bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preconceptional and prenatal exposure to diurnal temperature variation increases the risk of childhood pneumonia
Authors: Zheng Xiangrong , Kuang Jian , Lu Chan , Deng Qihong , Wu Haiyu , Murithi Rachael Gakii , Johnson McSherry Brownel , Peng Wang , Wu Maolan
Published: January 2021

Background: Pneumonia is the leading cause of death and hospitalization among young children worldwide, but its risk factors remain unclear. Objective: To evaluate the effect of maternal exposure to diurnal temperature variation (DTV) during preconceptional and prenatal periods on childhood pneumonia.Methods: A retrospective cohort study by case-control design was conducted for pneumonia (N=699) and normal (N=811) children under age of 14 who were enrolled in XiangYa Hospital, Changsha, China from May 2017 to April 2019. Demographic data including gender, age, birth season, gestational age, parity, mode of delivery, and parental atopy were collected from the electronic medical records in the hospital system. We obtained the data of daily DTV in Changsha during 2003-2019 from China Meteorological Administration. Maternal exposure to DTV during preconceptional and prenatal periods was respectively calculated by the average of daily DTV during one year and three months before conception and entire pregnancy as well as the three trimesters. The association between maternal exposure to outdoor DTV and childhood pneumonia was analyzed by multiple logic regression model. Results: We found that childhood pneumonia was significantly associated with exposure to an increase in DTV during one year before conception and entire pregnancy, with ORs (95% CI) = 2.53 (1.56-4.10) and 1.85 (1.24-2.76). We further identified a significant risk of pneumonia of DTV exposure during the first and second trimester of pregnancy. Sensitivity analysis showed that boys were more susceptible to the effect of prenatal exposure to outdoor DTV during pregnancy particularly in the first two trimesters compared to girls.Conclusions: Preconceptional and prenatal exposure to DTV plays an important role in development of childhood pneumonia, especially during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
Systematic review and bibliometric analysis of African anesthesia and critical care medicine research Part II: A scientometric analysis of the 116 most cited articles
Authors: Kanmounye Ulrick Sidney , Tochie Joel Noutakdie , Mbonda Aime , Solam Cynthia Wafo , Daya Leonid , Atem Thompson Hope , Nyalundja Arsène Daniel , Eyaman Daniel Cheryl
Published: January 2021

Background Scientometrics is used to assess the impact of research in several health fields, including Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine. The purpose of this study was to identify contributors to highly-cited African Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine research.Methods The authors searched Web of Science from inception to May 4, 2020, for articles on and about Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine in Africa with ≥ 2 citations. Quantitative (H-index) and qualitative (descriptive analysis of yearly publications and interpretation of document, co-authorship, author country, and keyword) bibliometric analyses were done.Results The search strategy returned 116 articles with a median of 5 (IQR: 3-12) citations on Web of Science. Articles were published in Anesthesia and Analgesia (18, 15.5%), World Journal of Surgery (13, 11.2%), and South African Medical Journal (8, 6.9%). Most (74, 63.8%) articles were published on or after 2013. Seven authors had more than 1 article in the top 116 articles: Epiu I (3, 2.6%), Elobu AE (2, 1.7%), Fenton PM (2, 1.7%), Kibwana S (2, 1.7%), Rukewe A (2, 1.7%), Sama HD (2, 1.7%), and Zoumenou E (2, 1.7%). The bibliometric coupling analysis of documents highlighted 10 clusters, with the most significant nodes being Biccard BM, 2018; Baker T, 2013; Llewellyn RL, 2009; Nigussie S, 2014; and Aziato L, 2015. Dubowitz G (5) and Ozgediz D (4) had the highest H-indices among the authors referenced by the most-cited African Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine articles. The U.S.A., England, and Uganda had the strongest collaboration links among the articles, and most articles focused on perioperative care. Conclusion This study highlighted trends in top-cited African articles and African and non-African academic institutions' contributions to these articles.
Morphological neurite changes induced by porcupine inhibition are rescued by Wnt ligands
Authors: Godoy Juan A. , Espinoza-Caicedo Jasson , Inestrosa Nibaldo C
Published: January 2021

Background: Wnt signaling plays key roles in cellular and physiological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation and migration during development and tissue homeostasis in adults. This pathway can be defined as Wnt/β-catenin-dependent or β-catenin-independent or "non-canonical", both signaling are involved in neurite and synapse development/maintenance. Porcupine (PORCN), an acylase that o-acylates Wnt ligands, a major modification in secretion and interaction with its receptors. We use Wnt-C59, a specific PORCN inhibitor, to block the secretion of endogenous Wnts in embryonic hippocampal neurons (DIV 4). Under these conditions, the activity of exogenous Wnt ligands on the complexity of the dendritic tree and axonal polarity were evaluatedMethods: Cultured primary embryonic hippocampal neurons obtained from Sprague-Dawley rat fetuses (E18), were cultured until day in vitro (DIV) 4 (according to Banker´s protocol) and treated with Wnt-C59 for 24h, Wnt ligands were added to the cultures on DIV 3 for 24h. Dendritic arbors and neurites were analysis by fluorescence microscopy. Transfection with Lipofectamine 2000 on DIV 2 of plasmid expressing eGFP and KIF5-Cherry was carried out to evaluate neuronal polarity. Immunostaining was performed with MAP1B and Tau protein. Immunoblot analysis was carried out with Wnt3a, b-catenin and GSK-3b (p-Ser9). Quantitative analysis of dendrite morphology was carried out with ImageJ (NIH) software with Neuron J Plugin.Results: We report, here, that Wnt-C59 treatment changed the morphology of the dendritic arbors and neurites of embryonic hippocampal neurons, with decreases b-catenin and Wnt3a and an apparent increase in GSK-3b (p-Ser9) levels. No effect was observed on axonal polarity. In sister cultures, addition of exogenous Wnt3a, 5a and 7a ligands rescued the changes in neuronal morphology. Wnt3a restored the length of neurites to near that of the control, but Wnt7a increased the neurite length beyond that of the control. Wnt5a also restored the length of neurites relative to Wnt concentrations. Conclusions: Results indicated that Wnt ligands, added exogenously, restored dendritic arbor complexity in embryonic hippocampal neurons, previously treated with a high affinity specific Porcupine inhibitor. We proposed that PORCN is an emerging molecular target of interest in the search for preclinical options to study and treat Wnt-related diseases.
Rapid Cycle Implementation and Retrospective Evaluation of a SARS-CoV-2 Checklist in Labor and Delivery
Authors: Zucco Liana , Levy Nadav , Li Yunping , Golen Toni , Shainker Scott A , Hess Philip E , Ramachandran Satya Krishna
Published: January 2021

Background: Preparedness efforts for a COVID-19 outbreak required redesign and implementation of a perioperative workflow for the management of obstetric patients. In this report we describe factors which influenced rapid cycle implementation a novel comprehensive perioperative checklist for care of the COVID-19 parturient.Methods: Implementation of a novel workflow for the COVID-19 parturient requiring perioperative care was accomplished through rapid cycling, debriefing and on-site walkthroughs. Post-implementation, consistent use of the workflow was reported for all obstetric COVID-19 perioperative cases (100% workflow checklist utilization). Retrospective analysis of the factors influencing implementation was performed using a group deliberation approach, mapped against the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Results: Analysis of factors influencing implementation using CFIR revealed domains of process implementation and innovation characteristics as overwhelming facilitators for success. Constructs within the outer setting, inner setting, and characteristic of individuals (external pressures, baseline culture, and personal attributes) were perceived to act as early barriers. Constructs such as communication culture and learning climate, shifted in influence over time.Conclusion: We describe the influential factors of implementing a novel comprehensive obstetric workflow for care of the COVID-19 perioperative parturient during the first surge of the pandemic using the CFIR framework. Early workflow adoption was facilitated primarily by two domains, namely thoughtful innovation design and careful implementation planning in the setting of a long-standing culture of improvement. Factors initially assessed as barriers such as communication, culture and learning climate, transitioned into facilitators once a perceived benefit was experienced by healthcare teams. These results provide important information for the implementation of rapid change during a time of crisis.
Development of Real World Learning Opportunities in Community Exercise Prescription for Healthcare Professional Programmes - ‘Physio Hub’
Authors: Cunningham Caitriona Gabrielle , Blake Catherine , Donoghue Grainne O , Purcell Ciaran , Persson Ulrik Mc Carthy , Craddock Karen , Mahon Sinead Mc
Published: January 2021

Background Given the challenge of chronic lifestyle diseases, the shift in healthcare focus to primary care and recognised importance of a preventive approach to health, including exercise prescription, the embedding of related learning in healthcare professional programmes is critical. Methods In response to these contemporary demands, a complex curriculum development project was undertaken at University College Dublin, employing a four dimensional curriculum framework for the development of health professional curricula that focused on (1) future orientation of healthcare practices (the why?), (2) defining capabilities of graduates (the what?), (3) teaching, learning and assessment (the how?) and (4) organisation/institution delivery (the where)? The process was informed by exercise, health promotion, educational and health policy literature, alongside engagement with multiple internal university and external community stakeholders. Results Having sufficient clinical education opportunity for translating exercise theory into practice was identified as a key need (the Why?). Development of strategies for health promotion and design and delivery of evidence based exercise programmes with inter-professional and inter-sectoral network building were some of the graduate capabilities identified as being critically important. (the what?) The resultant UCD Physio Hub model of clinical education combines ‘on campus’ and ‘community outreach’ activity to facilitate inter-sectoral ‘real world’ experiential student learning in health promotion and exercise prescription for both healthy and clinical populations. Underpinned by social constructivist educational theory, students are encouraged to be creative and to collaborate in responding to identified health needs of specific community groups by designing and delivering community services. (the how?) In developing new student learning opportunities to enhance curriculum, a supportive organisational culture and context was critical with UCD having excellent exercise infrastructure and the Physio Hub project aligning with a community engagement ethos articulated in the university’s strategy. (the where?) Conclusion This paper provides an overview of Physio Hub, its services, educational practices and translational research ethos, all of which are combined to deliver a rich exercise and health promotion learning experience. Although developed for physiotherapy, the curriculum process and resultant education model could be integrated wholly or in part across medical and other healthcare professional programmes and to facilitate interdisciplinary learning.
Risk factors and comorbidities associated with magnesium deficiency in pregnant women and women with hormone-related conditions: Analysis of a large real-world dataset
Authors: Orlova Svetlana , Dikke Galina , Pickering Gisele , Yaltseva Natalya , Konchits Sofya , Starostin Kirill , Bevz Alina
Published: January 2021

BackgroundAn accumulating body of literature indicates that magnesium deficiency is associated with a number of hormone-related conditions (HRC) in women, and epidemiological studies are needed to assess its prevalence and risk factors. Here, we present a secondary analysis of data pooled from four large observational studies that assessed magnesium deficiency among pregnant women and women with HRC across the Russian Federation.MethodsThe main objective of this analysis was to estimate the prevalence of magnesium deficiency in this population and to describe risk factors and comorbidities associated with low serum magnesium. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors and comorbid conditions associated with an increased risk of low serum magnesium level.ResultsA total of 983 pregnant women and 9444 women with HRC were eligible for analysis. Prevalence of hypomagnesemia (magnesium serum level cut-off <0.66 mmol/L/<0.8 mmol/L) was 34.0%/78.9% in pregnant women and 21.4%/54.8% in women with HRC. The highest prevalence of magnesium deficiency was observed for osteoporosis and climacteric syndrome. Risk factors included diastolic blood pressure, previous pregnancy complications, infections and edema for pregnant women, and age, body mass index, and various comorbidities for women with HRC.ConclusionsThese results confirm the high prevalence of hypomagnesemia in pregnant women and women with HRC and underline the importance of routine screening, since risk factors are mostly non-specific.
WITHDRAWN: Knowledge, Preventive Practices, and Depression Among Chinese University Students in Korea and China During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Online Cross-sectional Study
Authors: ‍ZHAO BO , Kong Fanlei , Nam Eun Woo
Published: January 2021

Background: To investigate the knowledge, preventive practices, and depression of Chinese university students living in South Korea (International Group) and Mainland China (Mainland Group) regarding the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and explore the determinants of depression among these students. Methods: An online cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted both in China and South Korea from March 23 to April 12, 2020. The online questionnaire included questions on knowledge and preventive practices related to COVID-19, and PHQ-9 which was used to diagnose depression in target groups. A total of 420 Chinese university students were finally included in the study (171 students from South Korea and 249 students from mainland China). Results: Majority of these students had a good level of knowledge of COVID-19. The International Group performed better than the Mainland Group regarding preventive practices; however, the percentage of students with moderate-to-severe depression was higher among the International Group. More severe depression was related to high levels of concern about family members, about getting COVID-19, and suspecting themselves of having come into contact with patients. Meanwhile, taking preventive behaviors more comprehensively decreased the depression state of both the groups. Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the depression status of students of the International Group was significantly more severe than that of the Mainland Group (χ2 = 5.50, p < 0.05). The level of depression among students in both the groups was affected by their concern regarding their family members, getting COVID-19, and whether they suspected themselves of having come into contact with patients. Therefore, psychological counseling and education programs are necessary in order to support and improve the mental health of International Group students.
Anticonvulsant use and bone health in a population-based study of men and women: cross-sectional data from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study.
Authors: Chandrasekaran Vinoomika , Pasco Julie A , Stuart Amanda L , Brennan-Olsen Sharon L , Berk Michael , Hodge Jason M , Samarasinghe Rasika M , Williams Lana J
Published: January 2021

Background: Anticonvulsant use has been linked to bone deficits in specific patient populations. We studied the association between anticonvulsant use and bone health in a population-based sample of men and women.Methods: Data from 926 men (24-73yr) and 1070 women (21-94yr) participating in the Geelong Osteoporosis Study were included. Bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm2) of the PA-spine and total hip was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (Lunar). Bone quality was determined using quantitative heel ultrasound (QUS). Anthropometry was conducted and socioeconomic status was determined. Medication and lifestyle information was obtained via questionnaire. Linear regression was used to test associations between anticonvulsant use and bone health before and after adjustment for potential confounders. Results: Seventeen (1.8%) men and 20 (1.9%) women reported anticonvulsant use. In men, anticonvulsant users had 9.1% lower adjusted mean BMD at the spine and hip compared to non-users. Body mass index was an effect modifier at the spine. Anticonvulsant users also had 1.8% lower speed of sound (SOS), 10.6% lower broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and 13.7% lower stiffness index (SI) compared to non-users. In women, BMD tended to be lower at the hip compared to non-users as with the bone quality measure, BUA. No significant associations were observed at the spine or the other bone quality measures, SOS and SI. Conclusion: Our data suggest that bone quantity and quality, assessed using BMD and QUS, are lower for men and possibly women who use anticonvulsants. While further exploration into potential mechanisms is needed, our findings suggest that monitoring bone health among users of anticonvulsants is warranted.
Nurses’ and midwives’ perspectives on participation in national policy development, review and reforms in Ghana: A qualitative study
Authors: Acheampong Angela Kwartemaa , Ohene Lillian Akorfa , Asante Isabella Naana Akyaa , Kyei Josephine , Dzansi Gladys , Adjei Charles Ampong , Adjorlolo Samuel , Boateng Francis , Woolley Philomena , Nyante Felix , Aziato Lydia
Published: January 2021

Background: The World Health Organization has admonished member countries to strive towards achieving universal health coverage (UHC) through actionable health policies and strategies. Nurses and midwives have instrumental roles in achieving UHC via health policy development and implementation. However, there is a paucity of empirical data on nurses and midwives’ participation in policy development in Ghana. The current study explored nurses and midwives’ participation in policy development, reviews and reforms in Ghana.Methods: A qualitative descriptive exploratory design was adopted for this study. One-on-one individual interviews were conducted after 30 participants were purposefully selected. Data was audiotaped with permission, transcribed and analyzed inductively using the content analysis procedures. Results: Two main themes emerged from the data: participation in policy development and perspectives on policy reviews and reforms. The findings showed that during health policy development and reviews, nurses in Ghana were overlooked and unacknowledged. Policy reforms regarding bridging the pre-service preparation gap, staff development and motivation mechanisms and influence on admission into nursing schools were raisedConclusion: The authors concluded that nurses and midwives are crucial members of the healthcare systems and their inputs in policy development and reviews would improve health delivery in Ghana.
Sleep/wake rhythm and its association with lifestyle, health-related quality of life and academic performance among Japanese nursing students: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kayaba Momoko , Matsushita Toshiko , Katayama Noriko , Inoue Yuichi , Sasai-Sakuma Taeko
Published: January 2021

Background: Young adults are likely to have activities and go to bed late at night due to their age-dependent delayed endogenous circadian clock. The purpose of the present study was to clarify sleep/wake rhythm and its association with lifestyle, health-related quality of life, and academic performance among nursing students.Methods: Self-reported questionnaires were distributed to undergraduate nursing students at six universities in Japan. Sleep/wake rhythm was assessed using the morningness-eveningness questionnaire. A quantitative design using the generalized linear mixed effect model was utilized to identify the factors related to the evening type among female nursing students (n=447). Results: About 18% of the participants were identified as the evening type. Evening type was associated with living alone, part-time job, and club activity. Sleep duration on weekdays was shorter, meal time duration was the shortest, and the percentages of students who skipped meals and those who gained body weight were higher in the evening type than in the morning type and intermediate type. Mental health-related quality of life was lower in the intermediate type and evening type than in the morning type, while there was no difference in physical health-related quality of life among these groups. The percentages of the nursing students who have experienced absence, tardiness, falling asleep during class, and/or interference with academic achievement were higher in the evening type than in other groups.Conclusions: The present study has important implications for nursing students’ biological characteristics and lifestyle, which are associated with their health-related quality of life and academic performance.
Systematic review and subgroup analysis of the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Xu Zhenjian , Tang Ying , Huang Qiuyan , Fu Sha , Li Xiaomei , Lin Baojuan , Xu Anping , Chen Junzhe
Published: January 2021

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs among patients with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) and has also been indicated to be associated with in-hospital mortality. Remdesivir has been authorized for the treatment of COVID-19. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the incidence of AKI in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The incidence of AKI in different subgroups was also investigated.Methods: A thorough search was performed to find relevant studies in PubMed, Web of Science, medRxiv and EMBASE from 1 Jan 2020 until 1 June 2020. The systematic review was performed using the meta package in R (4.0.1).Results: A total of 16199 COVID-19 patients were included in our systematic review. The pooled estimated incidence of AKI in all hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 10.0% (95% CI: 7.0-12.0%). The pooled estimated proportion of COVID-19 patients who needed continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was 4% (95% CI: 3-6%). According to our subgroup analysis, the incidence of AKI could be associated with age, disease severity and ethnicity. The incidence of AKI in hospitalized COVID-19 patients being treated with remdesivir was 7% (95% CI: 3-13%) in a total of 5 studies. Conclusion: We found that AKI was not rare in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The incidence of AKI could be associated with age, disease severity and ethnicity. Remdesivir probably did not induce AKI in COVID-19 patients. Our systematic review provides evidence that AKI might be closely associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, which should be investigated in future studies.
Gravity determines the direction of nerve roots sedimentation in the lumbar spinal canal
Authors: Yang Jun , Feng Zhiyun , Chen Nian , Hong Zhenhua , Zheng Yongyu , Yang Jiang , Zhou Tingjie , Yao Xin , Xu Taifeng , Zhang Linting
Published: January 2021

Objectives: To investigate the role of gravity in the sedimentation of lumbar spine nerve roots using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of various body positions. Methods: A total of 56 patients, who suffered from back pain and underwent conventional supine lumbar spine MR imaging, were selected from sanmen hospital database. All the patients were called back to our hospital to perform MR imaging in prone position or lateral position. Furthermore, the sedimentation sign (SedSign) was determined based on the suspension of the nerve roots in the dural sac on cross-sectional MR images, and 31 cases were rated as positive and another 25 cases were negative. Results: The mean age of negative SedSign group was significantly younger than that of positive SedSign group (51.7±8.7 vs 68.4±10.5, P<0.05). The constitutions of clinical diagnosis were significantly different between patients with a positive SedSign and those with a negative SedSign (P<0.001). Overall, nerve roots of the vast majority of patients (48/56, 85.7%) subsided to the ventral side of the dural sac on the prone MR images, although that of 8 (14.3%) patients remain stay in the dorsal side of dural sac. Nerve roots of only one patient with negative SedSign did not settle to the ventral dural sac, while this phenomenon occurred in 7 patients in positive SedSign group (4% vs 22.6%, P<0.001). In addition, the nerve roots of all the five patients subsided to the left side of dural sac on lateral position MR images. Conclusions: The nerve roots sedimentation followed the direction of gravity. Positive SedSign may be a MR sign of lumbar pathology involved the spinal canal.
Knowledge, Attitude, And Perception of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialty Amongst Healthcare Professionals, and the General Public from a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Country
Authors: Kamal Mohammad , Abdulwahab Mohammad , Al-Zaid Ahmed
Published: January 2021

Background: Oral and maxillofacial surgery specialty has grown rapidly in Kuwait in recent years. However, the general public and healthcare professionals remain unaware of its expanding scope of practice. The aim of the study is to assess public and professional (dental and medical) perception of the oral and maxillofacial surgical specialty in Kuwait.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study evaluating responses of dental professionals, medical professionals, and general public in Kuwait toward the oral and maxillofacial surgical specialty using a previously validated survey instrument with 100 participants in each group. Participants were asked to choose the most appropriate specialist to treat certain procedures across 4 disciplines: reconstruction, trauma, pathology, and cosmetic. Statistical comparison was conducted between dentists and medical doctors using Fisher’s exact test with a p-value of < 0.05. Results: Disparities were noted each group’s responses. Oral and maxillofacial surgery was preferred overall for most clinical scenarios in trauma (p < 0.001), pathology (p < 0.001), and reconstructive surgery (p < 0.001). Plastic surgery was preferred for cosmetic surgeries (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study indicates the need to increase awareness especially towards cosmetic surgery procedures, and conduct health campaigns regarding oral and maxillofacial surgery among healthcare professionals, especially medical doctors, and the general public.
Local low-rank approach to nonlinear-matrix completion
Authors: Sasaki Ryohei , Konishi Katsumi , Takahashi Tomohiro , Furukawa Toshihiro
Published: January 2021

This paper deals with a problem of matrix completion in which each column vector of the matrix belongs to a low-dimensional differentiable manifold (LDDM), with the target matrix being high or full rank. To solve this problem, algorithms based on polynomial mapping and matrix-rank minimization (MRM) have been proposed; such methods assume that each column vector of the target matrix is generated as a vector in a low-dimensional linear subspace (LDLS) and mapped to a p-th order polynomial, and that the rank of a matrix whose column vectors are d-th monomial features of target column vectors is defficient. However, a large number of columns and observed values are needed to strictly solve the MRM problem using this method when p is large; therefore, this paper proposes a new method for obtaining the solution by minimizing the rank of the submatrix without transforming the target matrix, so as to obtain high estimation accuracy even when the number of columns is small. This method is based on the assumption that an LDDM can be approximated locally as an LDLS to achieve high completion accuracy without transforming the target matrix. Numerical examples show that the proposed method has a higher accuracy than other low-rank approaches.
Correlates of premature pap test screening, under 25 years old: Analysis of data from the CONSTANCES cohort study.
Authors: Mignot Stephanie , Ringa Virginie , Vigoureux Solène , Zins Marie , Panjo Henri , Saulnier Pierre-Jean , Fritel Xavier
Published: January 2021

Background: Many countries currently recommend that screening for cervical cancer begin at the age of 25 years. Premature screening (before that age) could lead to unnecessary follow-up examinations and procedures that turn out to be useless. Our objective is to ascertain if the use of particular contraceptive methods are associated with premature screening. Methods: This cross-sectional study based on the CONSTANCES cohort enabled us to include 4297 women younger than 25 years. The factors associated with premature screening were modeled by logistic regression. Missing data were handled by multiple imputations . The multivariate analyses were adjusted for sex life, social and demographic characteristics, and health status . Results: Nearly half (48.5%) the women younger than 25 years had already undergone premature screening. Women not using contraceptives (aOR 0.3, 95% CI 0.3-0.5) and those using nonmedicalized contraceptives (condom, spermicide, etc.) (aOR 0.5, 95% CI 0.4-0.6) had premature screening less often than women using birth control pills. Higher risks of premature screening were observed in 20-year-old women (aOR 2.7, 95% CI 2.2-3.3) and in those with more than 5 lifetime partners (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 2.0-3.1), compared respectively with those of women who were younger and those with 5 or fewer lifetime partners. Conclusion: Young women using contraceptives that require a doctor's prescription are exposed to premature screening more often than both those not using contraception and those with nonmedicalized contraceptives.
Clinical utility of procalcitonin in febrile infants younger than 3 months of age visiting a pediatric emergency room: A retrospective single-center study
Authors: park Jun Sung , Byun Young-Hoon , Lee Jeong-Yong , Lee Jong Seung , Ryu Jeong-Min , Choi Seung Jun
Published: January 2021

BackgroundFever in infants under 90 days of age is highly likely to be caused by a severe bacterial infection (SBI) and it accounts for a large number of patients visiting the pediatric emergency room. In order to predict the bacterial infection and reduce unnecessary treatment, the classic classification system is based on white blood cell (WBC) count, urinalysis, and x-ray, and it is modified and applied at each center by incorporating recently studied biomarkers such as c-reactive protein (CRP) or procalcitonin (PCT). This study analyzed the usefulness of PCT in predicting SBI when applied along with the existing classification system, including CRP, among infants less than 90 days old who visited with a fever at a single institution pediatric emergency center.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients younger than 3 months of age who presented with fever at the Seoul Asan Medical Center pediatric emergency room between July 2017 and October 2018.ResultsA total of 317 patients were analyzed, and 61 were diagnosed with SBI, among which urinary tract infection (UTI) accounted for the largest proportion (55/61, 90.2%). There were differences in WBC, neutrophil proportion, CRP, and PCT between the SBI group and the non-SBI group, and the AUC values of WBC, CRP, and PCT were 0.651, 0.804, and 0.746, respectively. When using the cut-off values of CRP and PCTs as 2.0 mg/dL and 0.3 ng/mL, respectively, the sensitivity and specificity for SBI were 49.2/89.5, and 54.1/87.5, respectively. WBC, CRP, and PCT were statistically significant for predicting SBI in multivariate analysis (odds ratios 1.066, 1.377, and 1.291, respectively). When the subjects were classified using the existing classification criteria, WBC and CRP, the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 29.3% and 88.7%, respectively, and when PCT was added, the PPV and NPV were 30.7% and 92%, respectively, both increased.ConclusionPCT is useful for predicting SBI in children aged 3 months or less who visit the emergency room with a fever. It is useful as a single biomarker, and when used in conjunction with classic biomarkers, its diagnostic accuracy is further increased.
Assessment of China's Contribution in Regional Network for Asian Schistosomiasis: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Li Hongmei , Qian Yingjun , Yang Kun , Ding Wei , Huang Lulu , Ma Xuejiao , Duan Lei , Wang Duoquan , Guan Yayi , Xiao Ning , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: January 2021

Background: The Regional Network for Asian Schistosomiasis and other Helminth Zoonoses (RNAS+) launched in 1998, has close partnerships with countries endemic for schistosomiasis and other helminthiasis. RNAS+ has provided an ideal regional platform for policy-making, control, and parasitic diseases research experts in Asian countries. China, one of the initiating countries, has provided significant technical and financial support to the regional network. Although Chinese institutions and other member countries provided great technical and resource support in RNAS+ development, China, and Chinese scientists or institutions’ contributions, have not been evaluated systematically. This study assessed Chinese contributions toward supporting RNAS+ development.Methods: An assessment research framework was planned to evaluate China’s contribution to RNAS+ in four aspects, including capacity building, funding support, coordination, and cooperation. An anonymous web-based questionnaire was designed to acquire respondents’ basic information, and information on China’s contributions, challenges, and recommendations for RNAS+ development. Each participant scored from 0 to 10 to assess China’s contribution: “0” no contribution, and “10” 100% contribution. Participants who included their e-mail address in the 2017 - 2019 RNAS+ annual workshops were invited to participate the assessment.Results: Of 71 participants enrolled, 41 responded to the survey, 37 (37/41, 90.24%) of whom were from RNAS+ member countries while the remaining 4 (4/41, 9.76%) were international observers. Most respondents (38/41, 92.68%) are familiar with RNAS+. Respondents reported that China’s contributions were mainly to improve capacity building, and provide funding support, coordination responsibility, and joint application of the cooperation program towards RNAS+ development. The average scores of China’s contributions in the above four fields were 8.92, 8.64, 8.75, and 8.67, respectively, with an overall assessment score of 8.81 (10 maximum score). The challenge of RNAS+ includes the lack of sustainable funding and skills, and most participants indicated their continual need of China’s support.Conclusions This survey showed that China plays an important role in the development of RNAS+. This network-type organization for disease control and research can yet be regarded as a great potential pattern for China to enhance regional cooperation. These findings can be used to promote future cooperation between China and other RNAS+ member countries.
Serine Proteases Profiles of Leishmania (Viannia) Braziliensis Clinical Isolates With Distinct Susceptibilities to Antimony
Authors: Zabala-Peñafiel Anabel , Dias-Lopes Geovane , Cysne-Finkelstein Léa , Conceição-Silva Fátima , Miranda Luciana de Freitas Campos , Fagundes Aline , Schubach Armando de Oliveira , Pimentel Maria Ines Fernandes , Souza-Silva Franklin , Machado Lucas de Almeida , Alves Carlos Roberto
Published: January 2021

Glucantime® (SbV) is the first-line treatment against leishmaniasis in South America. Its effectiveness has been associated with modulation of the parasite detoxification system that, in turn, is related to serine proteases such as subtilisins. In this study, 12 Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis isolates from patients that presented clinical cure (Responders - R) and relapse or therapeutic failure (Non-responders - NR) were used. The parasites were assessed by in vitro susceptibility to SbIII and SbV, serine proteases activity – measured with z-FR-AMC as substrate and specific inhibitors – and expression of subtilisins and tryparedoxin-peroxidase (TXNPx). In vitro susceptibility of axenic amastigotes to SbIII showed a significant difference between R and NR groups. TLCK inhibited almost 100 % of activity in both axenic amastigotes and promastigotes while AEBSF inhibited around 70 %, and PMSF showed lower inhibition of specific isolates. Principal component and clustering analysis yielded one homogeneous cluster with only NR isolates and three heterogeneous clusters with R and NR isolates. Additionally, transcripts of subtilisins (LbrM.13.0860 and LbrM.28.2570) and TXNPx (LbrM.15.1080) were detected in promastigotes and axenic amastigotes from both groups. The data presented here show a phenotypic heterogeneity among the parasites, suggesting that exploration of in vitro phenotypes based on SbIII and serine proteases profiles can aid in the characterization of L. (V.) braziliensis clinical isolates.
AN UNEXPECTED CAUSE OF PERSISTENT DYSPHONIA IN ADULTS!
Authors:   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco., I. Azzam , Ti Sefrioui ,   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco., S. Nitassi ,   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco., R. Bencheikh ,   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco., A. Benbouzid ,   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco., A. Oujilal ,   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco., L Essakalli ,   Departement of Otorhinolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery, Specialites Hospital, University Hospital Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco.
Published: January 2021

Inhalation of foreign objects is a common reason in paediatric emergency departments, linked to a significant morbidity or even mortality rate, especially in children under 3 years of age. The occurrence in adults without neurological comorbidity remains rare. We report the case of a 50-year-old with a history of alcohol-smoking intoxication who had suddenly presented a symptomatology associating: dysphonia and dyspnea and after 15 days of evolution, an ENT notice was requested. Cervical CT scans and endoscopy of the upper aerodigestive pathways were performed in an emergency and objectified a glottic foreign body: inhaled denture and not noticed by the patient !!. The extraction of the foreign body under general anesthesia led to the disappearance of dyspnea and dysphonia was gradually improved under treatment. In the case of a foreign body of the upper airways, the absence of penetration syndrome at the examination and a non-specific symptomatology can lead to a diagnostic and therapeutic delay that can have dramatic consequences. At the slightest doubt, an endoscopy of the upper airways under general anesthesia should be performed.
SYMMETRICAL PERIPHERAL GANGRENE OF BILATERAL HANDS AND UNILATERAL FOOT IN SETTING OF SEPTIC SHOCK REQUIRING PROLONGED HIGH DOSE VASOPRESSORS
Authors: a Ajinkyabhosle , Patankar Ramesh
Published: January 2021

Symmetrical peripheral gangrene (SPG) is characterized by progressive ischemic damage in two or more extremities, without large vessel obstruction. This syndrome has been reported in several etiologies such as infections, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and low cardiac output states. It is also known as purpura fulminans (PF). It carries a risk of limb amputation leading long term morbidity and higher rates of mortality due to prolonged hospitalisation.1 SPG is the sign of progressive disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The main pathogenesis theory, is microthrombosis associated with disturbed pro coagulantÂ–anticoagulant balance, leading to tissue necrosis. The treatment thus involves aggressive treatment of root cause and theoretically involves heparin-based anticoagulation.2.
SKILLS AND SUCCESS
Authors:   Independent Investigator, EU., Aguilera Lucita
Published: January 2021

Todays global economy has had a shift from industrial-manufacturing to technology-knowledge having an impact on the skills developed by the new workforce. Traditionally, having strong hard skills were enough for career advance and employment. In todays work environment increasing importance has been given to soft skills. This means that acquiring and improving both, soft and hard skills, are critical for a complete and productive professional with high performance. Studies have demonstrated a gap of soft skills in the new workforce. These skills can be taught and learned, so its vital to include them in the official schools curriculum to guarantee well prepared graduates with the skills needed for the future.
MÜZİK ÖĞRETMENİ ADAYLARININ İYİ OLUŞLARI İLE MÜZİK PERFORMANS KAYGILARI ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİ
Authors: ONURAY EĞİLMEZ Hatice
Published: January 2021

Araştırma, müzik öğretmeni adaylarının iyi oluşlarının sahne performansları sırasında karşılaşabilecekleri kaygı düzeyine etkisini saptamak amacıyla yapılmıştır. Bu doğrultuda müzik öğretmeni adaylarının iyi oluş ve müzik performans kaygıları (MPK) incelenmiş, her iki durum arasındaki ilişki ortaya konmuştur. Araştırmaya Bursa Uludağ Üniversitesi Eğitim Fakültesi Müzik Eğitimi Ana Bilim Dalında eğitim alan (kız n=51, erkek n=35) 86 öğrenci katılmıştır. Veriler Öğrenci Demografik Bilgi Formu, İyi Oluş Ölçeği (PERMA) ve Kenny Müzik Performans Kaygısı Envanteri (KMPKE) ile toplanmıştır. PERMA, KMPKE puanlarının cinsiyete göre ilişkisinin analizinde t-testi, PERMA ve KMPKE puanlarının öğrenim yıllarına göre ilişkisinin analizindeyse ANOVA kullanılmıştır. PERMA ve KMPKE puanları arasındaki ilişki ile PERMA arasındaki ilişkinin belirlenmesi içinse Pearson Korelasyon katsayısı hesaplanmıştır. Müzik öğretmeni adaylarının iyi oluş ve müzik performans kaygılarında cinsiyete, öğrenim yılına göre anlamlı fark tespit edilemezken, PERMA genel puanı ve tüm alt boyutları ile KMPKE puanları arasında negatif yönlü ve anlamlı ilişki bulunmuştur. Çalışma sonunda sorunun çözümüne ilişkin öneriler sunulmuştur.
Spatio-temporal analysis of sediment yield with a physically based model for a data-scarce headwater in Konya Closed Basin, Turkey
Authors: Koycegiz Cihangir , Buyukyildiz Meral , Kumcu Serife Yurdagul
Published: January 2021

There are many empirical, semi-empirical and mathematical methods that have been developed to estimate sediment yield by researchers. In the last decades, the advancement in computer technologies has increased the use of mathematical models as they can solve the system more rapidly and accurately. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is one of the physically based hydrological models that is preferred to compute sediment yield. In this study, spatial and temporal analysis of sediment yield in the Çarşamba Stream located at the Konya Closed Basin has been investigated using the SWAT model. Streamflow and sediment data collected during the 2003–2015 time period have been used in the analysis. Consequently, the SWAT presented satisfactory results compared with R2 = 0.68, Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) = 0.68 in calibration and R2 = 0.76, NSE = 0.66 in validation. According to the model results, spatial asymmetry in terms of sediment yield was determined in the sub-basins of the study area.
Análise da estrutura eletrônica da tacrina e do neurotransmissor acetilcolina.
Authors: Nascimento Letícia A. , Nascimento Érica C. M. , Martins João B. L.
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a more common neurodegenerative process in the elderly population, characterized by a progressive loss of cognitive abilities, such as memory, language skills, disorientation, attention and depression. Cholinergic hypothesis therapy is the most successful approach for the symptomatic treatment of AD. The therapy consists in the use of drugs with inhibitory action against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) to avoid the decrease of acetylcholine concentration in synaptic clefts. Thus, this research aims to carry out the electronic and structural study of tacrina drug compared to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, through computational calculations based on theoretical chemistry, using PM6 semi-empirical method jointly to DFT and MP2 methods.
Neuro-Photobiomodulation: Stimulation of the Brain Using Different Frequencies
Authors:   Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria, Litscher Gerhard
Published: January 2021

Neuro-photobiomodulation (PBM) is a relatively novel optical stimulation method that is not yet generally accepted in conventional medicine. Therefore, evidence-based research in this sub-area, which is important for laser medicine, is necessary in order to provide appropriate scientific evidence for a better understanding of neuro-PBM. In this editorial, a summary of the recent results with stimulation using different frequencies (e.g., 40 Hz, 136.1 Hz) is presented. The contribution is intended to stimulate researchers to continue working in this promising area of neuro-PBM.