bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mid-Gestation Cytokine Profiles in Mothers of Children Affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Case-Control Study
Authors: Carter Michael , Casey Sophie , O’Keeffe Gerard , Gibson Louise , Murray Deirdre
Published: May 2021

Background: Alterations of gestational cytokine profiles have been reported in mothers of autistic children. Increasing evidence suggests that the intrauterine environment is an important determinant of autism risk. This study aims to examine the mid-gestational serum cytokine profiles of the mothers of autistic children from a well-characterised birth cohort.Methods: A nested sub-cohort within a large mother-child birth cohort were identified based on a confirmed multi-disciplinary diagnosis of autism before the age 10 years and neuro-typical matched controls in a 2:1 ratio. IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, GMCSF and TNFα were measured in archived maternal 20-week serum using MesoScale Diagnostics multiplex technology and validation of our IL-17A measurements was performed using an ultrasensitive assay. Results: From a cohort of 2137 children, 25 had confirmed autism before 10 years and maternal serum from mid-gestation. We examined the sera of these 25 cases and 50 matched controls. The sex ratio was 4:1 males to females in each group, and the mean age at diagnosis was 5.09 years (SD 2.13). Concentrations of IL-4 were significantly altered between groups. The other analytes did not differ significantly using either multiplex or ultra-sensitive assays. Conclusions: In a well-characterised prospective cohort of autistic children, and supplementary to promising evidence from animal experiments and retrospective screening programmes, we confirmed mid-gestational alterations in maternal IL-4 cytokine levels in autism affected pregnancies versus matched controls.
Synthesized Two New Water-soluble Fluorescents Calix[4]arene 4-sulfo-1,8-naphthalimide Derivatives Inhibit Proliferation of Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Yildirim Ayse , Karakurt Serdar , Yilmaz Mustafa
Published: May 2021

Synthesis of 1,8-naphthalimide derivatives and biochemical studies using them as anti-cancer and cellular imaging agents have attracted significant attention in recent years. This study aimed to synthesize two new fluorescent lower rim-functionalized 4-sulfo-1,8-naphthalimide derivatives of calix[4]arenes [4 and 7] and examination of their cytotoxic properties for cancerous cells. For this purpose, p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene bearing dihydrazide [3] or diaminopropyl [6] units on its lower rim were reacted with 4-sulfo-1,8-naphthalic anhydrate. The structure of these synthesized compounds has been characterized using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and FT-IR techniques. To investigate the anti-cancer properties, compounds 4, 7, and N,N-dimethylaminoethyl-1,8-naphthalimide [8] were tested on the human colorectal cancer cell line (DLD-1) as well as healthy colon epithelial cell line (CCD-18Co). The IC50 values of 4 and 7 were determined as 12.95 µM and 16.13 µM, respectively, on DLD-1 cells. Furthermore, following the treatment of CCD-18Co cells with 4 and 7, the IC50 values were determined as 508 µM and 269 µM, respectively. However, it was observed that compound 8 had no cytotoxic effect on both DLD-1 cells and CCD-18Co cells. Furthermore, the fluorescence imaging of human colorectal cancer cells treated with the synthesized compounds [4, 7, and 8] was performed on living cells.
Epithelial Regeneration Ability of Crohn's Disease Assessed Using Patient-Derived Intestinal Organoids
Authors: Lee Chansu , Hong Sung Noh , Kim Eun Ran , Chang Dong Kyung , Kim Young-Ho
Published: May 2021

Background: Little is known about the ability of epithelial regeneration and wound healing in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, since the ethical issue of clinical trials and the inherent limitations of tumor-derived epithelial cell lines and animal models. We evaluated the epithelial proliferation and wound healing ability of the patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) using the patient-derived intestinal organoids. Methods: Human intestinal organoids were constructed in a three-dimensional intestinal crypt culture of enteroscopic biopsy samples from controls and CD patients. The epithelial regeneration ability of intestinal organoids was assessed using organoid reconstitution, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), and wound healing assays. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFa) is a major pro-inflammatory effector during the CD pathogenesis. Under the TNFa-enriched conditions, the epithelial regeneration ability of CD patient-derived organoids was compared with that of control organoids.Results: The organoid-forming efficiency of ileal crypts derived from CD patients was reduced compared with those from control subjects (p < .001). Long-term cultured organoids (≥ 6 passages) derived from controls and CD patients showed inseparable morphologic and cultural features. Under the TNFa-enriched conditions, organoid reconstitution assay and MTT assay revealed that the organoid reconstitution and viability of CD patient-derived organoids were significantly lower than those of control organoids (p <.05 for each). The number of EdU+ proliferative cells was significantly lower in TNFα-treated organoids derived from CD patients than in TNFα-treated control organoids (p < .05). In the wound healing assay, the unhealed area in TNFα-treated CD patient-derived organoids was significantly larger than that of TNFα-treated control organoids (p < .001). Conclusions: Under TNFα-enriched conditions, the wound healing ability of CD patient-derived organoids is reduced due to the reduced cell proliferation compared with that of control organoids. The epithelial regeneration ability may be impaired in patients with CD.
Mid-Term Outcome of Mitral Valve Replacement During Septal Myectomy for Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chun Hon , Mei Bo , Chen Guang-xian , Feng Kang-ni , Liang Meng-ya , Wu Zhong-kai
Published: May 2021

Background

The mitral valve shows significant involvement in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). The mid-term outcomes of management of HOCM by prosthetic valve replacement with septal myectomy remain unclear. This study compared the prognosis of patients with and without prosthetic valve replacement.
Methods

From 01/2009 until 10/2015, 24 patients with HOCM underwent septal myectomy with or without valve repair/replacement were recruited. A total of 23 patients underwent echocardiographic evaluation before and after the operation. The follow-up duration ranged from 0.4 to 7 years (median 2.5 years). The Kaplan-Meier test was used to explore the association between prosthetic valve replacement and overall/disease-free survival among HOCM patients.
Results

A total of 9 patients underwent septal myectomy with/without mitral valve repair (MVr), and the other 15 patients underwent septal myectomy with mitral valve replacement (MVR). Six patients treated with MVR had unfavorable outcomes, including one peri-operative and three late deaths; one patient suffered from aborted sudden death, and one patient was treated for prosthetic valve endocarditis. Prosthetic valve replacement was associated with poor disease-free survival (p = 0.025).
Conclusions

Septal myectomy with or without-MVr was associated with a better outcome than septal myectomy with MVR in HOCM patients. The differences in prognosis were caused by more complicated left ventricular outflow tract structures and more prosthetic valve complications among patients undergoing MVR.
Vaginal Microbiota Characteristics of Pregnancy of Unknown Location Women in China(VMCPULW): Study Protocol for a Prospective Cohort
Authors: Huang Xuge , Zhang Yingxuan , Wang Dongying , Zhang Huimin , Chen Si , Chen Xiaofeng , Guo Yinan , Li Sijin , Huang Yanxi , Luo Songping , Gao Jie
Published: May 2021

Background: Pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) is a kind of pregnancy that has a positive beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) test result but the location of pregnancy cannot be determined by ultrasound. Early determination of the location of the pregnancy is important for subsequent treatment. However, there is no study on the characteristics of vaginal microbiota in pregnant women with unknown locations and a model for judging it by vaginal microbiota combined with clinical indicators. Therefore, we designed this study to compare the characteristics of vaginal microbiota in intrauterine and ectopic pregnancy populations during pregnancy with unknown locations and to establish a prediction model for pregnancy locations in PUL populations with clinical indicators.Methods: This is a prospective, multicenter cohort study. 576 eligible participants will be included in this study. Vaginal microbiota was collected from all participants at inclusion, and color Doppler ultrasound was performed weekly. After the locations of pregnancy were determined, participants of intrauterine pregnancy were followed up to their early pregnancy outcome, and participants of ectopic pregnancy were followed up until a none-pregnancy level of β-hCG was confirmed. Discussion: The regular method of judging the location of pregnancy is by color Doppler ultrasound and β-hCG test. We hope to provide earlier clinical methods of prediction for women with unknown locations of pregnancy through this study.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2000035378, registration date: 9 August 2020. http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx
Impact of treatment dose on patient outcomes after Interdisciplinary Multimodal Pain Therapy
Authors: Baumbach Philipp , Richter Maria , Schneider Johannes , Smolenski Ulrich Christian , Weiss Thomas , Meissner Winfried
Published: May 2021

Objectives The impact of duration and intensity on outcomes after Interdisciplinary Multimodal Pain Therapy (IMPT) is poorly researched. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of low dose (LD, avg. 25 hours) and high dose IMPT (HD, avg. 110 hours).Methods Patients completed pain-related questionnaires at the beginning (T1), at the end of therapy (T2) and at 3-month follow-up (T3) and were matched according to age, sex, presence of back-pain and pain-related disability at T1, resulting in 32 patients per group. Primary endpoint was the difference in pain-related disability and average pain intensity at T3 between both groups. In addition, early treatment effects and group differences at T2 were analyzed.Results Both groups showed significant improvements in pain-related disability and average pain intensity between T1 and T2. These positive effects persisted in the HD group until the 3-month follow-up, whereas outcomes in the LD group patients deteriorated and were significantly poorer compared to HD at T3.Discussion Within a widely comparable therapeutic setting, high-dose IMPT was associated with longer lasting improvements compared to low-dose IMPT in chronic pain patients, indicating that the “dose” of therapy is a relevant factor for clinical outcomes and should be further investigated.
Clinical Comparison Between Thoracoscopic and Thoracotomy Repair of Gross Type C Esophageal Atresia
Authors: Yang Shen , Wang Peize , Yang Zhi , Li Siqi , Liao Junmin , Hua Kaiyun , Zhang Yanan , Zhao Yong , Gu Yichao , Li Shuangshuang , Chen Yongwei , Huang Jinshi
Published: May 2021

Background
To compare the clinical outcomes between thoracoscopic approach and thoracotomy surgery in patients with Gross type C Esophageal atresia (EA) and tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF).
Methods
Patients with Gross type C EA/TEF who underwent surgery from January 2007 to January 2020 at Beijing Children’s Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to surgical approaches. The perioperative factors and postoperative complications were compared among the 2 groups.
Results
One hundred and ninety patients (132 boys and 58 girls) with a median birth weight of 2975 (2600, 3200) g were included. The primary operations were performed via thoracoscopic (n = 62) and thoracotomy (n = 128) approach. After comparison of clinical characteristics between the 2 groups, we found that there were statistically significant differences in associated anomalies, method of fistula closure, duration of mechanical ventilation after surgery, feeding option before discharge, management of pneumothorax, and prognosis (all P < 0.05). To a certain extent, thoracoscopic surgery reduced the incidence of anastomotic leakage and increased the incidence of anastomotic stricture in this study. However, there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of operative time, postoperative pneumothorax, anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, and recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (all P > 0.05).
Conclusions
Thoracoscopy surgery for Gross type C EA/TEF is a safe and effective, minimally invasive technique with comparable operative time and incidence of postoperative complications.
CryoEM and AI reveal a structure of SARS-CoV-2 Nsp2, a multifunctional protein involved in key host processes
Authors: Verba Kliment , Gupta Meghna , Azumaya Caleigh , Moritz Michelle , Pourmal Sergei , Diallo Amy , Merz Gregory , Jang Gwendolyn , Bouhaddou Mehdi , Fossati Andrea , Brilot Axel , Diwanji Devan , Hernandez Evelyn , Herrera Nadia , Kratochvil Huong , Lam Victor , Li Fei , Li Yang , Nguyen Henry , Nowotny Carlos , Owens Tristan , Peters Jessica , Rizo Alexandrea , Schulze-Gahmen Ursula , Smith Amber , Young Iris , Yu Zanlin , Asarnow Daniel , Billesbølle Christian , Campbell Melody , Chen Jen , Chen Kuei-Ho , Chio Un Seng , Dickinson Miles , Doan Loan , Jin Mingliang , Kim Kate , Li Junrui , Li Yen-Li , Linossi Edmond , Liu Yanxin , Lo Megan , Lopez Jocelyne , Lopez Kyle , Mancino Adamo , III Frank Moss , Paul Michael , Pawar Komal , Pelin Adrian , Pospiech Thomas , Puchades Cristina , Remesh Soumya , Safari Maliheh , Schaefer Kaitlin , Sun Ming , Tabios Mariano , Thwin Aye , Titus Erron , Trenker Raphael , Tse Eric , Tsui Tsz Kin Martin , Feng Feng , Zhang Kaihua , Zhang Yang , Zhao Jianhua , Zhou Fengbo , Zhou Yuan , Zuliani-Alvarez Lorena , Agard David , Cheng Yifan , Fraser James , Jura Natalia , Kortemme Tanja , Manglik Aashish , Southworth Daniel , Stroud Robert , Swaney Danielle , Krogan Nevan , Frost Adam , Rosenberg Oren
Published: May 2021

The SARS-CoV-2 protein Nsp2 has been implicated in a wide range of viral processes, but its exact functions, and the structural basis of those functions, remain unknown. Here, we report an atomic model for full-length Nsp2 obtained by combining cryo-electron microscopy with deep learning-based structure prediction from AlphaFold2. The resulting structure reveals a highly-conserved zinc ion-binding site, suggesting a role for Nsp2 in RNA binding. Mapping emerging mutations from variants of SARS-CoV-2 on the resulting structure shows potential host-Nsp2 interaction regions. Using structural analysis together with affinity tagged purification mass spectrometry experiments, we identify Nsp2 mutants that are unable to interact with the actin-nucleation-promoting WASH protein complex or with GIGYF2, an inhibitor of translation initiation and modulator of ribosome-associated quality control. Our work suggests a potential role of Nsp2 in linking viral transcription within the viral replication-transcription complexes (RTC) to the translation initiation of the viral message. Collectively, the structure reported here, combined with mutant interaction mapping, provides a foundation for functional studies of this evolutionary conserved coronavirus protein and may assist future drug design.
Prevalence of Relapse of Alcohol Use Disorder and the Association With Self-Efficacy and Perceived Social Support in Butabika Hospital
Authors: Kalani Kenneth , Nakigudde Janet , Birungi Caroline , Onoria Joy Gumikiriza- , Mukiza Nelson , Arinda Anita , Luwedde Betijuma , Irimaso Hillary
Published: May 2021

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a problem globally and Uganda has one of the highest per capita alcohol consumption rates in sub-Saharan Africa. Relapse is a distressing aspect in the treatment of AUD and it is mediated by self-efficacy and perceived social support besides other psychosocial factors. In Uganda, there is paucity of data regarding relapse of AUD and the association with self-efficacy and perceived social support hence the need to carry out this study.
Objective

To determine the prevalence of relapse of AUD and the association with self-efficacy and perceived social support at Butabika hospital.
Methods

A cross-sectional study design was used and 269 participants that received treatment for AUD at hospital in the period between 1st /01/2016 and 31st /12/2017 were consecutively recruited. Participants were assessed for relapse of AUD using the SCID-5 substance use disorder section. Data was collected using a socio-demographic questionnaire, the general self-efficacy scale and the multidimensional scale for perceived social support. Data was entered in Epidata 3.0 and imported into STATA version 14 for analysis. Chi square test and logistic regression were used at bi-variable and multivariable analysis respectively to determine associations.
Results

The prevalence of relapse of AUD among the 269 participants was 63.3% (170). Of those who relapsed, 98% (167) had severe AUD. Participants with a marital status of single were less likely to relapse into alcohol use than those with a marital status of; separated or divorced (OR = 6.81; 95% CI = 1.53–30.32; p-value = 0.012) and married (OR = 2.86; 95% CI = 1.07–7.65; p-value = 0.037). Male participants were more likely to relapse into AUD than the females (OR = 0.19; 95%CI = 0.04–0.86; p-value = 0.03). Participants with higher perceived social support (OR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.81–0.9; p-value = < 0.001) were less likely to relapse into AUD. Self-efficacy (OR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.85-1; p-value = 0.061) was not significantly associated with relapse of AUD.
Conclusion

The prevalence of relapse of AUD is high and is associated with perceived social support, marital status of; separated, divorced or married, and female gender. Relapse prevention programs should emphasize the importance of social support in the management of patients with AUD. Further research to assess the relationship between relapse of AUD among married people is recommended.
Effects of Continuous Cropping of Lilium Lancifolium on Rhizosphere Soil Physical and Chemical Properties and Fungal Community Structure
Authors: Huang Shixia , Lin Lihao , Zhao Tianyu , Yuan Yi , Tai Yuling , Ye Aihua
Published: May 2021

Lilium lancifolium is an important economic crop in Huoshan county of Anhui province, China. Continuous cropping obstacles serious affect the yield and quality of L. lancifolium. At present, the effect of the continuous cropping of L. lancifolium on soil fungal community structure is not clear. In this study, Illumina MiSeq was used to study the fungi of the rhizosphere soil associated with L. lancifolium subjected to three treatments: no continuous cropping, continuous cropping for 3 years, and continuous cropping for 5 years. The results showed that continuous cropping of L. lancifolium could increase the fungal richness and diversity in the rhizosphere to different degrees. Ascomycota was the dominant phylum, and its abundance increased after continuous cropping. In addition, the abundance of beneficial fungi, such as Chaetomium, decreased, and the abundance of harmful fungi, such as Fusarium and Colletotrichum, greatly increased with the duration of continuous cropping. Overall, continuous cropping changed the composition of soil fungal communities, reduced the abundance of beneficial fungi, and increased the abundance of harmful fungi. Thus, continuous cropping increased the potential for soil-borne diseases and endangered the bulb growth of L. lancifolium.
Quality of Family Planning Care as Enabling Factor for Modern Contraceptive Use in Indonesia: Evidence from PMA2020 Survey
Authors: Nurjaeni Nurjaeni , Sawangdee Yothin , Pattaravanich Umaporn , Holumyong Charamporn , Chamratrithirong Aphichat
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThe utilization of modern family planning methods is a key pointer that mirrors universal access to reproductive health cares. Fulfilling unmet needs for modern contraceptives may decrease the level of maternal mortality by almost a third. This research employed the 2016 PMA2020 survey to assess multilevel variables related to modern family planning method use among women of reproductive age in Indonesia. MethodData from interviews of female and Service Delivery Point (SDP) of the 2016 Performance Monitoring and Accountability 2020 (PMA2020) survey were linked to generate a merged dataset comprising women’s individual, cluster and SDP factors (N=10,210). Multilevel analysis was done to assess the influence of contextual factors including a summary index of SDP quality FP care on woman’s modern family planning practice. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% CIs were analysed and interpreted.ResultsModern contraceptive prevalence among women of childbearing age was 42.3% in 2016. There was a considerable variation in the likelihood of modern method use across the 372 clusters/EAs. Age, education, marital status, parity, residency, region, woman’s FP decision autonomy, cluster’s average ideal number of children, percentage of females dissatisfied with FP, and percent of females visited by CHVs were significant factors for modern FP use after adjusting for multilevel characteristics. Quality of FP care was revealed to be a significant enabling factor for modern contraceptive use in Indonesia. ConclusionsModern contraceptive prevalence among females aged 15-49 years was relatively low in 2016. The findings indicate that an advancement in modern method use can be gained by improving quality of family planning care. Likewise, an enhancement in women’s FP decision autonomy and their level of education, decline in women’s ideal number of children and diminution of the dissatisfaction with family planning are all major concerns to be addressed. Family planning policies must tackle adverse cultural norms and inequities in quality of family planning care and women’s education that would produce welfares to women, children, and communities.
Flat-floor Bubbles, Dark Solitons, and Vortices Stabilized by Inhomogeneous Nonlinear Media
Authors: Zeng Liangwei , Malomed Boris A. , Mihalache Dumitru , Cai Yi , Lu Xiaowei , Zhu Qifan , Li Jingzhen
Published: May 2021

We consider one- and two-dimensional (1D and 2D) optical or matter-wave media with a maximum of the local self-repulsion strength at the center, and a minimum at periphery. If the central area is broad enough, it supports ground states in the form of flat-floor “bubbles”, and topological excitations, in the form of dark solitons in 1D and vortices with winding number m in 2D. The ground and excited states are accurately approximated by the Thomas-Fermi expressions. The 1D and 2D bubbles, as well as vortices with m=1, are completely stable, while the dark solitons and vortices with m=2 have nontrivial stability boundaries in their existence areas. Unstable dark solitons are expelled to the periphery, while unstable double vortices split in rotating pairs of unitary ones. Displaced stable vortices precess around the central point.
Capacity-Building and Continuing Professional Development in Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries - A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Deprez Dalton , Busch Angela J , Ramirez Paola Andrea , Araque Eliany Eliany Pedrozo , Bidonde Julia
Published: May 2021

Background: A recent world health report suggests that there is a growing rehabilitation human resource crisis. This review focuses on capacity-building needed to meet present and future rehabilitation challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Capacity building is the process by which individuals and organizations obtain, improve, and retain the skills, knowledge, tools, equipment, and other resources needed to do their jobs competently. The objectives of this review are; 1) to determine how capacity-building has been defined, implemented, and evaluated in LMICs; and 2) to provide an overview of the effectiveness of capacity-building initiatives.Methods: In the first of seven stages, we will refine and delimit the research. Then, we will identify relevant studies by searching five biomedical databases, two rehabilitation databases, three regional databases, and three databases of grey literature. Two independent reviewers will then select the studies using a priori selection criteria. We will exclude incomplete records, records published prior to 2000 for databases and 2010 for grey literature, and records written in languages other than English or Spanish. We will also exclude records focusing on entry-to-practice programs in academic settings. For Objective 1, using qualitative analysis software we will extract and analyze text from included records which defines or explains capacity building. For Objective 2, using an online file sharing platform, one reviewer will extract data describing the effectiveness of capacity building interventions and a second reviewer will verify accuracy, with disagreements resolved by consensus. The results will be collated using tables and charts. After synthesizing the results, we will discuss the practicality and applicability of findings with partners from Honduras and Colombia. We will use several formats and venues including presentations and publications in English and Spanish to present our results.Discussion: To our knowledge, this will be the first attempt to systematically identify knowledge of capacity-building and rehabilitation in LMICs. This scoping review results will offer unique insights concerning the breadth and depth of literature in the area. It is anticipated that results from this scoping review will guide efforts in future capacity-building efforts in rehabilitation in LMICsReview Registration: Busch AJ, Deprez D, Bidonde J, Ramírez PA, Araque EP. Capacity building and continuing professional development in healthcare and rehabilitation in low and middle income countries - A scoping review. 2021. doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/7VGXU.
Exposure to the COVID-19 News on Social Media: Psychological and Self-reported Behavioural Responses Among Iranian Adults
Authors: Mokhtari-Hesari Parisa , Yarmohammadi Hossein , Bahabadi Mehdi Rafiei ,   Fatemeh Naghizadeh Moghari1 Fatemeh Naghizadeh Moghari1, Maftoon Farzaneh , Tavousi Mahmoud , Riazi Hedyeh , Montazeri Ali
Published: May 2021

Background: Exposure to news on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is inevitable. This study aimed to explore associations between exposure to COVID-19 news on social media and psychological and behavioral consequences among Iranians.Methods: This was a telephone-based survey carried out in April 2020 in Iran. Iranian adults aged 18 and over were randomly selected from the postal codes and using their mobile phones. A self-designed questionnaire was administered to collect data on participants’ characteristics and questions to address their psychological and behavioral responses regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. A multivariate logistic regression model was performed to assess the relationship between anxiety, fear, and behavioral responses and independent variables including exposure to news.Results: In all 1563 adults participated in the study. The mean age of respondents was 39.17±13.5 years. Moderate to high-level anxiety was reported by 55.4% of participants, while fear of being affected by coronavirus was reported by 54.1%. Overall 88% reported that they changed their behaviors to some extent. Exposure to the COVID-19 news on social media was by far the most influencing variable on anxiety (OR= 2.21, 95% CI: 1.62-3.04; P < 0.0001), fear (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.49-2.56; P < 0.0001), and change in health behaviors (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.28-3.19; P = 0.003) in the regression model. While independent variables did not show significant associations with anxiety and behavior change, the fear of being infected by the COVID19 was associated with the female gender and some socio-economic characteristics of the participants.Conclusion: Although exposure to the COVID-19 news on social media seemed to be associated with excessive anxiety and fear among people, it also, to some extent, positively has changed people’s health behaviors towards preventive measures.
Construction, Monitoring, and Analysis: Guiyang Metro Line 1, China
Authors: Tao Yonghu , Rao Junying , Cui Huichao
Published: May 2021

The Huo-Sha Tunnel of Guiyang Metro Line 1 in China, which runs from the Guiyang Railway Station to the Shachong Road Station, passes through the railway station platform closely. The minimum distance between the vault and the pile foundation is only 2.19 m. The geology is complex, and the settlement control requirements for the oblique sections, platforms, station buildings, pile foundations, and existing buildings are remarkably strict. Comprehensive measures of “super pipe shed support, surrounding rock reinforcement, inverted arch grouting, and lining strengthening are strictly adopted” to prevent the influence of construction on the operation of station buildings and in-service railways, high-speed railways, and other buildings. It also analyzes the changing laws of the existing building subsidence, subgrade settlement, station longitudinal displacement variation, and the development trends of lining safety, stability, eccentricity, compression types, and internal force of the lining. The following results are presented. The Huo-Sha Tunnel is gradually excavated. The roadbed settlement of the Guiyang Railway Station platform gradually increases but does not exceed the existing railway deformation control standards for the subsurface excavation section. The longitudinal distribution of the existing railway settlement is approximately a normal curve after the construction of the secondary lining. This result is consistent with the law of the surface settlement trough proposed by Peck, and the range is between −50 m and 50 m. The stress of the lining is mainly concentrated at the arch waist and the vault, the compression types include large and small eccentric, the axial force value gradually increases symmetrically from the vault to the arch footing, the maximum axial force appears at the arch footing, and all control indicators meet the corresponding control standards. The subgrade settlement of the skew section meets the deformation control standards of the existing railway of the subsurface excavation sections after the stabilization of the secondary lining deformation.
Cost analysis of treating cardiovascular diseases in a super-specialty hospital
Authors: Kumar Atul , Siddharth Vijaydeep , Singh I B , Narang Rajiv
Published: May 2021

Background Cardiovascular care is expensive; hence, economic evaluation is required to estimate resources being consumed and to ensure their optimal utilization. There is dearth of data regarding cost analysis of treating various diseases including cardiac diseases from developing countries. The study aimed to analyze resource consumption in treating cardio-vascular disease patients in a super-specialty hospital.Methods An observational and descriptive study was carried out from April 2017 to June 2018 in the Department of Cardiology, Cardio-Thoracic (CT) Centre of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. As per World Health Organization, common cardiac diseases i.e. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), Cardiomyopathy, Congenital heart diseases, Cardiac Arrhythmias etc. were considered for cost analysis. A total of 100 admitted patients (Ward & Cardiac Care Unit) of cardiovascular diseases were enrolled in the study using prevalence-based sampling. They were followed up till discharge. Traditional Costing and Time Driven Activity Based Costing (TDABC) methods were used for cost computation.Results Per bed per day cost incurred by the hospital for admitted patients in Cardiac Care Unit, adult and pediatric cardiology ward was calculated to be INR 28,144 (US$ 434), INR 22,210 (US$ 342) and INR 18,774 (US$ 289), respectively. Inpatient cost constituted almost 70% of the total cost and equipment cost accounted for more than 50% of the inpatient cost followed by human resource cost (28%). Per patient cost of treating any cardiovascular disease was computed to be INR 2,47,822 (US $ 3842).Conclusion Cost of treating Rheumatic Heart Disease is the highest among all CVDs followed by Cardiomyopathy and other CVDs. Cost of treating cardiovascular diseases in India is less than what has been reported in developed countries. Findings of this study would aid policy makers considering recent radical changes and massive policy reforms ushered in by the Government of India in healthcare delivery.
The evolution of hypovolemic and euvolemic hyponatremia coincides with an inflammatory status in patients with COVID-19
Authors: SANCHEZ JORGE GABRIEL RUIZ , Chávez-Díaz Pamela , Cárdenas-Salas Jersy
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUNDHyponatremia is a frequent electrolytic disorder in hospitalized patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Inflammatory status could be associated with hyponatremia in patients with COVID-19. We evaluate the hospital evolution of hyponatremia and inflammation markers in COVID-19 patients.METHODSA case-series of adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and hyponatremia at admission were included and retrospectively followed during hospitalization. Data of the volemic status, general characteristics, inflammation, and clinical outcomes, were collected and analyzed. Comparative and multivariate analyzes were developed, and Hazzard ratio (HR) with 95%-confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.RESULTS49 patients with hyponatremia followed, 32 (65.3) were male, and 22 (44.9%) euvolemic. Mean age: 69.9 ± 14.7 years. From the 100% of patients with hyponatremia at admission, only 26.2% remained hyponatremic at the 7th -10th hospitalization day. Improvement in serum sodium (SNa) coincided with improvement in inflammatory markers during hospitalization, as well as a decrease in the rate of hyponatremia. A lower SNa at admission was independently associated with mortality (HR: 12.23, 95%CI: 2 to 25.6).CONCLUSIONBoth admission hypovolemic and euvolemic hyponatremia in COVID-19 patients occurred in a inflammation status, and improved as inflammation markers decreased.
Genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in a UK university identifies dynamics of transmission
Authors: Aggarwal Dinesh , Warne Ben , Jahun Aminu S. , Hamilton William , Fieldman Thomas , du Plessis Louis , Hill Verity , Blane Beth , Watkins Emmeline , Wright Elizabeth , Hall Grant , Ludden Catherine , Myers Richard , Hosmillo Myra , Goodfellow Yasmin , Pinckert Malte L. , Georgana Iliana , Izuagbe Rhys , Leek Danielle , Nsonwu Olisaeloka , Hughes Gareth , Packer Simon , Page Andrew J. , Metaxaki Marina , Fuller Stewart , Weale Gillian , Holgate Jon , Brown Christopher A. ,   The Cambridge Covid-19 testing Centre,   University of Cambridge Asymptomatic COVID-19 Screening Programme Consortium,   The COVID-19 Genomics UK (COG-UK) Consortium, Howes Rob , McFarlane Duncan , Dougan Gordon , Pybus Oliver G. , De Angelis Daniela , Maxwell Patrick H. , Peacock Sharon J. , Weekes Michael , Illingworth Chris , Harrison Ewan M. , Matheson Nicholas J. , Goodfellow Ian G.
Published: May 2021

Understanding the drivers for spread of SARS-CoV-2 in higher education settings is important to limit transmission between students, and onward spread into at-risk populations. In this study, we prospectively sequenced 482 SARS-CoV-2 isolates derived from asymptomatic student screening and symptomatic testing of students and staff at the University of Cambridge from 5 October to 6 December 2020. We performed a detailed phylogenetic comparison with 972 isolates from the surrounding community, complemented with epidemiological and contact tracing data, to determine transmission dynamics. After a limited number of viral introductions into the university, the majority of student cases were linked to a single genetic cluster, likely dispersed across the university following social gatherings at a venue outside the university. We identified considerable onward transmission associated with student accommodation and courses; this was effectively contained using local infection control measures and dramatically reduced following a national lockdown. We observed that transmission clusters were largely segregated within the university or within the community. This study highlights key determinants of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and effective interventions in a higher education setting that will inform public health policy during pandemics.
Effect of Heat stable Carbetocin vs Oxytocin for Preventing Postpartum Haemorrhage on Post Delivery Hemoglobin- A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vernekar Sunil S , Goudar Swati S , Metgud Mrityunjay C , Pujar Yeshita V , Somannavar Manjunath S , Piaggio Gilda , de Carvalho José Ferreira , Revankar Amit , Althabe Fernando , Widmer Mariana , Gulmezoglu Ahmet Metin , Goudar Shivaprasad S
Published: May 2021

BackgroundPost-partum haemorrhage is one of the major causes of maternal mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Oxytocin is the first choice uterotonic for the PPH prevention but it requires cold storage. Heat stable carbetocin appears to be a promising agent for the prevention of PPH. The present study was an ancillary to the WHO CHAMPION Trial conducted to compare the effect of heat-stable carbetocin 100 µg IM versus oxytocin 10 IU IM on post-delivery hemoglobin level in one of the participating facilities in India.MethodsThis was a nested randomized controlled trial designed to compare the effect of heat-stable carbetocin 100 µg IM versus oxytocin 10 IU IM, administered within one minute of vaginal delivery of the baby for prevention of postpartum haemorrhage, on post-delivery 48–72 hours hemoglobin level, adjusted for pre-delivery hemoglobin level. 1,799 women from one hospital in India participated in this study.ResultsPre-delivery hemoglobin and postpartum blood loss were not significantly different between carbetocin and oxytocin. Post-delivery hemoglobin, unadjusted or adjusted for pre-delivery hemoglobin, was slightly lower for carbetocin compared to oxytocin. The drop in hemoglobin was slightly higher for carbetocin, although the difference was very small (1.2 g/dL for carbetocin, 1.1 g/dL for oxytocin). The proportion of participants with a drop in hemoglobin of 2 g/dL or more, adjusted for pre-delivery hemoglobin, was higher for carbetocin (RR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.63). From the regression coefficients it can be derived that post-delivery hemoglobin, adjusted for pre-delivery hemoglobin, decreases on average 0.12g/dL for each dL of blood lost, for the two treatments combined.ConclusionsThe present ancillary study showed that intramuscular administration of 100 µg of heat stable carbetocin can result in a slightly lower post-delivery hemoglobin, slightly higher drop and higher percentage of women having a drop of 2 g/dL or larger, compared to 10 IU of oxytocin, but these differences are not clinically relevant.Study registrationThe trial was registered with Clinical Trial Registry of India CTRI/2016/06/006996.
Perception of Aesthetic Impairment in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis: A Case Control Study Using a Semi-Quantitative Scale for Body Image Assessment.
Authors: Farhat Méryem-Maud , Guerreschi Pierre , Morell-Dubois Sandrine , Deken Valérie , Labreuche Julien , Sanges Sébastien , Sobanski Vincent , Hachulla Eric , Cottencin Olivier , Launay David
Published: May 2021

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a fibrotic disease. Assessment of body image could be central in optimizing care. Yet, data are scarce. The main objective was to assess perception of aesthetic impairment using a visual aesthetic scale (AES) in patients with SSc compared to healthy subjects. Secondary objectives were to assess associations between perception of aesthetic impairment and standardized questionnaires for aesthetic impairment as well as clinical, psychological/quality of life, and functional parameters of SSc. Methods: This study evaluated and compared perception of aesthetic impairment in two populations: patients with SSc, in a referral center at Lille Hospital, France, and healthy controls. Results: This study included 88 patients (69 [78.4%] women) with a median age of 52 years and 88 controls (49 [55.7%] women) with a median age of 45 years. Perception of aesthetic impairment assessed using the AES was poorer in patients than in controls (3.7 ± 0.3 vs 2.8 ± 0.3, p=0.028), with statistical correlation with ASWAP. Patients with anxiety or depressive symptoms had significantly higher AES scores. Conclusion: The AES appears to be an ease of use tool to evaluate body image. Correlations found with psychological and quality of life parameters reflect the importance of these parameters for body image evaluation and its complex assessment.Trials registration: NCT03271320
Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Provision of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Primary Health Facilities in Nigeria: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Adelekan Babatunde , Goldson Erika , Abubakar Zubaida , Mueller Ulla , Alayande Audu , Ojogun Tellson , Ntoimo Lorretta , Williams Bukky , Muhammed Ibrahim , Okonofua Friday Ebhodaghe
Published: May 2021

BackgroundNigeria, like many other countries, has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. While efforts have been devoted to curtailing the disease, a major concern has been its potential effects on the delivery and utilization of reproductive health care services in the country. The objective of the study was to investigate the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns had affected the provision of essential reproductive health, maternal and child health, and adolescent health services in primary health care facilities across the Nigerian States.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study of 307 primary health facilities in 30 Local Government Areas in 10 States, representing the six geopolitical regions of the country. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data on issues relating to access and service provision before, during and after COVID-19 lockdowns from the head nurses/midwives in the facilities. The questionnaire was entered into Open Data Kit mounted on smartphones. Data were analysed using non-parametric statistics.ResultsThe results show that a large proportion of the primary health facilities in the selected states opened for the provision of essential sexual and reproductive health and rights services during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. However, there was a significant reduction in clients’ utilization of services due to challenges experienced in service implementation such as stock-outs, and low demand for services by clients. Although the health facilities reported identifying cases of COVID-19, there was limited provision for primary protective equipment and other special offers that would motivate the health workers to optimize services for clients. ConclusionsWe conclude that efforts made to address these challenges by governments, non-governmental agencies, the private sector, and donor agencies working in low resource settings would reduce the health and social burden posed by COVID-19 in Nigeria.
Major Pulmonary Resection After Neoadjuvant Therapy in Potentially Resectable Stage IIIA/B Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: R0 or No R0
Authors: Peer Michael , Azzam Sharbel , Cyjon Arnold , Katsnelson Rivka , Hayat Henri , Bar Ilan , Merimsky Ofer
Published: May 2021

Objective The aim of this study was to identify predictors of postoperative outcome and survival of locally advanced non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) resections after neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation.Methods Medical records of all patients with clinical stage III potentially resectable NSCLC initially treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation followed by major pulmonary resections between 1999 to 2019 were retrieved from the databases of four Israeli Medical Centers. Results: The 124 suitable patients included, 86 males (69.4%) and 38 females (30.6%), mean age of 64.2 years (range 37-82) and mean hospital stay of 12.6 days (range 5-123). Complete resection was achieved in 92.7% of the patients, while complete pathologic response was achieved in 35.5%. Overall readmission rate was 16.1%. The overall 5-year survival rate was 47.9%. One patient (0.8%) had local recurrence. Postoperative complications were reported in 49.2% of the patients, mainly atrial fibrillation (15.9%) and pneumonia (13.7%), empyema (10.3%), and early bronchopleural fistula (7.3%). Early in-hospital mortality rate was 6.5% and the six-month mortality rate was 5.6%. Pre-neoadjuvant bulky mediastinal disease (lymph nodes >20 mm) (p=0.034), persistent postoperative N2 disease (p=0.016), R1 resection (p=0.027) and postoperative stage IIIA (p=0.001), emerged as negative predictive factors for survival. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation in locally advanced potentially resectable NSCLC followed by major pulmonary resection is a beneficial approach in selected cases.
All-Fibre Label-Free Nano-Sensor for Real-Time in situ Early Monitoring of Cellular Apoptosis
Authors: Li Dan-ran , Wang Nina , Zhang Tianyang , Wu Guangxing , Xiong Yifeng , Du Qianqian , Tian Yunfei , Zhao Wei-Wei , Ye Jiandong , Gu Shulin , Lu Yan-Qing , Jiang Dechen , Xu Fei
Published: May 2021

The achievement of all-fibre functional nano-modules for subcellular label-free measurement has long been pursued due to the limitations of manufacturing techniques. In this paper, a compact all-fibre label-free nano-sensor composed of a fibre taper and zinc oxide nano-gratings is designed and applied for the early monitoring of apoptosis in single living cells. Because of its nanoscale dimensions, mechanical flexibility and minimal cytotoxicity to cells, the sensing module can be loaded in cells for long-term in situ tracking with high sensitivity. A gradual increase in the nuclear refractive index during the apoptosis process is observed, revealing the increase in molecular density and the decrease in cell volume. The strategy used in this study not only contributes to the understanding of internal environmental variations during cellular apoptosis but also provides a new platform for non-fluorescent all-fibre devices to investigate cellular events and to promote new progress in fundamental cell biochemical engineering.
The Physical Cause of Planetary Perihelion Precession
Authors: Wang Jian’an
Published: May 2021

According to the revised gravitation formula, the gravitational force on planets in the solar system is mainly provided by the sun, and only when the planet is far enough from the sun to treat the sun as a particle, the gravitational force on the planet coincides well with Newton's gravitational formula. The closer the planet is to the sun, the more the gravitational force on the planet deviates from (greater than) the value calculated by Newton's universal gravitation formula. The precession of the planet's perihelion is due to this property of gravity.