bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presepsin and platelet to lymphocyte ratio predict the progression of septic subclinical acute kidney injury to septic acute kidney injury and the prognosis of subclinical septic acute kidney injury patients: a pilot study
Authors: Shimoyama Yuichiro , Umegaki Osamu , Kadono Noriko , Minami Toshiaki
Published: March 2022

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether presepsin can predict the progression of septic subclinical acute kidney injury (AKI) to septic AKI among intensive care unit (ICU) patients.Results: Presepsin values were measured immediately after ICU admission (baseline) and on Days 2, 3, and 5 after ICU admission. Glasgow Prognostic Score, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), Prognostic Index, and Prognostic Nutritional Index were measured at baseline. Presepsin values and these indices were compared between septic AKI and septic subclinical AKI patients. There were 38 septic AKI patients and 21 septic subclinical AKI patients. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses revealed the following cut-off values for AKI (relative to subclinical AKI): 708.0 (pg/ml) for presepsin on Day 1 (AUC, 0.69; sensitivity, 82%; specificity, 52%), 1283.0 (pg/ml) for presepsin on Day 2 (AUC, 0.69; sensitivity, 55%; specificity, 80%), and 368.66 for PLR (AUC, 0.67; sensitivity, 71%; specificity, 62%). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed PLR to be a predictor of septic subclinical AKI (odds ratio, 1.0023; 95% confidence interval, 1.0000-1.0046; p=0.046). Presepsin and PLR predicted the progression of septic subclinical AKI to septic AKI and the prognosis of subclinical septic AKI patients.
Exploratory study on interaction between bacteria and fungi from mulberry to intestine of Bombyx mori
Authors: Li Chengxu , Xu Shuo , Xiang Chunjie , Xu Shixia , Zhou Qihai , zhang junfeng
Published: March 2022

Many kinds of antibiotics in the environments deeply affect the microbial composition, but their effect on the interactions among the host microbiota is still poorly understood. This study used Bombyx mori as the model organism by feeding the antibiotics-treated mulberry leaf, preliminarily explored the effects of antibiotic exposure on the interaction of bacteria and fungi in the worm’s intestine. Our results showed that the elimination of fungi significantly reduced the bacterial richness and diversity in the worm’s intestine after exposure of anti-fungal amphotericin B, while the elimination of bacteria dramatically increased the richness and diversity of fungi after exposure of anti-bacterial ampicillin-streptomycin. The results revealed the intestinal bacteria and fungi of Bombyx mori were markedly shaped by the mulberry leaf flora. Anti-bacterial antibiotics enhanced the correlation between the host gut fungi and the diet-deriving fungi, while anti-fungal antibiotics weakened the correlation between the host gut bacteria and the diet-deriving bacteria. The data preliminarily established a simple model to explore the effect of antibiotics on the host microbiota interactions, and provided a way for further study on the environmental factors of intestinal bacteria-fungi interaction.
Appropriateness and adherence to guidelines in perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients undergoing clean surgery: results from a Quality Control Circle intervention
Authors: Zou Jian , Zhong Jia-yun , Liu Yu , Huang Dan , Liu Yan-xin , Li Xi-wen , Gong Wen-jun , Tao Jia
Published: March 2022

The present study aimed to exam the effect of quality control circle (QCC) activities on promoting the appropriate implementation of preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis in clean surgery. A QCC activity team was established to grasp the current situation of PAP in clean surgery procedure, set target, formulated corresponding countermeasures and implement and review them in stages. The plan-do-check-act method was cyclically applied. The appropriateness of PAP before (July to December 2018) and after (April to September 2019) the implementation of QCC activities were evaluated based on relevant international and Chinese perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis guidelines. The appropriate rate of PAP was significantly improved from 68.72% (n=406) before QCC to 93.7% (n=508) post QCC implementation (P＜0.01). A significant improvement (P＜0.05) was also determined for each category: selection (from 78.82 to 96.06%), duration (from 90.15 to 96.46%), indication (from 94.09 to 97.64%), timing of first dose (from 96.55 to 99.21%), antibiotic usage (from 96.8 to 99.41%), re-dosing of antibiotic (from 96.55 to 99.21%). The appropriate application of PAP is improved through QCC activities, providing a useful reference for the prevention of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and the development of medical quality improvement activities.
Effect of Altitude and Solvent on Psidium guajava Linn. leaves extracts: Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant, Cytotoxicity and Antimicrobial activity against Food Spoilage Microbes
Authors: Majhi Rita , Maharjan Rukusha , Shrestha Mitesh , Mali Aatish , Basnet Angisha , Baral Manish , Duwal Rabin , Manandhar Rojlina , Rajbhandari Prajwal
Published: March 2022

Background: Guava (Psidium guajava Linn.) has been traditionally used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases due to its rich content of secondary metabolites. This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of altitude and solvent systems on guava leaves crude extract’s phenolics and flavonoid content, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and its toxicity nature.Methods: Guava leaves were collected from three different geographical locations of Nepal while solvents with an increasing polarity index were used for extraction. The yield percentage of extracts was calculated. Total Phenolic Content, Total Flavonoid Content, and antioxidant activity were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method, Aluminium chloride colorimetric method, and DPPH (2,2’-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay respectively. The quantification of fisetin and quercetin was performed using the HPLC with method validation. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was tested against bacteria and fungus isolated from spoiled fruits and vegetables and identified through 16s and 18s rRNA sequencing. Finally, Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA) was used for testing the toxicity of the extracts.Results: The phenolic and total flavonoid content was found to be higher in ethanol extract (331.84 mg GAE/g) and methanol extract (95.53 mg QE/g) from Kuleshwor respectively. Water extract of guava leaves from Kuleshwor (WGK) did not show significantly different antioxidant activity when compared to methanol and ethanol extracts. Fisetin and quercetin were higher in WGK (1.176 mg/100 g) and (10.967 mg/100 g) dry extract weight respectively. Antibacterial activity against food spoilage bacteria was dose dependent and found to be highest for all the extracts from different solvents and altitude at higher concentrations (80 mg/ml). Similarly, methanol and ethanol guava extracts from all locations showed antifungal activity against Geotrichum candidum RIBB-SCM43 and Geotrichum candidum RIBB-SCM44. WGK was found to be non-toxic.Conclusion: Our study concludes that the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of WGK was found to be simlar with that of methanol and ethanol extracts of Bishnupur Katti and Mahajidiya. These results suggest the possibility of using water as a sustainable solvent to extract natural antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds which can further be used as natural preservatives to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
Multi-depth and refined detection method of karst features under thick Quaternary sediments of subway lines
Authors: Su Maoxin , Han Min , Wang Peng , Ma Xiaoyin , Liu Yimin
Published: March 2022

When the subway engineerings cross the karst area, the unfavorable geology may bring many potential safety hazards to the subway design, construction and operation. There is a wide range of karst distribution in southwest China. Extremely irregular karst area is distributed in the strata along the subway lines. The Quaternary sediments are thick, which greatly increases the difficulty of detection. A multi-depth refined detection method of karst features under thick Quaternary sediments is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the karst cavities and fractures in the shallow stratum of the study area are determined by ground-penetrating radar (GPR). Secondly, the mid-deep resistivity cross-sections are delineated using surface electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and transient electromagnetic method (TEM). The principal component analysis (PCA) is used to fuse the resistivity data. The three-dimensional imaging is established to delineate the distribution of karst anomalies. As the information obtained by PCA is more comprehensive, the accuracy of geophysical interpretation is improved. The multi-depth refined detection of karst under thick Quaternary sediments on subway lines is realized through integrated analysis. This method has been applied in Changsha Metro Line 3 and achieved good practical results. It is of great application value for the karst tunnel treatment and the safe excavation.
Virtual Versus Jaw Simulation in Inlay Preparation Preclinical Teaching: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sheng Jie , Zhang Congdi , Gao Zhengkun , Yan Yimin , Meng Yucheng , Ren Shiqi , Liu Bin , Zhang Baoping
Published: March 2022

Objective: To investigate the effect of virtual simulation system in the teaching of inlay experiment and to guide the experimental teaching of tooth preparation. Method: 76 undergraduates of the school of stomatology were selected as the research object to conduct unified teaching and assessment of dental preparation theory. The students were randomly divided into a jaw simulation model training group (Group J), a virtual simulation system training group (Group V), a jaw simulation model training first followed by a virtual simulation system training group (Group J-V), and a virtual simulation system followed by a jaw simulation model training group (Group V-J). After training, the inlay tooth preparation assessment was performed on the extracted teeth. The data was analyzed according to the assessment scores of the tooth preparation on the extracted teeth by the senior clinician. Questionnaires were used to evaluate students' subjective feelings towards the virtual simulation system. Results: The assessment scores of Group J-V and Group V-J (62.79 ± 2.84; 64.00 ± 2.85) were higher than Group V and Group J (56.05 ± 3.39; 55.74 ± 2.53) with the highest score in the Group V-J and the lowest score in the Group V. Based on the UNIDRAW virtual simulation inlay preparation evaluation system, we have gotten that Group V-J had a higher score than other groups. In the questionnaire survey, only 9% of students preferred the digital virtual simulation system. Conclusion: Virtual simulation training can promote the teaching effect of tooth preparation in inlay experiment. Combining with the traditional jaw simulation model training and placing virtual simulation training before the jaw simulation model training, the teaching effect is supposed to be the best. Therefore, this teaching mode is a new and efficient one which is suggested popularized.
Colorectal Cancer Risk Perceptions in Black Men
Authors: Cabral Daramola N. , Tsai Meng-Han , Gishe Jemal , Dagne Getachew A.
Published: March 2022

Background: Black Americans have the greatest colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality rates in the United States. Suboptimal CRC screening rates may be mediated by health literacy, a lack of knowledge about the screening benefits and influenced by health services factors. We examined the relationship between CRC risk perceptions and socio-demographic characteristics, disease prevention activities, and personal/family history of CRC among Black men. Methods: The cross-sectional survey used a self-administered questionnaire and was conducted in five cities in the State of Florida between April 2008 and October 2009. Of the total 425 participants, 331 responses were valid for analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were performed. Results: Of 331 participants, higher CRC risk perceptions were exhibited among those aged ≥60 years (70.5%) and American nativity (59.1%). Multivariate analyses found men aged ≥60 had three times greater odds of having higher CRC risk perceptions compared to those ≤ 49 years. Obese participants had more than four times the odds and over-weight subjects had more than twice the odds as compared to healthy weight/underweight participants, to have higher CRC risk perceptions. Men with a personal/family history of CRC also had greater odds of having higher CRC risk perceptions (OR = 9.18; 95% CI = 2.02-41.79). Conclusion: Given early-onset of CRC in Black men, community educational programs tailored to Black men are needed to improve CRC screening uptake. This information will inform culturally resonate health promotion interventions to elevate CRC risk perceptions and increase screening in Black men.
Changing the culture: A qualitative study exploring research capacity in local government
Authors: Homer Catherine , Freeman Charlotte , South Jane , Cooke Joanne , Holliday Judith , Hartley Anna , Mullen Shane , Woodall James
Published: March 2022

BackgroundLocal government has become a key constituent for addressing health inequalities and influencing the health of individuals and communities in England. Lauded as an effective approach to tackle the multiple determinants of health, there are concerns that generating and utilising research evidence to inform decision-making and action is a challenge. This research was conducted in a local authority situated in the north of England and addressed the research question – ‘What is the capacity to collaborate and deliver research?’. The study explored the assets that exist to foster a stronger research culture, identified barriers and opportunities for developing research capacity, and how a sustainable research system could be developed to impact on local residents’ health and reduce health inequalities.MethodsThis was a qualitative study utilising semi-structured interviews and focus groups. The study used an embedded researcher (ER) who was digitally embedded within the local authority for four months to conduct the data collection. Senior Managers were purposively sampled from across the local authority to take part in interviews. Three focus groups included representation from across the local authority. Framework analysis was conducted to develop the themes which were informed by the Research Capacity Development framework. ResultsTensions between research led decision making and the political and cultural context of local government were identified as a barrier to developing research which addressed health inequalities. Research was not prioritised through an organisational strategy and was led sporadically by research active employees. A recognition across leaders that a culture shift to an organisation which used research evidence to develop policy and commission services was needed. Building relationships and infrastructure across local government, place-based collaborators and academic institutions was required. The embedded researcher approach is one method of developing these relationships. The study identifies the strengths and assets that are embedded in the organisational make-up and the potential areas for development.ConclusionResearch leadership is required in local government to create a culture of evidence-based principles and policy. The embedded research model has high utility in gaining depth of information and recognising contextual and local factors which would support research capacity development.
Intercalary frozen autografts for reconstruction of bone defects following meta-/diaphyseal tumor resection at the extremities
Authors: Yang Jingyan , Li Wenze , Feng Rongjie , Li Dong
Published: March 2022

Background: To evaluate the clinical outcome and complications of limb malignant tumors treated with intercalary resection and frozen autograft reconstruction.Methods: We reviewed 40 patients whose malignant bone tumors were treated by wide resection and recycling liquid nitrogen-treated autograft reconstruction between 2006 and 2017. Limb function, bone union at the osteotomy site and complications were evaluated. Functional outcome was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scoring system.Results: The most common tumor was osteosarcoma (11 cases), followed by Ewing’s sarcoma (7 cases). Tumors were located in the humerus (5), ulna (1), femur (13) and tibia (21). The mean follow-up period was 48.4 months (range 11-127 months). Of the 40 patients, 19 remained disease-free, and 3 were alive with disease. The mean size of the defect after tumor resection was 12.1 cm (range 5-24 cm). Bone union was achieved in 37 patients, with a mean union time of 8.7 months (range 4-18 months). Fifteen complications were encountered in 14 patients, including 3 graft nonunions, 3 infections (1 superficial, 2 deep infections), 4 limb length discrepancies, 2 graft fractures and 3 local recurrences. The mean MSTS score was 82.5% (range 50-100%). Excellent functional results were achieved in 24 patients (60%) and good results in 14 (35%).Conclusions: Liquid nitrogen-treated tumor-bearing autografts are a simple and effective option for biologic reconstructions after meta-/diaphyseal tumor resection of long bones. This method has excellent clinical outcomes and is especially recommended for patients with nonosteolytic primary or secondary bone tumors.
Hsa_circ_0000497 and hsa_circ_0000918 contributed to peritoneal metastasis of ovarian cancer via ascites
Authors: Luo Ning , Sulaiman Zubaidan , Wang Chunyan , Ding Jinye , Chen Yingying , Liu Biting , Cheng Zhongping , liu Shupeng
Published: March 2022

Purpose As a common complication of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), malignant ascites contribute to the peritoneal metastasis of EOC. CircRNAs play essential roles in tumor metastasis. However, no circRNAs have been reported to be involved in EOC peritoneal metastasis via ascites.MethodsTotal of 22 samples from 9 EOC patients containing primary lesions (T), tumor cells from ascites (ASC), and metastatic lesions (M) was included for RNA sequencing to identify differentially expressed circRNAs and mRNAs among different tumors. Bioinformatic analyses, including single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and soft cluster analysis, were performed to find circRNAs potentially correlated with ascitic metastasis. Wound healing and transwell analysis were performed to evaluate tumor cells metastasis in vitro. Quantitative real-time PCR and western-blot were used for gene expression evaluation.ResultsAccording to transcriptomic analysis, ASC showed mesenchymal phenotype while T and M showed epithelial phenotype. 10 circRNAs were differentially expressed among ASC, T, and M. Among them, hsa_circ_0000497 and hsa_circ_0000918 were significantly up-regulated in ASC. Functional analysis showed that both hsa_circ_0000497 and hsa_circ_0000918 promoted metastasis of EOC via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro. The regulatory network construction identified 8 miRNAs and 19 mRNAs, and 7 miRNAs and 17 mRNAs as potential downstream target genes of hsa_circ_0000497 and hsa_circ_0000918, respectively, which may play pivotal roles in EOC ascitic metastasis.Conclusions circRNAs (hsa_circ_0000497 and hsa_circ_0000918) contribute to metastasis of EOC via ascites by regulating EMT. These circRNAs may serve as novel potential therapeutic targets or prognostic biomarkers for EOC peritoneal metastasis.
Evaluation of the global lung function initiative 2012 reference values for spirometry in an Iranian population
Authors: Sahebi Leyla , Rahimi Besharat , Shariat Mamak , Mousavy Seyyed Hosein
Published: March 2022

Background
Spirometry is an important measurement in detecting and monitoring of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The validity of the multi-ethnic GLI-2012 spirometric norms has been debated in some countries.
Aim
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the applicability of the GLI reference norms in the Iranian population.
Method
A cross-sectional study was performed on 622 healthy non-smoker population (204 males and 418 females, age range: 4 ± 82 years) between July 16 and August 27, 2019 in Iran. Z-scores for spirometric data (FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second), FVC (forced vital capacity) FEV1/FVC, and FEF25 − 75% (Forced expiratory flow averaged over the middle portion of FVC) were calculated. According to the agreement approved, a mean Z-score outside the range of ± 0.5 was considered as clinically significant.
Result
The mean (SD) Z-score values of FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC and FEF25 − 75% were 0.44(1.21), 0.49(1.14), 0.11(1.03), and − 1.13(0.99) in males and 0.61(1.14), 0.89(1.26), 0.17(0.88) and-0.49 (0.96) in females, respectively. The Z-score of FEV1/FVC was below the Lower Limit of Normal (LLN) in 3.43% of men and 2.01% of women (in ≥ 21 years), while these values were significantly higher in people under 21 years old.
Conclusion
The GLI reference values are not perfect for the Iranian population, especially in children below 10 years old and women. The use of the GLI reference values was appropriate in population above 21 years; however, they would overestimate the prevalence of airway obstruction in individuals below 21 years.
Histopathological findings in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in Honduras, 2016-2020
Authors: Galeas Rubén , Alas-Pineda César , Gaitán-Zambrano Kristhel
Published: March 2022

Background: Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is the most common kidney disease in children, it is characterized by the presence of massive proteinuria, edema, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipemia and can be caused by different histopathological subtypes. Methodology: Descriptive cross-sectional observational study. Histopathological and clinical data were collected from 52 pediatric patients with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who underwent USG-guided kidney biopsy in two third level hospitals in northwestern Honduras during January 2016 to December 2020. Convenience sampling was used; the data was exported to SPSS v.25 statistical program, where statistical analysis was performed. Descriptive statistics were used to obtain the frequencies and percentages of the categorical variables, and the median and the interquartile range (IQR) of the quantitative variables were obtained. Results: the median age was 9 years [IQR, 3.0 - 12.0]; 55.8% were male. The clinical presentation of nephrotic syndrome in 34.6% of the cases was cortico-dependent nephrotic syndrome, followed by cortico-resistant nephrotic syndrome in 36.5%. The main subtype of glomerulopathy presented was the minimal change disease in 36.5%, followed by 28.8% corresponding to focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis. Conclusions: In Honduras the real incidence of the different histopathological variations is unknown, therefore kidney biopsy becomes a fundamental tool to establish the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the disease.
Main text: Population structure of Wilsonomyces carpophilus, the shot hole pathogen of stone fruits in Kashmir, India.
Authors: Nabi Asha , Shah M.D. , Padder B.A. , Ahmad Mushtaq , Dar M.S. , Nisa Raheeba. T. , Khurshid Sehla
Published: March 2022

BackgroundShot hole caused by Wilsonomyces carpophilus is one of the major fungal diseases of stone fruits. The population structure of this fungus has not been studied in detail. The objective of this work was to study the population differentiation of W.carpophilus associated with peach, plum, apricot and almond in three geographical regions using inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR) markers and DNA sequence of internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) region from fungal isolates. ResultsThe geographical as well as host populations were homogenous with highest genetic diversity within the populations than among populations. Furthermore, the W.carpophilus population on plum host revealed minimal but considerable genetic difference from peach, apricot, and almond populations, suggesting that this pathogen may have speciated on plum host. ConclusionGene flow is the main evolutionary process shaping the genetic structure of W.carpophilus in Kashmir. In addition, W.carpophilus population on plum host showed low but significant genetic differentiation with peach, apricot and almond population implicating the possibility of speciation of this pathogen on plum host.
Evaluation of Thyroid Function Tests in Children With Covid-19
Authors: AYRANCI ILKAY , Çatlı Gönül , Manyas Hayrullah , Tüz Ayşegül Elvan , Çolak Ayfer , Yilmaz Dilek , Duman Jülide Gülizar Yıldırım , Dündar Bumin Nuri
Published: March 2022

Objective: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has rapidly spread around the world since December 2019. Coronaviruses are known to have direct effects on various endocrine glands, including the thyroid gland. Although adult studies provide useful information and most of these studies are compatible with Non thyroidal illness, there were no data analysed throid function tests in children with COVID-19.Aim: We aimed to evaluate the levels of free T4 (fT4), free T3 (fT3), thyrotropin (TSH) and thyroid autoantibodies during and after the disease in children with COVID-19.Methods: We studied 18 patients followed up in our pediatric infectious diseases clinic and pediatric endocrinology clinic with the diagnosis of COVID-19 between September-December 2021. In these patients with COVID-19 a standard set of blood tests including complete blood count, kidney, liver function, thyroid function and thyroid auto antibodies were performed. After 3 months later, we tested thyroid function, thyroid auto antibodies again.Results: In thyroid function tests taken during the disease, fT4 of all patients was normal. fT3 was low in 6 (33.3%) patients, and TSH was high in 2 (11.1%) patients. In the control tests performed 3 months later, TSH of all patients was normal. Control fT4 was low in 2 (11.1%) patients whose fT4 was normal during the disease. In 5 (27.7%) patients control fT3 was found low. When the relationship of these parameters with the infection criteria was examined, a negative correlation was found between fT3 taken at the time of COVID-19 positive and CRP, and a positive correlation between fT3 and absolute lymphocyte counts at the 3rd month control.Conclusion: Abnormalities in the examinations taken during the disease were mostly found to be compatible with sick euthyroid syndrome. The persistency of low fT3 and newly detected fT3 and fT4 decreases in the follow up suggested involvement of hypothalamo pituitary-thyroid axis due to Covid 19.
WITHDRAWN: Underestimating the risk of developing Chronic Kidney Diseases Among the Jordanian Diabetic Patients
Authors: Almomani Ensaf , Almomani Huda , Al-Azzam Sayer , Qablan Ahmad , Almomany Abass
Published: March 2022

Background: Despite the increase in Type 2 Diabetes Mellites (T2DM) prevalence in Jordan, there is a lack of studies on kidney function status among the T2DM patients. The aim of this study is to give an insight into kidney functions in T2DM patients and to identify patients at risk of renal diseases. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken at King Abdullah University Hospital in Jordan. The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula was used to calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The data were analyzed using the SPSS software.Results: 22.3% of the T2DM patients had eGFR values less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2. The decrease in eGFR was accompanied by an increase in proteinuria (PU) and albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR). Most of the T2DM patients were in Stage 2 CKD. The eGFR values were lower in males than females. The correlation analysis showed that eGFR values were negatively correlated with the duration of T2DM, serum creatinine (sCr), ACR, and PU, reflecting a decrease in kidney functions with the increase in T2DM duration, and patients’ biochemical variables. Most of the T2DM patients had high blood sugar, urine creatinine, and evidence of protein in the urine samples, indicating uncontrolled diabetes. Conclusions: The eGFR value can be used in addition to the biochemical variables to better identify T2DM patients at risk of developing chronic kidney diseases in the future, especially in T2DM patients with poor glycemic control.
Influence of the Covid-19 pandemic on medication reconciliation in frail elderly people at hospital discharge.Professional perception
Authors: ROJAS-OCAÑA MARIA JESÚS , ARAUJO-HERNANDEZ MIRIAM , GARCÍA-NAVARRO SONIA , BAZ-MONTERO SERVANDO MANUEL , MACIAS-COLORADO MARIA EULALIA , GARCIA-NAVARRO ESPERANZA BEGOÑA
Published: March 2022

Background The current demographic panorama in Spain corresponds to an aging population; this situation is characterized by the need to care for an elderly population, which generates polymedicated and pluripathological individuals. Polymedication is a criterion of frailty in the elderly and a risk factor for mortality and morbidity due to the increased risk of drug interactions and medication errors. A high percentage of medication errors occur at hospital admission or discharge, i.e. in the transition of patients between different levels of care. A key element to prevent or avoid these errors would be treatment reconciliation, something that should be coordinated between different areas of action and with a multidisciplinary approach.There are numerous studies that measure reconciliation at hospital discharge, at admission and even the methodology of reconciliation, but we have not found many studies that measure reconciliation in the context of the pandemic from the point of view of health professionals, their perception, difficulties and strategies carried out, which is essential to begin to glimpse solutionsMethods Qualitative study based on 21 in-depth interviews and two discussion groups, between Jan-uary and April 2021 (13 nurses, 8 doctors, in rural and urban areas). The discourse was ana-lyzed according to the Taylor-Bodgan model and processed using Atlas.ti softwareResults The areas altered by the health crisis were access to patients, their reconciliation of medication, and changes in the care modality: greater use of telephone communication, changes in work organization, time dedicated to patient care and family work.Difficulties encountered during Covid-19: change in medication format, specific characteristics of the patient and their pathologies, and difficulties arising from communication with the patient and their family.The strategies applied: the collaboration of home assistants and caregivers, emphasis on patient-health professional communication and the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).Conclusion The discharge has been interrupted by the health crisis caused by Covid-19, in the traditional access of patients and by the remote care modalities generated by telemedicine
Bladder cancer in patients with HIV infection: a retrospective study of 14 cases
Authors: Yu Zhang , Wenrui Xue , Xuyu Li , Xudong Wang , Pengfei Yuan , Qingjun Liu , Zhixing Han , Haijian Zhang , Shiqi Ji
Published: March 2022

Purpose: This study was intended to determine whether differences existed between bladder cancers in HIV-infected patients compared to those in the general population. Patients and methods: In this study, 14 patients with HIV infection were found also to have bladder cancer, treated in Beijing Ditan Hospital and Beijing You 'an Hospital from 2013 to 2021. The retrospective study parameters analyzed included HIV infection route, regular treatment, viral load and number of CD4+T lymphocytes prior to surgery, and preoperative laboratory examination. Details specific to bladder cancer included pathological stage and grade, treatment, recurrence at 3 months and longer-term follow-up. Results: The study comprised 13 males (93%) and 1 female (7%), with a median age of 50.5 years, of whom only 9 patients received regular antiretroviral therapy after HIV infection. The median value of CD4+T lymphocytes detected before surgery was 368 cells/μL (range: 147cells/μL-759cells /μL). Other preoperative laboratory results were as follows (median counts): WBC, 6.165×109 /L; erythrocytes, 4.16×1012 /L; hemoglobin, 214.5 g/L; platelets, 143×109 /L; creatinine, 70.85μmol/L; and serum albumin, 41.5 g/L. All patients were treated surgically, 11 of whom had non-muscle invading bladder cancer that underwent localized tumor resection (plus epirubicin bladder infusion) , and the remaining 3 patients had tumor invasion of the muscle that required radical resection (plus postoperative chemotherapy). The cancers were all urothelial, 5 high-grade and 9 low-grade histologically. At three months postoperatively, 3 cases had recurred and were re-excised, 7 had no evidence of recurrence, and 4 had not undergone reevaluation. On subsequent longer-term follow-up (median, 40 months), 2 patients had died[1] of unrelated causes, 10 were alive[2] including 1 with liver metastasis, and 2 were lost to follow-up.Conclusions: The clinical characteristics of HIV-positive patients with bladder cancer were similar to those of the general population with the exception of a significant earlier onset of disease. The type and stages of the bladder cancer, treatment, and outcomes of these patients were also similar to the general population. However, the cause of earlier onset of bladder cancer in HIV positive patients remains to be further elucidated.
Increased parenchymal free water may be decreased by revascularization surgery in patients with moyamoya disease
Authors: Hara Shoko , Hori Masaaki , Kamagata Koji , Andica Christina , Inaji Motoki , Tanaka Yoji , Aoki Shigeki , Nariai Tadashi , Maehara Taketoshi
Published: March 2022

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a cerebrovascular disease causing steno-occlusive changes in the arteries of the circle of Willis and hemodynamic impairment. A previous study reported that parenchymal extracellular free water may be increased and neurites may be decreased in this disease population. The aim of this study was to investigate the postoperative changes in parenchymal free water and neurites and their relationship with cognitive improvement. Multishell diffusion magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 15 hemispheres of 13 adult patients with MMD (11 female, average age: 37.9 years) who had undergone revascularization surgery and 13 normal controls. Parameter maps of free water and free-water eliminated neurites were created, and regional parameter values were compared among controls, patients before the surgery and patients after the surgery. Compared with normal controls, most regions in the hemispheres of the patients showed a significant increase in free water before surgery (P≤.007) and a significant decrease in free water after surgery (P≤.001). The change in the dispersion of the white matter significantly correlated with cognitive improvement (r=-0.75). In patients with MMD, increased parenchymal free water may be decreased after surgery, and the neurite parameter may be related to cognitive improvement.
A 12-year retrospective single-center comparison of pneumonia- and non-pneumonia-related Acinetobacter baumannii complex bacteremia
Authors: Xu Jun , Xu Yulu , Zheng Xia
Published: March 2022

Background
Acinetobacter baumannii complex (ABC) is a group of increasingly prevalent opportunistic pathogens that cause a variety of life-threatening nosocomial infections, especially in the intensive care unit (ICU). It is unclear whether ABC bacteremia differs with infection site. This study assessed the differences between pneumonia- and non-pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia and possible independent risk factors for 30-day mortality.
Methods
The clinical data of 188 patients diagnosed with ABC bacteremia in our 29-bed ICU between January 2009 and December 2020 were collected. Of these, 44 cases (23.4%) were defined as pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia and 144 (76.6%) as non-pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia.
Results
Significant changes in the incidence of ABC bacteremia and antibiotic resistance were observed over the 12-year study, with an overall 30-day mortality rate of 61.7%. Compared with non-pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia, pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia was associated with a higher rate of hypertension, less prior tigecycline use, more carbapenem-resistant (CR) strains, and had a higher 30-day mortality rate. Univariate analysis showed that hematological malignancy, previous corticosteroid use, prior exposure to quinolone and anti-fungal agents, CR strains, monomicrobial bacteremia, respiratory tract bacteremia origin, lower albumin and higher lactate levels at the time of bacteremia, immunosuppression, septic shock, and severity of illness based on the Pitt bacteremia score, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II), and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores at the time of bacteremia were associated with poor outcomes. In multivariate analysis, immunosuppression, and higher APACHE II and SOFA scores, were risk factors for 30-day mortality. Moreover, the risk of death was 1.919 times higher in the pneumonia-related group.
Conclusions
Our study described the clinical characteristics and independent predictors of 30-day mortality in patients with pneumonia- and non-pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia. Although pneumonia-related ABC bacteremia had worse outcomes, it was not an independent risk factor for death statistically. Detection of immune status and maintenance of organ function may be effective therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.
A Rapid Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probe Based on Isophorone and its Application in B16 Cell Imaging
Authors: Wang Yan-Ya , Yu Xue-Shuang , Li Xin-Jie , Liu Hong-Bo , Zhu Xi , Wang Ya-Wen , Peng Yu
Published: March 2022

A novel near-infrared fluorescent probe SWJT-5 based on dicyanoisophorone was synthesized. It achieved the rapid (within 40 s) and discriminative detection of Cys over Hcy and GSH with a large Stokes shift (205 nm). It showed high selectivity and sensitivity for Cys, and had an obvious enhancement of fluorescence emission. The detection limit was 0.43 μМ. This probe also had low background interference and little damage to biological samples. Therefore, SWJT-5 had been applied to bioimaging in living cells successfully.
Omicron and future public health emergencies: Sustainability and insights into support programs for healthcare providers
Authors: Dhuper Misha , Ruttan Lesley , MacGillvray Lindsey , McKay Martha , DClinPsy Adrienne Li , Stewart Donna , Abbey Susan , Berkhout Suze , Sheehan Kathleen , Schulz-Quach Christian
Published: March 2022

Background: The mental health of healthcare workers (HCWs) has been at the forefront throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. While workplace-based support programs have been developed in hospitals globally, few systematically collected data. While critical to their success, information on these programs and the experience of mental healthcare providers (MHP) who support colleagues is limited. The objective of this study was to explore the experiences of MHP caring for HCW colleagues within a novel workplace-based mental health support program during the COVID-19 pandemic, to provide insights on facilitators, areas for improvement and barriers to program sustainability. Methods: This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews conducted by videoconference between September 2020 to October 2021. UHN CARES (University Health Network Coping and Resilience for Employees and Staff) Program was developed during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. It supports over 21,000 staff members within the UHN, Canada’s largest academic health research institution, in Toronto, Canada. Purposive sampling was used to select 10 of the 22 MHP in the UHN CARES Program. Using a critical realism framework, key components required to sustain a successful workplace-based mental health support program for HCWs and balance the needs of MHP were determined. Results: Six psychiatrists and four psychologists with varying roles at UHN participated in 17 interviews, with repeat interviews exploring changes over time within the pandemic and program. Components which facilitated the success of the program included flexibility in scheduling, confidential health record storage, comprehensive administrative support, availability of resources and adaptive quality improvement approach. Recommendations for improvement included opportunities for peer supervision, triaging of cases, and managing HCW expectations. MHP found caring for HCWs to be meaningful and they utilized existing clinical skills during sessions. Challenges included working in a virtual setting, navigating boundaries when caring for colleagues, and managing the range of service users and their needs.Conclusions: These findings suggest how support programs can be structured for HCWs, how to provide support, and how to sustain this support, allowing health systems to balance the needs of HCWs and MHPs in preparation for future public health emergencies.
Towards More Personalized Digital Health Interventions: A Clustering Method of Action and Coping Plans to Promote Physical Activity
Authors: Schroé Helene , Carlier Stéphanie , Dyck Delfien Van , De Backere Femke , Crombez Geert
Published: March 2022

BackgroundDespite effectiveness of action and coping planning in digital health interventions to promote physical activity (PA), attrition rates remain high. Indeed, support to make plans is often abstract and similar for each individual. Nevertheless, people are different, and context varies. Tailored support at the content level, involving suggestions of specific plans that are personalized to the individual, is needed. The aim of this study was to investigate whether user information relates toward specific action and coping plans using a clustering method. In doing so, we demonstrate how knowledge can be acquired in order to develop a knowledge-base, which might provide personalized suggestions in a later phase.MethodsTo establish proof-of-concept for this approach, data of 59 healthy adults, including 222 action plans and 204 coping plans, were used and were collected as part of the digital health intervention MyPlan 2.0 to promote PA. As a first step, clusters of action plans, clusters of coping plans and clusters of combinations of action plans and barriers of coping plans were identified using hierarchical clustering. As a second step, relations with user information (i.e. gender, motivational stage, …) were examined using anova’s and chi2–tests.ResultsFirst, three clusters of action plans, eight clusters of coping plans and eight clusters of the combination of action and coping plans were identified. Second, relating these clusters to user information was possible for action plans: 1) Users with a higher BMI related more to outdoor leisure activities (F = 13.40,P < .001), 2) Women, users that didn’t perform PA regularly yet, or users with a job related more to household activities (X2 = 16.92,P < .001;X2 = 20.34,P < .001;X2 = 10.79,P = .004; respectively), 3) younger users related more to active transport and different sports activities (F = 14.40,P < .001). However, relating clusters to user information proved difficult for the coping plans and combination of action and coping plans.ConclusionsThe approach used in this study might be a feasible approach to acquire knowledge for a knowledge-base, however more data (i.e. contextual and dynamic user information) from possible end users should be acquired in future research. This might result in a first type of context-aware personalized suggestions on the content level.Trial registrationThe digital health intervention MyPlan 2.0 was preregistered as a clinical trial (ID:NCT03274271). Release date: 6-September-2017.
The Eruption in Fagradalsfjall (2021, Iceland): How The Operational Monitoring and The Volcanic Hazard Assessment Contributed to Its Safe Access
Authors: Barsotti Sara , Parks Michelle Maree , Pfeffer Melissa Anne , Óladóttir Bergrún Arna , Barnie Talfan , Titos Manuel Marcelino , Jónsdóttir Kristín , Pedersen Gro BM , Hjartardóttir Ásta Rut , Stefansdóttir Gerður , Johannsson Thorsteinn , Arason Þórður , Gudmundsson Magnús Tumi , Oddsson Björn , Þrastarson Ragnar H , Ófeigsson Benedikt Gunnar , Vogfjörd Kristín , Geirsson Halldór , Hjörvar Tryggvi , von Löwis Sibylle , Pedersen Guðrun Nina , Sigurðsson Eysteinn Már
Published: March 2022

After more than a year of unrest, a small effusive eruption commenced in Fagradalsfjall on 19 March 2021. The eruption lasted six months with multiple fissure openings characterizing the first six weeks. During the eruption lava and low-level gases propagated over the complex terrain: a hyaloclastite massif with mountain peaks up to about 350 m asl with valleys in the between. It is uninhabited, but easily accessible at about 30 km distance from the Reykjavík capital area. While the eruption was on-going, more than 356,000 accesses were counted. Monitoring the onset, the eruption in real-time, forecasting the transport of gas and emplacements of lava flows, and assessing the hazards were instrumental in maintaining safe access to the area. In addition to data accessibility and interpretation, managing this volcanic crisis was possible thanks to a strong collaboration between the scientific institutions and civil protection agencies. The eruption presented an opportunity to tune, test and validate a variety of numerical models for hazard assessment as well as to refine and improve the delivery of information to the public, community members and decision makers. The monitoring team worked long hours during both the pre- and syn-eruptive phases for a safe access to the eruption site and to provide a regular flow of information. This paper reviews the eruption and its associated hazards. It also provides an overview of the monitoring setup, the adopted numerical tools and communication materials made available for informing the general public of possible eruption scenarios and exclusion zones.
Genetic Heterogeneity between some recently detected strains of Chicken Anemia Viruses in commercial young chick’s flocks.
Authors: Elsamadony Hanaa A. , Mekky Hoda M. , Fedawy Hanaa. S. , Sedeek Dalia M. , Saad Aalaa
Published: March 2022

Chicken anemia virus (CAV) is a serious viral infection that causes considerable impairment of immunity and severe anemia in chickens all over the world. In young chicks, significant illness and mortality are observed (2–3 weeks). The vertical route of transmission enhances the chance of infection and virus persistence among diseased flocks. This research aimed to confirm the existence of CAV in young chicks (at the age of 1–7 days) in Egypt during 2021, genetic divergence between the spreading viruses and vaccinal strains in order to improve virus control. DNA was isolated from samples that were collected, used in a targeting VP2 gene by PCR, and then characterized VP2 on a molecular level in the detected viruses. Five CAV were detected, sequenced, and submitted to Genebank under accession no MZ574095, MZ574096, MZ476999, MZ477000, MZ477001. The strains were classified into genogroups I, II, and IIIb, and one detected strain was congregated with the vaccinal strain 26P4 and Nobilis P4. Also, the VP2 protein of the five CAV isolates and Egyptian CAV showed a high Conservation score. In silico analysis of the secondary structures of VP2 proteins of Cux-1 (reference strain) and the five strains showed that the a-helix and ß-strand architectures were quite comparable in number and position. As well as, VP2 of the five CAV isolates showed the absence of an insertion or a deletion in comparison to Cux-1 in the sequenced part.