bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green-Yellow-Orange-Red Spectral Range with Sum-frequency Generation Using BIBO Crystal Pumped with an Optical Parametric Amplifier
Authors: Quintero-Torres Rafael , Domínguez-Juárez Jorge Luis
Published: September 2020

We show broadband sum-frequency generation (SFG) in the Green-Yellow-Orange-Red spectral range using bismuth triborate, BiB3O6 crystal (BIBO) as nonlinear material. We perform a noncollinear phase-matching configuration within BIBO crystal using the remaining light behind the second harmonic generation stage and the infrared idler of an optical parametric amplifier (OPA). The obtained mixing radiation of ultrafast light sources to generate femtosecond pulses across 520.5 to 742.5 nm region is observed. SFG spectrum from single-pass cross-correlation intensity over such visible range is showed. The SFG wavelengths as a function of tunable wavelength idler OPA agrees with the expectations of parametric conversion condition and open the door to practical multi-beam or multi-color sum-frequency generators.
Evaluation of Column Test Methods to Study Inactivation of Chemically Bonded Silica Gels
Authors: Hanai Toshihiko
Published: September 2020

The silanol activity and trace metal detection methods for chemically bonded silica gels were evaluated in silico. Test compounds with large molecular sizes may demonstrate negative results because of the possibility of indirect hydrogen bonding via short alkyl groups or siloxane of the silica gels. This hypothesis was based on the observation of weak hydrogen bonding energy values similar to those observed in the study of the alkyl group effect on the hydrogen bonding of alkanols. Consequently, smaller molecules may be a better choice for the analysis of bonded-phase quality.
Why COVID-19 Transmission is More Efficient and Aggressive than Viral Transmission in Previous Coronavirus Epidemics?
Authors: Elrashdy Fatma , Redwan Elrashdy M. , Uversky Vladimir N
Published: September 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is causing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The worldwide transmission of COVID-19 from human to human is spreading like wildfire, affecting almost every country in the world. In the past 100 years, the globe did not face microbial pandemic similar in scale to COVID-19. Taken together, both previous outbreaks of other members of the coronavirus family (SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV) did not produce even 1% of the global harm already inflicted by COVID-19. There are also four other CoVs capable of infecting humans (HCoVs), which circulate continuously in the human population, but their phenotypes are generally mild, and these HCoVs received relatively little attention. These dramatic differences between infection with HCoVs, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 raise many questions, such as: Why is COVID-19 transmitted so quickly? Is it due to the some specific features of the viral structure? Are there some specific human (host) factors? Are there some environmental factors? The aim of this review is to collect and concisely summaries the possible and logic answers to these questions.
Automatic Construction of Virtual Supply Chain as Multi-Agent System Using Enterprise E-Catalogues
Authors: Nishi Tatsushi , Matsuda Michiko , Hasegawa Mao , Alizadeh Roghayyeh , Liu Ziang , Terunuma Takuto ,   Okayama University 3-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama 700-8530, Japan,   Japanese Standard Association, Tokyo, Japan,   Osaka University, Toyonaka, Japan
Published: September 2020

In Industry 4.0, a network of enterprises and factories is constructed collaboratively and dynamically according to the cyber physical system (CPS) paradigm. It is necessary to build smart supply chains according to this concept. A network of component enterprises in a supply chain would be modeled as a virtual supply chain in the cyber world. From the viewpoint of Industry 4.0, virtualizing a supply chain is the foundation for constructing a CPS for a supply chain. The virtualization of a supply chain makes it easier for companies to study their integrating and expanding opportunities. By using this CPS, comprehensive and autonomous optimization of the supply chain can be achieved. This virtual supply chain can be used to simulate the planning phase with negotiation, as well as the production phase. In this paper, instead of specific mathematical modeling for each supply chain, a general configuration method of a virtual supply chain is proposed. The configuration method of a supply chain model is proposed as a virtual supply chain using enterprise e-catalogues. A virtual supply chain is constructed as a multi-agent system, which is connections of software agents that are automatically created from each selected enterprise model in the e-catalogues. Three types of component enterprise models are provided: manufacturer model, part/material supplier model, and retailer model. Modeling templates for these three types of enterprises are prepared, and each template is a nominal model in terms of enterprise’s behavior. Specific component-enterprise models are prepared by filling the appropriate template. Each component enterprise agent is implemented using the enterprise model selected from the catalogues. Manufacturer, retailer, and supplier e-catalogues, as well as an automatic construction system of a virtual supply chain, are implemented. Methods for developing templates for the manufacturer, retailer and supplier were provided, and the construction system for specific enterprise models (as e-catalogues) is implemented as a trial.
Continuous Efforts Leads to a Value for Hypertensive Patients: Development of a Casual Smart Na/K Meter and Smart Na/K Application Linked by NFC to Android
Authors: Akai Kenju , Hirotomi Tetsuya , Mishima Aoi , Aoki Keiko , Kijima Tsunetaka , Nabika Toru ,   Center for Community-based Healthcare Research and Education, Shimane University 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, Shimane 693-8501, Japan,   Institute of Science and Engineering, Academic Assembly, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan,   Interdisciplinary Faculty of Science and Engineering, Shimane University, Matsue, Japan,   Platform of Inter/Transdisciplinary Energy Research, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan,   School of Medicine, Shimane University, Izumo, Japan
Published: September 2020

This study develops a casual smart Na/K meter to measure the sodium and potassium in urine for hypertensive patients. To prevent hypertension from leading to cardiopathies, it is useful to reduce salt intake. The Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd. lunched the prototype, a casual Na/K meter to measure the salt intake from a diet. Nevertheless, it lacks the function to make the patients grasp the historical data. This study improves that meter by adding the NFC and developing the software application linked to Android smartphones and smart watches. Smartphones can store the data and display the historical data. Smart watches make up a part of their daily lives by alerts and messages. The concept of this study provides a continuous value for hypertensive patients. That value is similar to the learning value but it exists beyond the learning effect. For the learning value, after the subjects learn something and obtain the skills, ability, and knowledge, the value is fixed and completed. On the other hand, for the continuous value, the learning value is also included and the subjects receive the learning value; however, they need to continue that behavior until death. If they stop reducing salt intake, they return to hypertension. If they get satisfied with obtaining the learning value and stop their actions, they never receive the continuous value that exists beyond the learning value. The continuous value is brewed in the transtheoretical model of health behavior change. Throughout these stages, to encourage their behavioral change and obtain the continuous value, this study employs Fogg’s theory applied to developing the communication devices. The application stocks the historical data and displays it on the smartphones. The smart watches classify alerts into five colored displays from green (good) to red (bad). It can be helpful for the patients to make the reduction of salt intake as their dietary habit. In the future, the application needs to be improved for making patients adapt with their diets and motivations.
Tool Path Generation for 5-Axis Rough Cutting Using Haptic Device
Authors: Morishige Koichi , Mori Satoshi ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering and Intelligent Systems, Graduate School of Informatics and Engineering, The University of Electro-Communications 1-5-1 Chofugaoka, Chofu, Tokyo 182-8585, Japan,   Department of Mechanical Engineering and Intelligent Systems, Faculty of Informatics and Engineering, The University of Electro-Communications, Chofu, Japan
Published: September 2020

CAM software is generally used to generate tool paths for 5-axis controlled machining. However, adjusting its several parameters and settings is difficult. We propose a system for tool path generation to be applied to 5-axis controlled machining. The system allows machining movements to be established by manipulating haptic devices in a virtual environment. Therefore, the cutter location for 5-axis machining can be easily controlled by operating a virtual cutting tool. The contact between the cutting tool and the target shape is reflected to the user through the haptic device. The generated path can be converted into a numerical control program for the actual machining of the target object. We detail the implementation of the proposed interface using two haptic devices and a method of tool path generation that improves rough cutting by smoothing the generated cutting points and simplifying the tool postures. The effectiveness of the developed system is confirmed through machining simulations.
The Peculiarity of Process and Treatment of Arterial Hypertension in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Demidova T. Yu. , Kislyak O. A.
Published: September 2020

Arterial hypertension (AH) is powerful and modifying factor of developing macrovascular and microvascular complications of diabetes. Patients with AH and diabetes belong to group with high and very high levels risk of developing cardiovascular complications and chronic kidney disease. The combination of type 2 diabetes mellitus and AH dramatically increases the risk of developing terminal stages of microvascular and macrovascular diabetic complications: blindness, end-stage chronic kidney disease, amputation of the lower extremities, myocardial infarction, cerebral stroke, worsens the patients prognosis and quality of life. There is ample evidence that blood pressure control in diabetic patients may be critical for improving long-term prognosis. This observation does not lose its relevance even with the emergence of new antidiabetic drugs with proven cardio- and nephroprotective effects. Modern clinical researchers and meta-analysis show the priority of combined antihypertensive therapy, which increases the efficacy of blood pressure correction and prophylaxis of long-term complications in patients with type 2 diabetes. In this article we want to pay attention to features of AH in patients with diabetes, to bi-directional pathogenic mechanisms, to discuss the new algorithms of the treatment and therapeutic needs of these patients. It is important to accent the understanding of the integrity and unity of pathogenic mechanisms which are needed in correction. Innovative antihyperglycemic therapy demonstrates the ability of blood pressure decrease. The synergy of effects let us successfully realize the strategy of multi-factor control and reduce a risk of micro- and macrovascular complications.
Cardiovascular Comorbidity: Patient with Coronary Artery Disease and Peripheral Artery Atherosclerosis. How to Identify and Manage the Risks of Ischemic Events?
Authors: Barbarash O. L. , Kashtalap V. V. , Shibanova I. A.
Published: September 2020

Modern data on comorbidity in coronary artery disease (CAD) are presented in the article, as well as its frequency, dependence on the age, clinical and prognostic significance, and increasing relevance for practical health care. The positions of one of the components of cardiovascular comorbidity – multifocal atherosclerosis – are presented. The existing approaches to the detection and clinical assessment of multifocal atherosclerosis, as well as to the management of the high risk of ischemic events in such patients, are outlined. The main positions on the prevention of the risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with CAD and atherosclerosis of the peripheral arteries using a combination of the anticoagulant – rivaroxaban and the antiplatelet agent – acetylsalicylic acid, are highlighted on the basis of the results of clinical studies. Promising possibilities of using such a therapeutic approach to the management of comorbid patients in routine clinical practice are presented.
Real-Life International Normalized Ratio Profile in Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Prescribed Vitamin K Antagonist
Authors: Farag S. I. , Arafa O. S. , Hassan A.A. E. , Mashhour H. M. , Bendary A. M.
Published: September 2020

Coagulation status with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) needs to be monitored carefully to ensure maximal efficacy with minimal complication rates.

Aim. To study the international normalized ratio (INR) values in patients on VKAs in selected area, find out which patient characteristics that is associated with good INR control and calculation of the time in the therapeutic range (TTR) according to the number of INR/Patient.

Material and methods. A total of 200 patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation prescribed vitamin K antagonist as anticoagulant were evaluated. They were divided into two groups: group I with TTR≥65% (n=93) and group II with TTR<65% (n=107). Stroke and hemorrhagic risks were calculated by means of the CHA2DS2-VASc score and HAS-BLED score, respectively. Presence of comorbid diseases was assessed by the Charlson index. TTR was calculated using Rosendaal method.

Results. Patients in group I (TTR≥65%) were younger (p<0.001), more often men (p<0.074) with a high level of education (p<0.001), had lower stroke and hemorrhagic risks (mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 1.0 and HAS-BLED score – 0.0), and also had fewer comorbidities (mean Charlson index was 0.0; p<0.001) compared to patients in group II (TTR<65%). The rate of inadequate control with VKAs (TTR<65) was 52%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to see the significant independent predictors for a good INR control i.e. TTR≥65%. It was found that high level of education compared to lower levels is the only significant independent predictor for obtaining good INR control (odds ratio=133, 95% confidence interval 34.24-514.44, p<0.001).

Conclusion. It was found that high level of education compared to lower levels is the only significant independent predictor for obtaining good INR control.
Telocytes and Atrial Fibrillation: From Basic Research to Clinical Practice
Authors: Podzolkov V. I. , Tarzimanova A. I. , Frolova A. S.
Published: September 2020

The emergence of new research methods makes it possible to study the tissue, structural, cellular, and molecular causes of atrial fibrillation (AF). Recently, the role of interstitial telocyte cells in the pathogenesis of AF has been actively discussed. Telocytes are a special type of interstitial cells identified in many organs and tissues, including the heart. The roles of telocytes in the myocardium are diverse: they have pacemaker activity, and carry out structural and coordination communication between cells. The ability of these cells to change the speed of the electrical pulse in the atrial and ventricular myocardium has been proven. Telocytes form "atypical" connections with almost all types of cells in the human heart, which collects them in an integrated network. Using electron microscopy, it was found that interstitial cells have different types of connections in the network and can integrate "information" from the vascular and nervous systems, interstitial, immune system, stem cells, progenitor cells, and contractile cardiomyocytes. Currently, the results of studies have been obtained that prove both positive and negative effects of telocytes on the occurrence of various diseases of the cardiovascular system. The role of telocytes in AF arrhythmogenesis remains a subject of discussion. The unique properties of telocytes in providing intercellular contacts, transmitting genetic information, and their ability to regenerate heart tissue are undoubtedly the most promising areas of modern cardiology. There is evidence of both direct and indirect effects of telocytes on the electrophysiological properties of the myocardium. There is no doubt that the development of this area opens up new therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of AF.
Progreso tecnológico en la caficultura colombiana, 1930-2015: el rol de la Federación Nacional de Cafeteros
Authors: Sanabria-Gómez Segundo Abrahán , Caro-Moreno Julio Cesar
Published: September 2020

La teoría económica evolucionista ayuda a comprender la relación entre conocimiento, tecnología e innovación como elemento propulsor del desarrollo económico-productivo. A partir de este enfoque teórico se presenta una explicación sobre el rol que jugó la Federación Nacional de Cafeteros de Colombia y su Centro de Investigaciones del Café, Cenicafé, en la generación y gestión del conocimiento relacionado con la caficultura colombiana, y la transferencia de tecnología. Se realizó una cuidadosa revisión bibliográfica que posteriormente permitió seleccionar y clasificar la producción científica del Centro de Investigaciones del Café, para así poder identificar los principales campos en los que se concentró la generación y aplicación del conocimiento. El material bibliográfico se clasificó en dos categorías: a) el conocimiento proposicional, que hace referencia al conocimiento científico— los artículos científicos publicados en la revista de Cenicafé— y b) el conocimiento prescriptivo, que se refiere a conjuntos de técnicas e instrucciones de aplicación concreta —los documentos denominados «avances técnicos», libros y manuales, cartillas, boletines y brocartas—.Finalmente, el análisis de la información permitió concluir que, si bien los principales avances tecnológicos incorporados en la caficultura colombiana han sido orientados e impulsados desde el trabajo científico y tecnológico de Cenicafé, la generación de conocimiento científico como la transferencia de tecnología se focalizaron en la producción del grano, dejando de lado la agregación de valor moderno a través de la industrialización.
Dorsal approach with Glissonian approach in laparoscopic anatomic hepatectomy for right lobe
Authors: Wang Shaohe , Yue Yang , Zhang Wenjie , Liu Qiaoyu , Sun Beicheng , Sun Xitai , Yu Decai
Published: September 2020

Background: Laparoscopic anatomic hepatectomy (LAH) has gradually become a routine surgical procedure. We previously reported that Glissonian approach combined with major hepatic vein first was effective for LAH. Because dorsal approach could effectively expose the major hepatic vein, we merged it with Glissonian approach in LAH for the right lobe.Methods: Twenty patients who underwent LAH from January 2017 to November 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Of these patients, seven patients underwent laparoscopic right hemihepatectomy (LRH group), seven patients who underwent laparoscopic right posterior hepatectomy (LRPH group), and six patients who underwent laparoscopic hepatectomy for segment 7 (LS7 group). First, the paracaval portion of caudate lobe along the IVC was transected through dorsal approch after the corresponding hepatic pedicles were isolated through Glissonian approach. Next, the liver parenchyma was transected by dorsal approach until the corresponding major hepatic vein was exposed from its trunk to the root. Then, the liver parenchyma was transected by a ventral approach. Finally, the root of the major hepatic vein was transected.Results: The mean age of the patients was 53.8 years and the male: female ratio was 8:12. The median operation time was 306.0 ± 58.2 min and the mean estimated volume of blood loss was 412.5 ± 255.4 mL. The mean duration of postoperative hospital stay was 10.2 days. The mean Pringle maneuver time was 64.8 ± 27.7 min. Five patients received transfusion of 2–4 U of red blood cells. Two patients suffered from transient hepatic dysfunction and one suffered from pleural effusion. None of the patients underwent conversion to an open procedure. The operative duration, volume of the blood loss, Pringle maneuver time, and postoperative hospital stay duration did not differ significantly among the LRH, LRPH, and LS7 groups (P > 0.05).Conclusions: Dorsal approach combined with Glissonian approach for right lobe in LAH is feasible and effective, although it is essential to include more cases for further study.
Grey matter abnormalities in Tourette syndrome: an activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis
Authors: Wen Fang , Yan Junjuan , Yu Liping , Wang Fang , Liu Jingran , Li Ying , Cui Yonghua
Published: September 2020

Background: Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder defined by the continual presence of primary motor and vocal tics. Grey matter abnormalities have been identified in numerous studies of TS, but conflicting results have been reported. This study was an unbiased statistical meta-analysis of published neuroimaging studies of TS structures.Methods: A voxel quantitative meta-analysis technique called activation likelihood estimation (ALE) was used.The meta-analysis included six neuroimaging studies involving 247 TS patients and 236 healthy controls. A statistical threshold of p < 0.05 was established based on the false discovery rate and a cluster extent threshold of 50 voxels.Results: We found that grey matter volumes were significantly increased in the bilateral thalamus, right hypothalamus, right precentral gyrus, left postcentral gyrus, left inferior parietal lobule, right lentiform nucleus, and left insula of TS patients compared to those of healthy controls. In contrast, grey matter volumes were significantly decreased in the bilateral postcentral gyrus, bilateral anterior cingulate, bilateral insula, left posterior cingulate, and left postcentral gyrus of TS patients compared to those of healthy controls.Conclusions: Our present meta-analysis primarily revealed significant increases in grey matter volumes in the thalamus and lentiform nucleus, and decreased grey matter volumes in the anterior cingulate gyrus, of TS patients compared to those in healthy controls. Most of these identified regions are associated with cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuits. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these changes in grey matter volumes in TS patients.
An analysis of perioperative hidden blood loss in femoral intertrochanteric fractures: Bone density is an important influence factor
Authors: Cui Haidong , Chen Kai , Lv Shujun , Yuan Chaoqun , Wang Youhua
Published: September 2020

[Background] To explore the influencing factors of perioperative hidden blood loss of intertrochanteric fractures. [Method] We undertook a retrospective analysis from January 2016 to October 2019. Clinical data of 118 patients with intertrochanteric fractures was included in. Hidden blood loss was calculated from the hematocrit changes before and after surgery, using the Gross equation, based on height, weight, and hematocrit (HCT) changes before and after surgery. Patients’ gender, age, presence of underlying diseases (hypertension and diabetes), fracture types, anesthesia methods, time from injury to surgery, whether to take antiplatelet drugs within 6 months before surgery, use of anticoagulant drugs after surgery, bone density were statistically analyzed. The factors with statistical significance were screened out. And then the hidden blood loss was used as the dependent variable and each influencing factor was the independent variable. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to analyze the related risk factors that affect the hidden blood loss during the perioperative period of intertrochanteric fractures. [Result] The apparent blood loss during operation was (203.81 ±105. 51) ml, and the hidden blood loss was (517.55±191.47) ml. There were significant differences in the hidden blood loss of patients with different fracture types, anesthesia methods, antiplatelet or postoperative anticoagulant drugs, and different bone density(P＜0. 05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that internal fixation, age, fracture type, anesthesia method, anticoagulant application, and bone density were related risk factors that affected hidden blood loss during surgical treatment of intertrochanteric fracture. [Conclusion] Hidden blood loss is the main cause of perioperative blood loss in intertrochanteric fractures, and the risk factors for hidden blood loss include internal fixation, fracture type, anesthesia, use of anticoagulant drugs. Specially, we found bone density was a risk factor for hidden blood loss. It is not reliable to use the apparent blood loss as the basis for fluid replacement and transfusion. We must fully consider the existence of hidden blood loss and intervene as soon as possible to prevent complications.
Incidence and risk factor for short term postoperative cough after thyroidectomy
Authors: Wu Junfu , Dai Liyuan , Lou Weihua
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThe prevalence of and potential risk factors for postoperative cough after thyroidectomy remain unknown. The current study aimed to analyze postoperative cough in patients undergoing thyroidectomy using a prospective analysis.MethodsAdult patients undergoing primary thyroidectomy were prospectively enrolled. Data regarding age, sex, BMI, pathology and surgical procedure were collected and analyzed. All patients were asked to complete the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) preoperatively and at 2 weeks and 4 weeks postoperatively.ResultsThere were 1264 patients enrolled in total. Eleven patients with vocal cord paralysis were excluded. In patients with benign disease, postoperative cough occurred in 61 patients, with an prevalence rate of 17. 0% compared to an prevalence rate of 33.1% in patients with malignant disease; the difference was significant. For benign patients, the factors of smoking and operation time were independently related to the occurrence of postoperative cough. For malignant patients, the factors of smoking, operation time, operation extent, and the number of positive nodes at level 6 were independently related to the occurrence of postoperative cough. There was no significant difference regarding the LCQ score in patients with benign or malignant disease at the preoperative and the postoperative 4-week time periods. Patients with malignant disease had a significantly lower LCQ score than patients with benign disease at the postoperative 2-week time point (p=0.004).ConclusionsPatients undergoing thyroid cancer surgery had a higher prevalence of postoperative cough and were also associated with a decreased cough-related quality of life. The factors of smoking and operation time were the most important predictors for postoperative cough after thyroidectomy.
Case management after acquired brain injury compared to care as usual: study protocol for a two-year pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stiekema Annemarie , Resch Christine , Donkervoort Mireille , Jansen Natska , Jurrius Kitty HM , Zadoks Judith M , Heugten Caroline M van
Published: September 2020

Background: People with acquired brain injury may suffer from cognitive, emotional and behavioural changes in the long term. Continuity of care is often lacking, leading to a variety of unmet needs and hindering psychosocial functioning from the occurrence of brain injury up to years thereafter. Case management aims to prevent (escalation of) problems and to facilitate timely access to appropriate services. In other populations, case management has shown to improve psychosocial well-being. In this study, we aim to evaluate the feasibility of case management after acquired brain injury and its effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, compared to care as usual. Methods: This is a pragmatic randomized controlled study with repeated measures in adults with ABI and their family, taking place between November 2019 and December 2021 in three provinces in the Netherlands. Participants will be randomly allocated to either the case management group, receiving case management from hospital discharge up to two years thereafter, or the control group, receiving care as usual. Effectiveness will be evaluated every six months for 18-24 months by patient-reported psychosocial well-being (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Utrecht Scale for Evaluation of Rehabilitation-Participation (USER-P) restriction subscale and the Life Satisfaction Questionnaire (LiSat)), self-management (Patient Activation Measure (PAM)) and care needs (Longer-term Unmet Needs after Stroke (LUNS)). Family outcomes include self-efficacy (Carer Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES)), caregiver burden (Caregiver Strain Index (CSI)), psychosocial well-being (LiSat, HADS), family needs (Family Needs Questionnaire (FNQ)). Feasibility will be evaluated using qualitative methods, assessing fidelity, dose delivered, dose received, reach, recruitment and context. Cost-effectiveness will be determined by the EQ-5D-3L and service use.Discussion: At the moment there is no integrated health care service for people with acquired brain injury and their family members in the long-term. If case management is shown to be feasible and (cost)-effective, it could bridge the gap between patients’ and families’ needs and the available services. Trial registration: Netherlands Trial Register, NL8104. Registered 22 October 2019, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/8104.
Self-managed medication abortion outcomes: results from a prospective study
Authors: Moseson Heidi , Jayaweera Ruvani , Raifman Sarah , Keefe-Oates Brianna , Filippa Sofia , Motana Relebohile , Egwuatu Ijeoma , Grosso Belén , Kristianingrum Ika , Nmezi Sybil , Zurbriggen Ruth , Gerdts Caitlin
Published: September 2020

Background: To evaluate the feasibility of conducting a prospective study to measure self-managed medication abortion outcomes, and to collect preliminary data on safety and effectiveness of self-managed medication abortion, we recruited callers to accompaniment groups (volunteer networks that provide counselling through the out-of-clinic medication abortion process by trained counselors over the phone or in-person).Methods: In 2019, we enrolled callers to three abortion accompaniment groups in three countries into a prospective study on the safety and effectiveness of self-managed medication abortion with accompaniment support. Participants completed up to five interview-administered questionnaires from baseline through six-weeks after taking the pills. Primary outcomes included: (1) the number of participants enrolled in a 30-day period, (2) the proportion that had a complete abortion; and (3) the proportion who experienced any warning signs of potential or actual complications.Results: Over the 30-day recruitment period, we enrolled 227 participants (95% of those invited), and retained 204 participants (90%) for at least one study follow-up visit. At the one-week follow-up, two participants (1%) reported a miscarriage prior to taking the pills, and 202 participants (89% of those enrolled and 99% of those who participated in the one-week survey) had obtained and taken the medications. Three weeks after taking the medications, 192 (95%) participants reported feeling that their abortion was complete. Three (1.5%) received a surgical intervention, two (1%) received antibiotics, and five (3%) other medications. Participants did not report any major adverse events.Conclusion: These results establish the feasibility of conducting prospective studies of self-managed medication abortion in legally restrictive settings. Further, the high effectiveness of self-managed medication abortion with accompaniment support reported here is consistent with high levels of effectiveness reported in prior studies. Trial Registration: ISRCTN95769543
An anti-CD6 monoclonal antibody (itolizumab) reduces circulating IL-6 in severe COVID-19 elderly patients
Authors: Saavedra Danay , Añé-Kourí Ana Laura , Sánchez Naivy , Filgueira Lázaro Manuel , Betancourt Julio , Herrera Carlos , Manso Leniel , Chavez Elibet , Caballero Armando , Hidalgo Carlos , Lorenzo Geydi , Cepeda Meylan , Valenzuela Carmen , Ramos Mayra , León Kalet , Mazorra Zaima , Crombet Tania
Published: September 2020

Background: Since the COVID-19 outbreak an unprecedented challenge for healthcare systems around the world has been placed. In Cuba, the first case of COVID-19 was reported on March 11. Elderly with multiple comorbidities have been the most risky population. Although most patients present a mild to moderate disease, some have developed severe symptoms. One of the possible mechanisms underlying rapid disease progression is a cytokine storm, in which interleukin (IL) -6 seems to be a major mediator. Itolizumab is a humanized recombinant anti-CD6 monoclonal antibody (MAb), with the ability of reducing serum interferon gamma (INF-γ), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and IL-6. Based on these previous results in patients with psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, an expanded access clinical trial was approved by the Cuban regulatory agency for COVID-19 critically, severely and moderately ill patients. ﻿Results: We show here a short kinetic of IL-6 serum concentration in the first 24 COVID-19 patients treated with itolizumab. Most of patients were elderly with multiple comorbidities. We found that with one itolizumab dose, the circulating IL-6 decreased in critically and severely ill patients, whereas in moderately ill patients the values didn’t rise as compared to their low baseline levels.Conclusion: These findings suggest that itolizumab could be an attractive therapeutic option to decrease the negative outcome of the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients.Trial registration: CECMED IIC RD-EC 179, RPCEC00000311. Registered 4 May 2020 - Retrospectively registered, http://rpcec.sld.cu/ensayos/RPCEC00000311-Sp or http://rpcec.sld.cu/trials/RPCEC00000311-En
The universal sample holders of microanalytical instruments of FIB, TEM, NanoSIMS, and STXM-NEXAFS for the coordinated analysis of extraterrestrial materials
Authors: Ito Motoo , Tomioka Naotaka , Uesugi Kentaro , Uesugi Masayuki , Kodama Yu , Sakurai Ikuya , Okada Ikuo , Ohigashi Takuji , Yuzawa Hayato , Yamaguchi Akira , Imae Naoya , Karouji Yuzuru , Shirai Naoki , Yada Toru , Abe Masanao
Published: September 2020

We developed universal sample holders (the Kochi grid, Kochi clamp, and Okazaki cell) and a transfer vessel (facility-to-facility transfer container (FFTC)) to analyze sensitive and fragile samples, such as extremely small extraterrestrial materials. The holders and container prevent degradation, contamination due to terrestrial atmosphere (water vapor and oxygen gas) and small particles, as well as mechanical sample damages. The FFTC can isolate the samples from the effects of the atmosphere for more than a week. The Kochi grid and clamp were made for a coordinate micro/nano-analysis that utilize a focused-ion beam apparatus, transmission electron microscope, and nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry. The Okazaki cell was made as an additional attachment for a scanning transmission X-ray microscope that uses near edge X-ray absorption fine structure. The coordinated analysis involving these holders was successfully carried out without any sample damage or loss, thereby enabling us to obtain sufficient quality of analytical datasets of textures, crystallography, elemental/isotopic abundances, and molecular functional groups for µm-sized minerals and organics in both an Antarctic micrometeorite and a carbonaceous chondrite. We will apply the coordinated analysis to acquire the complex characteristics in samples that obtain by the future spacecraft sample return mission.
Maternal sevoflurane exposure affects differentiation of hippocampal neural stem cells by regulating miR-410-3p and ATN1
Authors: Zhang Yi , Wu Ziyi , Li Xingyue , Wan Yuxiao , Zhang Yinong , Zhao Ping
Published: September 2020

Background Currently, numerous animal studies have shown that exposure to commonly used general anesthetics during pregnancy may cause neurocognitive impairment in the offspring. Reportedly, exposure to sevoflurane during mid-trimester of pregnancy can inhibit proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs) and lead to early apoptosis. Whether exposure to sevoflurane during pregnancy affects the differentiation of NSCs remains unclear. Methods In the present study, pregnant rats were exposed to 3% sevoflurane once for 2 h on gestational day 14 (G14) or 3 times for 2 h on G13, G14, and G15. Next, the differentiation of NSCs was measured using neuron marker β-tubulin III and astrocyte marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in fetal brain tissues 24 h and 72 h after anesthesia and in hippocampus on postnatal day 28. Primary cultured rat NSCs were exposed to 4.1% sevoflurane to explore the mechanism. Results The results showed that during mid-trimester, multiple exposures to sevoflurane can cause premature differentiation of NSCs in developing brains of offspring and lead to long-term neuron reduction and astrocyte proliferation in hippocampus. The data from the present study indicated that repeated exposure to sevoflurane downregulated atrophin-1 (ATN1) expression and caused early differentiation of NSCs. Overexpression of ATN1 via lentivirus transfection attenuated the influence of sevoflurane. Using dual luciferase assay, ATN1 was found to be a target gene of microRNA‐410-3p (miR‐410-3p). MiR-410-3p suppression via lentivirus transfection recovered the ATN1 expression and differentiation of NSCs.Conclusions The results from the present study demonstrated that repeated exposure to sevoflurane leads to early differentiation of NSCs and long-term effects via the miR-410-3p/ATN1 pathway.
A single-centre retrospective study of systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy
Authors: Robertson Kara , Montazeri Nazanin , Shelke Urvashi , Jeimy Samira , Kim Harold
Published: September 2020

Background Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is the standard approach for treating patients with sensitizations to aeroallergens. However, immunotherapy can trigger severe systemic reactions if delivered inappropriately or to high risk patients. We sought to characterize and quantify SCIT systemic reactions requiring epinephrine administration during a 6-year period in a Canadian setting following the recommendations for components and dosages published in the 2010 Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) Immunotherapy Manual. Methods A single centre retrospective chart review was performed for all patients with systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy requiring intramuscular epinephrine injection between January 2011 and October 2017. Each systemic reaction requiring epinephrine was reviewed for baseline patient characteristics, details of the reaction, and reaction severity. Research ethics approval was obtained through McMaster University.Results 28 of 380 patients experienced a systemic reaction requiring epinephrine administration, with an incidence rate of 1 per 1,047 injection visits (0.095%). 26 of the 28 reactions occurred within the mandatory 30-minute observation period post allergen immunotherapy. Of the 28 patients that experienced a systemic reaction to SCIT, 11 patients had asthma and 5 patients had a history of possible food allergy. All of the systemic reactions occurred during injections from vial number 4, and five patients reacted to their first shot of a re-ordered extract. 10 of the 28 patients required more than one intramuscular injection of epinephrine, and 20 of 28 patients were transferred to the hospital by ambulance.Conclusions This is the first Canadian study to review patients with systemic reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy. Several best practice methods were employed throughout the study to optimize subcutaneous delivery of immunotherapy extract, and our recorded per injection incidence rate for systemic reactions was comparable or below the rate published in similar studies. The recommendations in the CSACI Immunotherapy Manual provide an approach to standardizing prescriptions for SCIT to maximize immunotherapy efficacy and reduce the risk of systemic reactions, though similar studies in larger multicenter settings are needed to confirm these observations. These observations provide important objective information to clinicians about the potential risks for systemic reactions in patients considering SCIT.
Adsorptive removal of malachite green dye from aqueous solution onto activated carbon of Catha edulis stem as a low cost bio-adsorbent
Authors: Abate Gietu yirga , Alene Adugna Nigatu , Habte Adere Tarekegne , Getahun Desiew Mekuanint
Published: September 2020

Background: The release of hazardous synthetic dyes into industrial effluents has emerged as an environmental problem requiring remediation. The present study focused on the preparation of a new and environmentally-friendly material (adsorbent) for the remediation of hazardous dyes from aqueous solution. The low cost adsorbent was prepared from locally available khat (Catha edulis) stem which considered as waste and accumulated on waste disposal areas of Woldia town, Ethiopia. Comprehensive characterization studies were carried out on the bio-adsorbent such as proximate analyses, specific surface area, point of zero charge and FT-IR analysis. Results: The proximate analysis shows the prepared adsorbent has very high fixed carbon content (83.65%), which refers to high quality of the adsorbent. The adsorption performance of the prepared activated carbon was optimized by varying operational parameters such as initial dye concentration (10 mg/L), pH (10), dosage (0.5 g), and contact time (60 min). The maximum removal efficiency of the prepared adsorbent at those optimum conditions was 98.8%. The experimental data was tested by most common kinetics and isotherm models. It was observed that the pseudo-second-order kinetic model fits better with good correlation coefficient and the equilibrium data fitted well with the Freundlich isotherm model.Conclusion: In summery this study demonstrated that the waste bio sorbent could be employed as an effective and eco-friendly alternative for the cleanup of dye-polluted aqueous system.
Altered Metabolism of Mothers of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Control Study
Authors: Hollowood-Jones Kathryn , Adams James B. , Coleman Devon M. , Ramamoorthy Sivapriya , Melnyk Stephan , James S. Jill , Woodruff Bryan K. , Pollard Elena L. , Snozek Christine L. , Kruger Uwe , Chuah Joshua , Hahn Juergen
Published: September 2020

Background: Previous research studies have demonstrated abnormalities in the metabolism of mothers of young children with autism.Method: Metabolic analysis was performed on blood samples from 30 mothers of young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD-M) and from 29 mothers of young typically-developing children (TD-M). Targeted metabolic analysis focusing on the folate one-carbon metabolism (FOCM) and the transsulfuration pathway (TS) as well as broad metabolic analysis were performed. Statistical analysis of the data involved both univariate and multivariate statistical methods.Results: Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in 5 metabolites from the folate one-carbon metabolism and the transsulfuration pathway and differences in an additional 48 metabolites identified by broad metabolic analysis, including lower levels of many carnitine-conjugated molecules. Multivariate analysis with leave-one-out cross-validation allowed classification of samples as belonging to one of the two groups of mothers with 93% sensitivity and 97% specificity with five metabolites. Furthermore, each of these five metabolites correlated with 8-15 other metabolites indicating that there are five clusters of correlated metabolites. In fact, all but 5 of the 50 metabolites with the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were associated with the five identified groups. Many of the abnormalities appear linked to low levels of folate, vitamin B12, and carnitine-conjugated molecules.Conclusions: Mothers of children with ASD have many significantly different metabolite levels compared to mothers of typically developing children at 2-5 years after birth.
A cross-sectional study of gastrointestinal symptoms, depressive symptoms and trait anxiety in young adults
Authors: Söderquist Fanny , Syk Mikaela , Just David , Novicic Zorana Kurbalija , Rasmusson Annica J. , Hellström Per M. , Ramklint Mia , Cunningham Janet L.
Published: September 2020

Background: Patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders have a high psychiatric co-morbidity. This study aimed to investigate and characterise gastrointestinal symptoms in relation to depressive symptoms and trait anxiety in a well-defined population of young adult psychiatric outpatients and healthy controls. Methods: Gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed with the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (GSRS-IBS). Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale- Self assessment (MADRS-S). Trait anxiety was estimated with three of the Swedish universities of Personality (SSP) scales: Somatic trait anxiety, Psychic trait anxiety and Stress susceptibility. Self-ratings were collected from 491 young adult psychiatric outpatients and 85 healthy controls. gastrointestinal symptom severity was compared between patients with and without current psychotropic medication and controls. Associations between gastrointestinal symptoms, depressive symptoms and trait anxiety were assessed using Spearman’s coefficients and generalized linear models adjusting for possible confounders (sex, body mass index, bulimia nervosa). Results: Patients, with and without current psychotropic medication, reported significantly more gastrointestinal symptoms than controls. In the generalized linear models, total MADRS-S score (p<0.001), Somatic trait anxiety (p<0.001), Psychic trait anxiety (p=0.002) and Stress susceptibility (p=0.002) were independent predictors of the total GSRS-IBS score. Further exploratory analysis using unsupervised learning revealed a diverse spectrum of symptoms that clustered into six groups.Conclusion: Gastrointestinal symptoms are both highly prevalent and diverse in young adult psychiatric outpatients, regardless of current psychotropic medication. Depressive symptom severity and degree of trait anxiety are independently related to the total gastrointestinal symptom burden.