardized mortality rate was 3.2 times higher. The main causes of death (48%) in people with ID were, in order of prevalence, circulatory diseases (cerebrovascular disease), neoplasms (malignant neoplasms of the digestive system), and diseases of the respiratory system (pneumonia). The leading causes of death (>60%) in the general population were, in order of prevalence, neoplasms, diseases of the circulatory system, and respiratory system diseases. An accurate understanding of the causes of death of people with ID is important to promote the development and application of health promotion programs and management thereof.
Reporting of mycetoma cases from skin and soft tissue biopsies over a period of ten years: A single center report and literature review from Pakistan
Authors: Zeeshan Mohammad , Fatima Saira , Farooqi Joveria , Jabeen Kauser , Ahmed Arsalan , Haq Afreen , Arif Muhammad Omer , Zafar Afia
Published: July 2022

Background

Mycetoma is an important neglected tropical disease associated with debilitation, disfigurement and death if not diagnosed and treated adequately. In Pakistan, mycetoma cases have frequently been diagnosed in histopathology and microbiology laboratories. However, there is scarcity of published data from this country. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the frequency and type of mycetoma reported in skin and soft tissue biopsies from a single center over 10 years and review of published literature from Pakistan.

Method

This descriptive observational retrospective study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital laboratory, Karachi, Pakistan. Laboratory data from 2009–2018 of skin and soft tissue biopsies with positive findings of mycetoma were retrieved from hospital information system. The variables for statistical analysis were age and gender of patient, anatomical site of lesion, residence of patient (geographical location) in the country, etiologic agents of mycetoma and significant gross and microscopic histopathological findings. The data was entered, and descriptive epidemiologic assessment was carried out using MS excel 2013. Geographical information system was used for mapping the location. Literature review of mycetoma cases reported from Pakistan was done on PubMed, Google search and PakMediNet from 1980 till April 2019.

Result

During ten years of study period, 89 skin and soft tissue biopsies were reported as mycetoma, majority were eumycetoma [n = 66/89 (74%)] followed by actinomycetoma [n = 23/89 (26%)]. Involvement of lower limb was predominantly observed [n = 74/89 (83%)] in which foot had significant contribution [n = 65/74 (88%)]. Only 18 specimens were submitted for microbiological assessment and six grew agents of mycetoma, with Madurella mycetomatis reported in only three. Well-formed granuloma formation was observed in only 26%[n = 23/89] of cases. Specific geographical location was not identified, and cases were reported from across the country. From Pakistan, only two original papers and 7 case reports were available in published literature.

Conclusion

This single center study reports a handful of cases of mycetoma from Pakistan. We conclude that the index of suspicion should remain high among treating surgeons and physicians and clinical laboratories should improve their diagnostic capacity and skills. This will have a great impact on disease outcome and patient’s life.
Comparative performance of two automated machine learning platforms for COVID-19 detection by MALDI-TOF-MS
Authors: Rashidi Hooman H. , Pepper John , Howard Taylor , Klein Karina , May Larissa , Albahra Samer , Phinney Brett , Salemi Michelle R. , Tran Nam K.
Published: July 2022

The 2019 novel coronavirus infectious disease (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in an unsustainable need for diagnostic tests. Currently, molecular tests are the accepted standard for the detection of SARS-CoV-2. Mass spectrometry (MS) enhanced by machine learning (ML) has recently been postulated to serve as a rapid, high-throughput, and low-cost alternative to molecular methods. Automated ML is a novel approach that could move mass spectrometry techniques beyond the confines of traditional laboratory settings. However, it remains unknown how different automated ML platforms perform for COVID-19 MS analysis. To this end, the goal of our study is to compare algorithms produced by two commercial automated ML platforms (Platforms A and B). Our study consisted of MS data derived from 361 subjects with molecular confirmation of COVID-19 status including SARS-CoV-2 variants. The top optimized ML model with respect to positive percent agreement (PPA) within Platforms A and B exhibited an accuracy of 94.9%, PPA of 100%, negative percent agreement (NPA) of 93%, and an accuracy of 91.8%, PPA of 100%, and NPA of 89%, respectively. These results illustrate the MS method’s robustness against SARS-CoV-2 variants and highlight similarities and differences in automated ML platforms in producing optimal predictive algorithms for a given dataset.
Covid-19 restriction policies and shopping streets
Authors: Koster Hans R. A. , van Ommeren Jos , Tang Cheng Keat , Bras Nander
Published: July 2022

Policymakers around the world are enforcing mobility restriction policies such as lockdowns, facemask requirements and social distancing to curb the spread of Covid-19. While these policies are effective in preventing the spread of virus, the economic implications are not well understood. We contribute to the literature by examining the impact of these policies on the offline retail sector. Specifically, we measure the effects of these policies on the daily number of shoppers passing by, which we refer to as ‘footfall’, along major shopping streets in Netherlands. We rely on unique proprietary Wifi data to accurately measure footfall. Our findings imply that all these policies attribute to a non-trivial reduction in footfall levels along shopping streets. While lockdowns led to a 50% reduction in footfall along major shopping streets, shopping streets faced with facemask regulations also experience a 25% drop in human traffic. A reduction in footfall translates into a substantial reduction in retail income of between 12% and 25%.
Diagnosing the performance of food systems to increase accountability toward healthy diets and environmental sustainability
Authors: Herforth Anna , Bellows Alexandra L. , Marshall Quinn , McLaren Rebecca , Beal Ty , Nordhagen Stella , Remans Roseline , Estrada Carmona Natalia , Fanzo Jessica
Published: July 2022

To reorient food systems to ensure they deliver healthy diets that protect against multiple forms of malnutrition and diet-related disease and safeguard the environment, ecosystems, and natural resources, there is a need for better governance and accountability. However, decision-makers are often in the dark on how to navigate their food systems to achieve these multiple outcomes. Even where there is sufficient data to describe various elements, drivers, and outcomes of food systems, there is a lack of tools to assess how food systems are performing. This paper presents a diagnostic methodology for 39 indicators representing food supply, food environments, nutrition outcomes, and environmental outcomes that offer cutoffs to assess performance of national food systems. For each indicator, thresholds are presented for unlikely, potential, or likely challenge areas. This information can be used to generate actions and decisions on where and how to intervene in food systems to improve human and planetary health. A global assessment and two country case studies—Greece and Tanzania—illustrate how the diagnostics could spur decision options available to countries.
Family focused interventions that address parental domestic violence and abuse, mental ill-health, and substance misuse in combination: A systematic review
Authors: Allen Kate , Melendez-Torres G. J. , Ford Tamsin , Bonell Chris , Finning Katie , Fredlund Mary , Gainsbury Alexa , Berry Vashti
Published: July 2022

Parental domestic violence and abuse (DVA), mental ill-health (MH), and substance misuse (SU) are three public health issues that tend to cluster within families, risking negative impacts for both parents and children. Despite this, service provision for these issues has been historically siloed, increasing the barriers families face to accessing support. Our review aimed to identify family focused interventions that have combined impacts on parental DVA, MH, and/or SU. We searched 10 databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, Education Research Information Centre, Sociological Abstracts, Applied Social Sciences Index & Abstracts, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from inception to July 2021 for randomised controlled trials examining the effectiveness of family focused, psychosocial, preventive interventions targeting parents/carers at risk of, or experiencing, DVA, MH, and/or SU. Studies were included if they measured impacts on two or more of these issues. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2 was used to quality appraise studies, which were synthesised narratively, grouped in relation to the combination of DVA, MH, and/or SU outcomes measured. Harvest plots were used to illustrate the findings. Thirty-seven unique studies were identified for inclusion. Of these, none had a combined positive impact on all three outcomes and only one study demonstrated a combined positive impact on two outcomes. We also found studies that had combined adverse, mixed, or singular impacts. Most studies were based in the U.S., targeted mothers, and were rated as ‘some concerns’ or ‘high risk’ of bias. The results highlight the distinct lack of evidence for, and no ‘best bet’, family focused interventions targeting these often-clustered risks. This may, in part, be due to the ways interventions are currently conceptualised or designed to influence the relationships between DVA, MH, and/or SU.

Trial registration: PROSPERO registration: CRD42020210350.
From qualitative data to correlation using deep generative networks: Demonstrating the relation of nuclear position with the arrangement of actin filaments
Authors: Vasudevan Jyothsna , Zheng Chuanxia , Wan James G. , Cham Tat-Jen , Teck Lim Chwee , Fernandez Javier G.
Published: July 2022

The cell nucleus is a dynamic structure that changes locales during cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, or migration, and its mispositioning is a hallmark of several disorders. As with most mechanobiological activities of adherent cells, the repositioning and anchoring of the nucleus are presumed to be associated with the organization of the cytoskeleton, the network of protein filaments providing structural integrity to the cells. However, demonstrating this correlation between cytoskeleton organization and nuclear position requires the parameterization of the extraordinarily intricate cytoskeletal fiber arrangements. Here, we show that this parameterization and demonstration can be achieved outside the limits of human conceptualization, using generative network and raw microscope images, relying on machine-driven interpretation and selection of parameterizable features. The developed transformer-based architecture was able to generate high-quality, completed images of more than 8,000 cells, using only information on actin filaments, predicting the presence of a nucleus and its exact localization in more than 70 per cent of instances. Our results demonstrate one of the most basic principles of mechanobiology with a remarkable level of significance. They also highlight the role of deep learning as a powerful tool in biology beyond data augmentation and analysis, capable of interpreting—unconstrained by the principles of human reasoning—complex biological systems from qualitative data.
Barriers and facilitators to pharmacovigilance activities in Pakistan: A healthcare professionals-based survey
Authors: Hussain Rabia , Akram Tayyaba , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Muneswarao Jaya , Rehman Anees ur , Hashmi Furqan , Babar Zaheer-Ud-Din
Published: July 2022

The timely reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) could improve pharmacovigilance (PV) in a healthcare system. However, in almost all healthcare systems barriers exist that lead to the underreporting of ADRs. The objective of this study was to identify the barriers and facilitators regarding PV activities from the point of view of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Lahore, Pakistan. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted between September 2018 to January 2019. The data was collected through convenience sampling of physicians, pharmacists, and nurses at tertiary care public hospitals in Lahore. A total of 384 questionnaires were distributed, and 346 HCPs responded to the survey. Over 62% percent of physicians and 54.8% of nurses agreed that they did not know how to report an ADR in their workplace. About 43.2% of pharmacists and 40.1% of nurses disagreed that they were not aware of the need for ADR reporting. Furthermore, 41.6% of nurses identified a lack of financial reimbursement and 51.8% highlighted a lack of support from a colleague as a reason that could lead to the underreporting of ADR. The majority of participants, including 69.6% physicians, 48.6% pharmacists, and 55.3% nurses identified the lack of knowledge about the existence of a national PV centre. Extra time for ADR reporting, incentives, continuous medical education, reminders, and availability of an online ADR reporting system was classed as the facilitators and were agreed upon by the majority of HCPs.
Gene polymorphisms and serum levels of BDNF and CRH in vitiligo patients
Authors: Kussainova Assiya , Kassym Laura , Bekenova Nazira , Akhmetova Almira , Glushkova Natalya , Kussainov Almas , Urazalina Zhanar , Yurkovskaya Oxana , Smail Yerbol , Pak Laura , Semenova Yuliya
Published: July 2022

Background

Vitiligo is one of the most common hypomelanoses, in which the destruction of functioning melanocytes causes depigmentation of the skin, hair and mucous membranes. The genes encrypting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) might be the conceivable contributors to the development of vitiligo. This study was aimed at investigation of the serum levels of BDNF and CRH as well as their selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in vitiligo patients in comparison with the healthy controls.

Methods

The cross-sectional study was carried out between October 2020 and June 2021 in 93 vitiligo patients (age range from 23 to 48 years) and 132 healthy controls (age range from 24 to 52 years). The psychological status of study participants was evaluated using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. Serum levels of BDNF and CRH were measured with the help of a commercially available sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Genotyping for the rs11030094 polymorphism of the BDNF gene and for the rs242924 polymorphism of the corticotropin releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRH-R1) gene was performed by a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

There was a significant relationship between the CRH-R1 rs242924 and BDNF rs11030094 polymorphisms and vitiligo. Moreover, serum levels of neurotransmitters differed significantly between vitiligo and control groups and were associated with the CRH-R1 rs242924 and BDNF rs11030094 SNPs.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated the association between CRH-R1 rs242924 and BDNF rs11030094 polymorphisms and vitiligo. Further studies need to be carried out in vitiligo patients to confirm the results observed.
Parainfluenza virus infections in patients with hematological malignancies or stem cell transplantation: Analysis of clinical characteristics, nosocomial transmission and viral shedding
Authors: Tabatabai Julia , Schnitzler Paul , Prifert Christiane , Schiller Martin , Weissbrich Benedikt , von Lilienfeld-Toal Marie , Teschner Daniel , Jordan Karin , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Egerer Gerlinde , Giesen Nicola
Published: July 2022

To assess morbidity and mortality of parainfluenza virus (PIV) infections in immunocompromised patients, we analysed PIV infections in a hematology and stem cell transplantation (SCT) unit over the course of three years. Isolated PIV strains were characterized by sequence analysis and nosocomial transmission was assessed including phylogenetic analysis of viral strains. 109 cases of PIV infection were identified, 75 in the setting of SCT. PIV type 3 (n = 68) was the most frequent subtype. PIV lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) was observed in 47 patients (43%) with a mortality of 19%. Severe leukopenia, prior steroid therapy and presence of co-infections were significant risk factors for development of PIV-LRTI in multivariate analysis. Prolonged viral shedding was frequently observed with a median duration of 14 days and up to 79 days, especially in patients after allogeneic SCT and with LRTI. Nosocomial transmission occurred in 47 patients. Phylogenetic analysis of isolated PIV strains and combination with clinical data enabled the identification of seven separate clusters of nosocomial transmission. In conclusion, we observed significant morbidity and mortality of PIV infection in hematology and transplant patients. The clinical impact of co-infections, the possibility of long-term viral shedding and frequent nosocomial transmission should be taken into account when designing infection control strategies.
COVID-19 pneumonia: Prediction of patient outcome by CT-based quantitative lung parenchyma analysis combined with laboratory parameters
Authors: Do Thuy D. , Skornitzke Stephan , Merle Uta , Kittel Maximilian , Hofbaur Stefan , Melzig Claudius , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Wielpütz Mark O. , Weinheimer Oliver
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the prognostic value of fully automatic lung quantification based on spectral computed tomography (CT) and laboratory parameters for combined outcome prediction in COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods

CT images of 53 hospitalized COVID-19 patients including virtual monochromatic reconstructions at 40-140keV were analyzed using a fully automated software system. Quantitative CT (QCT) parameters including mean and percentiles of lung density, fibrosis index (FIBI-700, defined as the percentage of segmented lung voxels ≥-700 HU), quantification of ground-glass opacities and well-aerated lung areas were analyzed. QCT parameters were correlated to laboratory and patient outcome parameters (hospitalization, days on intensive care unit, invasive and non-invasive ventilation).

Results

Best correlations were found for laboratory parameters LDH (r = 0.54), CRP (r = 0.49), Procalcitonin (r = 0.37) and partial pressure of oxygen (r = 0.35) with the QCT parameter 75thpercentile of lung density. LDH, Procalcitonin, 75thpercentile of lung density and FIBI-700were the strongest independent predictors of patients’ outcome in terms of days of invasive ventilation. The combination of LDH and Procalcitonin with either 75thpercentile of lung density or FIBI-700achieved a r2of 0.84 and 1.0 as well as an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.99 and 1.0 for the prediction of the need of invasive ventilation.

Conclusions

QCT parameters in combination with laboratory parameters could deliver a feasible prognostic tool for the prediction of invasive ventilation in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.