bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategi Komunikasi Pemasaran Politik Pada Pemilu Legislatif
Authors: Batara Primus Adeodatur Latu , Prisanto Guntur Freddy , Ernungtyas Niken Febrina , Irwansyah Irwansyah , Hasna Safira
Published: September 2020

The large number of parties in the 2019 legislative elections made political parties have to compete for political power in their constituencies. Political marketing communication strategies are needed to get the most votes and win in the democratic event every 5 years in Indonesia. East Nusa Tenggara I became one of the electoral districts that experienced fierce competition among the political parties, due to the large number of elite legislative members and political activists in this area. However, Nasdem as a new party was able to gain the most votes and won the 2019 legislative elections. Therefore, the objective of this study is to understand how the political marketing communication strategy used by Nasdem in East Nusa Tenggara Province, especially in the NTT electoral district I to win the 2019 legislative elections. The research used the concept of political parties, political campaigns, and political marketing communication using a qualitative approach and in-depth interview techniques. As a result, sales oriented political party marketing communication strategies used by Nasdem in the 2019 elections in the electoral district of East Nusa Tenggara Province I won the most votes. This strategy aims to get the number of votes from potential voters, and the representation of parties and personal  figures that are 'sold' by political parties. Personal figures of the candidates have more impact  for winning legislative elections than political party ideologies.
ANALISIS PENGETAHUAN PUBLIK TERHADAP MEDIA DAKWAH RIFQAN TV
Authors: Wijaya Budi Roni , Andina Fatikhah Nurrahmi
Published: September 2020

This research was conducted aiming to determine the level of insight and public response in South Kalimantan to Rifqan TV. Rifqan TV transforms its Islamic television propaganda activity into the net streaming, replacing old-brand DakwahSunnahDotCom. This study applies descriptive quantitative survey analysis methods, employing a positivist paradigm. The survey research was conducted on 170 respondents to acquire the general description of South Kalimantan people towards Rifqan TV as a streaming-based Islamic da'wah television. One of the essential criteria of respondents is the loyal user of the previous platform. In this research, nearly half of the respondents watch Rifqan TV and believe that it can substitute the older one. More than half of the respondents know the rebranding activity using social media and recognizes the brand and the logo. Half of the respondents believe that Rifqan TV is worth watching and is well-suited for all ages, notably Millenials. Rifqan TV is considered a source of educational content and a platform for social problem-solving. The ease of access to Rifqan TV pinpoints its brand personality. It also can be reached from various regions, especially within South Kalimantan.
К ВОПРОСУ О ПРИМЕНЕНИИ ИНТЕРФЕРОНОВ I ТИПА ДЛЯ ЛЕЧЕНИЯ COVID-19
Authors: Мелехина Елена , Николаева Светлана , Усенко Денис , Понежева Жанна , Музыка Анна , Хлыповка Юлия , Шабалина Светлана , Горелов Александр
Published: September 2020

Инфекция COVID-19 (CoronaVirus Disease — коронавирусная болезнь-2019), вызванная новым коронавирусом SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 — тяжелый острый респираторный синдром), в настоящее время стала одной из самых значительных угроз общественному здоровью. Отличительной особенностью коронавирусов является их способность подавлять выработку ИФН I типа. Перспективным в раннем лечении и профилактике COVID-19 могут быть препараты ИФН I типа. На сегодняшний день поиск этиотропного препарата для лечения COVID-19 продолжается.
Estigmatización territorial en la ciudad neoliberal: percepciones y reacciones ciudadanas en las periferias sociales de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Islas Canarias, España)
Authors: García-Hernández Juan Samuel
Published: September 2020

Se examina la incidencia de la estigmatización territorial en los residentes en Santa Clara y Añaza, dos barrios de la periferia desfavorecida de Santa Cruz de Tenerife. El estigma es un proceso de naturaleza intangible que debilita los sentimientos de pertenencia, deteriora los vínculos sociales y, en última instancia, agrava las duras condiciones de existencia de entornos urbanos con claros signos de exclusión social. Los resultados obtenidos a partir de las noticias en la prensa escrita y el uso de técnicas cualitativas como la observación participante y las entrevistas revelan, por un lado, la persistencia de una negativa imagen social sobre ambos espacios y, por otro, las distintas formas en las que sus habitantes reaccionan ante ese estigma espacial. Esas diferencias en la gestión participativa de este problema se traducen en el desarrollo de dispares lazos afectivos de los habitantes hacia sus lugares cotidianos de vida y sugiere su desigual capacidad a la hora de ejercer su derecho a la ciudad.
Assessment of infection in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients: Risk factors and main characteristics
Authors: Lin Chenyao , Shen Hui , Zhou Shuimei , Liu Minghui , Xu Anjie , Huang Shuang , Shen Changxin , Zhou Fuling
Published: September 2020

Background:
Infection is a leading cause of morbidity and death in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The increased susceptibility to infection is complicated and multifactorial. However, no studies have explored the spectrum and risk factors of infections in newly diagnosed MM patients at the first admission. This cross-sectional study aimed to provide ideas for the assessment, prevention and treatment of infection in newly diagnosed MM patients when admitted for the first time.

Methods:
Retrospectively, the data from electronic medical records for 161 patients newly diagnosed with MM from May 2013 to December 2018 were analysed. All the information was collected at the time of admission, and the patients had received no antineoplastic therapy previously. Independent risk factors of infection in multiple myeloma were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results:
Newly diagnosed patients with MM were highly susceptible to viruses (43.9%), especially Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) (24.4%) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) (17.1%). Advanced stage (ISS stage III, P =0.040), more severe anaemia (Hb<90 g/L, P =0.044) and elevated CRP (>10 mg/L, P =0.006) were independent risk factors for infection. Moreover, infections represented a major survival threat to patients with newly diagnosed MM ( P = 0.033), and the existence of risk factors for infection was significantly correlated with poor prognosis ( P = 0.011), especially ISS stage III ( P =0.008) and lower haemoglobin level ( P =0.039).

Conclusions:
Newly diagnosed MM patients are highly susceptible to viruses. Advanced ISS stage, more severe anaemia and the elevation of CRP are independent risk factors of infection, which also have a strong impact on prognosis. Our results suggest that viral infection should be taken into account if antibacterial drugs are not effective, and the prevention of infection and improvement of prognosis should be paid more attention in newly diagnosed patents with advanced stage and more severe anaemia.
Interviews with experts in Rare Diseases for the development of Clinical Decision Support System software - a qualitative study
Authors: Schaaf Jannik , Prokosch Hans-Ulrich , Boeker Martin , Schaefer Johanna , Vasseur Jessica , Storf Holger , Sedlmayr Martin
Published: September 2020

Background Patients with rare diseases (RDs) are often diagnosed too late or not at all. Clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) could support the diagnosis in RDs. The MIRACUM (Medical Informatics in Research and Medicine) consortium, which is one of four funded consortia in the German Medical Informatics Initiative, will develop a CDSS for RDs based on distributed clinical data from ten university hospitals. This qualitative study aims to investigate (1) the relevant organizational conditions for the operation of a CDSS for RDs when diagnose patients (e.g. the diagnosis workflow), (2) which data is necessary for decision support, and (3) the appropriate user group for such a CDSS.Methods Interviews were carried out with RDs experts. Participants were recruited from staff physicians at the Rare Disease Centers (RDCs) at the MIRACUM locations, which offer diagnosis and treatment of RDs.An interview guide was developed with a category-guided deductive approach. The interviews were recorded on an audio device and then transcribed into written form. We continued data collection until all interviews were completed. Afterwards, data analysis was performed using Mayring’s qualitative content analysis approach.Results A total of seven experts were included in the study. The results show that medical center guides and physicians from RDC B-centers (with a focus on different RDs) are involved in the diagnostic process. Furthermore, interdisciplinary case discussions between physicians are conducted. The experts explained that RDs exist which cannot be fully differentiated, but rather described only by their overall symptoms or findings: diagnosis is dependent on the disease or disease group. At the end of the diagnostic process, most centers prepare a summary of the patient case. Furthermore, the experts considered both physicians and experts from the B-centers to be potential users of a CDSS. The experts also have different experiences with CDSS for RDs.Conclusions This qualitative study is a first step towards establishing the requirements for the development of a CDSS for RDs. Further research is necessary to create solutions by also including the experts on RDs.
Associations between breastfeeding and cognitive function in children from early childhood to school age: a prospective birth cohort study
Authors: Kim Min Kyoung , Choi Jae-Won
Published: September 2020

Background: Despite evidences of breastfeeding for preventing acute physical illnesses in infants, the evidence for the association between breastfeeding and long-term cognitive development is not yet convincing.Methods: The data of nationwide representative sample of 1,752 children born between 2008 and 2009 in Korea were prospectively assessed from the fetal period to examine the benefits of breastfeeding and cognitive development. Breastfeeding duration was prospectively assessed by parents. The Korean Ages and Stages Questionnaire and the Korean version of Denver II were used to assess early development annually from 5.5 to 26.2 months of age. Language development at 3 years of age was assessed with Receptive and Expressive Vocabulary Tests. Cognitive function at 8 years of age was assessed using multifactorial intelligence test.Results: In the analysis of categorical variables, children who were breastfed for >1 and ≤3 months displayed significantly higher odds ratios for delayed development assessed with Korean Ages and Stages Questionnaire at 14.1 months than those breastfed for >3 and ≤6 months (OR=2.21; 95% CI: 1.08, 4.50), but no significant differences in other rounds of assessments. In the analysis with continuous variables, there were significant differences among six groups of breastfeeding duration in communication (F=3.72; p<0.002) and problem solving (F=3.09; p<0.009) at 14.1 months, expressive language (F=3.74; p=0.002) at 3 years, and calculation (F=2.43; p<0.033) at 8 years. When analyzed by two groups, children breastfed for >3 months scored significantly higher on the communication (F = 17.71; p < 0.001) and problem-solving (F = 11.26; p < 0.001) subscales at 14.1 months, and expressive language (F=12.85; p<0.001) at 3 years, and vocabulary (F=6.78; p=0.009) and language inference (F=5.62; p=0.018) at 8 years, compared to children breastfed for 3 months or less. Conclusion: We found that cognitive development was improved in children that were breastfed for >3 months. Although these results are supported by previous studies, it is important to note that other factors were reported as larger determinants of cognitive development than breastfeeding. Future studies that examine the underlying mechanism for the association between breastfeeding and cognitive development are warranted.
Compliance with antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines in caesarean delivery: a retrospective, drug utilization study (indication-prescription type) at an Ecuadorian hospital.
Authors: Viamonte Katherine Romero , Tames Adrian Salvent , Correa Rosa Sepùlveda , Manteca María Victoria Rojo , Suárez Ana Martín
Published: September 2020

Background

Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis is essential for preventing surgical site infection (SSI). The aim of this study was to evaluate compliance with international and local recommendations in caesarean deliveries carried out at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Service of the Ambato General Hospital, as well as any related health and economic consequences.

Methods

A retrospective indication-prescription drug utilization study was conducted using data from caesarean deliveries occurred in 2018. A clinical pharmacist assessed guidelines compliance based on the following criteria: administration of antibiotic prophylaxis, antibiotic selection, dose, time of administration and duration. The relationship between the frequency of SSI and other variables, including guideline compliance, was analysed. The cost associated with the antibiotic used was compared with the theoretical cost considering total compliance with recommendations. Descriptive statistics, Odds Ratio and Pearson Chi Square were used for data analysis by IBM SPSS Statistics version 25.

Results

The study included 814 patients with an average age of 30.87 ± 5.50 years old. Among the caesarean sections, 68.67% were emergency interventions; 3.44% lasted longer than four hours and in 0.25% of the deliveries blood loss was greater than 1.5 L. Only 69.90% of patients received preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis; however, 100% received postoperative antibiotic treatment despite disagreement with guideline recommendations (duration: 6.75 ± 1.39 days). The use of antibiotic prophylaxis was more frequent in scheduled than in emergency caesarean sections (OR=2.79, P=0.000). Nevertheless, the timing of administration, antibiotic selection and dose were more closely adhered to guideline recommendations. The incidence of surgical site infection was 1.35%, but tended to increase in patients who had not received preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis (OR=1.33, P=0.649). Also, a significant relationship was found between SSI and patient age (Chisq=8.08, P=0.036). The mean expenditure on antibiotics per patient was 5.7 times greater than that the cost derived from compliance with international recommendations.

Conclusions

Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis compliance was far below guideline recommendations, especially with respect to implementation and duration. This not only poses a risk to patients but leads to unnecessary expenditure on medicines. Therefore, this justifies the need for educational interventions and the implementation of institutional protocols involving pharmacists.
Managerial features and outcome in neonatal intensive care units: results from a cluster analysis
Authors: Fanelli Simone , Bellù Roberto , Zangrandi Antonello , Gagliardi Luigi , Zanini Rinaldo
Published: September 2020

Background Healthcare organisations differ in performance even if they are located in the same country or region. Suitable managerial practices and organisational processes can lead to better health outcomes. As a result, hospitals are constantly looking for managerial arrangements that can improve outcomes and keep costs down. This study aims to identify different managerial models in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and their impact on a large number of outcomes. Methods The research was conducted in Italy, within the SONAR project. SONAR’s aim was to identify the characteristics of NICUs, monitor outcomes and promote best practices. This study includes 51 of the 63 NICUs that took part in the SONAR project. Questionnaires on the activities and managerial features were administered to doctors and nurses working in NICUs. A total of 643 questionnaires were analysed from doctors and a total of 1,601 from nurses. A cluster analysis was performed to identify managerial models of NICUs. Results Three managerial models emerged from cluster analysis: traditional, collaborative and individualistic. In the “traditional” model the doctor is above the nurse in the hierarchy, and the nurse therefore has exclusively operational autonomy. The “collaborative” model has as key elements professional specialisation and functional coordination. The “individualistic” model considers only individual professional skills and does not concern the organisational conditions necessary to generate organisational effectiveness. The results also showed that there is an association between managerial model and neonatal outcomes. The collaborative model shows best results in almost all outcomes considered, and the traditional model has the worst. The individualistic model is in the middle, although its values are very close to those of traditional model.Conclusions Health management needs to assess NICU strategically in order to develop models to improve outcomes. This study provides insights for management useful for designing managerial characteristics of NICUs in order to achieve better results. NICUs characterised by a collaborative model in fact show better neonatal outcomes.
Peer-Assisted Injection as a Harm Reduction Measure in a Supervised Consumption Service: A Mixed Method Study of Client Experiences
Authors: Pijl Em M. , Oosterbroek Tracy , Motz Takara , Mason Erin , Hamilton Keltie
Published: September 2020

Background: Peer assistance is an emerging area of study in injection drug use. When Canada’s first supervised consumption site (SCS) opened in 2003 in Vancouver, BC, clients were prohibited from injecting their peers; only recently has this practice been introduced as a harm reduction measure at these sites. In 2018, Health Canada granted federal exemption to allow peer-assisted injection at certain SCS sites, under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Literature pertaining to peer-assisted injection addresses several topics: interpersonal relationships between the injector and recipient; the roles of ritual and pragmatism; trust and assessment of expertise; and gender relations.Methods: In this explanatory sequential mixed-methods study, participants were interviewed about their experiences in a peer-assisted injection program (PAIP) at one SCS regulated by Health Canada. Quantitative administrative data was used to provide context and to describe the study sample in comparison to all PAIP participants. Results: PAIP clients made up only 17.4% of all SCS clients; however, 71% of all SCS visits and 83% of all overdoses occurred among PAIP clients indicating their high service utilization. The PAIP program was utilized infrequently (0.4% of all SCS visits) but was a valuable service as expressed by Program participants. Participants expressed being moved by compassion to help others inject. While their desire to assist was pragmatic, they felt a significant burden of responsibility for the outcomes. Other prominent factors were social connection, trust, safety, social capital, and reciprocity. Participants also made suggestions for improving the PAIP. Conclusions: These findings reveal the humanity within a cohort of at-risk individuals, often dehumanized at the societal level. Relational equity and mutuality were evident, in contrast to other studies. Regular use of the SCS, and access to its resources, enabled participants to make healthier choices and practise lower-risk injections. At the federal level, there is considerable room to advocate for allowing clients to divide drugs safely within the SCS, and to increase capacity for safer alternatives such as inhalation.
Quality of Nursing Education in Philippines: Difference in Quality of Nursing Programme in relation to Profile of Faculty Members
Authors: Appiah Stella
Published: September 2020

Background: The subject of continuous improvement in the quality of nursing education programme is an extremely sensitive issue worldwide, particularly in the Philippines where a high number of trained registered nurses are exported to both developed and developing countries. The assessment of the quality of nursing education programme is usually measured using pass rates in licensure examinations by several government organizations. However, few studies have indicated that various categories of faculty members view the quality of nursing programmes differently, this study probed further and determined whether the quality of nursing education programme differs according to the profile of faculty members in Philippines colleges of higher education. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study design was employed in this study. One hundred and eight-five (185) faculty members in fifteen (15) higher educational institutions were selected for the research using purposive-census sampling. The study was carried out from January 1 to June 30, 2017. Close-ended structured questionnaires based on study objectives were used to collect data. Frequency and percentages were used to analyse the profile of faculty members whereas weighted means from a four Likert’s scale was used to interpret the extent of perceived quality of nursing education programme. Results: Majority, 39% and 46% of faculty members had 1-5 years’ clinical experience and 6-10 years of teaching experience respectively. Faculty members strongly agreed with a grand weighted mean of 3.84 out of 4.00 that nursing education programme is of good quality in the Philippines and is synonyms with other universities in the world. Teaching experience of faculty members showed significant relations in the quality of mission/vision/goals/objectives (p-value=0.008), curriculum and instruction (p-value=0.038), administration of nursing programme (p-value=0.025), faculty development programme (p-value=0.003), physical structure and equipment (p-value=0.016), student services (p-value=0.017), admission of students (p-value=0.010) and quality assurance system (p-value=0.009). Conclusion: Faculty members strongly perceived nursing education programme to be of good quality in this study. Teaching experience of instructors showed a significant relationship with the quality of nursing education programme in all the quality assessment indicators. However, clinical experience and job category of faculty members rather showed that the quality of nursing education programme is the same throughout all the higher educational institutions. The study implies that the teaching experience of faculty members is a strong predictor of quality of nursing education programme and employing faculty experienced in teaching is substantial for the continuous improvement of nursing education programme.
Quality of sleep and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS on follow up at Ethiopian Zewditu Memorial Hospital,2018
Authors: Mengistu Nebiyu , Azale Telake , Yimer Solomon , Fikreyesus Mahilet , Melaku Elsa , Shumye Seid
Published: September 2020

Background: Sleep disturbance is a common complaint in people living with HIV/AIDS. Individuals with it are less likely to adhere to their treatment, have decreased quality of life, have decreased work productivity, and have increased risk of psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular morbidity, and disease progression. However, sleep condition remains under-recognized by clinicians and is not well studied in Ethiopia. Therefore it is necessary to produce scientific evidence to fill the clinical knowledge gap and recommend the focus area of management. The aim of the study was to assess sleep quality and its associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was utilized among 408 participants who were selected by a systematic random sampling technique at Zewditu memorial hospital from April to May 2018. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire was used to measure sleep quality. Ethical clearance was obtained from the joint ethics committee of the University of Gondar and Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital. Oral informed consent was obtained from each participant. Binary and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted. Odds ratios (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was computed to assess the strength of the association. Results: The magnitude of poor sleep quality was 55.6%. Being female [AOR=3.40, 95% CI: (1.80, 6.41)], depression [AOR =3.52, 95% CI: (1.95, 6.32)], CD4count ≤ 200 cells/mm3 [AOR=3.18,95%CI: (1.65,6.13)], duration of HIV/AIDS diagnosis [AOR=3.43,95% CI: (1.61,7.29)], current use of tobacco [AOR=5.69, 95% CI: (2.04,15.9)] and chat or caffeinated drinks [AOR=2.65, 95% CI: (1.06,6.64)] and poor sleep hygiene [AOR=3.55, 95% CI: (1.85, 6.78)] were significantly associated with poor sleep quality. Conclusions: More than half of the study participants were found to have poor sleep quality. A range factors influence quality of sleep of people with HIV/AIDS. Routine screening of sleep condition among people living with HIV/AIDS and early intervention based on the findings is suggested.
A non-invasive ultrasound imaging method to measure acute radiation-induced bladder wall thickening in rats
Authors: Spinelli Antonello Enrico , Bresolin Andrea , Zuppone Stefania , Perani Laura , Fallara Giuseppe , Muzio Nadia Di , Vago Riccardo , Fiorino Claudio , Cozzarini Cesare
Published: September 2020

Background. Methods for the non-invasive quantification of changes in bladder wall thickness as potential predictors of radiation cystitis in pre-clinical research would be desirable. The use of ultrasound for this aim seems promising, but is still relatively unexplored. A method using ultrasound for bladder wall thickness quantification in rats was developed and applied to measure early radiation-induced bladder wall thickness changes. Methods. Two groups (n=9 each) of female Fischer rats were treated with a single radiation dose of 25-30 and 35-40 Gy respectively, using an image-guided micro-irradiator; six untreated rats were monitored as a control group. Empty, half-filled and fully-filled bladder volumes were determined for four non-irradiated rats by measuring axes from ultrasound 3D-images and applying the ellipsoid formula. Mean bladder wall thickness was estimated for both ventral and dorsal bladder sides through the measurement of the bladder wall area along a segment of 4mm in the central sagittal scan, in order to minimize operator-dependence on the measurement position. Ultrasound acquisitions of all fully-filled rat bladders were also acquired immediately before, and 4 and 28 days after irradiation. Mean bladder wall thickness normalized to the baseline value and corrected for filling were then used to evaluate acute bladder wall thickening and to quantify the dose-effect.Results. The relationship between mean bladder wall thickness and volume in unirradiated rats showed that for a bladder volume >1.5mL the bladder wall thickness is almost constant and equal to 0.30mm with variations within ±15%. The average ratios between post and pre irradiation showed a dose-effect relationship. Bladder wall thickening was observed for the 25-30 Gy and 35-40 Gy groups in 2/9 (22%) and 5/9 (56%) cases at day 4 and in 4/9 (44%) and 8/9 (89%) cases at day 28, respectively. The two groups showed significantly different bladder wall thickness both relative to the control group (p<0.0001) and between them (p=0.022). The bladder wall thickness increment was on average 1.32±0.41, and was 1.30±0.21 after 25-30Gy and 1.47±0.29 and 1.90±0.83 after 35-40Gy at days 4 and 28 respectively.Conclusions. The feasibility of using ultrasound on a preclinical rat model to detect bladder wall thickness changes after bladder irradiation was demonstrated, and a clear dose-effect relationship was quantified. Although preliminary, these results are promising in addressing the potential role of this non-invasive approach in quantifying radiation cystitis.
The correlation between dietary fat quality indices and lipid profile with Atherogenic Index of Plasma in obese and non-obese Volunteers: a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic case-control study
Authors: javardi Maryam sadat Mousavi , Madani Zahra , Karandish Majid , Movahedi Ariyo , Abbasi Behnood
Published: September 2020

Background and aim: Abnormalities in lipid metabolism are commonly observed in patients who were obese. Alongside dyslipidemia, one of the markers in predicting the risk of cardiovascular disease is the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), which is related to dietary intake. Healthy fat quality indices might affect on AIP. The purpose of this study is to find the possible relationship between dietary fat quality, and AIP and comparison of these indices among obese and non-obese volunteers.Methods: This study was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic case-control study with 157 normal and overweight and obese volunteers (n=71 normal, Age: 38.90±10.976 vs n=86 overweight/obese, Age: 38.60±9.394) in the age range of 18-65 years. Food intake was measured using FFQ, anthropometric indices (weight, height, body mass index and waist to hip ratio), body composition (visceral fat level, total body water, body fat mass), and lipid profile were measured. Results: Based on the present results, comparable biochemical parameters including TC (P=0.580), TG (P=0.362), LDL (P=0.687) and HDL (P=0.151) among overweight/obese volunteers as compared to normal ones were noticed. Effects of dietary fat quality, including Atherogenicity (AI) and Thrombogenicity (TI) hypo/hypercholesterolemic ratio (h/H), the Cholesterol-Saturated Fat Index (CSI) showed significantly higher AI (P=0.012) in the overweight/obese group as compared to the normal group. Whereas, h/H (P=0.034) and ω-6/ω-3 ratio (P=0.004) were significantly higher in normal-weight volunteers. There was a positive correlation between AI, TI, CSI, SFA, MUFA, PUFA and ω-6/ω-3 ratio with AIP and negative correlation between h/H with AIP in both groups. Despite the significances of these correlations no strong relation was observed by doing multiple regression among normal and overweight/obese groups (R2=0.210, R2=0.387).Conclusions: In summary, the present work proposes a direct relationship between dietary fat quality, increased BMI, and lipid abnormalities with AIP. Nevertheless, further large-scale studies are required to sustain a clear conclusion in this wish.
Global trends of antimicrobial susceptibility of ceftaroline and ceftazidime-avibactam: a surveillance study from the ATLAS program (2012-2016)
Authors: Zhang Hui , Xu Yingchun , Jia Peiyao , Zhu Ying , Zhang Ge , Zhang Jingjia , Duan Simeng , Kang Wei , Wang Tong , Jing Ran , Cheng Jingwei , Liu Yali , Yang Qiwen
Published: September 2020

Background

Antibiotic resistance is a global health threat.This study reported the global trends of antimicrobial susceptibility ofceftaroline and ceftazidime-avibactam using data from the Antimicrobial Testing Leadership And Surveillance (ATLAS)programbetween2012and2016.

Methods

Theminimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and in vitro susceptibilities of ceftarolineandceftazidime-avibactam were assessed using the Clinical andLaboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.

Results

Between 2012 and 2016, a total of 176,345 isolates were collected globally and included for analysis.Regarding Gram-negative bacteria, ceftazidime-avibactam demonstrated high susceptibility (>90%) against Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with increasedantimicrobial activity observed from the addition of avibactam (4 mg/L) to ceftazidime.Regarding Gram-positive bacteria, ceftaroline showed >90% susceptibility against Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus pneumoniae , α-and β-hemolytic Streptococcus .The antimicrobial susceptibility of ceftaroline and ceftazidime-avibactam were mostly stable from 2012 to 2016. Nevertheless, the susceptibility ofceftazidime-avibactam to carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKPN, 88.4% to 81.6%) and to CR- Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPAE, 89.6% to 72.7%) decreased. In terms of regional difference, susceptibilities of MRSA to ceftaroline in Asia and of CRKPN to ceftazidime-avibactam in Asia/Africa-Middle East were loweras compared with other regions whereas the susceptibility of CRPAE to ceftazidime-avibactam in North America was higher.

Conclusion

The addition of avibactam improved the activity of ceftazidime against Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The global antimicrobial susceptibilities of ceftaroline and ceftazidime-avibactam were in general stable from 2012 to 2016, but a marked reduction in the susceptibility of CRPAEtoceftazidime-avibactam was observed.
The value of continuous nursing in patients after cardiac mechanical valve replacement
Authors: Li Sai-lan , Zhou Sheng-huo , Lin Yanjuan
Published: September 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the value of continuous nursing in patients after cardiac valve replacement. Methods: The clinical data of 116 patients after cardiac mechanical valve replacement from January 2017 to January 2018 were analysed retrospectively. According to the nursing mode, the patients were divided into two groups: the continuous nursing group (group A, n=56) and the conventional nursing group (group B, n=60). Results: The continuous nursing group exhibited significantly decreased SAS and SDS scores 1 year after surgery compared to the preoperative SAS and SDS scores(P<0.05). The SAS and SDS scores of the continuous nursing group were significantly better than those of the traditional nursing group 1 year after surgery(P<0.05). There were 4 patients with anticoagulant complications after discharge in the continuous nursing group, and 13 cases of anticoagulant complications in the conventional nursing group. There was a significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Continuous nursing improves patient compliance with treatment and reduces the occurrence of postoperative anticoagulation complications. The patient also receives proper psychological evaluations, which relieve patient anxiety and depression.
Sex difference in the incidence of cardia and non-cardia gastric cancer in the United States, 1992-2014
Authors: Yao Qiang , Qi Xiaona , Xie Shao-Hua
Published: September 2020

Background Gastric cancer is more common in men than in women, but underlying reasons have not been completely understood. This study aimed to assess patterns of the sex difference in the incidence of gastric cancer in the United States.Methods Using data from 13 cancer registries in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, we analyzed the age-specific sex difference in the incidence of gastric cancer by ethnicity, anatomic site and histological type in the United States during 1992-2014. We assessed the temporal trends in the sex differences in the incidence of gastric cancer during the study period.Results The male-to-female incidence ratio of cardia cancer increased with age until peaking at ages 55-69 years and decreased thereafter, while the ratio for non-cardia gastric cancer increased with age before ages <60 years and remained stable onwards. The age-specific patterns in the sex difference of gastric cancer incidence varied between intestinal and diffuse histological types. The sex difference in the incidence of cardia cancer remained relatively stable except for that the absolute difference between the sexes in whites decreased on average by 0.8% per year from 1992 to 2014. The absolute incidence difference between the sexes in non-cardia gastric cancer decreased over time in whites, blacks, and Asian and Pacific islanders by approximately 4% per year. The male-to-female incidence ratio of non-cardia gastric cancer decreased over time in whites and blacks, but remained relatively stable in Asian and Pacific islanders.Conclusions Both extrinsic and intrinsic factors may have contributed to the sex difference in gastric cancer. Sex hormones may play a role in the development of cardia cancer and intestinal type of gastric cancer.
Near-Infrared intraoperative imaging with indocyanine green is beneficial in video-assisted thoracoscopic segmentectomy for patients with chronic lung diseases: A retrospective single-center propensity-score matched analysis
Authors: Liu Zhengcheng , Yang Rusong , Cao Hui
Published: September 2020

Objective: To investigate whether video-assisted thoracoscopic segmentectomy using near-infrared fluorescence imaging had better intersegmental plane visualization and peri-operative outcome in patients with chronic lung diseases.Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from March 2014 and August 2019. A total of 92 patients with pulmonary nodules underwent near-infrared fluorescence guided uni-port thoracoscopic segmentectomy(NIF-VATS), 149 patients underwent thoracoscopic segmentectomy with inflation-deflation method(ID-VATS). After 1:1 propensity matching, perioperative outcomes between NIF-VATS and ID-VATS was compared. Results: Incision size was 3 cm in both group.Mean operative time was 79 minutes in NIF-VATS group and 96 minutes in ID-VATS group. The intersegmental plane was not clear in 33 cases of ID-VATS group, and no clear boundary was found after prolonged waiting time. Emphysema or pulmonary bullae could be found in chest CT scan in these patients, they all were diagnosed as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In NIF-VATS group, the intersegmental plane was not clear in 8 cases. Under the guidance of three-dimensional reconstruction and preoperative positioning, the oncological margin length of both groups met the requirements of surgical quality control. The intraoperative blood loss, number of lymph node resection, showed no statistical difference between the two groups. Postoperative air leakage was more often observed in ID-VATS group. The postoperative drainage duration, postoperative hospitalization time was shorter in ID-VATS group.Conclusions: Compared with inflation-deflation method, segmentectomy using NIF imaging is feasible for patients with chronic lung diseases with better intersegmental plane, shorter operation time, less complications, it might lead to faster recovery.
Administration of a herbal formulation enhanced blastocyst implantation via IκB activation in mouse endometrium
Authors: Jeon Songhee , Liu Quan Feng , Cai Hua , Jeong Ha Jin , Kim Su-Hyun , Kim Dong-Il , Lee Ju-Hee
Published: September 2020

Background: BaelanChagsangBang (BCB), a herbal formulation consisting of eleven herbs, may be prescribed as a reproductive functional supplement to improve ovulation and implantation during the treatment of infertility and recurrent abortion in Korean Medicine. This study aimed to investigate the effects and action mechanisms of water-extracted BCB on endometrial receptivity and blastocyst implantation under normal conditions and in a mifepristone (RU486)-induced implantation failure murine model.Methods: In vitro, the antioxidant potentials of BCB were evaluated using DPPH and superoxide anion radical scavenging assays and a DCFH-DA assay, and the cytotoxic and cytoprotective effects of BCB were confirmed using an MTT assay. In vivo, C57BL/6 female mice (n = 6 per group) orally received BCB (300 mg/kg/day), a dose similar to that used clinically, from 7 days before pregnancy until the end of the experiment. On day 4 of pregnancy, RU486 (4 mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously to induce implantation failure. The effect of BCB on embryo implantation was evaluated by implantation rate analysis, histological examination, and western blotting of uterus tissues.Results: BCB water extract showed strong anti-oxidative and cytoprotective effects in vitro. In vivo administration of BCB water extract increased the number of newborn pups in BCB-treated mice versus sham-treated mice under normal conditions and improved the number of implantation sites in pregnant mice despite RU486 injection. BCB increased the protein levels of cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase through IκB activation. Moreover, the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) at uterus implantation sites were up-regulated in the BCB-treated group as compared with those in the RU486-treated group. Conclusion: These results show BCB improved embryo implantation through IκB activation in our mouse model and suggest that BCB has therapeutic potential in the context of poor endometrial receptivity.
Perspectives of clients and providers on factors influencing opioid agonist treatment uptake among HIV-positive people who use drugs in Indonesia, Ukraine and Vietnam: HPTN 074 study
Authors: Kiriazova Tetiana , Go Vivian F. , Hershow Rebecca B. , Hamilton Erica L. , Sarasvita Riza , Bui Quynh , Lancaster Kathryn E. , Dumchev Kostyantyn , Hoffman Irving F. , Miller William C. , Latkin Carl A.
Published: September 2020

Background: Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) is an effective method of addiction treatment and HIV prevention. However, globally, people who inject drugs (PWID) have insufficient OAT uptake. To expand OAT access and uptake, policy-makers, program-developers and health care providers should be aware of barriers to and facilitators of OAT uptake among PWID. Methods: As a part of the HPTN 074 study, which assessed the feasibility of an intervention to facilitate HIV treatment and OAT in PWID living with HIV in Indonesia, Ukraine, and Vietnam, we conducted in-depth interviews with 37 HIV-positive PWID and 25 health care providers to explore barriers to and facilitators of OAT uptake. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated into English, and coded in NVivo for analysis. We developed matrices to identify emergent themes and patterns. Results: Despite some reported country-specific factors, PWID and health care providers at all geographic locations reported similar barriers to OAT initiation, such as complicated procedures to initiate OAT, problematic clinic access, lack of information on OAT, misconceptions about methadone, financial burden, and stigma towards PWID. However, while PWID reported fear of drug interaction (OAT and antiretroviral therapy), providers perceived that PWID prioritized drug use over caring for their health and hence were less motivated to take up ART and OAT. Motivation for a life change and social support were reported to be facilitators.Conclusion: These results highlight a need for support for PWID to initiate and retain in drug treatment. To expand OAT in all three countries, it is necessary to facilitate access and ensure low-threshold, financially affordable OAT programs for PWID, accompanied with supporting interventions. PWID attitudes and beliefs about OAT indicate the need for informational campaigns to counter misinformation and stigma associated with addiction and OAT (especially methadone).
Factor XII in PMM2-CDG patients: role of N-glycosylation in the secretion and function of the first element of the contact pathway.
Authors: Gálvez Raquel López , Morena-Barrio María Eugenia de la , López-Lera Alberto , Pathak Monika , Miñano Antonia , Serrano Mercedes , Borgel Delphine , Roldán Vanessa , Vicente Vicente , Emsley Jonas , Corral Javier
Published: September 2020

Background . Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are rare diseases with impaired glycosylation and multiorgan disfunction, including hemostatic and inflammatory disorders. Factor XII (FXII), the first element of the contact phase, has an emerging role in hemostasia and inflammation. FXII deficiency protects against thrombosis and the p.Thr309Lys variant is involved in hereditary angioedema through the hyperreactivity caused by the associated defective O-glycosylation. We studied FXII in CDG aiming to supply further information of the glycosylation of this molecule, and its functional and clinical effects. Plasma FXII from 46 PMM2-CDG patients was evaluated by coagulometric and by Western Blot in basal conditions, treated with N-glycosydase F or activated by silica or dextran sulfate. A recombinant FXII expression model was used to validate the secretion and glycosylation of wild-type and variants targeting the two described FXII N-glycosylation sites (p.Asn230Lys; p.Asn414Lys) as well as the p.Thr309Lys variant.
Results. PMM2-CDG patients had normal FXII levels (117%) but high proportions of a form lacking N-glycosylation at Asn414. Recombinant FXII p.Asn230Lys, and p.Asn230Lys&p.Asn414Lys had impaired secretion and increased intracellular retention compared to wild-type, p.Thr309Lys and p.Asn414Lys variants. The hypoglycosylated form of PMM2-CDG activated similarly than FXII fully glycosylated. Accordingly, no PMM2-CDG had angioedema. FXII levels did not associate to vascular events, but hypoglycosylated FXII, like hypoglycosylated transferrin, antithrombin and FXI levels did it.
Conclusions. N-glycosylation at Asn230 is essential for FXII secretion. PMM2-CDG have high levels of FXII lacking N-glycosylation at Asn414, but this glycoform displays similar activation than fully glycosylated, explaining the absence of angioedema in CDG.
TMPRSS2, a SARS-CoV-2 internalization protease is downregulated in head and neck cancer patients.
Authors: Sacconi Andrea , Donzelli Sara , Pulito Claudio , Ferrero Stefano , Spinella Francesca , Morrone Aldo , Rigoni Marta , Pimpinelli Fulvia , Ensoli Fabrizio , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Pellini Raul , Agrawal Nishant , Izumchenko Evgeny , Ciliberto Gennaro , Giannì Aldo , Muti Paola , Strano Sabrina , Blandino Giovanni
Published: September 2020

Background: SARS-coronavirus-2 enters host cells through binding of the Spike protein to ACE2 receptor and subsequent S priming by the TMPRSS2 protease. We aim to assess differences in both ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression in normal tissues from oral cavity, pharynx, larynx and lung tissues as well as neoplastic tissues from the same areas.Methods: The study has been conducted using the TCGA and the Regina Elena Institute databases and validated by experimental model in HNSCC cells. We also included data from one COVID19 patient who went under surgery for HNSCC.Results: TMPRSS2 expression in HNSCC was significantly reduced compared to the normal tissues. It was more evident in women than in men, in TP53 mutated versus wild TP53 tumors, in HPV negative patients compared to HPV positive counterparts. Functionally, we modeled the multivariate effect of TP53, HPV, and other inherent variables on TMPRSS2. All variables had a statistically significant independent effect on TMPRSS2. In particular, in tumor tissues, HPV negative, TP53 mutated status and elevated TP53-dependent Myc-target genes were associated with low TMPRSS2 expression. The further analysis of both TCGA and our institutional HNSCC datasets identified a signature anti-correlated to TMPRSS2. As proof-of-principle we also validated the anti-correlation between microRNAs and TMPRSS2 expression in a SARS-CoV-2 positive HNSCC patient tissues Finally, we did not find TMPRSS2 promoter methylation.Conclusions: Collectively, these findings suggest that tumoral tissues, herein exemplified by HNSCC and lung cancers might be more resistant to SARS-CoV-2 infection due to reduced expression of TMPRSS2. These observations may help to better assess the frailty of SARS-CoV-2 positive cancer patients.