bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of famotidine on hospitalized patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chiu Leonard , Shen Max , Lo Chun-Han , Chiu Nicholas , Chen Austin , Shin Hyun Joon , Prsic Elizabeth Horn , Hur Chin , Chow Ronald , Lebwohl Benjamin
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Famotidine is a competitive histamine H2-receptor antagonist most commonly used for gastric acid suppression but thought to have potential efficacy in treating patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aims of this systematic review and meta-analysis are to summarize the current literature and report clinical outcomes on the use of famotidine for treatment of hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

Methods

Five databases were searched through February 12, 2021 to identify observational studies that reported on associations of famotidine use with outcomes in COVID-19. Meta-analysis was conducted for composite primary clinical outcome (e.g. rate of death, intubation, or intensive care unit admissions) and death separately, where either aggregate odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) was calculated.

Results

Four studies, reporting on 46,435 total patients and 3,110 patients treated with famotidine, were included in this meta-analysis. There was no significant association between famotidine use and composite outcomes in patients with COVID-19: HR 0.63 (95% CI: 0.35, 1.16). Across the three studies that reported mortality separated from other endpoints, there was no association between famotidine use during hospitalization and risk of death—HR 0.67 (95% CI: 0.26, 1.73) and OR 0.79 (95% CI: 0.19, 3.34). Heterogeneity ranged from 83.69% to 88.07%.

Conclusion

Based on the existing observational studies, famotidine use is not associated with a reduced risk of mortality or combined outcome of mortality, intubation, and/or intensive care services in hospitalized individuals with COVID-19, though heterogeneity was high, and point estimates suggested a possible protective effect for the composite outcome that may not have been observed due to lack of power. Further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) may help determine the efficacy and safety of famotidine as a treatment for COVID-19 patients in various care settings of the disease.
Computational and structural based approach to identify malignant nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with CDK4 gene
Authors: Islam Rahatul , Rahaman Mashiur , Hoque Hammadul , Hasan Nazmul , Prodhan Shamsul H. , Ruhama Asfia , Jewel Nurnabi Azad
Published: November 2021

Cycline-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), an enzyme of the cycline dependent or Ser/Thr protein kinase family, plays a role in cell cycle progression (G1 phase) by phosphorylating a tumor suppressor protein called pRB. Alteration of this enzyme due to missense mutation/ nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) are responsible for various types of cancer progression, e.g. melanoma, lung cancer, and breast cancer. Hence, this study is designed to identify the malignant missense mutation of CDK4 from the single nucleotide polymorphism database (dbSNP) by incorporating computational algorithms. Out of 239 nsSNPs; G15S, D140Y and D140H were predicted to be highly malignant variants which may have a devastating impact on protein structure or function. We also found defective binding motif of these three mutants with the CDK4 inhibitor ribociclib and ATP. However, by incorporating molecular dynamic simulation, our study concludes that the superiority of G15S than the other two mutants (D140Y and D140H) in destabilizing proteins nature.
Hadith Practices in Ziarah Kubrā Tradition in Palembang Arabian Village
Authors: Fatonah Dewi
Published: November 2021

Ziāra kubrā is of annual traditions practiced by the Arabs in Palembang to ‘greet’ the holy month Ramadan. It was initially practiced by the Arabs but then other part of the Palembang society join the rallies. It is a three days ceremony held in the last days of Sya’ban, the month just before Ramadan. Adopting Max Weber’s conception of social action, including its four types (traditional and affective action, instrumental rational and rational of values) this article shows that it is traditional action in that it preserves the tradition by the ulama. It is also affective in that it has a sort of emotional binding with the figures (ulamā and auliyā`, the clerics and the saints) and to the month of Sya’ban. It also has instrumental rationality for the people realize that they have all the capacities to run the tradition, in both terms of human resources and financial aspect. It also has rationality of values, for they are willing to get the berkah and benefits from the act of imitating the elders and preserving their tradition. All in all, this article argues that this tradition is of the practice of prophetic hadith on ziāra (pilgrimage) that are widely known from the hadith books.
Study of Tanqih al-Qaul al-Hatsits: The Book of Sheikh Nawawi al-Bantani
Authors: Nurzakka Muhammad
Published: November 2021

Using the descriptive-analytical method, this paper discusses the role of Sheikh Nawawi al-Bantani in the development of hadith studies in Indonesia through his book called Tanqih al-Qaul al-Hasis which is a syarh (review) of the Lubab al-Hadis by Imam Suyuti. In general, Sheikh Nawawi used the ijmali method in writing the book and sometimes also used the tahlili method. The characteristics of the book include: Sheikh Nawawi mentions verses of the Qur'an that have a correlation with the theme of the chapter, there are part of the book describing the biographies of the Prophet’s companions, there are some explanations about the meaning of hadith which includes interpretation, hadith values, and comments on the quality of hadith, Syekh Nawawi uses sufistic approach in explaining hadith, sometime Syekh Nawawi describe the content of hadith using the fiqh perspective.
Overview Potensi dan Perkembangan Pemanfaatan Energi Air di Indonesia
Authors: Taufiqurrahman Asa , Windarta Jaka
Published: November 2021

Indonesia berkomitmen dalam pengembangan penggunaan energi baru dan terbarukan yang tercantum pada Undang-Undang, Peraturan Pemerintah, Peraturan Presiden, Peranturan Menteri, maupun peraturan pendukung lainnya. Dengan kondisi topografi Indonesia yang bergunung dan berbukit membuat Indonesia memiliki potensi energi air yang besar. Potensi ini menjadi prioritas pemerintah untuk mencapai bauran energi baru dan terbarukan paling sedikit 23% pada tahun 2025 dan paling sedikit 31% pada tahun 2030. Untuk mencapai target ini pemerintah menentukan arah kebijakan dan rencana strategis yang tercantum pada Rencana Umum Energi Nasional (RUEN). Energi air dapat dimanfaatkan sesuai potensi daya yang dapat dihasilkan yaitu PLTA, PLTM, PLTMH, dan juga sebagai penyimpan energi dengan teknologi pumped storage.
Energi Bersih dan Ramah Lingkungan dari Biomassa untuk Mengurangi Efek Gas Rumah Kaca dan Perubahan Iklim yang Ekstrim
Authors: Pramudiyanto Anang Setyo , Suedy Sri Widodo Agung
Published: November 2021

Pertumbuhan penduduk Indonesia dan kemajuan teknologi yang berkembang sangat pesat, menyebabkan kebutuhan energi juga semakin bertambah. Berbagai cara telah dilakukan untuk memenuhi kebutuhan energi primer terutama dari sumber energi dari berbahan fosil (minyak bumi, gas bumi dan batubara) dengan melakukan eksplorasi/penambangan bahkan menambah volume import BBM, namun belum mampu untuk memenuhi kebutuhan energi primer di Indonesia. Permasalahan lain yang muncul akibat penggunaan energi primer dari berbahan fosil adalah meningkatnya pencemaran dari emisi gas buang yang meningkatkan efek Gas Rumah Kaca dan mempengaruhi perubahan iklim yang ekstrim. Guna mengatasi permasalahan kekurangan energi dan pencemaran dari emisi gas buang, pemerintah Indonesia telah berperan aktif dengan mengoptimalkan penggunaan energi baru dan terbarukan, salah satunya pemerintah Indonesia telah menetapkan rasio elektrifikasi menjadi 100% (KEN) dan mencoba menggantikan sumberdaya energi dari berbahan fosil dengan green energy terutama biomassa yang diubah untuk menjadi biogas, serta biodiesel yang dimanfaatkan sebagai sumber pembangkitan listrik dan bahan bakar kendaraan bermotor yang ramah lingkungan. Pemanfaatan energi biomassa dengan proses gasifikasi telah berhasil mengurangi emisi kadar karbondioksida . Pengolahan sampah  di Indonesia untuk dimanfaatkan baik daur ulang maupun sebagai sumber energi listrik akan dapat menurunkan emisi gas karbondioksida 3-11%.Penggunaan sumber energi yang ramah lingkungan diharapkan mampu mengurangi efek Gas Rumah Kaca dan dapat mencegah perubahan iklim yang ekstrim.
Determinant of Tax Aggressiveness: Gender Diversity as Moderator
Authors: UTAMI Wiwik , RAHMAN Huda Aulia
Published: November 2021

This research aims to analyze the effect of transfer pricing, profitability, capital intensity, and advertising expense on tax aggressiveness with gender diversity as a moderating variable. The population of this research is the manufacturing sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for 2017-2019. The research sample used is 98 companies in the manufacturing sector which were selected based on the purposive sampling method. The research method used is a quantitative method, with panel data regression analysis. The results of this research were that profitability had a positive effect on tax aggressiveness, the capital intensity had a negative effect on tax aggressiveness. In contrast, transfer pricing and advertising expenses did not affect tax aggressiveness. Gender diversity as a moderator was only able to moderate the effect of profitability on tax aggressiveness.
A New Theory of Human Behavior and Motivation
Authors: Kopsov Igor
Published: November 2021

We introduce a novel and comprehensive theory of human behavior and motivation, which incorporates within it both the laws of biology and core aspects of the social sciences. In continuation of the governing postulates of natural sciences we formulate the principle of preservation as the primary law of psychology; provide precise criteria for the definition of basic human needs and uncover their origin; explore the relation between body and mind; and show correlations between individual and social perspectives of life. Subsequently, we integrate these concepts into a unified model of human behavior. We reevaluate the place of psychology within the overall domain of social science and postulate the key role of psychological drives in formation of social processes both in the current and historical perspectives. The paper signifies a step towards establishment of a common paradigm of psychology.
Maritime Security Governance: A New Strategy Management To Avoid Piracy In The Gog And Its Legal Guarantee
Authors: Broohm Debi
Published: November 2021

In the late 21st century, the growth of sea ships widened the horizons for trade on a global level. However, despite slow and cumulatively significant developments in transportation technology, during the era of sail, high sea maritime instability or the threats of piracy remained a significant obstacle to trade over long distances. In addition, with limited solidarity among all essential players in the region, several Gulf of Guinea (GoG) states can diversify their national attention to handle the pandemic instead of combating illegal activities at sea. Therefore, this article talks about the different factors of maritime piracy in the GoG, Comparing the trend across the region's different states (Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Ghana), the current maritime insecurity mitigation strategies proposed, and their gaps. Besides, a discussion around a knowledge gap in terms of accurate cooperation via the various policies implemented by those institutions brings us to propose coevolution governance in the shadow of the hierarchy and to create a maritime protect area (MPA) in the GoG country who do not have it yet, especially in Togo, Ghana, and Nigeria, and surround MPA with sustainably managed fishing areas where local small-scale fishers enjoy exclusive rights. The result shows that regionally it can help Centralize and diffuse the best practices, develop greater synergy among public policies and institutions, and nationally create greater sustainability of conservation with the integration of socio-economic concern and harmonization of strategic planning, practices, and policies.
„Indigene Bibliotheken“ in Lateinamerika: Neue Perspektiven und Herausforderungen von Bibliotheken in multikulturellen Kontexten
Authors: Roggendorf Daniela Celis , Hartmann Annika , Kunze Gunther
Published: November 2021

Dieser Beitrag stellt Initiativen aus Lateinamerika vor, welche sich für größere Partizipation und Repräsentanz von indigenen Gruppen im Bibliotheksbereich einsetzen. Nach einer kurzen Kontextualisierung werden die unterschiedlichen Ansätze und Handlungsfelder „indigener Bibliotheken“ diskutiert. Ein besonderen Aspekt der Auseinandersetzung bildet dabei der Spracherhalt. Abschließend werden Herausforderungen angesprochen und Fragen nach den Möglichkeiten von Bibliotheken bei der Dekolonisierung von Wissensbeständen angestoßen.
Thermal conductivity of silicone elastomer with a porous alumina continuum
Authors: Song Qichao , Wang Bo , Han Zhiyu , Han Zhidong
Published: November 2021

In this paper, porous alumina continuum (PAC) was prepared with alumina powders (APs) by the gel-casting method and was applied to obtain silicone elastomer (SR) composites (PAC/SR) by the impregnating process. The structure was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The influences of PAC on thermal conductivity and dielectric permittivity of PAC/SR composites were studied in comparison with AP/SR composites. When the alumina content was 14 vol%, the thermal conductivity of the PAC/SR composites reached 0.84 W·(m·K)−1, which was 3.1 times higher than that of the AP/SR composites. The thermal conductivity of PAC/SR and AP/SR was simulated by theoretical models, and the interfacial thermal resistance was calculated by effective medium theory, which indicated the advantages of PAC in enhancing the thermal conductivity of SR-based composites and the reduced interfacial thermal resistance between PAC and SR.
Leaching kinetics of copper and valuable metal extraction from copper-cadmium residues of zinc hydrometallurgy by oxidation acid leaching
Authors: Guo Jihao , Xu Hongao , Li Bo , Wei Yonggang , Wang Hua
Published: November 2021

Multiple purification of zinc sulfate solution is an important process for zinc hydrometallurgy, and large quantities of copper-cadmium residues are generated as byproducts in this process. Copper-cadmium residues contain a large number of valuable metals that must be recovered. A comprehensive extraction process has been proposed using sulfuric acid as the leaching reagent and hydrogen peroxide as the oxidizing reagent. The effects of acid concentration, leaching temperature, leaching time, liquid-to-solid ratio, hydrogen peroxide dosage and stirring speed on the leaching efficiency were investigated. The optimum conditions were determined as an acid concentration of 150 g/L, liquid-to-solid ratio of 4:1, hydrogen peroxide amount of 20 mL, time of 60 min, temperature of 30 °C, particle size of −d75 μm, and agitation rate of 300 r/min. It was concluded that the leaching efficiency of copper and cadmium reached 97%, but because of the existence of zinc sulfide in the residues, a lower leaching efficiency of zinc was obtained. Furthermore, the leaching kinetics of copper was also studied based on the shrinking core model. The activation energy for copper leaching was 5.06 kJ/mol, and the leaching process was controlled by the diffusion through the product layer.
Principal surrogates in context of high vaccine efficacy
Authors: Callegaro Andrea , Tibaldi Fabian , Follmann Dean
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The use of correlates of protection (CoPs) in vaccination trials offers significant advantages as useful clinical endpoint substitutes. Vaccines with very high vaccine efficacy (VE) are documented in the literature (95% or above). Callegaro, A., and F. Tibaldi. 2019. “Assessing Correlates of Protection in Vaccine Trials: Statistical Solutions in the Context of High Vaccine Efficacy.” BMC Medical Research Methodology 19: 47 showed that the rare infections observed in the vaccinated groups of these trials poses challenges when applying conventionally-used statistical methods for CoP assessment such as the Prentice criteria and meta-analysis. The objective of this work is to investigate the impact of this problem on another statistical method for the assessment of CoPs called Principal stratification.

Methods

We perform simulation experiments to investigate the effect of high vaccine efficacy on the performance of the Principal Stratification approach.

Results

Similarly to the Prentice framework, simulation results show that the power of the Principal Stratification approach decreases when the VE grows.

Conclusions

It can be challenging to validate principal surrogates (and statistical surrogates) for vaccines with very high vaccine efficacy.
Atenuación, conflicto interlocutivo e identidad de imagen
Authors: Bravo Diana
Published: November 2021

En este trabajo se reflexiona, en primer término, acerca del valor como categoría analítica de las estrategias de cortesía atenuadora. Se sostiene que, para interpretar que se ha producido una atenuación, es necesario identificar la actividad comunicativa que se evalúa como amenazante en ese contexto. Una estrategia de cortesía atenuadora se define como aquella cuya función es disminuir elefecto socialnegativo que pueda tener unaactividad de imagenamenazante en el estado de la relacióninterpersonaly en el clima socio-emocional de la interlocución en curso. Con base en Bravo (2005, 2016, 2017, 2020) proponemos un modelo para la interpretación de este tipo de estrategias en su contexto de producción. En segundo término, queremos hacer un aporte al estudio de las estrategias de cortesía atenuadora, planteando las dificultades que se le presentan al/la analista a la hora de registrar este tipo de actividades de imagen en discursos públicos en los cuales el nivel deconflicto interlocutivoes elevado. Se concluye que, si bien priman las estrategias deautoimageny las dedescortesía(Kaul de Marlangeon 2012), la atenuación matiza la confrontación en beneficio de la construcción de unaidentidad de imagenacorde con las expectativas de diferentes auditorios.
Optimal Resource Scheduling Algorithm for OFDMA-based Multicast Traffic Delivery over WIMAX Networks using Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors:   Department of Computer Engineering, Edo State University Uzairue, Edo State, Nigeria, Aliu Daniel , Momoh Muyideen Omuya ,   Faculty of Air Engineering, Air Force Institute of Technology Kaduna, Nigeria
Published: November 2021

Researchers are yet to entirely mapped out the difficulty in allocating optimal resources to mobile Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) subscribers. This research presents an optimal scheduling algorithm for WiMAX resource allocation based on an Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). In this work, sub-group creation is used to offer a PSO-based technique for allocating subcarriers and Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbols to mobile WiMAX customers. The WiMAX network environment is organized into seven layers, with seven different modulation and coding algorithms proposed for sending packets to subscribers within each layer. By adopting an improved PSO-based WiMAX resource allocation method, an enhanced model for throughput maximization and channel data rate was implemented. The Aggregate Data Rate (ADR) and Channel Data Rate (CDR) for each scenario were obtained by simulating several scenarios of WiMAX multicast service to mobile users. Based on the performance evaluation of the enhanced algorithm for ADR and CDR, the results for the various layers and uniform distribution of users over the full layers were 350Mbps, 525Mbps, 700Mbps, 1050Mbps, 1050Mbps, 1400Mbps, 1575Mbps, and 1398Mbps. 6.98Mbps, 10.48Mbps, 13.97Mbps, 20.95Mbps, 20.95Mbps, 27.94Mbps, 31.5Mbps, and 28Mbps were also achieved for CDR. The significance of optimal resource allocation is to achieved a maximum ADR and CDR. The results showed a fair distribution of resources within the coverage area of the network.
Clinical advances in the pharmacotherapy of congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Prete Alessandro , Auchus Richard J , Ross Richard J
Published: November 2021

Background

Patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia (21OHD-CAH) have poor health outcomes with increased mortality, short stature, impaired fertility, and increased cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity. To address this, there are therapies in development that target the clinical goal of treatment, which is to control excess androgens with an adrenal replacement dose of glucocorticoid.

Methods

Narrative review of publications on recent clinical developments in the pharmacotherapy of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Therapies in clinical development target different levels of the hypothalamo–pituitary–adrenal axis. Two corticotrophin-releasing factor type 1 (CRF1) receptor antagonists, Crinecerfont and Tildacerfont, have been trialled in poorly controlled 21OHD-CAH patients, and both reduced ACTH and androgen biomarkers while patients were on stable glucocorticoid replacement. Improvements in glucocorticoid replacement include replacing the circadian rhythm of cortisol that has been trialled with continuous s.c. infusion of hydrocortisone and Chronocort, a delayed-release hydrocortisone formulation. Chronocort optimally controlled 21OHD-CAH in 80% of patients on an adrenal replacement dose of hydrocortisone, which was associated with patient-reported benefits including restoration of menses and pregnancies. Adrenal-targeted therapies include the steroidogenesis-blocking drug Abiraterone acetate, which reduced adrenal androgen biomarkers in poorly controlled patients.

Conclusions

CRF1 receptor antagonists hold promise to avoid excess glucocorticoid replacement in patients not controlled on standard or circadian glucocorticoid replacement such as Chronocort. Gene and cell therapies are the only therapeutic approaches that could potentially correct both cortisol deficiency and androgen excess.
Spectral binning of cervicovaginal fluid metabolites improves prediction of spontaneous preterm birth and Lactobacillus species dominance
Authors: Amabebe Emmanuel , Reynolds Steven , Anumba Dilly O C
Published: November 2021

Lay summary

Health-promoting bacteria (lactobacilli) exist in harmony with the vaginal environment. They are the predominant vaginal bacterial species during pregnancy. However, the possibility of infection and inappropriate immune response are linked with unprompted preterm delivery (PTD). Other invasive lactobacilli can alter the chemical environment of the vagina as they seek to promote their growth. This study measured the change in concentration of biochemical compounds and predominant bacterial species in vaginal fluid that are linked to PTD. The study recruited 300 healthy pregnant women who provided vaginal fluid samples during the second trimester. The women who harboured more of Lactobacillus jensenii over Lactobacillus crispatus (both reported as health-promoting bacteria) in their vaginal fluid had less lactate and glutamate and experienced more PTD. This suggests that lactate and glutamate levels in vaginal fluid may have clinical application in identifying which Lactobacillus species is most active. These chemical biomarkers could provide quick and accurate prediction of PTD risk in clinical settings.
Serum Visfatin as a Diagnostic Marker of Active Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Saadoun Mo’men M , Nosair Nahla Abd el-Aziz , Abdel-Azeez Hala Abdel-Hameed , Sharaf Samar M , Ahmed Mohammed Hussien
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have been reported to be caused by a complex interplay of immunological, infectious, and genetic factors. Previous studies have suggested that adipokines play a role in IBD by inducing proinflammatory cytokines. We aimed to evaluate the role of visfatin in the diagnosis algorithm of active IBD.

Methods: 85 newly diagnosed IBD patients [56 diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 29 with Crohn‘s disease (CD)] and 30 healthy controls were included. IBD phenotypes were described accordingly to Montreal classification. Hemoglobin, total leucocytic count (TLC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, fecal calprotectin and serum visfatin were measured.

Results: The serum visfatin level was found to be significantly higher in patients with IBD than those in the control group (p<0.001). It was significantly positively correlated with CRP, ESR, and FC in both IBD groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of visfatin in diagnosis of UC revealed an area under curve of 0.911. At cutoff ≥1.4 ng/ml, the sensitivity was 92.9% and the specificity was 86.7%.. In CD group, at the same cutoff, AUC was 0.974, sensitivity was 96.6% and specificity was 86.7%. There was a statistically significant elevation of serum visfatin in extensive UC (E3) as compared to the other groups. A cutoff ≥3.25 ng/ml revealed 88.9% sensitivity, and 100% specificity in detection of E3 UC. Serum visfatin was significantly increased in CD stricturing phenotype (B2) as compared to non-stricturing non-penetrating CD (B1). A cutoff ≥3.5 ng/ml revealed 83.3% sensitivity, and 100% specificity in detection of B2.

Conclusions: The serum visfatin level were significantly higher in patients with IBD than in controls. Serum visfatin might be a novel noninvasive marker to detect activity in IBD patients and can be used as predictor of disease extension in patients with UC.
Full cystic remnant ductoscopy: a novel criterion for defining completeness in direct cholangioscopy?
Authors: Zimmer Vincent
Published: November 2021

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A Modified “Rendezvous” Technique for EUS-guided Recanalization of a Rectal Anastomotic Stricture without Fluoroscopy and Stenting
Authors: Kypraios Dimitrios , Manthopoulou Eleni , Dimitroulopoulos Dimitrios , Plastiras Aris , Ioannou Alexandros , Katsinelos Dimitrios , Tsamakidis Klisthenis
Published: November 2021

Various endoscopic techniques have been described for the treatment of post-operative colonic strictures. Our aim is to report a solely EUS-guided recanalization procedure for a complete rectal stricture, without the use of fluoroscopy or stenting. A 66-year-old male was submitted to low anterior resection and protective ileostomy for rectal adenocarcinoma, complicated with complete anastomotic stricture 6 months later. The patient was treated with a modified EUS-guided rendezvous technique. A colonoscope was advanced through the ileostomy to the sigmoid colon, which was subsequently filled with water. A linear echoendoscope was advanced transanally to the distal part of the rectal anastomosis. The proximal colon was punctured with a 19G needle and a guidewire was advanced through the needle. The rectocolonic fistula tract was first dilated by graduated dilation catheters. Subsequently, progressive pneumatic dilatation was performed. There were no post-procedural complications. At 6-month follow-up the anastomosis was patent, with no significant stricture recurrence. In conclusion, a rendezvous technique for EUS-guided recanalization of complete rectal anastomotic strictures is feasible and safe in a non-radiology assisted setting. In selected cases of distal stenoses balloon dilation could effectively serve as the sole treatment, without the adjunct of stent placement.
IQ in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Population-Based Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Katusic Maja Z. , Myers Scott M. , Weaver Amy L. , Voigt Robert G.
Published: November 2021

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to describe the intellectual ability and ratio of boys to girls with average or higher IQ within autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases identified in a population-based birth cohort. We hypothesized that research-identified individuals with ASD would be more likely to have average or higher IQ, compared to clinically diagnosed ASD. We also hypothesized the male to female ratio would decrease as the definition of ASD broadened.

METHODS

ASD incident cases were identified from 31 220 subjects in a population-based birth cohort. Research-defined autism spectrum disorder, inclusive criteria (ASD-RI) was based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision, autistic disorder (AD), Asperger Disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified criteria. Research-defined autism spectrum disorder, narrow criteria (ASD-RN) was a narrower definition based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision AD criteria. Clinical diagnoses of ASD were abstracted from medical and school records. Intellectual ability was based on the last IQ score or on documented diagnoses of intellectual disability if no scores available. Average or higher IQ was defined as IQ ≥86.

RESULTS

A total of 59.1% of those with ASD-RI (n = 890), 51.2% of those with ASD-RN (n = 453), and 42.8% of those with clinically diagnosed autism spectrum disorder (n = 187) had average or higher IQ. Within the ASD-RI and ASD-RN groups, boys were more likely than girls to have an average or higher IQ (62.0% vs 51.3% [P = .004] and 54.1% vs. 42.5% [P = .03], respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that nearly half of individuals with ASD have average or higher IQ. Boys with ASD are more likely to have average or higher IQ than girls. Patients with ASD and higher IQ remain at risk for not being identified.
School-Academic Partnerships in Support of Safe Return to Schools During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: D’Agostino Emily M. , Haroz Emily E. , Linde Sandra , Layer Marcus , Green Melissa , Ko Linda K.
Published: November 2021

Safely returning underserved youth to school during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic through diagnostic testing and health education is imperative to mitigate the ongoing negative impact of COVID-19 and reduce health inequalities in underserved communities. The Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics-Underserved Populations program is a consortium of research projects across the United States funded by the National Institutes of Health to understand the factors associated with the disproportionate burden of the pandemic among underserved populations and to leverage mitigation strategies, including diagnostic testing, with a focus on reducing health disparities. In this article, we provide an overview and introduce the articles from 8 Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics-Underserved Populations projects featured in the supplement “Navigating a Pandemic in the K–12 Setting: Keeping Our School Communities Safe” published in Pediatrics. These projects funded in the program’s first phase focus on COVID-19 diagnostic testing approaches for youth and employees at schools in underserved communities to support safe in-person learning. In the articles comprising the supplement, researchers present barriers and facilitators of the community engagement process necessary to establish school-academic partnerships. These efforts showcase school-based implementation testing strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic but are translatable to tackling other challenges related to reducing health disparities.
Supporting COVID-19 School Safety for Children With Disabilities and Medical Complexity
Authors: Sherby Michael R. , Kalb Luther G. , Coller Ryan J. , DeMuri Gregory P. , Butteris Sabrina , Foxe John J. , Zand Martin S. , Freedman Edward G. , Dewhurst Stephen , Newland Jason G. , Gurnett Christina A.
Published: November 2021

Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) and children with medical complexity (CMC) have been disproportionally impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, including school closures. Children with IDDs and CMC rely on schools for a vast array of educational, therapeutic, medical, and social needs. However, maintaining safe schools for children with IDDs and CMC during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic may be difficult because of the unique challenges of implementing prevention strategies, such as masking, social distancing, and hand hygiene in this high-risk environment. Furthermore, children with IDDs and CMC are at a higher risk of infectious complications and mortality, underscoring the need for effective mitigation strategies. The goal of this report is to describe the implementation of several screening testing models for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in this high-risk population. By describing these models, we hope to identify generalizable and scalable approaches to facilitate safe school operations for children with IDDs and CMC during the current and future pandemics.
TRANSUMBILICAL LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY VERSUS STANDARD 4-PORT LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY – RESULTS FROM PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED TRIAL AND 7 YEARS OF FOLLOW-UP
Authors: Ganchev G. , Saroglu A. , Julianov A.
Published: November 2021

PURPOSE: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a standard of care for patients with benign gallbladder disease. Recently single-incision techniques gained popularity in order to decrease surgical trauma and to improve cosmetic results and patient satisfaction. The aim of this study is to compare the results of our own modification of transumbilical cholecystectomy versus standard 4-port cholecystectomy in patients with uncomplicated gallstone disease.
METHODS: 80 patients (14 male, 66 female) at a mean age of 35±2,5 years (range 18-80) were randomly assigned to either standard 4-port cholecystectomy (n=40) or transumbilical cholecystectomy (n=40). Operative times, intraoperative complications, conversion rate, postoperative complications, pain, vomiting and cosmetic results were compared between two groups.
RESULTS: The total mean operative time in the SILC group was 43.63 ± 7.49 min., while in the SLC group it was 37.95 ±8.06 min., (p=0.002). Intraoperative complications and conversions were not recorded in this series. The mean postoperative pain assessed by VAS was: at 6th hour 3.35 (2-5) vs. 3.53 (2-6) (p=0.439), at 24th hour 2.58 (1-4) vs. 2.2 (1-5) (p=0.04), at 48th hour 1.63 (1-3) vs. 1.78 (1-5) (p=0.544). The mean 10-point pain scores for SILC patients at 6 hours was 5.78 (3-9) vs. 6.33 (1-10) in SLC (p=0.161), at 24 hours 4.05 (1-7) vs. 3.58 (1-5) (p=0.122), at 48 hour 2.83 (1-5) vs. 2.4 (1-5) (p=0.093). Postoperative vomiting was observed in 2 (5%) of patients with SILC and 3 (7.5%) of those with SLC by the end of the second hour after surgery. In the early postoperative period up to 72h, no complications were reported. In the late postoperative period up to 7 years 1 (2.5%) operative wound surgery in the area of umbilical incision was reported in the SLC group and the presence of an umbilical hernia in 2 (5%) of patients with SILC. Results of the cosmetic result evaluation at the end of the first month - Body Image Score - mean score of 10.35 ± 1.48 (min. 7, max. 12) for SILC and 10.38 ± 1.41 (min. 6, max. 13) for SLC (p = 0.776). Cosmetic score - mean of the sum of points 20 ± 1,87 (min.17-max. 24) for SILC and 19.08 ± 2,1 (min. 14-max. 23) for SLC (p = 0,577). On a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is "very ugly" and 10 is "almost imperceptible" (question N8), the mean for patients in the SILC group is 8.3 ± 0.79 (min. 7-max. 10) and at SLC 7.93 ± 0.73 (min. 6-max. 9) (p = 0.125).
CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrated that both transumbilical cholecystectomy and standard 4-port cholecystectomy are equally safe and effective in the treatment of uncomplicated gallstone disease.
NEW HOPE FOR DEALING WITH “SUPERBUGS”
Authors: Simren D. , Yordanova R.
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance has become one of the biggest threats to global health. Because of the variety of resistance mechanisms that “superbugs” acquire under the wide antibiotic pressure in medicine, they become difficult to treat with commonly used antibiotics. The spread of so-called ''therapeutic problematic microorganisms'' results in extremely limited treatment options of infections, prolonged hospital stay, increased treatment costs and in many cases, the inability to adequately treat and increased mortality. The new strain of bacteria Streptomyces sp. myrophorea was found to be effective at killing both Gram-positive and Gram-negative multidrug resistant pathogens on the World Health Organization’s priority list. The purpose of this review is to provide information about Streptomyces sp. myrophorea. Materials and methods: a review of scientific literature, studies, and international experience that provide information on Streptomyces sp. myrophorea. Conclusion: The “superbug” problem may be alarming, with news that even our last resort antibiotics are beginning to fail, but there is hope - Streptomyces sp. myrophorea.
Prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter spp.: A review of the literature
Authors: Bulajić Nina , Miljković-Selimović Biljana , Tambur Zoran , Kocić Branislava , Kalevski Katarina , Aleksić Ema
Published: November 2021

Campylobacter spp. are commensal organisms in the intestinal tract of food producing and companion animals. There is an increasing trend of human campylobacteriosis worldwide, including complicated cases that request treatment by antibiotics. Prevalence of resistance continually increases, especially to fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines. There are many reports on multiresistant strains of Campylobacter spp.

In this work we present the available information about the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter spp. worldwide, as well as studies from Serbia published in last two decades. Campylobacter strains isolated from animal samples in Serbia showed increased prevalence of antimicrobial resistance to all clinically relevant antibiotics. Preliminary data (2014–2019) from Reference laboratory for Campylobacter and Helicobacter at the Institute of Public Health of Niš, Serbia show high resistance rates to ciprofloxacin (90%) and to tetracycline (50%) but low resistance to erythromycin (<5%) in human Campylobacter isolates.
Social care services for the homeless people based on the attitudes of residents towards homelessness
Authors: Ludvigh Cintulová Lucia
Published: November 2021

There is no Strategic Plan for tackling and preventing homelessness in Slovakia, which exacerbates the unsystematic process of social services for homeless people. For this reason, we point out the positives and negatives of the whole system. The research focuses on mapping the current situation of homelessness and describes the aid system under the auspices of the non-profit sector. The participants in the research were social and street workers who provide care and counseling for the homeless on an outpatient basis, on a residential basis or directly in the street where they live.
Elektrostatik toz boya uygulanmış ahşap esaslı levhaların bazı teknolojik özelliklerinin incelenmesi
Authors: AKKUŞ Memiş
Published: November 2021

Elektrostatik toz boyalar otomotiv ve beyaz eşya gibi iletken metalik yüzeyler üzerine uygulanmaktadır. Elektrostatik toz boyalar uçucu organik bileşik içermemesi, çevre, iş güvenliği ve işçi sağlığı açısından diğer sıvı boyalara göre daha avantajlıdır. Bu avantajlarından dolayı son zamanlarda iletken olmayan plastik, ahşap ve ahşap esaslı levhalara uygulanması yönünde birçok araştırma ve geliştirme faaliyetleri yürütülmektedir. Bu çalışmada ahşap esaslı levhalardan yongalevha ve orta yoğunlukta liflevha (MDF) yüzeylerinin iletkenlik değerini artırmak için ön ısıtma (70 °C) ve sonrasında korona tipi tabanca ile hibrit esaslı (Epoksi/Polyester) elektrostatik toz boya işlemi uygulanmıştır. Daha sonra örnekler, kızılötesi (infarared) fırınlarda 130 °C sıcaklıkta 20 dakika boyunca kürlenme işlemine tabi tutulmuştur. Ön ısıtma ve kürlenme esnasında MDF ve yongalevhalarda ısının etkisi ile levhalarda mekanik ve fiziksel değişimler öngörülmektedir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda; elektrostatik toz boya uygulanmış ve uygulanmamış MDF ve yongalevha örneklerinin, TS 319 standardına göre yapışma direnci, TS EN 310 standardına göre eğilme direnci, TS EN 320 standardına göre vida çekme direnci, ASTM D 1037 standardına göre su alma oranı ve TS EN 317 standardına göre kalınlığına şişme testlerine tabi tutularak istatistiksel karşılaştırılması yapılmıştır. Yapılan karşılaştırma sonucunda, elektrostatik toz boya ile kaplanması MDF örneklerinde çok fazla değişikliğe neden olmaz iken yongalevha örneklerinin mekanik ve fiziksel özelliklerini etkilediği tespit edilmiştir.
Curtailing lead aerosols: Effects of primary lead prevention on soil lead, pediatric exposures, and community health.
Authors: Mielke Howard , Gonzales Christopher , Powell Eric
Published: November 2021

Five decades after the US approval of the commercial use of leaded petrol, the US EPA began a phasedown of leaded petrol to prevent spoiling catalytic converters, mandatory on all new US cars in 1975. With prompting by citizens and the Minnesota legislature, the US Congress required the US EPA to enforce a rapid phasedown on 1 January 1986 until the final ban of leaded petrol for highway vehicles on 1 January 1996. This article reviews the outcomes of curtailing leaded petrol on the temporal and spatial changes of pediatric blood Pb and soil lead (Pb) in metropolitan New Orleans. In 2001, a soil Pb survey was completed for all census tracts of metropolitan New Orleans. In 2006, after major flooding by Hurricane Katrina, a preliminary survey of 44 census tracts showed that the median soil Pb and children’s median blood Pb decreased across flooded and unflooded communities. In June 2017 a second survey was completed in all census tracts. Evaluation of pediatric blood Pb and soil Pb in matching census tracts (N=274) confirmed that curtailing leaded petrol diminished children’s exposure and concurrently reduced soil Pb. The concurrent temporal and spatial declines of children’s exposure and soil Pb were also observed in the Detroit Tri-County Area of Michigan. Curtailing leaded petrol was gradually accepted, and on 30 August 2021, 35 years after the US EPA phasedown, leaded petrol was banned by all nations. Eliminating leaded petrol was an essential step for primary Pb prevention of pediatric exposure and improving community health. Continuing efforts are required to reduce legacy-soil Pb that persists disproportionately in traffic congested, older, inner-city, urban areas, and other communities that are subjected to large inputs of Pb aerosols.
Are Socio-Affective Impairments in Ataxia Related to Language and Processing Speed Deficits?
Authors: Mélan Claudine , Renaudié Noëlie
Published: November 2021

Over the last decade a number of studies have demonstrated the implication of the cerebellum in cognition, including verbal memory, executive function, and language. Social cognition abilities like emotion attribution and theory of mind are essential in social interaction and rely on verbal abilities and executive functions. Involvement in social cognition has been explored in the most common forms of Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA), but several aspects remain unclear. The present study tested whether socio-affective impairments are observed in SCA patients by using different tasks and to determine whether these impairments were associated with reduced verbal processing and/or processing speed. 13 patients (SCA1, n=1; SC2, n=5; SCA3, n=7) were matched with 13 controls for gender, age and education. Verbal and non-verbal theory of mind abilities were tested (validated French versions of an attribution of intention test, faux-pas test), and emotion attribution. Language efficacy was explored in a word fluency test and processing speed in two non-motor tasks. Results revealed no difference between SCA2 and SCA3 patients in neither socio-affective nor cognitive test. Performance on all tests was on contrary significantly reduced in the SCA patient group compared to controls. SCA patients’ performance was positively correlated between the three social cognition tests, indicating a somewhat generalized impairment. Their performance rate in each of three social cognition tests was further correlated with processing speed but not with word fluency. In the verbal theory of mind task they displayed however comprehension deficits of the faux-pas and of general control questions. Taken together the data suggest that processing speed and comprehension difficulties might account, partly at least, for socio-affective and cognitive deficits in both genotypes. This conclusion was modulated by the observation that the neuropsychological features did not correspond well with age of illness diagnosis and illness duration, indicating that there is a degree of heterogeneity in the cognitive profiles and social cognitive impairments in SCA patients.
Sindemia, infodemia, pandemia de COVID-19: Hacia una pandemiología de enfermedades emergentes
Authors: Almeida-Filho Naomar
Published: November 2021

Como base para una teoría de la coocurrencia de procesos epidémicos y pandémicos, en primer lugar, se introduce el concepto de sindemia, creado en la epidemia de VIH/sida para comprender componentes sociales, conductuales y culturales de enfermedades emergentes, tal como la actual pandemia de COVID-19. En segundo lugar, se destaca la noción de infodemia, que tiene gran potencial para comprender los impactos de la pandemia desde planos que generalmente se descuidan en los enfoques epidemiológicos convencionales. En tercer lugar, como complemento e ilustración, se presenta un estudio de caso “microarqueológico” de la infodemia resultante de la pandemia de COVID-19, centrado en la situación concreta de Brasil. Luego, se analizan las correlaciones entre la evidencia científica, los modelos de intervención y las medidas para controlar la pandemia en varios países y su adopción o rechazo en la realidad brasileña, estructurada sobre profundas desigualdades económicas, inequidades sociales e inequidades en salud.
Agile characteristics of employees and their role in risk management
Authors: Olak Andrzej , Karwowski Waldemar
Published: November 2021

Purpose of the study: In order to survive in the face of contemporary risks, organizations are forced to initiate the evolution of employee behavior towards developing agile traits. The article, based on the concept of agility and classification of agile employee characteristics defined in the literature, aims to present the theoretical model of the behavior of agile employees in the face of organizational risk.

Methodology: The model presented in the article was developed on the basis of a critical analysis of the literature in the field of agile management and risk management.

Main Findings: One of the possible reactions of modern enterprises to the emergence of organizational risk is promoting employee agility. An agile employee is able to effectively anticipate problems related to the occurrence of risk, has the ability to solve problems related to the occurrence of risk. Such an employee is able to implement innovative ideas and perform his duties effectively in stressful conditions, as well as propose new procedures or processes for his area of ​​work.

Applications of this study: The presented model of agile behavior of employees in the face of organizational risk is of a utilitarian nature and can be implemented in the organizational culture of various entities, including small and medium-sized enterprises.

Novelty/Originality of this Study: Research originality: The article allows for a better understanding of the need to develop agile traits in employees and the possibility of using them to eliminate or minimize risks. The article may be an inspiration for further research on the role of employee agility in the enterprise.